10-K

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ý ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015

or

o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period fromto

Commission File No. 0-15279

GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

State of Alaska	92-0072737
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S Employer Identification No.)
2550 Denali Street Suite 1000 Anchorage, Alaska	99503
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (907) 868-5600

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:  Class A common stock

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Class B common stock

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes o   No ý

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Act.

Yes o   No ý

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 ý   No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes ý   No o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (section 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. ý

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

Large accelerated filer o	Accelerated filer x
Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o   No ý

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to the average high and low prices of such stock as of the close of trading as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter of June 30, 2015 was $160,967,837. Shares of voting stock held by each officer and director and by each person who owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting stock (as publicly reported by such persons pursuant to Section 13 and Section 16 of the Exchange Act) have been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock as of February 26, 2016, was:

Class A common stock – 35,473,000 shares; and

Class B common stock – 3,154,000 shares.

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GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC.

2015 ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

TABLE OF CONTENTS

			Page No.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements			3
Part I
	Item 1.	Business	3
	Item 1A.	Risk Factors	15
	Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	25
	Item 2.	Properties	25
	Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	26
	Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	26
Part II
	Item 5.	Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	26
	Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	30
	Item 7.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	30
	Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	45
	Item 8.	Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	45
	Item 9.	Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	45
	Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	45
	Item 9B.	Other Information	47
Part III
	Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	48
	Item 11.	Executive Compensation	53
	Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	72
	Item 13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	75
	Item 14.	Principal Accountant Fees and Services	77
Part IV
	Item 15.	Exhibits, Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules	79
SIGNATURES			133

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Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

You should carefully review the information contained in this Annual Report, but should particularly consider any risk factors that we set forth in this Annual Report and in other reports or documents that we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). In this Annual Report, in addition to historical information, we state our future strategies, plans, objectives or goals and our beliefs of future events and of our future operating results, financial position and cash flows.  In some cases, you can identify those so-called “forward-looking statements” by words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “project,” or “continue” or the negative of those words and other comparable words.  All forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance, achievements, plans and objectives to differ materially from any future results, performance, achievements, plans and objectives expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.  In evaluating those statements, you should specifically consider various factors, including those identified under “Risk Factors,” and elsewhere in this Annual Report.  Those factors may cause our actual results to differ materially from any of our forward-looking statements.  For these forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

You should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements.  Further, any forward-looking statement, and the related risks, uncertainties and other factors speak only as of the date on which they were originally made and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in our expectations with regard to these statements or any other change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.  New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict what factors will arise or when.  In addition, we cannot assess the impact of each factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

Part I

Item 1. Business

General

In this Annual Report, “we,” “us,” “our,” "GCI" and “the Company” refer to General Communication, Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

GCI was incorporated in 1979 under the laws of the State of Alaska and has its principal executive offices at 2550 Denali Street, Suite 1000, Anchorage, AK 99503-2781 (telephone number 907-868-5600).

GCI is primarily a holding company and together with its direct and indirect subsidiaries, is a diversified communications provider with operations primarily in the State of Alaska.

Availability of Reports and Other Information

Our Internet website address is www.gci.com. The information on our website is not incorporated by reference in this annual report on Form 10-K. We make available, free of charge, access to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A and amendments to those materials filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically submit such material to the SEC.

Financial Information about Industry Segments

For financial information about our two reportable segments - Wireless and Wireline, see “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”  Also refer to Note 10 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Narrative Description of our Business

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General

We are the largest Alaska-based communications provider as measured by revenues. We provide a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska under our GCI brand. Due to the unique nature of the markets we serve, including harsh winter weather and remote geographies, our customers rely extensively on our systems to meet their communication and entertainment needs.

Since our founding in 1979 as a competitive long distance provider, we have consistently expanded our product portfolio and facilities to become the leading integrated communication services provider in our markets. Our facilities include redundant and geographically diverse digital undersea fiber optic cable systems linking our Alaska terrestrial networks to the networks of other carriers in the lower 48 contiguous states.  In recent years, we expanded our efforts in wireless and presently operate the only statewide wireless network. 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, we generated consolidated revenues of $978.5 million.  We ended the period with 227,800 wireless subscribers, 140,000 cable modem subscribers and 133,300 basic video subscribers.

Development of our Business During the Past Fiscal Year

Purchase of Alaska Communications System Group, Inc.'s Wireless Subscriber Base and Its Interest in The Alaska Wireless Network.  On February 2, 2015, we purchased Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc.'s (“ACS”) interest in The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC ("AWN") and substantially all the assets of ACS and its affiliates related to ACS’s wireless operations (“Acquired ACS Assets”) (collectively the "Wireless Acquisition"). Under the terms of the agreement, we transfered to ACS a cash payment of $293.2 million excluding working capital adjustments and agreed to terminate or amend certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. The Acquired ACS Assets include substantially all of ACS’s wireless subscriber assets, including subscriber contracts, and certain of ACS’s CDMA network assets, including fiber strands and associated cell site electronics and microwave facilities and associated electronics. We assumed from ACS post-closing liabilities of ACS and its affiliates under contracts assumed by us and liabilities with respect to the ownership by ACS of its equity interest in AWN to the extent accruing and related to the period after closing. All other liabilities were retained by ACS and its affiliates. See Notes 1(d) and 6 included in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

You should see “Part I — Item 1. Business — Regulation” for regulatory developments.

Business Strategy

We intend to continue to increase Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in Note 10 in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data", using the following strategies:

Expand Our Product Portfolio and Footprint in Alaska. Throughout our history, we have successfully added and expect to continue to add new products to our product portfolio.  We have a demonstrated history of new product evaluation, development and deployment for our customers, and we continue to assess revenue-enhancing opportunities that create value for our customers.  Where feasible and where economic analysis supports geographic expansion of our network coverage, we are currently pursuing or expect to pursue opportunities to increase the scale of our facilities, enhance our ability to serve our existing customers’ needs and attract new customers. Additionally, due to the unique market conditions in Alaska, we, and in some cases our customers, participate in several federal (and to a lesser extent locally) subsidized programs designed to financially support the implementation and purchase of telecommunications services like ours in high cost areas. With these programs we have been able to expand our network into previously undeveloped areas of Alaska and, for the first time, offer comprehensive communications services in many rural parts of the state where we would not otherwise be able to construct facilities within appropriate return-on-investment requirements.

Make Strategic Acquisitions.  We have a history of making and integrating acquisitions of in-state telecommunications providers and other providers of complementary services.  Our management team will continue to actively pursue and make investments that we believe fit with our strategy and networks and that enhance earnings.

Maximize Sales Opportunities. We sell new and enhanced services and products to our existing customer base to achieve increased revenues and penetration of our services.  Through close coordination of our customer service

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and sales and marketing efforts, our customer service representatives suggest to our customers other services they can purchase or enhanced versions of services they already purchase.  Many calls into our customer service centers or visits into one of our retail stores result in sales of additional services and products.

Deliver Industry Leading Customer Service. We have positioned ourselves as a customer service leader in the Alaska communications market.  We operate our own customer service department and have empowered our customer service representatives to handle most service issues and questions on a single call.  We prioritize our customer services to expedite handling of our most valuable customers’ issues, particularly for our largest commercial customers.  We believe our integrated approach to customer service, including service set-up, programming various network databases with the customer’s information, installation, and ongoing service, allows us to provide a customer experience that fosters customer loyalty.

Leverage Communications Operations. We continue to expand and evolve our integrated network for the delivery of our services.  Our bundled strategy and integrated approach to serving our customers creates efficiencies of scale and maximizes network utilization.  By offering multiple services, we are better able to leverage our network assets and increase returns on our invested capital.  We periodically evaluate our network assets and continually monitor technological developments that we can potentially deploy to increase network efficiency and performance.

Description of our Business by Reportable Segment

Overview

Our two reportable segments are Wireless and Wireline.  Our Wireless segment provides wholesale wireless services to wireless carriers. Our Wireline segment offers services and products under three major customer groups as follows:

		Customer Group
Wireline Segment Services and Products		Consumer	Business Services	Managed Broadband
Retail wireless		X	X
Data:
	Internet	X	X	X
	Data networks		X	X
	Managed services		X	X
Video		X	X
Voice:
	Long-distance	X	X	X
	Local access	X	X	X

• Consumer – we offer a full range of retail wireless, data, video, and voice services to residential customers.

• Business Services – we offer a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to businesses, governmental entities, and educational institutions and wholesale data and voice services to common carrier customers.

• Managed Broadband – we offer Internet, data network and managed services to rural schools and health organizations and regulated voice services to residential and commercial customers in rural communities primarily in Southwest Alaska.

The following discussion includes information about significant services and products, sales and marketing, facilities, competition and seasonality for each of our reportable segments.  For a discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations please see “Part II – Item 7 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

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Wireless Segment

Wireless segment revenues for 2015, 2014 and 2013 are summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Total Wireless segment revenues1	$	267,676	269,977	197,218
1  See “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 10 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information regarding the financial performance of our Wireless segment.

Services and Products

Our Wireless segment offers wholesale wireless services and products to wireless carriers.  We provide network transport and access to our wireless network to wireless carriers.  These services allow wireless carriers to provide full wireless services to their customers.

Sales and Marketing

Our Wireless segment sales and marketing efforts are primarily directed toward increasing the number of wireless carriers we serve and the number of voice and data circuits leased.  We sell our wireless services primarily through direct contact marketing.

Facilities

We own and operate a statewide network providing voice and data services to the urban and rural communities of Alaska. Our statewide wireless network provides 2G GSM/EDGE service, 2G CDMA, 3G UMTS/HSPA+, EVDO, and 4G LTE data service. We continue to expand and upgrade these services to provide a modern network for Alaska. We own and operate Wi-Fi access points that create a Wi-Fi network branded as TurboZone in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Kenai-Soldotna, Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and other areas of the State ("TurboZone").

Competition

Our Wireless segment competes with AT&T, Verizon, and smaller companies. We compete in the wholesale wireless market by offering competitive rates and by providing a comprehensive statewide network to meet the needs of carrier customers.

Seasonality

Wireless segment revenues derived from our carrier customers have historically been highest in the summer months because of temporary population increases attributable to tourism and increased seasonal economic activity such as construction, commercial fishing, and oil and gas activities. Our ability to implement construction projects is hampered during the winter months because of cold temperatures, snow, and short daylight hours.

Major Customer

Verizon was the only major customer of the Wireless segment in 2015 and 2014. We had no Wireless segment major customers in 2013.

Wireline Segment

Wireline segment revenues for 2015, 2014 and 2013 are summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Total Wireline segment revenues1	$	710,858	640,221	614,430
1  See “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 10 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information regarding the financial performance of our Wireline segment.

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Services and Products

Our Wireline segment offers services and products to three major customer groups as follows:

• Consumer - We offer a full range of retail wireless, data, video, and voice services to residential customers.

• Business Services - We offer a full range of retail wireless, data, video, and voice services to businesses, governmental entities, and educational institutions and wholesale data and voice services to common carrier customers. Additionally, we sell advertising on our broadcast television stations and cable network.

• Managed Broadband - We offer data and managed services to rural schools and health organizations and regulated voice services to residential and commercial customers in rural communities primarily in Southwest Alaska.

Sales and Marketing

We offer our services directly to consumer and business customers through our call center, direct mail advertising, television advertising, Internet advertising, local media advertising, and through our retail stores. Our sales efforts are primarily directed toward increasing the number of subscribers we serve, selling bundled services, and generating incremental revenues through product and feature up-sell opportunities. We sell our managed services, wholesale data and voice services, and data services to rural schools and health organizations through direct contact marketing.

Facilities

We operate a modern, competitive communications network providing switched and dedicated voice and broadband services. Our fiber network employs digital transmission technology over our fiber optic facilities within Alaska and between Alaska and the lower 48 states.

We serve many rural and remote Alaska locations solely via satellite communications. Each of our satellite transponders is backed up on alternate spacecraft with multiple backup transponders. We operate a hybrid fiber optic cable and digital microwave system (“TERRA”) linking Anchorage with the Bristol Bay, Yukon-Kuskokwim, and northwest regions of the state. 

Our video businesses are located throughout Alaska and serve the majority of the population. Our facilities include hybrid-fiber-coax plant and head-end distribution equipment. The majority of our locations on the fiber routes are served from head-end distribution equipment in Anchorage.  All of our cable systems are completely digital.

Our dedicated Internet access and Internet protocol data services are delivered to an Ethernet port located at the service end-point.  Our management platform continuously monitors the network and service end-points for performance. The availability and quality of service, as well as statistical information on traffic loading, are continuously monitored for quality assurance.  The management platform has the capability to remotely access network elements and service end-points, permitting changes in configuration without the need to physically be at the service end-point.  This management platform allows us to offer network monitoring and management services to businesses and governmental entities.

Competition

We operate in intensely competitive industries and compete with a growing number of companies that provide a broad range of communication, entertainment and information products and services. Technological changes are further intensifying and complicating the competitive landscape and consumer behavior.

Retail Wireless Services and Products Competition

We compete with AT&T, Verizon, and other community or regional-based wireless providers, and resellers of those services in Anchorage and other markets. Regulatory policies favor robust competition in wireless markets.  Wireless local number portability helps to maintain a high level of competition in the industry because it allows subscribers to switch carriers without having to change their telephone numbers.

The communications industry continues to experience significant technological changes, as evidenced by the increasing pace of improvements in the capacity and quality of digital technology, shorter cycles for new products and enhancements and changes in consumer preferences and expectations.  Accordingly, we expect competition in the wireless communications industry to continue to be dynamic and intense as a result of the development of new technologies, services and products.

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The national wireless carriers with whom we compete, AT&T and Verizon, have resources that are greater than ours.  These companies have significantly greater capital, financial, marketing, human capital, distribution and other resources than we do.  Specifically, as a regional wireless carrier we may not have immediate access to some wireless handsets that are available to these national wireless carriers. 

We compete for customers based principally upon price, bundled services, the services and enhancements offered, network quality, customer service, statewide network coverage and capacity, TurboZone, the type of wireless handsets offered, and the availability of differentiated features and services.  Our ability to compete successfully will depend, in part, on our marketing efforts and our ability to anticipate and respond to various competitive factors affecting the industry.

Data Services and Products Competition

The Internet industry is highly competitive, rapidly evolving and subject to constant technological change.  Competition is based upon price and pricing plans, service bundles, the types of services offered, the technologies used, customer service, billing services, and perceived quality, reliability and availability.  We compete with other providers some of which are headquartered outside of Alaska and have substantially greater financial, technical and marketing resources than we do.

We expect to continue to provide, at reasonable prices and in competitive bundles, a greater variety of data services than are available through other alternative delivery sources.  Additionally, we believe we offer superior technical performance and speed, and responsive community-based customer service.  Increased competition, however, may adversely affect our market share and results of operations from our data services product offerings.

Presently, there are a number of competing companies in Alaska that actively sell and maintain data and voice communications systems.  Our ability to integrate communications networks and data communications equipment has allowed us to maintain our market position based on customer support services rather than price competition alone.  These services are blended with other transport products into unique customer solutions, including managed services and outsourcing.

Video Services and Products Competition

Our video systems face competition from services and devices that offer Internet video streaming and distribution of movies, television shows and other video programming, as well as alternative methods of receiving and distributing television signals, including DBS, digital video over telephone lines, broadband IP-based services, wireless and satellite master antenna television systems.  Our video systems also face competition from potential overbuilds of our existing cable systems.  The extent to which our video systems are competitive depends, in part, upon our ability to provide quality programming and other services at competitive prices.

Online video services via the Internet are a major growing source of competition for our video services.  Additionally, some online video services are also beginning to produce or acquire their own original content. However, as a major Internet-provider ourselves, the competition may result in additional data service subscriber revenue to the extent we grow average Internet revenue per subscriber.

We believe that the greatest source of external competition for our video services comes from the DBS industry.  Two major companies, DIRECTV and DISH DBS Corporation, are currently offering high-power DBS services in Alaska.

Competitive forces may be counteracted by offering expanded programming through digital services.  Digital delivery technology is being utilized in all of our systems.  We have retransmission agreements with various broadcasters and provide for the uplink/downlink of their signals into certain of our systems, and local programming for our customers.  Additionally, our ownership of television stations provides us the opportunity to create unique content for our subscribers.

Video systems generally operate pursuant to franchises granted on a non-exclusive basis.  The 1992 Cable Act gives local franchising authorities jurisdiction over basic video service rates and equipment in the absence of “effective competition.”  The 1992 Cable Act also prohibits franchising authorities from unreasonably denying requests for additional franchises and permits franchising authorities to operate video systems.  Well-financed businesses from outside the video industry may become competitors for franchises or providers of competing services.

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We expect to continue to provide, at reasonable prices and in competitive bundles, a greater variety of video services than are available off-air or through other alternative delivery sources.  Additionally, we believe we offer superior technical performance and responsive community-based customer service.  Increased competition, however, may adversely affect our market share and results of operations from our video services product offerings.

Voice Services and Products Competition

Our most significant competition for local access and long-distance comes from wireless substitution and voice over Internet protocol services. Wireless local number portability allows consumers to retain the same phone number as they change service providers allowing for interchangeable and portable fixed-line and wireless numbers.  A growing number of consumers now use wireless service as their primary voice phone service for local calling. We also compete against Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers ("ILECs"), long-distance resellers and certain smaller rural local telephone companies for local access and long-distance. We have competed by offering what we believe is excellent customer service and by providing desirable bundles of services.

See “Regulation — Wireline Voice Services and Products” below for more information.

Seasonality

Our Wireline segment services and products do not exhibit significant seasonality.  Our ability to implement construction projects is hampered during the winter months because of cold temperatures, snow and short daylight hours.

Major Customer

We had no Wireline segment major customers in 2015, 2014 or 2013.

Sales and Marketing – Company-wide

Our sales and marketing strategy hinges on our ability to leverage (i) our unique position as an integrated provider of multiple communications, data and video services, (ii) our well-recognized and respected brand names in the Alaskan marketplace and (iii) our leading market positions in the services and products we offer.  By continuing to pursue a marketing strategy that takes advantage of these characteristics, we believe we can increase our customer market penetration and retention rates, increase our share of our customers’ aggregate voice, video, data and wireless services expenditures and managed services expenditures, and achieve continued growth in revenues and operating cash flow.

Environmental Regulations

We undertake activities that may, under certain circumstances, affect the environment. Accordingly, they may be subject to federal, state, and local laws designed to preserve or protect the environment, including the Clean Water Act and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act.  The Federal Communications Commission ("FCC"), Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and National Park Service are among the federal agencies required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and National Historic Preservation Act to consider the environmental impact of actions they authorize, including facility construction.

The principal effect of our facilities on the environment would be in the form of construction of facilities and networks at various locations in Alaska and between Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.  Our facilities have been constructed in accordance with federal, state and local building codes and zoning regulations whenever and wherever applicable.  We obtain federal, state, and local permits, as required, for our projects and operations. We are unaware of any material violations of federal, state or local regulations or permits.

Patents, Trademarks, and Licenses

We do not hold patents, franchises (with the exception of video services as described below) or concessions for communications services or local access services.  We hold a number of federally registered service marks used by our reportable segments.  The Communications Act of 1934, as amended, gives the FCC the authority to license and regulate the use of the electromagnetic spectrum for radio communications.  We hold licenses for our satellite and microwave transmission facilities for provision of long-distance services provided by our Wireline segment. We hold various licenses for spectrum and broadcast television use. These licenses may be revoked and license

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renewal applications may be denied for cause.  However, we expect these licenses to be renewed in due course when, at the end of the license period, a renewal application will be filed.

We hold licenses for earth stations that are generally licensed for fifteen years.  The FCC also issues a single blanket license for a large number of technically identical earth stations.  Our operations may require additional licenses in the future.

We are certified through the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") to provide video service by Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity (“CPCN”). These CPCNs are nonexclusive certificates defining each authorized service area.  Although CPCNs have no stated expiration date, they may be revoked due to cause.

Regulation

Our businesses are subject to substantial government regulation and oversight.  The following summary of regulatory issues does not purport to describe all existing and proposed federal, state, and local laws and regulations, or judicial and regulatory proceedings that affect our businesses.  Existing laws and regulations are reviewed frequently by legislative bodies, regulatory agencies, and the courts and are subject to change.  We cannot predict at this time the outcome of any present or future consideration of proposed changes to governing laws and regulations.

Wireless Services and Products

General. The FCC regulates the licensing, construction, interconnection, operation, acquisition, and transfer of wireless network systems in the United States pursuant to the Communications Act.  As wireless licensees, we are subject to regulation by the FCC, and must comply with certain build-out and other license conditions, as well as with the FCC’s specific regulations governing wireless services.  The FCC does not currently regulate rates for services offered by commercial mobile radio service providers (the official legal description for wireless service providers).

Commercial mobile radio service wireless systems are subject to Federal Aviation Administration and FCC regulations governing the location, lighting, construction, modification, and registration of antenna structures on which our antennas and associated equipment are located and are also subject to regulation under federal environmental laws and the FCC’s environmental regulations, including limits on radio frequency radiation from wireless handsets and antennas.

Universal Service. The High Cost Program of the Universal Service Fund ("USF") pays Eligible Telecommunications Carriers ("ETCs") to support the provision of facilities-based wireless telephone service in high cost areas. A wireless carrier may seek ETC status so that it can receive support from the USF.  Under FCC regulations and RCA orders, we are an authorized ETC for purposes of providing wireless telephone service in Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and other small areas throughout Alaska. Without ETC status, we would not qualify for USF support in these areas or other rural areas where we propose to offer facilities-based wireless telephone services, and our net cost of providing wireless telephone services in these areas would be materially adversely affected.

On November 29, 2011, the FCC released rules reforming the methodology for distributing USF high cost support for voice and broadband services, as well as the access charge regime for terminating traffic between carriers.  Support for competitive eligible telecommunications carriers (“CETCs”) serving areas that generally include Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau followed national reforms and had support per provider per service area capped as of January 1, 2012, and a five-step phase-down commenced on July 1, 2012, which is currently frozen pending the adoption of a successor mechanism.  Support to Remote Alaska locations was capped as of January 1, 2012 and is being distributed on a per-line basis until the implementation of a successor funding mechanism. A further rulemaking process to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway.  We cannot predict at this time the outcome of this proceeding or its effect on high cost support available to us, but our revenue for providing services in these areas would be materially adversely affected by a substantial reduction of USF support. 

On February 6, 2012, the FCC released its Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to comprehensively reform and modernize the USF’s Lifeline program.  The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") and is designed to ensure that quality telecommunications services are available to low-income customers at just, reasonable, and affordable rates.  The order adopted several reforms, including a requirement for annual recertification of all Lifeline subscribers. Failure to correctly

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recertify Lifeline subscribers could materially adversely affect our Lifeline revenues and/or increase our costs in the form of FCC fines for failure to comply with Lifeline rules.

Interconnection.  We have completed negotiations and the RCA has approved current direct wireless interconnection agreements with all of the major Alaska ILECs.  These are in addition to indirect interconnection arrangements utilized elsewhere.

See “Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Regulation — Wireline Voice Services and Products — Regulatory Regime Applicable to IP-based Networks” for more information.

Emergency 911. The FCC has imposed rules requiring carriers to provide emergency 911 services, including enhanced 911 (“E911”) services that provide to local public safety dispatch agencies the caller’s phone number and approximate location. Providers are required to transmit the geographic coordinates of the customer’s location, either by means of network-based or handset-based technologies, within accuracy parameters revised by the FCC, to be implemented over a phase-in period.  Due to Alaska’s relatively low population and low cell-site densities, we have excluded certain areas from E911 coverage where cell triangulation is not feasible, pursuant to FCC rule.  We have also filed for a waiver, which remains pending, for remaining areas where triangulation may be technically feasible, but where the cell-site densities are insufficient to reach the FCC’s standard. We received a separate waiver regarding the FCC’s recently adopted text-to-911 rules due to technical limitations in our network and the inability of vendors to provide a workable solution, but have since developed a text-to-911 technical solution and have certified to the FCC that we are now capable of meeting the FCC requirements. Providers may not demand cost recovery as a condition of providing E911, although they are permitted to negotiate cost recovery if it is not mandated by the state or local governments.

State and Local Regulation. While the Communications Act generally preempts state and local governments from regulating the entry of, and the rates charged by, wireless carriers, it also permits a state to petition the FCC to allow it to impose commercial mobile radio service rate regulation when market conditions fail to adequately protect customers and such service is a replacement for a substantial portion of the telephone wireline exchange service within a state. No state currently has such a petition on file, and all prior efforts have been rejected.

In addition, the Communications Act does not expressly preempt the states from regulating the “terms and conditions” of wireless service. Several states have invoked this “terms and conditions” authority to impose or propose various consumer protection regulations on the wireless industry. State attorneys general have also become more active in enforcing state consumer protection laws against sales practices and services of wireless carriers. States also may impose their own universal service support requirements on wireless and other communications carriers, similar to the contribution requirements that have been established by the FCC.

States have become more active in attempting to impose new taxes and fees on wireless carriers, such as gross receipts taxes. Where successful, these taxes and fees are generally passed through to customers and result in higher costs to customers.

At the local level, wireless facilities typically are subject to zoning and land use regulation. Neither local nor state governments may categorically prohibit the construction of wireless facilities in any community or take actions, such as indefinite moratoria, which have the effect of prohibiting construction. Nonetheless, securing state and local government approvals for new tower sites has been and is likely to continue to be difficult, lengthy and costly.

Internet-based Services and Products

General. There is no one entity or organization that governs the global operation of the Internet. Each facilities-based network provider that is interconnected with the global Internet controls operational aspects of their own network. Certain functions, such as IP addressing, domain name routing, and the definition of the TCP/IP protocol, are coordinated by an array of quasi-governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental bodies. The legal authority of these bodies is not precisely defined.

The vast majority of users connect to the Internet over facilities of existing communications carriers. Those communications carriers are subject to varying levels of regulation at both the federal and state level. Thus, non-Internet-specific regulatory decisions exercise a significant influence over the economics of the Internet market.

Many aspects of the coordination and regulation of Internet activities and the underlying networks over which those activities are conducted are evolving. Internet-specific and non-Internet-specific changes in the regulatory

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environment, including changes that affect communications costs or increase competition from ILECs or other communications services providers, could adversely affect our costs and the prices at which we sell Internet-based services.

On November 20, 2011, the FCC issued rules governing the activities of cable operators and other Internet service providers in connection with the provision of Internet service.  The rules applicable to cable operators and other wireline providers generally prohibited blocking lawful content and prohibiting unreasonable discrimination, outside of reasonable network management, as well as imposing transparency requirements. For wireless providers, the transparency rule and a less restrictive version of the blocking rule applied. On January 14, 2014, in a case challenging these rules, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit vacated the anti-discrimination and anti-blocking rules, upheld the transparency rules, and remanded the case to the FCC for further proceedings. The majority opinion held that the FCC possessed the general statutory authority to adopt these rules, but did so in a manner that violated specific statutory prohibitions against imposing common carrier regulations on non-telecommunications services.

On February 26, 2015, the FCC adopted an order reclassifying Internet service as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act. This order prohibits broadband providers from blocking or throttling most lawful public Internet traffic, and from engaging in paid prioritization of that traffic. The order also strengthens its transparency rules, which require accurate and truthful service disclosures, sufficient for consumers to make informed choices, for example, about speed, price and fees, latency, and network management practices. The order allows broadband providers to engage in reasonable network management, including using techniques to address traffic congestion. These rules apply equally to wired and wireless broadband services. The order refrains from applying rate regulation and tariff requirements on broadband services.  While we do not believe that the FCC order conflicts with our existing practices or offerings, the order will impose regulatory burdens, likely increase our costs, and could adversely affect the manner and price of providing service.

Video Services and Products

General. Because video communications systems use local streets and rights-of-way, they generally are operated pursuant to franchises (which can take the form of certificates, permits or licenses) granted by a municipality or other state or local government entity. The RCA is the franchising authority for all of Alaska. We believe that we have generally met the terms of our franchises, which do not require periodic renewal, and have provided quality levels of service. Military franchise requirements also affect our ability to provide video services to military bases.

The RCA previously regulated the basic service tier on our video system in Juneau. On June 3, 2015, the FCC adopted a rebuttable presumption that cable providers are subject to Effective Competition, and the RCA did not rebut that presumption by the filing deadline set by the new rules. Because the RCA did not rebut the presumption, we can now unwind our informational tariff in Juneau, with proper customer notice under the FCC rules, and apply our statewide basic service tier pricing in Juneau. The RCA does not regulate rates for cable modem service.

Must Carry/Retransmission Consent. The 1992 Cable Act contains broadcast signal carriage requirements that allow local commercial television broadcast stations to elect once every three years to require a cable system to carry the station, subject to certain exceptions, or to negotiate for “retransmission consent” to carry the station.

The FCC has adopted rules to require cable operators to carry the digital programming streams of broadcast television stations. Further, the FCC has declined to require any cable operator to carry multiple digital programming streams from a single broadcast television station, but should the FCC change this policy, we would be required to devote additional cable capacity to carrying broadcast television programming streams, a step that could require the removal of other programming services.

Segregated Security for Set-top Devices. The FCC mandated, effective July 1, 2007, that all new set-top video navigation devices must segregate the security function from the navigation function. The new devices are more expensive than existing equipment, and compliance would increase our cost of providing video services. In late 2014, the President signed into law the STELA Reauthorization Act of 2014 (“STELAR”), which repeals the navigation device integrated security ban effective December 30, 2015.

AllVid Proceeding. On April 21, 2010, the FCC adopted a Notice of Inquiry to consider ways to develop a standardized interface for accessing video content, as an alternative to set-top boxes.  Adoption of new rules or standards in this area could affect the manner in which we deliver video products to our customers.  Pursuant to

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STELAR, the FCC has convened a Downloadable Security Technical Advisory Committee (“DSTAC”) to consider and recommend performance objectives, technical capabilities and technical standards to promote competitive availability of navigation devices. DSTAC released a report dated August 28, 2015 that presented two proposals for handling non-security elements of set-top boxes, called the “Application-based proposal” and the “Competitive Navigation” proposal (also called “AllVid”).  The FCC adopted proposed “AllVid” rules on Feb. 18, 2016 which, among other things, mandate that multichannel video programmer distributors ("MVPD") use information flows that allow manufacturers, retailers, and other companies that are not affiliated with an MVPD to design and build competitive navigation devices.  GCI joined a coalition opposing the proposed rules.  We are unable to predict how this will proceed or if the FCC will take action on the proposed rules after conclusion of the comment period.

Pole Attachments. The Communications Act requires the FCC to regulate the rates, terms and conditions imposed by public utilities for cable systems’ use of utility pole and conduit space unless state authorities can demonstrate that they adequately regulate pole attachment rates. In the absence of state regulation, the FCC administers pole attachment rates on a formula basis. This formula governs the maximum rate certain utilities may charge for attachments to their poles and conduit by companies providing communications services, including cable operators. The RCA, however, does not use the federal formula and instead has adopted its own formula that has been in place since 1987. This formula could be subject to further revisions upon petition to the RCA.  In addition, on April 7, 2011, the FCC adopted an order to rationalize different pole attachment rates among types of services, and on November 17, 2015, took further steps to bring telecommunications and cable pole attachment rates into parity. Though the general purpose of the rule changes was to ensure pole attachment rates as low and as uniform as possible, we do not expect the rules to have an immediate impact on the terms under which we access poles. In addition, because the RCA has adopted its own formula, the FCC’s reclassification of broadband service as a “telecommunications service” is not anticipated to have any near-term impact.  We cannot predict the likelihood of the RCA changing its formula, adopting the federal formula, or relinquishing its oversight of pole attachments to the FCC, any of which could increase the cost of our operations.

Copyright. Cable television systems are subject to federal copyright licensing covering carriage of television and radio broadcast signals. In exchange for filing certain reports and contributing a percentage of their revenues to a federal copyright royalty pool that varies depending on the size of the system, the number of distant broadcast television signals carried, and the location of the cable system, cable operators can obtain blanket permission to retransmit copyrighted material included in broadcast signals. The possible modification or elimination of this compulsory copyright license is the subject of continuing legislative review.  We cannot predict the outcome of this legislative review, which could adversely affect our ability to obtain desired broadcast programming. Copyright clearances for non-broadcast programming services are arranged through private negotiations.

Wireline Voice Services and Products

General. As an interexchange carrier, we are subject to regulation by the FCC and the RCA as a non-dominant provider of interstate, international, and intrastate long-distance services.  As a state-certificated competitive local exchange carrier, we are subject to regulation by the FCC and the RCA as a non-dominant provider of local communications services.  Military franchise requirements also affect our ability to provide communications services to military bases.

Universal Service. The USF pays ETCs to support the provision of facilities-based wireline telephone service in high cost areas. Under FCC regulations and RCA orders, we are an authorized ETC for purposes of providing wireline local exchange service in Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and other small areas throughout Alaska. Without ETC status, we would not qualify for USF support in these areas or other rural areas where we propose to offer facilities-based wireline telephone services, and our net cost of providing local telephone services in these areas would be materially adversely affected. See “Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment - Regulation - Wireless Services and Products - Universal Service” for information on USF reform.

Rural Exemption and Interconnection. A Rural Telephone Company is exempt from compliance with certain material interconnection requirements under Section 251(c) of the 1996 Telecom Act, including the obligation to negotiate Section 251(b) and (c) interconnection requirements in good faith, unless and until a state regulatory commission lifts such “rural exemption” or otherwise finds it not to apply.  All ILECs in Alaska are Rural Telephone Companies except ACS in its Anchorage study area.  We participated in numerous proceedings regarding the rural exemptions of various ILECs in order to achieve the necessary interconnection agreements with the remaining ILECs. In other cases the interconnection agreements were reached by negotiation without regard to the implications of the ILEC’s rural exemption.

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We have completed negotiation and/or arbitration of the necessary interconnection provisions and the RCA has approved current wireline Interconnection Agreements between GCI and all of the major ILECs.  We have entered all of the major Alaskan markets with local access services.

See “Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Wireline — Competition — Voice Services and Products Competition” for more information.

Access Charges and Other Regulated Fees. The FCC regulates the fees that local telephone companies charge long-distance companies for access to their local networks.  On November 29, 2011, the FCC released rules to restructure and reduce over time originating interstate access charges, along with a proposal to adopt similar reforms applicable to terminating interstate access charges.  We do not anticipate that the adopted changes, for which implementation began in 2012, will have a material impact on our operations, except that the reduction of interstate access rates generally will result in a cost savings on access charges to us.  However, the details of implementation in general and between different classes of technology continue to be addressed, and they could affect the economics of some aspects of our business.  We cannot predict at this time the impact of this implementation or future implementation of adopted reforms, but we do not expect it to have a material adverse impact on our operations.

Access to Unbundled Network Elements. The ability to obtain unbundled network elements ("UNEs") is an important element of our local access services business. We cannot predict the extent to which existing FCC rules governing access to and pricing for UNEs will be changed in the face of additional legal action and the impact of any further rule modifications that are yet to be determined by the FCC. Moreover, the future regulatory classification of services that are transmitted over facilities may impact the extent to which we will be permitted access to such facilities.  Changes to the applicable regulations could result in a change in our cost of serving new and existing markets.

Local Regulation. We may be required to obtain local permits for street opening and construction permits to install and expand our networks. Local zoning authorities often regulate our use of towers for microwave and other communications sites. We also are subject to general regulations concerning building codes and local licensing. The Communications Act requires that fees charged to communications carriers be applied in a competitively neutral manner, but there can be no assurance that ILECs and others with whom we will be competing will bear costs similar to those we will bear in this regard.

Regulatory Regime Applicable to IP-based Networks. On January 30, 2014, the FCC adopted an order calling for experiments to examine how best to accelerate the technological and regulatory transitions from traditional TDM-based networks to IP-based technologies.  Although no entity has proposed conducting a technology transition experiment in our service territory in response to the FCC’s January 2014 order, additional proposals for experiments are possible. We cannot predict whether additional proposals for experiments might be submitted to the FCC nor any resulting proceedings or their effect on us. The FCC also has other open dockets through which it might make changes to the regulatory regime applicable to IP-based networks. A change in regulatory obligation or classification that interferes with our ability to exchange traffic with other providers, that raises the cost of doing so, or that adversely affects eligibility for USF support could materially affect our net cost of and revenue from providing local services.

Rural Health Care Program. On December 12, 2012, the FCC created the Healthcare Connect Fund to supplement the existing Rural Health Care Program of the USF.  Healthcare providers can choose to participate under either the existing Rural Health Care Program or the new Healthcare Connect Fund.  We cannot predict at this time the impact of this change but we do not expect it to have a material adverse impact on our operations.

Schools and Libraries Program. On July 11 and December 11, 2014, the FCC adopted orders modernizing the USF Schools and Libraries Program ("E-Rate"). These orders, among other things, increased the annual E-Rate cap by approximately $1.5 billion, designated funds for internal connections within schools and libraries, and eliminated funding for certain legacy services, such as voice, to increase the availability of 21st century connectivity to support digital learning in schools nationwide. These orders did not have a material effect on the overall E-Rate support available to our schools and libraries customers, and therefore did not materially affect our revenue from such customers.

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Financial Information about our Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales

We do not have significant foreign operations or export sales.  We conduct our operations throughout the contiguous United States and Alaska and believe that any subdivision of our operations into distinct geographic areas would not be meaningful.

Company-Sponsored Research

We have not expended material amounts during the last three fiscal years on company-sponsored research activities.

Employees

We employed 2,370 persons as of December 31, 2015, and we are not subject to any collective bargaining agreements with our employees. We believe our future success will depend upon our continued ability to attract and retain highly skilled and qualified employees. We believe that relations with our employees are satisfactory.

Other

No material portion of our business is subject to renegotiation of profits or termination of contracts at the election of the federal government.

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

Factors That May Affect Our Business and Future Results

Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business operations.  Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

We face competition that may reduce our market share and harm our financial performance.

There is substantial competition in the telecommunications and entertainment industries.  Through mergers and various service integration strategies, major providers are striving to provide integrated communications services offerings within and across geographic markets.  We face increased wireless services competition from national carriers in the Alaska market and increasing video services competition from DBS providers and over-the-top content providers who are often able to offer more flexible subscription packages and exclusive content.

We expect competition to increase as a result of the rapid development of new technologies, services and products.  We cannot predict which of many possible future technologies, products or services will be important to maintain our competitive position or what expenditures will be required to develop and provide these technologies, products or services.  Our ability to compete successfully will depend on marketing and on our ability to anticipate and respond to various competitive factors affecting the industry, including new services that may be introduced, changes in consumer preferences, economic conditions and pricing strategies by competitors.  To the extent we do not keep pace with technological advances or fail to timely respond to changes in competitive factors in our industry and in our markets, we could lose market share or experience a decline in our revenue and net income. Competitive conditions create a risk of market share loss and the risk that customers shift to less profitable lower margin services.  Competitive pressures also create challenges for our ability to grow new businesses or introduce new services successfully and execute our business plan.  We also face the risk of potential price cuts by our competitors that could materially adversely affect our market share and gross margins.

Our wholesale customers including our major roaming customers may construct facilities in locations where they contract with us to use our network to provide service on their behalf. We would experience a decline in revenue and net income if any of our wholesale customers constructed or expanded their existing networks in places where service is provided on our network. Some of our wholesale customers have greater access to financial, technical, and other resources than we do. We expect to negotiate long-term contracts with such customers to offer competitive alternatives while retaining significant traffic on our network. We cannot predict whether such negotiations will be successful. Our inability to negotiate such contracts could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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For more information about competition by segment, see the sections titled “Competition” included in “Part 1 — Item 1 — Business — Description of our Business by Reportable Segment.”

If we experience low or negative rates of subscriber acquisition or high rates of turnover, our financial performance will be impaired.

We are in the business of selling communications and entertainment services to subscribers, and our economic success is based on our ability to retain current subscribers and attract new subscribers. If we are unable to retain and attract subscribers, our financial performance will be impaired.  Our rates of subscriber acquisition and turnover are affected by a number of competitive factors including the size of our service areas, network performance and reliability issues, our device and service offerings, subscribers’ perceptions of our services, and customer care quality. Managing these factors and subscribers’ expectations is essential in attracting and retaining subscribers. Although we have implemented programs to attract new subscribers and address subscriber turnover, we cannot assure you that these programs or our strategies to address subscriber acquisition and turnover will be successful. A high rate of turnover or low or negative rate of new subscriber acquisition would reduce revenues and increase the total marketing expenditures required to attract the minimum number of subscribers required to sustain our business plan which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We may be unable to obtain or maintain the roaming services we need from other carriers to remain competitive.

Some of our competitors have national networks which enable them to offer nationwide coverage to their subscribers at a lower cost than we can offer. The networks we operate do not, by themselves, provide national coverage and we must pay fees to other carriers who provide roaming services to us. We currently rely on roaming agreements with several carriers for the majority of our roaming services.

The FCC requires commercial mobile radio service providers to provide roaming, upon request, for voice and SMS text messaging services on just, reasonable and non-discriminatory terms.  The FCC also requires carriers to offer data roaming services. The rules do not provide or mandate any specific mechanism for determining the reasonableness of roaming rates for voice, SMS text messaging or data services and require that roaming complaints be resolved on a case-by-case basis, based on a non-exclusive list of factors that can be taken into account in determining the reasonableness of particular conduct or rates.  If we were to lose the benefit of one or more key roaming or wholesale agreements unexpectedly, we may be unable to obtain similar replacement agreements and as a result may be unable to continue providing nationwide voice and data roaming services for our customers or may be unable to provide such services on a cost-effective basis.  Our inability to obtain new or replacement roaming services on a cost-effective basis may limit our ability to compete effectively for wireless customers, which may increase our turnover and decrease our revenues, which in turn could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We may be unable to successfully complete the integration of the wireless subscribers acquired from ACS in the Wireless Acquisition or we may be unable to realize the remaining anticipated synergies.

On February 2, 2015, we completed the Wireless Acquisition which included the acquisition of wireless subscribers from ACS. Our business may be negatively impacted if we are unable to effectively complete the integration of the new wireless subscribers or recognize the remaining expected synergies. The integration that followed the subscriber acquisition continues to require significant time and focus from management and diverts attention from the day-to-day operations of our other businesses and our strategic objectives. Integration difficulties and an inability to realize the remaining anticipated synergies could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

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Our business is subject to extensive governmental legislation and regulation.  Applicable legislation and regulations and changes to them could adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Wireless Services. The licensing, construction, operation, sale and interconnection arrangements of wireless communications systems are regulated by the FCC and, depending on the jurisdiction, state and local regulatory agencies.  In particular, the FCC imposes significant regulation on licensees of wireless spectrum with respect to:

• How radio spectrum is used by licensees;

• The nature of the services that licensees may offer and how such services may be offered; and

• Resolution of issues of interference between spectrum bands.

Although the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, preempts state and local regulation of market entry and the rates charged by commercial mobile radio service providers, states may exercise authority over such things as certain billing practices and consumer-related issues.  These regulations could increase the costs of our wireless operations.  The FCC grants wireless licenses for terms of generally ten years that are subject to renewal and revocation. FCC rules require all wireless licensees to meet certain build-out requirements and substantially comply with applicable FCC rules and policies and the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, in order to retain their licenses.  Failure to comply with FCC requirements in a given license area could result in revocation of the license for that license area.  There is no guarantee that our licenses will be renewed.

Commercial mobile radio service providers must implement E911 capabilities in accordance with FCC rules.  While we believe that we are currently in compliance with such FCC rules, the failure to deploy E911 service consistent with FCC requirements could subject us to significant fines.

The FCC, together with the Federal Aviation Administration, also regulates tower marking and lighting. In addition, tower construction is affected by federal, state and local statutes addressing zoning, environmental protection and historic preservation.  The FCC requires local notice in any community in which it is seeking FCC Antenna Structure Registration to build a tower.  Local notice provides members of the community with an opportunity to comment on or challenge the tower construction for environmental reasons.  This rule could cause delay for certain tower construction projects.

Internet Services. On February 26, 2015, the FCC adopted an order reclassifying Internet service as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act. The order prohibits broadband providers from blocking or throttling most lawful public Internet traffic, and from engaging in paid prioritization of that traffic.  The order also strengthens transparency rules, which require accurate and truthful service disclosures, sufficient for consumers to make informed choices, for example, about speed, price and fees, latency, and network management practices.  The order allows broadband providers to engage in reasonable network management, including using techniques to address traffic congestion. The new rules apply equally to wired and wireless broadband services. The order refrains from imposing rate regulation or tariff requirements on broadband services.

We cannot predict how the FCC will interpret or apply its new rules.  In addition, although the FCC forbore from many of the provisions of Title II, we cannot predict how the FCC will interpret or apply the statutory provisions and regulations from which it did not forbear.  It is possible that the FCC could interpret or apply its new rules or “Title II” statutory provisions or regulations in a way that has a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.  There also is a risk class action lawsuits arising under the provisions of Title II from which the FCC did not forbear could have similar negative impacts. 

Proposals have been made before Congress to mandate Open Internet regulation that could supplement or supplant in whole or part the FCC’s new rules.  We currently cannot predict whether any such legislation will be adopted nor what impacts are most likely. 

Video Services. The cable television industry is subject to extensive regulation at various levels, and many aspects of such regulation are currently the subject of judicial proceedings and administrative or legislative proposals. The law permits certified local franchising authorities to order refunds of rates paid in the previous 12-month period determined to be in excess of the reasonable rates. It is possible that rate reductions or refunds of previously collected fees may be required of us in the future.

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Other existing federal regulations, currently the subject of judicial, legislative, and administrative review, could change, in varying degrees, the manner in which video systems operate. Neither the outcome of these proceedings nor their impact on the cable television industry in general, or on our activities and prospects in the cable television business in particular, can be predicted at this time. There can be no assurance that future regulatory actions taken by Congress, the FCC or other federal, state or local government authorities will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Local Access Services. Our success in the local telephone market depends on our continued ability to obtain interconnection, access and related services from local exchange carriers on terms that are reasonable and that are based on the cost of providing these services. Our local telephone services business faces the risk of unfavorable changes in regulation or legislation or the introduction of new regulations. Our ability to provide service in the local telephone market depends on our negotiation or arbitration with local exchange carriers to allow interconnection to the carrier’s existing local telephone network (in some Alaska markets at cost-based rates), to establish dialing parity, to obtain access to rights-of-way, to resell services offered by the local exchange carrier, and in some cases, to allow the purchase, at cost-based rates, of access to unbundled network elements. Future negotiations or arbitration proceedings with respect to new or existing markets could result in a change in our cost of serving these markets via the facilities of the ILEC or via wholesale offerings.

For more information about Regulations affecting our operations, see “Part 1 —Item 1 — Business — Regulation.”

Loss of our ETC status would disqualify us for USF support.

The USF pays support to ETCs to support the provision of facilities-based wireline and wireless telephone service in high cost areas.  If we were to lose our ETC status in any of the study areas where we are currently an authorized ETC whether due to legislative or regulatory reform or our failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, we would be ineligible to receive USF support for providing service in that area.  Loss of our ETC status could have an adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Revenues and accounts receivable from USF support may be reduced or lost.

We receive support from each of the various USF programs: high cost, low income, rural health care, and schools and libraries.  This support was 19%, 19%, and 18% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  We had USF net receivables of $98.1 million and $109.6 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  The programs are subject to change by regulatory actions taken by the FCC or legislative actions.  Changes to any of the USF programs that we participate in could result in a material decrease in revenue and accounts receivable, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

See “Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Regulation — Wireless Services and Products — Universal Service” and “Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Regulation — Wireline Voice Services and Products — Universal Service” for more information.

Programming expenses for our video services are increasing, which could adversely affect our business.

We expect programming expenses for our video services to continue to increase in the foreseeable future.  The multichannel video provider industry has continued to experience an increase in the cost of programming, especially sports programming and costs to retransmit local broadcast stations.  As we add programming to our video services or if we choose to distribute existing programming to our customers through additional delivery platforms, we may incur increased programming expenses.  If we are unable to raise our customers’ rates or offset such programming cost increases through the sale of additional services, the increasing cost of programming could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.  Moreover, as our contracts with content providers expire, there can be no assurance that they will be renewed on acceptable terms or that they will be renewed at all, in which case we may be unable to provide such content as part of our video services and our business could be adversely affected.

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The decline in our Wireline segment voice services’ results of operations, which include long-distance and local access services, may accelerate.

We expect our Wireline voice services’ results of operations, which include long-distance and local access services, will continue to decline.  As competition from wireless carriers, such as ourselves, increases we expect our long-distance and local access services' subscribers and revenues will continue to decline and the rate of decline may accelerate.

We may not be able to satisfy the requirements of our participation in a New Markets Tax Credit ("NMTC") program for funding our TERRA-NW project.

In 2011 and 2012 we entered into three separate arrangements under the NMTC program with US Bancorp to help fund various phases of our TERRA-NW project. In connection with the NMTC transactions we received proceeds which were restricted for use on TERRA-NW. The NMTCs are subject to 100% recapture of the tax credit for a period of seven years as provided in the Internal Revenue Code. We are required to be in compliance with various regulations and contractual provisions that apply to the NMTC arrangements.  We have agreed to indemnify US Bancorp for any loss or recapture of its $56.0 million in NMTCs until such time as our obligation to deliver tax benefits is relieved in December 2019. Non-compliance with applicable requirements could result in projected tax benefits not being realized by US Bancorp and could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Failure to complete development, testing and deployment of a new technology that supports new services could affect our ability to compete in the industry.  In addition, the technology we use may place us at a competitive disadvantage.

We develop, test and deploy various new technologies and support systems intended to enhance our competitiveness by both supporting new services and features and reducing the costs associated with providing those services or features.  Successful development and implementation of technology upgrades depend, in part, on the willingness of third parties to develop new applications in a timely manner.  We may not successfully complete the development and rollout of new technology and related features or services in a timely manner, and they may not be widely accepted by our customers or may not be profitable, in which case we could not recover our investment in the technology.  Deployment of technology supporting new service offerings may also adversely affect the performance or reliability of our networks with respect to both the new and existing services.  Any resulting customer dissatisfaction could affect our ability to retain customers and may have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.In addition to introducing new technologies and offerings, we must phase out outdated and unprofitable technologies and services.  If we are unable to do so on a cost-effective basis, we could experience reduced profits.

Unfavorable general economic conditions could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and liquidity.

Unfavorable general economic conditions could negatively affect our business including our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as our ability to service debt, pay other obligations and enhance shareholder returns.  While it is often difficult for us to predict the impact of general economic conditions on our business, these conditions could adversely affect the affordability of and demand for some of our products and services and could cause customers to shift to lower priced products and services or to delay or forgo purchases of our products and services.  One or more of these circumstances could cause our revenue to decline.  Also, our customers may not be able to obtain adequate access to credit, which could affect their ability to make timely payments to us.  If that were to occur, we could be required to increase our allowance for doubtful accounts, and the number of days outstanding for our accounts receivable could increase.

Our business is geographically concentrated in Alaska.  Any deterioration in the economic conditions in Alaska could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and liquidity.

We offer wireless and wireline telecommunication services, data services, video services, and managed services to customers primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, growth of our business and operations depends upon economic conditions in Alaska.  The economy of Alaska is dependent upon the oil

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industry, state government spending, United States military spending, investment earnings and tourism.  Oil prices have dropped precipitously recently which has put significant pressure on the Alaska state government budget since the majority of its revenues come from the oil industry. While the Alaska state government has significant reserves that we believe will help fund the state government for the next couple of years, major structural budgetary reforms will need to be implemented in order to offset the impact of declining oil prices. Prolonged periods of low oil prices will adversely impact the Alaska economy, which in turn could have an adverse impact on the demand for our products and services and on our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, if the Alaska state government fails to implement appropriate structural budgetary reforms, we may potentially have to reduce our capital expenditures, which in turn could limit our opportunities for future growth.

Additionally, the customer base in Alaska is limited and we have already achieved significant market penetration with respect to our service offerings in Anchorage and other locations in Alaska. We may not be able to continue to increase our market share of the existing markets for our services, and no assurance can be given that the Alaskan economy will grow and increase the size of the markets we serve or increase the demand for the services we offer.  As a result, the best opportunities for expanding our business may arise in other geographic areas such as the lower 49 states.  There can be no assurance that we will find attractive opportunities to grow our businesses outside of Alaska or that we will have the necessary expertise to take advantage of such opportunities.  The markets in Alaska for wireless and wireline telecommunications and video services are unique and distinct within the United States due to Alaska’s large geographical size, its sparse population located in a limited number of clusters, and its distance from the rest of the United States.  The expertise we have developed in operating our businesses in Alaska may not provide us with the necessary expertise to successfully enter other geographic markets.

Natural or man-made disasters or terrorist attacks could have an adverse effect on our business.

Our technical infrastructure (including our communications network infrastructure and ancillary functions supporting our network such as service activation, billing and customer care) is vulnerable to damage or interruption from technology failures, power surges or outages, natural disasters, fires, human error, terrorism, intentional wrongdoing or similar events. As a communications provider, there is an increased risk that our technological infrastructure may be targeted in connection with terrorism or cyberattacks, either as a primary target, or as a means of facilitating additional attacks on other targets.  

In addition, earthquakes, floods, fires and other unforeseen natural disasters or events could materially disrupt our business operations or our provision of service in one or more markets.  Costs we incur to restore, repair or replace our network or technical infrastructure, as well as costs associated with detecting, monitoring or reducing the incidence of unauthorized use, may be substantial and increase our cost of providing service.  Any failure in or interruption of systems that we or third parties maintain to support ancillary functions, such as billing, point of sale, inventory management, customer care and financial reporting, could materially impact our ability to timely and accurately record, process and report information important to our business.  If any of the above events were to occur, we could experience higher churn, reduced revenues and increased costs, any of which could harm our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Additionally, our insurance may not be adequate to cover the costs associated with a natural disaster or terrorist attack.

Cyberattacks or other network disruptions could have an adverse effect on our business.

Cyberattacks against our technological infrastructure or breaches of network information technology may cause equipment failures, disruption of our operations, and potentially unauthorized access to confidential customer data. Cyberattacks, which include the use of malware, computer viruses, and other means for service disruption or unauthorized access to confidential customer data, have increased in frequency, scope, and potential harm for businesses in recent years. It is possible for such cyberattacks to go undetected for an extended period of time, increasing the potential harm to our customers, our assets, and our reputation.

To date, we have not been subject to cyberattacks or network disruptions that individually or in the aggregate, have been material to our operations or financial condition. Nevertheless, we engage in a variety of preventive measures at an increased cost to us, in order to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and safeguard our infrastructure and confidential customer information. Such measures include, but are not limited to the following industry best practices: application whitelisting, anti-malware, message and spam filtering, encryption, advanced firewalls, threat

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detection, and URL filtering. Despite these preventive and detective actions, our efforts may be insufficient to repel a major cyberattack or network disruption in the future.

Some of the most significant risks to our information technology systems, networks, and infrastructure include:

• Cyberattacks that disrupt, damage, and gain unauthorized access to our network and computer systems including data breaches caused by criminal or terrorist activities;

• Undesired human actions including intentional or accidental errors;

• Malware (including viruses, worms, cryptoware, and Trojan horses), software defects, unsolicited mass advertising, denial of service, and other malicious or abusive attacks by third parties;

• Unauthorized access to our information technology, billing, customer care, and provisioning systems and networks and those of our vendors and other providers; and,

• Disruptions and damage caused by natural disasters, power surges, or equipment failure.

If hackers or cyberthieves gain improper access to our technology systems, networks, or infrastructure, they may be able to access, steal, publish, delete, misappropriate, modify or otherwise disrupt access to confidential customer data. Moreover, additional harm to customers could be perpetrated by third parties who are given access to the confidential customer data. Relatedly, a network disruption (including one resulting from a cyberattack) could cause an interruption or degradation of service as well as permit access, theft, publishing, deletion, misappropriation, or modification to or of confidential customer data. Due to the evolving techniques used in cyberattacks to disrupt or gain unauthorized access to technology networks, we may not be able to anticipate or prevent such disruption or unauthorized access.

The costs imposed on us as a result of a cyberattack or network disruption could be significant. Among others, such costs could include increased expenditures on cyber security measures,litigation, fines, and sanctions, lost revenues from business interruption, and damage to the public’s perception regarding our ability to provide a secure service. As a result, a cyberattack or network disruption could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Increases in data usage on our wired and wireless networks may cause network capacity limitations, resulting in service disruptions, reduced capacity or slower transmission speeds for our customers.

Video streaming services and peer-to-peer file sharing applications use significantly more bandwidth than traditional Internet activity such as web browsing and email. As use of these newer services continues to grow, our customers will likely use more bandwidth than in the past. Additionally, new wireless handsets and devices may place a higher demand for data on our wireless network. If this occurs, we could be required to make significant capital expenditures to increase network capacity in order to avoid service disruptions, service degradation or slower transmission speeds for our customers. Alternatively, we could choose to implement network management practices to reduce the network capacity available to bandwidth-intensive activities during certain times in market areas experiencing congestion, which could negatively affect our ability to retain and attract customers in affected areas. While we believe demand for these services may drive customers to pay for faster speeds, competitive or regulatory constraints may preclude us from recovering the costs of the necessary network investments which could result in an adverse impact to our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Prolonged service interruptions or system failures could affect our business.

We rely heavily on our network equipment, communications providers, data and software to support all of our functions.  We rely on our networks and the networks of others for substantially all of our revenues. We are able to deliver services and serve our customers only to the extent that we can protect our network systems against damage from power or communication failures, computer viruses, natural disasters, unauthorized access and other disruptions.  While we endeavor to provide for failures in the network by providing back-up systems and procedures, we cannot guarantee that these back-up systems and procedures will operate satisfactorily in an emergency.  Disruption to our billing systems due to a failure of existing hardware and backup protocols could have an adverse effect on our revenue and cash flow. Should we experience a prolonged failure, it could seriously jeopardize our ability to continue operations.  In particular, should a significant service interruption occur, our ongoing customers may choose a different provider, and our reputation may be damaged, reducing our attractiveness to new customers.

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If failures occur in our undersea fiber optic cable systems or our TERRA facilities and its extensions, our ability to immediately restore the entirety of our service may be limited and we could incur significant costs, which could lead to a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Our communications facilities include undersea fiber optic cable systems that carry a large portion of our traffic to and from the contiguous lower 48 states, one of which provides an alternative geographically diverse backup communication facility to the other.  Our facilities also include TERRA and its extensions which are unringed, operating in a remote environment and are at times difficult to access for repairs.  If a failure of both sides of the ring of our undersea fiber optic facilities or of our unringed TERRA facility and its extensions occurs and we are not able to secure alternative facilities, some of the communications services we offer to our customers could be interrupted which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.  Damage to an undersea fiber optic cable system or TERRA and its extensions could result in significant unplanned expense which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

If a failure occurs in our satellite communications systems, our ability to immediately restore the entirety of our service may be limited.

Our communications facilities include satellite transponders that we use to serve many rural and remote Alaska locations.  Each of our C-band and Ku-band satellite transponders is backed up using on-board transponder redundancy.  In the event of a complete spacecraft failure the services are restored using capacity on other spacecraft that are held in reserve.  If a failure of our satellite transponders occurs and we are not able to secure alternative facilities, some of the communications services we offer to our customers could be interrupted which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

We depend on a limited number of third-party vendors to supply communications equipment.  If we do not obtain the necessary communications equipment, we will not be able to meet the needs of our customers.

We depend on a limited number of third-party vendors to supply wireless, Internet, video and other telephony-related equipment.  If our providers of this equipment are unable to timely supply the equipment necessary to meet our needs or provide them at an acceptable cost, we may not be able to satisfy demand for our services and competitors may fulfill this demand.  Due to the unique characteristics of the Alaska communications markets (i.e., remote locations, rural, satellite-served, low density populations, and our leading edge services and products), in many situations we deploy and utilize specialized, advanced technology and equipment that may not have a large market or demand.  Our vendors may not succeed in developing sufficient market penetration to sustain continuing production and may fail.  Vendor bankruptcy, or acquisition without continuing product support by the acquiring company, may require us to replace technology before its otherwise useful end of life due to lack of on-going vendor support and product development.

The suppliers and vendors on which we rely may also be subject to litigation with respect to technology on which we depend, including litigation involving claims of patent infringement.  Such claims have been growing rapidly in the communications industry.  We are unable to predict whether our business will be affected by any such litigation.  We expect our dependence on key suppliers to continue as they develop and introduce more advanced generations of technology.

We do not have insurance to cover certain risks to which we are subject, which could lead to the occurrence of uninsured liabilities that adversely affect our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

As is typical in the communications industry, we are self-insured for damage or loss to certain of our transmission facilities, including our buried, undersea and above-ground fiber optic cable systems.  If we become subject to substantial uninsured liabilities due to damage or loss to such facilities, our financial position, results of operations or liquidity may be adversely affected.

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Our significant debt and capital lease obligations could adversely affect our business and prevent us from fulfilling our obligations under our Senior Notes, Senior Credit Facility, other debt or capital leases.

We have and will continue to have a significant amount of debt and capital lease obligations.  On December 31, 2015, we had long-term debt of $1,344.8 million and long-term capital lease obligations of $59.7 million. Our high level of debt and capital lease obligations could have important consequences, including the following:

• Increasing our vulnerability to adverse economic, industry, or competitive developments;

• Requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations to be dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness, therefore reducing our ability to use our cash flows to fund operations, capital expenditures, and future business opportunities;

• Exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates to the extent of any future borrowings, including borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility, at variable rates of interest;

• Making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our indebtedness, including the Senior Notes and Senior Credit Facility, and any failure to comply with the obligations of any of our debt instruments, including restrictive covenants and borrowing conditions, could result in an event of default under the indenture governing the notes and the agreements governing such other indebtedness;

• Restricting us from making strategic acquisitions or causing us to make non-strategic divestitures;

• Limiting our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, product and service development, debt service requirements, acquisitions, and general corporate or other purposes; and

• Limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business or market conditions and placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors who are less highly leveraged and who, therefore, may be able to take advantage of opportunities that our leverage may prevent us from exploiting.

We will require a significant amount of cash to service our debt and to meet other obligations.  Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.  If we are unable to meet our future capital needs it may be necessary for us to curtail, delay or abandon our business growth plans.If we incur significant additional indebtedness to fund our plans, it could cause a decline in our credit rating and could increase our borrowing costs or limit our ability to raise additional capital.

We will continue to require a significant amount of cash to satisfy our debt service requirements and to meet other obligations.  Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our debt and to fund planned capital expenditures and acquisitions will depend on our ability to generate cash and to arrange additional financing in the future.  These abilities are subject to, among other factors, our credit rating, our financial performance, general economic conditions, prevailing market conditions, the state of competition in our market, the outcome of certain legislative and regulatory issues and other factors that may be beyond our control.  Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings may not be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our debt or to fund our other liquidity needs.  We may need to refinance all or a portion of our debt on or before maturity.  We may not be able to refinance any of our debt on commercially reasonable terms or at all.

The terms of our debt impose restrictions on us that may affect our ability to successfully operate our business and our ability to make payments on the Senior Notes.

The indentures governing our Senior Notes and/or the credit agreements governing our Senior Credit Facility and other loans contain various covenants that could materially and adversely affect our ability to finance our future operations or capital needs and to engage in other business activities that may be in our best interest.

All of these covenants may restrict our ability to expand or to pursue our business strategies.  Our ability to comply with these covenants may be affected by events beyond our control, such as prevailing economic conditions and changes in regulations, and if such events occur, we cannot be sure that we will be able to comply.  A breach of these covenants could result in a default under the indentures governing our Senior Notes and/or the Senior Credit Facility.  If there were an event of default under the indentures for the Senior Notes and/or the Senior Credit Facility, holders of such defaulted debt could cause all amounts borrowed under these instruments to be due and payable immediately.  Additionally, if we fail to repay the debt under the Senior Credit Facility when it becomes due, the lenders under the Senior Credit Facility could proceed against certain of our assets and capital stock of our

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subsidiaries that we have pledged to them as security.  Our assets or cash flow may not be sufficient to repay borrowings under our outstanding debt instruments in the event of a default thereunder.

When our Senior Credit Facility and Senior Notes mature, we may not be able to refinance or replace one or both.

When our Senior Credit Facility and Senior Notes mature, we will likely need to refinance them and may not be able to do so on favorable terms or at all. If we are able to refinance maturing indebtedness, the terms of any refinancing or alternate credit arrangements may contain terms and covenants that restrict our financial and operating flexibility.

Variable rate indebtedness subjects us to interest rate risk, which could cause our debt service obligations to increase significantly.

Our borrowings under our Senior Credit Facility are at variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness could increase even though the amount borrowed remained the same, and our net income and cash flow could decrease.

In order to manage our exposure to interest rate risk, in the future, we may enter into derivative financial instruments, typically interest rate swaps and caps, involving the exchange of floating for fixed rate interest payments. If we are unable to enter into interest rate swaps, it may adversely affect our cash flow and may impact our ability to make required principal and interest payments on our indebtedness.

Any significant impairment of our indefinite-lived intangible assets would lead to a decrease in our assets and a reduction in our net operating performance.

We had $520.3 million of indefinite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2015, consisting of goodwill of $239.3 million, cable certificates of $191.6 million, wireless licenses of $86.3 million and broadcast licenses of $3.1 million.  Our cable certificates represent agreements with government entities to construct and operate a video business.  Our wireless licenses are from the FCC and give us the right to provide wireless service within a certain geographical area.  Our broadcast licenses represent permission to use a portion of the radio frequency spectrum in a given geographical area for broadcasting purposes. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with business acquisitions.

If we make changes in our business strategy or if market or other conditions adversely affect our operations, we may be forced to record an impairment charge, which would lead to a decrease in our assets and a reduction in our net operating performance.  Our indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment during the fourth quarter and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate the assets might be impaired.  If the testing performed indicates that impairment has occurred, we are required to record an impairment charge for the difference between the carrying value of the goodwill and/or the indefinite-lived intangible assets, as appropriate, and the fair value of the goodwill and/or indefinite-lived intangible assets, in the period in which the determination is made.  The testing of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment requires us to make significant estimates about our future performance and cash flows, as well as other assumptions.  These estimates can be affected by numerous factors, including changes in economic, industry or market conditions, changes in underlying business operations, future operating performance, changes in competition, or changes in technologies.  Any changes to key assumptions, or actual performance compared with those assumptions, about our business and its future prospects or other assumptions could affect the fair value, resulting in an impairment charge.

Our ability to use net operating loss carryforwards to reduce future tax payments could be negatively impacted if there is an “ownership change” as defined under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code.

At December 31, 2015, we have tax net operating loss carryforwards of $340.5 million for U.S. federal income tax purposes and, under the Internal Revenue Code, we may carry forward these net operating losses in certain circumstances to offset any current and future taxable income and thus reduce our federal income tax liability, subject to certain requirements and restrictions. If we experience an “ownership change,” as defined in Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code and related Treasury regulations at a time when our market capitalization is below a certain level, our ability to use the net operating loss carryforwards could be substantially limited. This limit could impact the timing of the usage of the net operating loss carryforwards, thus accelerating cash tax payments or

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causing net operating loss carryforwards to expire prior to their use, which could affect the ultimate realization of that deferred tax asset.

Concerns about health risks associated with wireless equipment may reduce the demand for our wireless services.

Portable communications devices have been alleged to pose health risks, including cancer, due to radio frequency emissions from these devices.  Purported class actions and other lawsuits have been filed from time to time against other wireless companies seeking not only damages but also remedies that could increase the cost of doing business.  We cannot be sure of the outcome of any such cases or that the industry will not be adversely affected by litigation of this nature or public perception about health risks.  The actual or perceived risk of mobile communications devices could adversely affect us through a reduction in subscribers.  Further research and studies are ongoing, with no linkage between health risks and mobile phone use established to date by a credible public source.  However, we cannot be sure that additional studies will not demonstrate a link between radio frequency emissions and health concerns.

A significant percentage of our voting securities are owned by a small number of shareholders and these shareholders can control shareholder decisions on very important matters.

As of December 31, 2015, our executive officers and directors and their affiliates owned 14% of our combined outstanding Class A and Class B common stock, representing 24% of the combined voting power of that stock.  These shareholders can significantly influence, if not control, our management policy and all fundamental corporate actions, including mergers, substantial acquisitions and dispositions, and election of directors to the Board.

We invest in early-stage, venture backed companies.

The companies in which we invest are entrants to markets with new products or services. These companies generally have revenue that does not cover the companies’ operating and capital expenditures. As a result, the companies typically operate with monthly net losses and may require additional funding for operating and capital. Given that, among other things, these companies are at an early stage in their life cycle and are often proving their business model, these companies may fail, go bankrupt, and lose all or substantially all of their value which could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

Not applicable.

Item 2. Properties

Our properties do not lend themselves to description by location of principal units.  The majority of our properties are located in Alaska.  

We lease most of our executive, corporate and administrative facilities and business offices.  Our operating, executive, corporate and administrative properties are in good condition.  We consider our properties suitable and adequate for our present needs and they are being fully utilized.

Our Wireline and Wireless segments have properties that consist primarily of undersea and terrestrial fiber optic cable networks, switching equipment, satellite transponders and earth stations, microwave radio, cable and wire facilities, cable head-end equipment, wireless towers and equipment, coaxial distribution networks, connecting lines (aerial, underground and buried cable), routers, servers, transportation equipment, computer equipment, general office equipment, land, land improvements, landing stations and other buildings.  See Note 4 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information on our properties. Substantial amounts of our properties are located on or in leased real property or facilities.  Substantially all of our properties secure our Senior Credit Facility.  See Note 6 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information on our Senior Credit Facility.

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Item 3. Legal Proceedings

We are involved in various lawsuits, billing disputes, legal proceedings, and regulatory matters that have arisen from time to time in the normal course of business.  Management believes there are no proceedings from asserted and unasserted claims which if determined adversely would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.

Part II

Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market Information for Common Stock

Shares of GCI’s Class A common stock are traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market^SM under the symbol GNCMA.

Shares of GCI’s Class B common stock are traded on the OTCQX market under the symbol GNCMB.  Each share of Class B common stock is convertible, at the option of the holder, into one share of Class A common stock.

The following table sets forth the high and low sales price for our common stock for the periods indicated.  Market price data for Class A shares was obtained from the Nasdaq Stock Market System quotation system.  Market price data for Class B shares was obtained from reported Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board service market transactions.  The prices represent prices between dealers, do not include retail markups, markdowns, or commissions, and do not necessarily represent actual transactions.

	Class A			Class B
	High		Low	High	Low
2015
First Quarter	$	16.22	12.92	16.11	13.73
Second Quarter	$	17.05	14.78	17.00	15.50
Third Quarter	$	19.06	16.15	19.15	15.71
Fourth Quarter	$	21.68	16.38	17.38	16.40
2014
First Quarter	$	11.62	9.34	11.48	10.50
Second Quarter	$	11.49	10.31	11.02	10.57
Third Quarter	$	11.63	10.83	11.02	10.61
Fourth Quarter	$	13.84	10.69	13.73	10.61

Holders

As of December 31, 2015, there were 2,237 holders of record of our Class A common stock and 273 holders of record of our Class B common stock (amounts do not include the number of shareholders whose shares are held of record by brokers, but do include the brokerage house as one shareholder).

Dividends

We have never paid cash dividends on our common stock, and we have no present intention of doing so. Payment of cash dividends in the future, if any, will be determined by our Board of Directors in light of our earnings, financial condition and other relevant considerations.  Our existing debt agreements contain provisions that limit payment of dividends on common stock, other than stock dividends (see Note 6 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information).

Stock Transfer Agent and Registrar

Computershare is our stock transfer agent and registrar.

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Performance Graph

The following graph includes a line graph comparing the yearly percentage change in our cumulative total shareholder return on our Class A common stock during the five-year period 2011 through 2015.  This return is measured by dividing (1) the sum of (a) the cumulative amount of dividends for the measurement period (assuming dividend reinvestment, if any) and (b) the difference between our share price at the end and the beginning of the measurement period, by (2) the share price at the beginning of that measurement period.  This line graph is compared in the following graph with two other line graphs during that five-year period, i.e., a market index and a peer index.

The market index is the Center for Research in Securities Price Index for the Nasdaq Stock Market for United States companies.  It presents cumulative total returns for a broad based equity market assuming reinvestment of dividends and is based upon companies whose equity securities are traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market.  The peer index is the Center for Research in Securities Price Index for Nasdaq Telecommunications Stock.  It presents cumulative total returns for the equity market in the telecommunications industry segment assuming reinvestment of dividends and is based upon companies whose equity securities are traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market.  The line graphs represent annual index levels derived from compounding daily returns.

In constructing each of the line graphs in the following graph, the closing price at the beginning point of the five-year measurement period has been converted into a fixed investment, stated in dollars, in our Class A common stock (or in the stock represented by a given index, in the cases of the two comparison indexes), with cumulative returns for each subsequent fiscal year measured as a change from that investment.  Data for each succeeding fiscal year during the five-year measurement period are plotted with points showing the cumulative total return as of that point.  The value of a shareholder’s investment as of each point plotted on a given line graph is the number of shares held at that point multiplied by the then prevailing share price.

Our Class B common stock is traded on the OTCQX Market on a more limited basis.  Therefore, comparisons similar to those previously described for the Class A common stock are not directly available.  However, the performance of Class B common stock may be analogized to that of the Class A common stock in that the Class B common stock is readily convertible into Class A common stock upon request to us.

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Prepared by Zacks Investment Research, Inc.  All indexes used with permission.  All rights reserved.

COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURNS PERFORMANCE GRAPH FOR GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC., NASDAQ STOCK MARKET INDEX FOR UNITED STATES COMPANIES, AND NASDAQ TELECOMMUNICATIONS STOCK1,2,3,4
Measurement Period (Fiscal Year Covered)	Company ($)	Nasdaq Stock Market Index for U.S. Companies ($)	Nasdaq Telecommunications Stock ($)
FYE 12/31/10	100.00	100.00	100.00
FYE 12/31/11	77.33	100.51	105.74
FYE 12/31/12	75.75	118.87	142.87
FYE 12/31/13	88.07	165.68	207.29
FYE 12/31/14	108.61	191.04	217.85
FYE 12/31/15	156.24	205.76	211.41
1 The lines represent annual index levels derived from compounded daily returns that include all dividends.
2  The indexes are reweighted daily, using the market capitalization on the previous trading day.
3  If the annual interval, based on the fiscal year-end, is not a trading day, the preceding trading day is used.
4  The index level for all series was set to $100.00 on December 31, 2010.

Issuer’s Purchases of Equity Securities

(a) Not applicable.

(b) Not applicable.

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(c) The following table provides information about repurchases of shares of our Class A common stock during the quarter ended December 31, 2015 (amounts rounded to hundreds, except per share amounts):

	(a) Total Number of Shares Purchased1	(b) Average Price Paid per Share		(c) Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs2	(d) Maximum Number (or approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plan or Programs3
October 1, 2015 to October 31, 2015	39,020		$17.11	12,261		$99,136,622
November 1, 2015 to November 30, 2015	205,826		$20.90	148		$99,191,369
December 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015	233,135		$19.22	209,103		$95,295,363
Total	477,981

¹  Consists of 221,512 shares from open market purchases made under our publicly announced repurchase plan and 256,469 shares from private purchases made to settle the minimum statutory tax-withholding requirements pursuant to restricted stock award vesting.

²  The repurchase plan was publicly announced on November 3, 2004.  Our plan does not have an expiration date, however transactions pursuant to the plan are subject to periodic approval by our Board of Directors.  We expect to continue the repurchases for an indefinite period dependent on leverage, liquidity, company performance, market conditions and subject to continued oversight by our Board of Directors.

³  The total amount approved by our Board of Directors for repurchase under our publicly announced repurchase plan was $378.9 million through December 31, 2015, consisting of $373.7 million through September 30, 2015, and an additional $5.2 million during the three months ended December 31, 2015.  We have made total repurchases under the program of $283.6 million through December 31, 2015.  If stock repurchases are less than the total approved quarterly amount the difference may be carried forward and used to repurchase additional shares in future quarters, subject to board approval.

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following table presents selected historical information relating to financial condition and results of operations over the past five years.

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015			2014	2013	2012		2011
(Amounts in thousands except per share amounts)
Revenues	$	978,534		910,198	811,648	710,181		679,381
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	(27,713	)	69,273	42,684	21,250		12,891
Net income (loss)	$	(25,866	)	59,244	31,727	9,162		5,486
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest	$	159		51,687	22,321	(511	)	(238	)
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI common stockholders	$	(26,025	)	7,557	9,406	9,673		5,724
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.69	)	0.18	0.23	0.23		0.13
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.69	)	0.18	0.23	0.23		0.12
Total assets1	$	1,982,308		2,002,378	1,972,054	1,493,655		1,430,765
Long-term debt, including current portion and net of unamortized discount	$	1,348,106		1,036,678	1,047,980	877,051		861,272
Obligations under capital leases, including current portion	$	68,359		76,456	74,605	80,612		86,054
Redeemable preferred stock
Series B	$	—		—	—	—		—
Series C	$	—		—	—	—		—
Total GCI stockholders’ equity	$	88,263		167,356	157,144	157,178		157,339
Dividends declared per common share	$	—		—	—	—		—
1 Total assets have been recast as if we had adopted Accounting Standards Update 2015-17 as of December 31, 2011. See Note 1(f) included in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information on ASU 2015-17.

The Selected Financial Data should be read in conjunction with “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

In the following discussion, General Communication, Inc. (“GCI”) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are referred to as “we,” “us” and “our.”

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations discusses our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates and judgments, including those described in Note 1(ad) in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of of this annual report on Form 10-K. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors 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. See also our “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

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The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations should be read inconjunction with our consolidated financial statements and supplementary data as presented in Part IV of this Form 10-K.

General Overview

Through our focus on long-term results, acquisitions, and strategic capital investments, we strive to consistently grow our revenues and expand our margins.  We have historically met our cash needs for operations, regular capital expenditures and maintenance capital expenditures through our cash flows from operating activities.  Historically, cash requirements for significant acquisitions and major capital expenditures have been provided largely through our financing activities.

Update on Economic Conditions

We offer wireless and wireline telecommunication services, data services, video services, and managed services to customers primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, growth of our business and operations depends upon economic conditions in Alaska.  The economy of Alaska is dependent upon the oil

industry, state government spending, United States military spending, investment earnings and tourism.  Oil prices have dropped precipitously recently which has put significant pressure on the Alaska state government budget since the majority of its revenues come from the oil industry. While the Alaska state government has significant reserves that we believe will help fund the state government for the next couple of years, major structural budgetary reforms will need to be implemented in order to offset the impact of declining oil prices. Prolonged periods of low oil prices will adversely impact the Alaska economy, which in turn could have an adverse impact on the demand for our products and services and on our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, if the Alaska state government fails to implement appropriate structural budgetary reforms, we may potentially have to reduce our capital expenditures, which in turn could limit our opportunities for future growth.

Major Developments

On July 22, 2013, we closed the transactions under the Asset Purchase and Contribution Agreement ("Wireless Agreement") and other related agreements entered into on June 4, 2012 by and among ACS, GCI, ACS Wireless, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ACS, GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI, and AWN, pursuant to which the parties agreed to contribute the respective wireless network assets of GCI, ACS and their affiliates to AWN. This transaction provided a statewide network with the spectrum mix, scale, advanced technology and cost structure necessary to compete with Verizon Wireless and AT&T Mobility in Alaska. Until the closing of the Wireless Acquisition described below, AWN provided wholesale services to GCI and ACS, and GCI and ACS used the AWN network to continue to sell services to their respective retail customers.

Under the terms of the Wireless Agreement, we contributed our wireless network assets and certain rights to use capacity to AWN. Additionally, ACS contributed its wireless network assets and certain rights to use capacity to AWN. As consideration for the contributed business assets and liabilities, ACS received $100.0 million in cash from GCI, a one-third ownership interest in AWN, and preferential distributions totaling $0.8 million, $50.0 million, and $22.0 million in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. As part of closing, we borrowed $100.0 million under our Senior Credit Facility to fund the purchase of wireless network assets from ACS.

On February 2, 2015, we purchased ACS' interest in AWN and substantially all the assets of ACS and its affiliates related to ACS’s wireless operations (“Acquired ACS Assets”) (collectively the "Wireless Acquisition"). Under the terms of the agreement, we transfered to ACS a cash payment of $293.2 million excluding working capital adjustments and agreed to terminate or amend certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. The Acquired ACS Assets include substantially all of ACS’s wireless subscriber assets, including subscriber contracts, and certain of ACS’s CDMA network assets, including fiber strands and associated cell site electronics and microwave facilities and associated electronics. We assumed from ACS post-closing liabilities of ACS and its affiliates under contracts assumed by us and liabilities with respect to the ownership by ACS of its equity interest in AWN to the extent accruing and related to the period after closing. All other liabilities were retained by ACS and its affiliates. Following the close of the Wireless Acquisition, AWN is a wholly owned subsidiary and we are entitled to 100% of the future cash flows from AWN. We funded the purchase with a $275.0 million Term B loan under our Senior Credit Facility and a $75.0 million unsecured promissory note from Searchlight.

As an ETC, we receive support from the USF for the provision of wireless and wireline local access service in high cost areas. The high cost support methodology segregates the Remote areas in Alaska from the support

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methodology for all urban areas, including Alaska Urban locations. Our future revenue recognition for both Remote and Urban high cost support is dependent upon the functionality and timing of an operational successor funding mechanism. Rulemaking is underway to consider a successor funding mechanism. We cannot predict at this time the outcome of this proceeding or its effect on high cost support available to us, but our revenue for providing services in these areas would be materially adversely affected by a substantial reduction of USF support.

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth selected financial data as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated (underlying data rounded to the nearest thousand):

	Year Ended December 31,			Percentage Change1  2015 vs. 2014	Percentage Change1  2014 vs. 2013
	2015	2014	2013
Statements of Operations Data:
Revenues:
Wireless segment	27%	30%	24%	(1)%	37%
Wireline segment	73%	70%	76%	11%	4%
Total revenues	100%	100%	100%	8%	12%
Selling, general and administrative expenses	35%	32%	33%	15%	8%
Depreciation and amortization expense	19%	19%	18%	7%	16%
Software impairment charge	3%	—%	—%	100%	—%
Operating income	11%	16%	14%	(26)%	27%
Other expense, net	14%	8%	9%	80%	6%
Income (loss) before income taxes	(3)%	8%	5%	(140)%	62%
Net income (loss)	(3)%	7%	4%	(144)%	87%
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	—%	6%	3%	(100)%	132%
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	(3)%	1%	1%	(444)%	(20)%
1 Percentage change in underlying data

We evaluate performance and allocate resources based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as earnings plus imputed interest on financed devices before:

•Net interest expense,

•Income taxes,

•Depreciation and amortization expense,

•Loss on extinguishment of debt,

•Software impairment charge,

•Derivative instrument unrealized income (loss),

•Share-based compensation expense,

•Accretion expense,

•Loss attributable to non-controlling interest resulting from NMTC transactions,

•Gains and impairment losses on equity and cost method investments, and

•Other non-cash adjustments.

Management believes that this measure is useful to investors and other users of our financial information in understanding and evaluating operating performance as an analytical indicator of income generated to service debt and fund capital expenditures.  In addition, multiples of current or projected Adjusted EBITDA are used to estimate current or prospective enterprise value.  

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Overview of Revenues and Cost of Goods Sold

Total revenues increased 12% from $811.6 million in 2013 to $910.2 million in 2014 and increased 8% to $978.5 million in 2015.  Revenue increased in our Wireline segment and decreased in our Wireless segment in 2015. Revenue increased in both segments in 2014. See the discussion below for more information by segment.

Total Cost of Goods Sold increased 8% from $280.5 million in 2013 to $302.7 million in 2014 and increased 6% to $322.3 million in 2015. Cost of Goods Sold decreased in our Wireless segment and increased in our Wireline segment in 2015.  Cost of Goods Sold decreased in our Wireline segment and increased in our Wireless segment for 2014. See the discussion below for more information by segment.

Wireless Segment Overview

The Wireless segment was impacted by the Wireless Acquisition discussed above in the General Overview section. From the formation of AWN in 2013 to the close of the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015, AWN provided wholesale services to GCI and ACS and roaming services to other wireless carriers. During that time, AWN received a portion of revenue from GCI and ACS' retail wireless customers. Additionally, AWN paid an incentive to GCI and ACS for the sale of wireless handsets to their respective retail customers. Following the close of the Wireless Acquisition, the Wireless segment continues to provide roaming services to other wireless carriers and provides wholesale services to the Wireline segment for which it receives a portion of revenue from wireless retail customers. Additionally, the Wireless segment started recording a portion of the wireless equipment costs to encourage the Wireline segment to transition customers from our CDMA network to our GSM network.

Wireless segment revenue, Cost of Goods Sold, and Adjusted EBITDA are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014	2013	Percentage Change  2015 vs. 2014		Percentage Change  2014 vs. 2013
Revenue	$	267,676	269,977	197,218	(1	)%	37	%
Cost of Goods Sold	$	70,899	90,920	68,086	(22	)%	34	%
Adjusted EBITDA	$	179,199	158,159	109,609	13	%	44	%

See Note 10 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this annual report on Form 10-K for information on the change in the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes.

Wireless Segment Revenues

The decrease in revenue for 2015 is primarily due to a $26.2 million decrease in plan fee revenue due to our transition to a fixed percentage allocation of plan fee revenue from the Wireline segment following the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition.

The decrease is partially offset by the following:

• A $14.2 million increase in roaming revenue primarily due to increased traffic from our roaming partners, and

• A $8.6 million decrease in the contra-revenue wireless handset cash incentives to ACS for the sale of wireless handsets to their retail customers prior to the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition.

Although roaming and backhaul revenues continued to be strong through 2015, we expect roaming and backhaul revenues to decrease by $49.0 million to $59.0 million in 2016 due to long-term roaming agreements we have entered into with our our largest roaming partners.

The increase in revenue for 2014 is primarily due to the following:

• A $29.1 million increase in roaming revenue primarily due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction,

• A $27.0 million increase in non-Lifeline wholesale plan fee revenue primarily due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction,  

• A $11.7 million increase in high cost support primarily due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction,

• A $7.3 million increase in private line revenue due to increased demand for backhaul capacity.

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The increase is partially offset by a $2.5 million increase in the contra-revenue wireless handset cash incentives to ACS in 2014 for the sale of wireless handsets to their retail customers due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction.

Wireless Segment Cost of Goods Sold

The decrease in Cost of Goods Sold for 2015 is primarily due to the following:

• A $10.1 million decrease in roaming costs due to better management of our roaming customers,

• A $9.6 million decrease in wireless equipment costs. The Wireless segment gave a wireless equipment subsidy to the Wireline segment in accordance with the AWN agreements in 2014. This subsidy was discontinued following the February 2, 2015 close of of the Wireless Acquisition, but the Wireless segment started recording a portion of the wireless equipment costs to encourage the Wireline segment to transition customers from our CDMA network to our GSM network which partially offset the decrease. We do not expect the Wireless segment to incur any wireless equipment costs in 2016 as all such costs will be recorded in the Wireline segment in 2016, and

• A $4.8 million decrease in distribution and capacity costs primarily because we were able to extend an agreement with a vendor which resulted in the resolution of certain issues and the release of the related reserve and a reduction in capacity costs and costs to terminate long distance traffic.

The decrease is partially offset by a $4.2 million increase in network maintenance costs primarily due to the the expansion of our network and an increase in the utility and operating costs.

We continue to work with our roaming partners to manage our roaming costs. We primarily control our roaming costs through multi-year contracts with our roaming partners that allow our retail wireless customers to roam on their networks.

The increase in Cost of Goods Sold for 2014 is primarily due to the following:

• A $11.3 million increase in roaming costs primarily due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction,

• A $5.1 million increase in wireless equipment costs. During the period from April 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014, the Wireless segment recorded the Cost of Goods Sold related to wireless equipment sales to retail customers based upon equipment sales and agreed-upon subsidy rates. Any amount in excess of this subsidy was recorded in the Wireline segment. From the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction through March 31, 2014, although permitted, the Wireline segment was unable to meet the requirements in order to request a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements, and

• A $1.9 million increase in distribution and capacity costs due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction and growth in traffic carried on the wireless network,

• Additional increases in network maintenance costs due to the growth of the wireless network due to the July 22, 2013 close of the initial AWN transaction and increased emphasis on our wireless network.

Wireless Segment Adjusted EBITDA

The increase in Adjusted EBITDA in 2015 is primarily due to decreases in Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireless Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and selling, general and administrative expense partially offset by a decrease in revenue as described above in “Wireless Segment Revenues.” The increase in Adjusted EBITDA in 2014 is primarily due to increased revenue as described above in “Wireless Segment Revenues.” These increases were partially offset by increased Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireless Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and an increase in selling, general and administrative expense.

Wireline Segment Overview

Please see "Part I - Item 1. Business - Description of our Business by Reportable Segment - Overview" for a description of our Wireline segment services and products by major customer group.

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The components of Wireline segment revenue are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014	2013	Percentage Change  2015 vs. 2014		Percentage Change  2014 vs. 2013
Consumer
Wireless	$	75,799	30,998	28,031	145	%	11	%
Data	130,213		113,306	99,740	15	%	14	%
Video	115,074		111,175	111,368	4	%	—	%
Voice	30,110		32,535	35,666	(7	)%	(9	)%
Business Services
Wireless	8,097		2,749	2,872	195	%	(4	)%
Data	142,033		144,945	154,498	(2	)%	(6	)%
Video	18,819		33,259	15,171	(43	)%	119	%
Voice	41,026		45,010	50,273	(9	)%	(10	)%
Managed Broadband
Data	127,439		105,004	95,645	21	%	10	%
Voice	22,248		21,240	21,166	5	%	—	%
Total Wireline segment revenue	$	710,858	640,221	614,430	11	%	4	%

Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold and Adjusted EBITDA are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014	2013	Percentage Change  2015 vs. 2014		Percentage Change  2014 vs. 2013
Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold	$	251,439	211,784	212,376	19	%	—	%
Wireline segment Adjusted EBITDA	$	151,152	164,957	157,674	(8	)%	5	%

See Note 10 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this annual report on Form 10-K for information on the change in the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes.

Selected key performance indicators for our Wireline segment follow:

	2015		2014		2013		Percentage Change  2015 vs. 2014		Percentage Change  2014 vs. 2013
Consumer
Data:
Cable modem subscribers1	127,300		119,100		115,300		7	%	3	%
Video:
Basic subscribers2	114,000		116,400		117,900		(2	)%	(1	)%
Digital programming tier subscribers3	59,500		63,800		67,500		(7	)%	(5	)%
HD/DVR converter boxes4	114,000		108,400		96,900		5	%	12	%
Homes passed	251,900		248,200		247,400		1	%	—	%
Video ARPU5	$	83.95	$	79.29	$	77.34	6	%	3	%
Voice:
Total local access lines in service6	50,400		54,600		61,000		(8	)%	(10	)%
Business Services

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Data:
Cable modem subscribers1	12,700		14,100		14,000		(10	)%	1	%
Voice:
Total local access lines in service6	46,600		47,400		48,800		(2	)%	(3	)%
Combined Consumer and Business Services
Wireless
Consumer Lifeline wireless lines in service7	28,100		25,000		29,300		12	%	(15	)%
Consumer prepaid wireless lines in service8	23,800		10,600		6,900		125	%	54	%
Consumer postpaid wireless lines in service9	146,300		95,800		86,700		53	%	10	%
Business Services postpaid wireless lines in service9	29,600		18,200		18,600		63	%	(2	)%
Total wireless lines in service	227,800		149,600		141,500		52	%	6	%
Wireless ARPU10	$	45.82	$	49.97	$	48.71	(8	)%	3	%
Cable modem ARPU11	$	85.03	$	78.87	$	70.50	8	%	12	%
1 A cable modem subscriber is defined by the purchase of cable modem service regardless of the level of service purchased. If one entity purchases multiple cable modem service access points, each access point is counted as a subscriber.
2 A basic subscriber is defined as one basic tier of service delivered to an address or separate subunits thereof regardless of the number of outlets purchased.
3 A digital programming tier subscriber is defined as one digital programming tier of service delivered to an address or separate subunits thereof regardless of the number of outlets or digital programming tiers purchased. Digital programming tier subscribers are a subset of basic subscribers.
4 A high-definition/digital video recorder ("HD/DVR") converter box is defined as one box rented by a digital programming or basic tier subscriber. A digital programming or basic tier subscriber is not required to rent an HD/DVR converter box to receive service.
5 Applicable average monthly video revenues divided by the average number of basic subscribers at the beginning and end of each month in 2015, 2014, and 2013.
6 A local access line in service is defined as a revenue generating circuit or channel connecting a customer to the public switched telephone network.
7 A Lifeline wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device that is eligible for Lifeline support. The Universal Service Fund's Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company and is designed to ensure that quality telecommunications services are available to low-income customers at affordable rates.
8A prepaid wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device where service is purchased in advance of use. The purchased credit is used to pay for wireless services at the point the service is accessed or consumed.
9 A postpaid wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device where service is provided by a prior arrangement with a subscriber and the subscriber is billed after the fact according to their use of wireless services at the end of each month.
10 Average monthly wireless revenues, excluding those from common carrier customers, divided by the number of wireless subscribers at the end of each month for each of the months in 2015. Average monthly wireless revenues, excluding those from common carrier customers, divided by the average of wireless subscribers at the beginning and end of each month in 2014 and 2013. This calculation includes applicable revenue from the Wireline segment - Consumer - Wireless and Wireline segment - Business Services - Wireless and wholesale wireless revenues earned from GCI retail subscribers included in the Wireless segment.
11 Applicable average monthly cable modem revenues divided by the average number of subscribers at the beginning and end of each month in 2015, 2014, and 2013.

Wireline Segment Revenues

Consumer

The items contributing to the increase in wireless revenue for 2015 include:

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• A $14.7 million or 548% increase in plan fee revenue primarily due to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribers following the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition. The increase was off-set by decreasing plan fee revenue due to discounts given to customers who finance or bring their own device, and

• A $27.2 million or 446% increase in equipment sales revenue due to an increase in the number of financed devices. In late 2014, we began encouraging our customers to purchase wireless devices through our financing program instead of subsidizing their device purchases. We offer a discount on the monthly plan fee for customers who choose to finance their device rather than buying a subsidized device. The transition from subsidized devices to more financed devices will result in higher revenues when a contract is signed and a decrease in the monthly Wireless ARPU going forward.

The increase in data revenue is primarily due to a $20.3 million or 20% and $12.1 million or 14% increase in cable modem revenue for 2015 and 2014, respectively, due to an increase in the average number of subscribers and our subscribers’ selection of plans that offer higher speeds and higher usage limits in 2015 and 2014.

Consumer video revenue faces challenges as more customers choose to have their video content delivered via the Internet. However, as a major Internet-provider ourselves, this selection may result in additional data service revenue to the extent we grow average Internet revenue per subscriber.

We expect Consumer voice revenue to continue to decrease due to a growing number of customers using wireless service as their primary voice phone service for local and long distance calling.

Business Services

Business Services data revenue is comprised of monthly recurring charges for data services and charges billed on a time and materials basis largely for personnel providing on-site customer support.  This latter category can vary significantly based on project activity. This revenue faces challenges due to the continued decline of oil prices which negatively impacts certain of our customers. Additionally, we face rate compression for data transport and storage services.

The decrease in data revenue in 2014 is primarily due to a $14.1 million or 24% decrease in managed services project revenue due to a decrease in special project work. The decrease in 2014 is partially offset by a $4.6 million or 5% increase in data transport and storage revenue due to increased demand for increased capacity and data speeds.

Advertising is the primary driver for video revenue, therefore, we see large variations in revenue due to the election cycle or other major televised events such as the Olympics. The variations may be more extreme in years when there are highly contested political elections or ballot initiatives. The $14.4 million or 43% decrease in video revenue in 2015 is primarily due to a decrease in advertising after the completion of the latest election cycle in 2014. The $18.1 million or 119% increase in video revenue in 2014 primarily results from an increase in advertising sales due to the election cycle and our acquisition of the television broadcast stations in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Business Services voice revenue continues to face competition and rate compression and to a lesser extent the substitution of wireless devices.

Managed Broadband

The data revenue increases in 2015 and 2014 are primarily due to a $21.1 million or 21% and $7.2 million or 8% increase in monthly contract revenue, respectively, due to new ConnectMD® and SchoolAccess® customers and increased data network capacity purchased by our existing ConnectMD® and SchoolAccess® customers due to increased demand.

Wireline Segment Cost of Goods Sold

The individually significant items contributing to the 2015 increase in Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold include:

• A 82% or $22.5 million increase in wireless device Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to an increase in the number of handsets sold and and a change in the allocation between the Wireline and Wireless segments following the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition. The Wireline segment received a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements during 2014. Following the close of the Wireless Acquisition this subsidy was discontinued except the Wireless segment

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started recording a portion of the wireless equipment costs to encourage the Wireline segment to transition customers from our CDMA network to our GSM network which partially offset the increase. We expect all wireless device Cost of Goods Sold to be recorded in the Wireline segment in 2016,

• A 38% or $6.6 million increase primarily due to an increase in circuit costs to provide increased capacity in satellite served locations for Rural Health and SchoolAccess customers, and

• A 8% or $5.5 million increase in video Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to increased rates paid to programmers partially offset by a decrease in basic video subscribers.

We expect to face continued increases in programming costs that may require us to drop certain channels or increase the rates paid by our customers that may result in a loss of additional video customers.

The 2014 decrease in Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold is primarily due to a 23% or $11.5 million decrease in managed services project Cost of Goods Sold related to the decreased special project work described above in “Wireline Segment Revenues – Business Services."

The 2014 decreases are partially offset by the following individually significant items:

• A 17% or $10.0 million increase in video Cost of Goods Sold in 2014 primarily due to the acquisition of the television broadcast stations in the fourth quarter of 2013 and increased rates paid to programmers, and

• A 11% or $2.7 million increase in wireless device Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to an increase in the number of handsets sold. The increase in 2014 was partially offset by an increase in the subsidy. Through the initial AWN transaction close the Wireless segment recorded the Cost of Goods Sold related to wireless equipment sales to retail customers based upon equipment sales and agreed-upon subsidy rates. Any amount in excess of this subsidy was recorded in the Wireline segment. Subsequent to the transaction close and through March 31, 2014, although permitted, the Wireline segment was unable to meet the requirements in order to request a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements.

Wireline Segment Adjusted EBITDA

The decrease in Adjusted EBITDA for 2015 is primarily due to an increase in Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireline Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and selling, general and administrative expense partially offset by an increase in revenues as described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues." The increase in Adjusted EBITDA for 2014 is primarily due to an increase in revenues as described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues" partially offset by an increase in Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireline Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and selling, general and administrative expense.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $44.7 million to $338.4 million for 2015 and $22.6 million to $293.6 million for 2014.  Individually significant items contributing to the increases include:

• A $15.8 million increase in costs related to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribers and its non-controlling interest in AWN in 2015,

• A $17.9 million and $16.5 million increase in labor and health insurance costs for 2015 and 2014, respectively,

• A $3.3 million increase for 2015 due to an increase in software contracts with subscription licenses instead of perpetual licenses,

• A $3.1 million increase for 2015 due to the increased use of contract labor,

• A $2.9 million increase for 2015 due to liquidated damages accrued for a contract,

• A $2.5 million increase in share-based compensation expense for 2015 due to an increase in our stock price,

• A $2.3 million increase in inventory adjustments for 2015 primarily due to the write-off of obsolete wireless handsets, and

• A $2.3 million increase in bad debt expense for 2015.

As a percentage of total revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses were 35%, 32%, and 33% of revenue for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. The 2015 increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues is primarily due to the costs related to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribers and its non-controlling interest in AWN.

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Depreciation and Amortization Expense

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $11.5 million to $181.8 million and $23.0 million to $170.3 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively.  The increases in 2015 and 2014 are primarily due to new assets placed in service in those years partially offset by assets which became fully depreciated during those years. Additionally, we recorded an increase of $8.7 million of depreciation and amortization expense in 2014 for the assets acquired from ACS as part of the AWN transaction.

Software Impairment Charge

Software impairment charge increased $29.8 million in 2015 primarily due to an impairment charge as discussed below.

During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, we internally developed computer software to replace our wireless, Internet, video, local service, and long distance customer billing systems. During the first quarter of 2015, we completed a detailed assessment of our progress to date and determined it was no longer probable that the computer software being developed would be completed and placed in service. Our assessment concluded that the cost of continuing the development would be much higher than originally estimated, and the timing and scope risks were substantial. We identified development work, hardware, and software recorded as Construction in Progress through the first quarter of 2015, that may be applicable to our replacement customer billing solution, future internally developed software, and other system needs and therefore should remain capital assets. We considered the remaining capital expenditures for this billing system to have a fair value of $0 and recorded an impairment charge of $20.7 million during 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We have signed a contract with an established billing solution provider and have started work on the multi-year implementation.

During the first quarter of 2015, we reassessed our plans for our internally developed machine-to-machine billing system and decided to no longer market this system to third parties. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $7.1 million during 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

During the third quarter of 2015, we evaluated user management software we purchased in 2014 and determined that we would not be able to use the software. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $1.0 million during 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Other Expense, Net

Other expense, net of other income, increased $59.6 million to $133.9 million in 2015 and $4.1 million to $74.3 million in 2014.

Items contributing to the change in 2015 include:

• A $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt due to the retirement of our 2019 Notes (please see Part II - Item 7 - "Liquidity and Capital Resources" for additional information),

• A $12.9 million increase in interest expense primarily attributable to increased borrowing on our Senior Credit Facility and the Searchlight note,

• A $12.6 million impairment charge recorded to reflect an other than temporary decline in fair value for one of our equity investments,

• A $11.2 million unrealized loss recorded for adjusting to fair value a derivative instrument where we issued 3.0 million stock appreciation rights to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight"),

• A $4.7 million gain recorded upon the sale of one of our cost method investments, and

• A $2.6 million net loss for adjusting to fair value the assets included in the consideration transfered in the Wireless Acquisition and adjusting to fair value amendments to certain agreements related to the right to use ACS network assets.

The increase in 2014 is primarily due to increased interest expense attributable to increased borrowing on our Senior Credit Facility.

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Income Tax (Expense) Benefit

Income tax (expense) benefit totaled $1.8 million, $(10.0) million, and $(11.0) million in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Our effective income tax rate was 7%, 14%, and 26% in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Our 2015 effective tax rate is impacted by an increase in the amount of permanent differences in 2015 as compared to

our net loss before income taxes. Our 2014 and 2013 effective tax rates were impacted by the inclusion of income attributable to the non-controlling interest in AWN in income before income taxes and the exclusion of income taxes on income attributable to the non-controlling interest in AWN. We completed the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015, after which ACS no longer has a non-controlling interest in AWN.

At December 31, 2015, we have income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $340.5 million that will begin expiring in 2020 if not utilized, and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $1.7 million available to offset regular income taxes payable in future years.

We have recorded deferred tax assets of $139.2 million associated with income tax net operating losses that were generated from 2000 to 2015 and that expire from 2020 to 2035, respectively, and with charitable contributions that were converted to net operating losses in 2004 through 2007, and 2013, and that expire in 2024 through 2027, and 2033, respectively.

Tax benefits associated with recorded deferred tax assets are considered to be more likely than not realizable through future reversals of existing temporary differences and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced which would result in additional income tax expense.  We estimate that our effective annual income tax rate for financial statement purposes will be 92% to 97% in the year ending December 31, 2016. The effective tax rate is expected to be much higher due to an increase in the pretax book income amount and the relative impact that the expected tax adjustments have on that pretax income amount.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our principal sources of current liquidity are cash and cash equivalents.  We believe, but can provide no assurances, that we will be able to meet our current and long-term liquidity, capital requirements and fixed charges through our cash flows from operating activities, existing cash, cash equivalents, credit facilities, and other external financing and equity sources.  Should operating cash flows be insufficient to support additional borrowings and principal payments scheduled under our existing credit facilities, capital expenditures will likely be reduced, which would likely reduce future revenues.

As discussed in the General Overview section of this Item 2, on July 22, 2013, we closed the initial AWN transaction. As consideration, ACS received $100.0 million in cash from GCI, a one-third ownership percentage in AWN, and $0.8 million, $50.0 million, and $22.0 million in distributions in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. We funded the purchase by borrowing $100.0 million under our Senior Credit Facility on July 17, 2013.  

On February 2, 2015, we completed the Wireless Acquisition to purchase ACS' wireless subscriber base and its one-third ownership interest in AWN for $293.2 million excluding working capital adjustments and the termination or amendment of certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. Following the close of the transaction, AWN is our wholly owned subsidiary and we are entitled to 100% of the future cash flows from AWN.

To fund the purchase from ACS, on February 2, 2015, our wholly owned subsidiary, GCI Holdings, Inc., entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement with Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent, that included a $275.0 million Term B loan ("Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility was subsequently amended on August 3, 2015 ("First Amendment"). The interest rate under the Term B loan is London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 3.25%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The Term B loan will mature on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020, if our Senior Notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to such date. We also sold an unsecured promissory note to Searchlight in the principal amount of $75.0 million that will mature on February 2, 2023 and will bear interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). A portion of the proceeds from the Searchlight Note were used to finance the Wireless Acquisition and the remainder was used for general corporate purposes. Additionally, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the

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excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00.

On April 1 2015, we closed on the issuance of $450.0 million of new 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 at an issue price of 99.105% issued by our wholly owned subsidiary, GCI, Inc. The net proceeds of the offering were used to retire our existing 2019 Notes. We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and will be amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt during 2015.

While our short-term and long-term financing abilities are believed to be adequate as a supplement to internally generated cash flows to fund capital expenditures and acquisitions as opportunities arise, turmoil in the global financial markets may negatively impact our ability to further access the capital markets in a timely manner and on attractive terms, which may have a negative impact on our ability to grow our business.

We monitor the third-party depository institutions that hold our cash and cash equivalents. Our emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and secondarily on maximizing yield on those funds.

Investing Activities

Net cash used for investing activities consists primarily of cash paid for capital expenditures.  Our most significant recurring investing activity has been capital expenditures and we expect that this will continue in the future.  A significant portion of our capital expenditures is based on the level of customer growth and the technology being deployed.

Our cash expenditures for property and equipment, including construction in progress, totaled $176.2 million and $176.1 million during 2015 and 2014, respectively.  Depending on available opportunities and the amount of cash flow we generate during 2016, we expect our 2016 capital expenditures to total approximately $210.0 million. This estimate is based on purchases in 2016 regardless of the timing of cash payments.

Financing Activities

Net cash used for financing activities in 2015 consists primarily of our payment to complete the Wireless Acquisition, costs paid to retire our 2019 Notes, costs paid for the 2025 Notes, and repurchases of stock partially offset by borrowings on our Senior Credit Facility and Searchlight Note to fund the Wireless Acquisition. Net cash used for financing activities in 2014 consists primarily of payments to ACS for preferential cash distributions, repayment of Rural Utilities Service debt, and repurchases of our common stock. Our borrowings fluctuate from year to year based on our liquidity needs.  We may use excess cash to make optional repayments on our debt or repurchase our common stock depending on various factors, such as market conditions.

Available Borrowings Under Senior Credit Facility

Our Senior Credit Facility includes a $240.0 million term loan, a $275.0 million Term B loan, and a $150.0 million revolving credit facility with a $25.0 million sublimit for letters of credit. We had $240.0 million and $272.9 million outstanding under the term loan and Term B loan, respectively, at December 31, 2015. Under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility we have $22.5 million of letters of credit outstanding, which leaves $127.5 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2015.  A total of $512.9 million is outstanding as of December 31, 2015.

Debt Covenants

We are subject to covenants and restrictions applicable to our $325.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 (“2021 Notes”), our $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 ("2025 Notes"), Senior Credit Facility, and Wells Fargo note payable.  We are in compliance with the covenants, and we believe that neither the covenants nor the restrictions in our indentures or loan documents will limit our ability to operate our business.

Share Repurchases

GCI’s Board of Directors has authorized a common stock buyback program for the repurchase of GCI Class A and Class B common stock in order to reduce the outstanding shares of Class A and Class B common stock.  Under this program, we are currently authorized to make up to $95.3 million of repurchases as of December 31, 2015.  We are authorized to increase our repurchase limit $5.0 million per quarter indefinitely and to use stock option exercise proceeds to repurchase additional shares.  If stock repurchases are less than the total approved quarterly amount the difference may be carried forward and applied against future stock repurchases.  During 2015 we repurchased

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3.0 million shares of GCI common stock under the stock buyback program at a cost of $47.4 million.  The common stock buyback program is expected to continue for an indefinite period dependent on leverage, liquidity, company performance, and market conditions and subject to continued oversight by GCI’s Board of Directors. The open market repurchases have and will continue to comply with the restrictions of Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rule 10b-18.

Schedule of Certain Known Contractual Obligations

The following table details future projected payments associated with certain known contractual obligations as of December 31, 2015 (amounts in thousands):

	Payments Due by Period
	Total		Less Than 1 Year	1 to 3 Years	4 to 5 Years	More Than 5 Years
Long-term debt	$	1,372,113	3,342	246,732	6,798	1,115,241
Interest on long-term debt	527,772		75,427	146,596	138,335	167,414
Capital lease obligations, including interest	86,988		13,454	26,873	26,909	19,752
Operating lease commitments	204,727		45,585	64,464	43,745	50,933
Purchase obligations	38,975		38,975	—	—	—
Total contractual obligations	$	2,230,575	176,783	484,665	215,787	1,353,340

Long-term debt listed in the table above includes principal payments on our 2021 and 2025 Notes, Senior Credit Facility, Searchlight Note, and the Wells Fargo note payable.  Interest on the amounts outstanding under our Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo note payable are based on variable rates.  We used the current rate paid on our Senior Credit Facility to estimate our future interest payments. Our 2021 Notes require semi-annual interest payments of $11.0 million through June 2021 and our 2025 Notes require semi-annual interest payments of $15.5 million through April 2025.  For a discussion of our long-term debt see Note 6 in the accompanying “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Capital lease obligations include our obligation to lease transponder capacity on Galaxy 18.  For a discussion of our capital and operating leases, see Note 13 in the accompanying “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Purchase obligations include cancelable open purchase orders for goods and services for capital projects and normal operations totaling $39.0 million which are not included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2015, because the goods had not been received or the services had not been performed at December 31, 2015.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have not created, and are not party to, any special-purpose and off-balance sheet entities for the purpose of raising capital, incurring debt or operating parts of our business that are not consolidated into our financial statements. We do not have any arrangements or relationships with entities that are not consolidated into our financial statements that are reasonably likely to materially affect our liquidity or the availability of our capital resources.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1(e) included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for recently issued accounting pronouncements.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our accounting and reporting policies comply with GAAP.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions.  Our financial position and results of operations can be affected by these estimates and assumptions, which are integral to understanding reported results.  Critical accounting policies are those policies that management believes are the most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results, and require management to make estimates that are difficult, subjective or complex.  Most accounting policies are not considered by management to be critical accounting policies.  Several factors are considered in determining whether or not a policy is critical in the preparation of financial statements.  These factors include, among other things, whether the estimates are significant to the financial

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statements, the nature of the estimates, the ability to readily validate the estimates with other information including third parties or available prices, and sensitivity of the estimates to changes in economic conditions and whether alternative accounting methods may be utilized under GAAP.  For all of these policies, management cautions that future events rarely develop exactly as forecast, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment.  Management has discussed the development and the selection of critical accounting policies with our Audit Committee.

Those policies and estimates considered to be critical for the year ended December 31, 2015 are described below.

Revenue Recognition

The accounting estimates related to revenues from the high cost, rural health, and schools and libraries USF programs are dependent on various inputs including our estimate of the statewide support cap, our assessment of the impact of new FCC regulations, the potential outcome of FCC proceedings and the potential outcome of USAC contract reviews.  Some of the inputs are subjective and based on our judgment regarding the outcome of certain variables and are subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.  Significant changes to our estimates could result in material changes to the revenues we have recorded and could have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

We maintain allowances for doubtful receivables for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments.  We also maintain an allowance for doubtful receivables based on notification that a customer may not have satisfactorily complied with rules necessary to obtain supplemental funding from USAC for services provided by us under our packaged communications offerings to rural hospitals, health clinics and school districts.  We base our estimates on the aging of our accounts receivable balances, financial health of specific customers, regional economic data, changes in our collections process, regulatory requirements, and our customers’ compliance with USAC rules.  If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate or if they are unable to emerge from reorganization proceedings, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.  If their financial condition improves, or they emerge successfully from reorganization proceedings, allowances may be reduced.  Such allowance changes could have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Impairment and Useful Lives of Intangible Assets

We had $520.3 million of indefinite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2015, consisting of goodwill of $239.3 million, cable certificates of $191.6 million, wireless licenses of $86.3 million, and broadcast licenses of $3.1 million.  Our indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment during the fourth quarter and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate the assets might be impaired.

We are allowed to first assess qualitative factors (“Step Zero”) to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired, however, we chose to assess goodwill for impairment using the traditional quantitative two-step process.  The first step of the quantitative goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. To determine our reporting units, we evaluate the components one level below the segment level and we aggregate the components if they have similar economic characteristics. As a result of this assessment, our reporting units are the same as our two reportable segments. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be recognized in a business combination.

We are allowed to perform a Step Zero analysis for our annual test over our indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill. However, we chose to test for impairment using the traditional quantitative approach. The impairment test for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition.  We use an income approach to determine the fair value of our reporting units for purposes of our

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goodwill impairment test.  In addition, a market-based approach is used where possible to corroborate the fair values determined by the income approach.

Our cable certificates represent agreements with government entities to construct and operate a video business.  The value of our cable certificates is derived from the economic benefits we receive from the right to solicit new customers and to market new services.  The amount we have recorded for cable certificates is from cable system acquisitions.  The cable certificates are valued under a direct discounted cash flow method whereby the cash flow associated with existing customers is isolated after appropriate contributory asset charges and then projected based on an analysis of customer churn and attrition characteristics.

Our wireless licenses are from the FCC and give us the right to provide wireless service within a certain geographical area.  The amount we have recorded is from acquisitions of wireless companies and auctions of wireless spectrum.  We use comparable market transactions from recent FCC auctions, as appropriate, and a hypothetical build-up method to value our wireless licenses.

Our broadcast licenses are from the FCC and give us the right to broadcast television stations within a certain geographical area. The amount we have recorded for broadcast licenses is from broadcast television station acquisitions. We used a hypothetical build-up method to value our broadcast licenses.

The direct discounted cash flow, hypothetical build-up, and income approach valuation methods require us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows, discount rate, customer churn, and customer behaviors and attrition.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and the magnitude of any such impairment charge.  Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant information.  These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision.  Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.  Events and factors that may be out of our control that could affect the estimates include such things as competitive forces, customer behaviors, change in revenue growth trends, cost structures and technology, and changes in discount rates, performance compared to peers, material and ongoing negative economic trends, and specific industry or market sector conditions.  We may also record impairments in the future if there are changes in long-term market conditions, expected future operating results, or laws and regulations that may prevent us from recovering the carrying value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets .

We have allocated all of the goodwill to our reporting units and based on our annual impairment test as of October 31, 2015, the fair value of each reporting unit exceeded the book value by a range between 23% and 78%, which we believe is a large margin.  We believe none of our reporting units were close to failing step one of the goodwill impairment test.

Based on our annual impairment test as of October 31, 2015, the fair value of our cable certificates exceeded the book value by 65% and $123.9 million, which we believe is a large margin.  The fair value of our wireless licenses exceeded the book value by 224% and $193.4 million as of October 31, 2015, which we believe is a large margin.

Valuation Allowance for Net Operating Loss Deferred Tax Assets

Our income tax policy provides for deferred income taxes to show the effect of temporary differences between the recognition of revenue and expenses for financial and income tax reporting purposes and between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements.  We have recorded deferred tax assets of $139.2 million associated with income tax net operating losses that were generated from 2000 to 2015, and that primarily expire from 2020 to 2035, and with charitable contributions that were converted to net operating losses in 2004 to 2007, and 2013 and that expire in 2024 to 2027, and 2033, respectively.  We have recorded deferred tax assets of $1.7 million associated with alternative minimum tax credits that do not expire.  Significant management judgment is required in developing our provision for income taxes, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and any valuation allowances that may be required against the deferred tax assets.  We have not recorded a valuation allowance on the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2015, based on management’s belief that future reversals of existing temporary differences and estimated future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards will, more likely than not, be sufficient to realize the benefit of these assets over time.  In the event that actual results differ from these estimates or if our historical trends change, we may be required to record a valuation allowance on

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deferred tax assets, which could have a material adverse effect in our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Other significant accounting policies, not involving the same level of measurement uncertainties as those discussed above, are nevertheless important to an understanding of the financial statements. A complete discussion of our significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 in the accompanying “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Regulatory Developments

See “Part I — Item 1. Business — Regulation” for more information about regulatory developments affecting us.

Inflation

We do not believe that inflation has a significant effect on our operations.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

We are exposed to various types of market risk in the normal course of business, including the impact of interest rate changes and adjustments to the fair value of our derivative stock appreciation rights liability. Market risk is the potential loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices. We do not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes.

Interest Rate Risk

Our Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo note payable carries interest rate risk.  Our Senior Credit Facility consists of a term loan, Term B loan, and revolving credit facility. Amounts borrowed under the term loan bear interest at LIBOR plus 2.75% or less depending upon our Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Credit Facility agreement).  Amounts borrowed under the Term B loan bear interest at LIBOR plus 3.25%. Amounts borrowed under the Wells Fargo note payable bear interest at LIBOR plus 2.25%. Should the LIBOR rate change, our interest expense will increase or decrease accordingly.  As of December 31, 2015, we have borrowed $522.1 million subject to interest rate risk.  On this amount, each 1% increase in the LIBOR interest rate would result in $5.2 million of additional gross interest cost on an annualized basis.  All of our other material borrowings have a fixed interest rate.

Other Market Risk

As our derivative stock appreciation rights are subject to fair value liability accounting, we revalue the instrument at each reporting date and recognize changes in the fair value of the derivative liability as a component of Other Income (Expense) included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. The earnings effect of the fair value adjustment at each reporting date is sensitive to changes in our stock price volatility. At December 31, 2015, a 1% increase in our stock price volatility used to determine the fair value of our stock appreciation rights would result in recognition of $0.3 million of additional derivative instrument unrealized loss.

Item 8. Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Our consolidated financial statements are filed under this Item, beginning on page 79.  Our supplementary data is filed under Item 7, beginning on page 30.

Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”) is recorded, processed, summarized, accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and financial officers, to allow timely decisions regarding required financial disclosure, and reported as specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.  As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a - 15(e)) under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer.  Based on that evaluation and

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as described below under “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting," our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2015.

The certifications attached as Exhibits 31 and 32 to this report should be read in conjunction with the disclosures set forth herein.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) in 2013.

Based on our evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, our management concluded that as of December 31, 2015, we maintained effective internal control over financial reporting.

Grant Thornton LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an audit report on our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, which is included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

In our December 31, 2014 annual report on Form 10-K we reported that we did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting due to a material weakness associated with inadequately designed internal controls in our financial reporting process related to the calculation of our income tax expense during all quarters in 2014. During the first quarter of 2015, we remediated our material weakness by strengthening the design and operation of our controls over the initial calculation and the review and approval of the calculation of our income tax expense. We reinforced to our staff that a heightened sense of awareness is needed during the initial preparation, as well as to any subsequent changes, and during analysis of the result.

In our September 30, 2015 quarterly report on Form 10-Q we reported that we identified a misclassification error when we performed a classification review specific to the cash flow statement during the preparation of that Form 10-Q. Prior to the third quarter of 2015 we had a review process over significant and unusual transactions but this process did not specifically address the cash flow statement. During the fourth quarter of 2015 we remediated our material weakness by strengthening our internal controls over the preparation of the cash flow statement by including a review of cash flow statement classifications in our accounting memos on significant and unusual transactions.

On February 2, 2015, we purchased ACS’s wireless subscribers in the Wireless Acquisition. This transaction, which included assuming control of a new billing system, resulted in changes to our processes and procedures during 2015 but did not result in changes in our internal control over financial reporting.

Except as described above there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) identified in connection with the evaluation of our controls performed during the quarter ended December 31, 2015, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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 GAAP.  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 GAAP, 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.

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Internal control over financial reporting has inherent limitations. Internal control over financial reporting is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures.  Internal control over financial reporting also can be circumvented by collusion or improper management override.  Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal control over financial reporting.  However, these inherent limitations are known features of the financial reporting process.  Therefore, it is possible to design into the process safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk.

We may enhance, modify, and supplement internal controls and disclosure controls and procedures based on experience.

Item 9B. Other Information

None.

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Part III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Identification

As of December 31, 2015, our board consisted of ten director positions, divided into three classes of directors serving staggered three-year terms.

A director on our board is elected at an annual meeting of shareholders and serves until the earlier of his or her resignation or removal, or his or her successor is elected and qualified.  Our executive officers generally are appointed at our board's meeting immediately preceding each annual meeting of shareholders and serve at the discretion of the board.

The following table sets forth certain information about our directors and executive officers as of December 31, 2015:

Name	Age	Position
Stephen M. Brett1	75	Chairman, Director
Ronald A. Duncan1	63	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Peter J. Pounds	42	Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Secretary
G. Wilson Hughes	70	Chief Executive Officer, The Alaska Wireless Network
William C. Behnke	58	Senior Vice President
Martin E. Cary	51	Vice President – General Manager, Managed Broadband Services
Gregory F. Chapados	58	Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Paul E. Landes	57	Senior Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Services
Gregory W. Pearce	52	Vice President and General Manager, Business Services
Tina M. Pidgeon	47	Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, General Counsel and Government Affairs
Bridget L. Baker1	55	Director
Jerry A. Edgerton1	73	Director
Scott M. Fisher1	49	Director
William P. Glasgow1	57	Director
Mark W. Kroloff1	58	Director
Stephen R. Mooney1	56	Director
James M. Schneider1	63	Director
Eric L. Zinterhofer1	44	Director
1The present classification of our board is as follows: (1) Class I – Messrs. Edgerton and Kroloff and Ms. Baker, whose present terms expire at the time of our 2017 annual meeting; (2) Class II – Messrs. Brett, Duncan, Mooney and Zinterhofer whose present terms expire at the time of our 2018 annual meeting; and (3) Class III – Messrs. Fisher, Glasgow, and Schneider, whose present terms expire at the time of our 2016 annual meeting.

The board, when considering whether directors have the experience, qualifications, attributes or skills, taken as a whole, to enable the board to satisfy its oversight responsibilities effectively in light of the Company's business and structure, focused primarily on each person's background and experience.  We believe that the Company's directors have backgrounds that, when combined, provide us with a board equipped to direct us through an ever challenging course in the segments of the telecommunication business in which we are involved.  Attributes of members of our board include experience in entrepreneurial, video service, telecommunication, technological and financial aspects of companies similar to, as well as much larger than, us.

In particular, our board considered important the following regarding its members.  With regard to Mr. Brett, our board considered his telecommunications and cable experience, as well as his over 40 year experience as a corporate lawyer.  With regard to Ms. Baker, our board considered her experience with broadcast and cable networks. With regards to Messrs. Fisher and Glasgow, our board considered the broad backgrounds of these

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individuals in finance and their operational experience with cable companies.  With regards to Messrs. Edgerton and Mooney, our board considered the extensive experience and expertise of these individuals in business development in the telecommunications industry and their financial knowledge.  Our board also considered the broad perspective brought by Mr. Kroloff's experience in operating diverse businesses throughout Alaska as well as his experience as a lawyer.  With regard to Mr. Schneider, our board considered his significant financial and accounting experience including his time spent as Chief Financial Officer of a large public company. With regard to Mr. Zinterhofer, our board considered his experience as an investor in cable, fiber, wireless, and satellite companies.

Our board also considered the many years of experience with the Company represented by Mr. Duncan, our President and Chief Executive Officer.  He has been with the Company since he co-founded it.

Many of our directors, including Messrs. Edgerton, Glasgow, Kroloff, Mooney and Schneider, were initially proposed for nomination by (or, in the case of Mr. Kroloff, through a request from Mr. Duncan to) holders of significant amounts of Company shares.  Our board has retained each of these directors, even after the shareholders have exited the Company or no longer have retained a right to nominate a director, due to the valued expertise our board feels they provide as members.

Stephen M. Brett.  Mr. Brett has served as Chairman of our board since June 2005 and as a director on our board since January 2001.  He has been of counsel to Sherman & Howard, L.L.C., a law firm, since January 2001.  He was Senior Executive Vice President for AT&T Broadband from March 1999 to April 2000.  His present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2018 annual meeting.

Ronald A. Duncan.  Mr. Duncan is a co-founder of the Company and has served as a director on our board since 1979.  Mr. Duncan has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since January 1989.  His present term as director on the board expires at the time of our 2018 annual meeting.

Peter J. Pounds. Mr. Pounds became our Chief Financial Officer and one of our Senior Vice Presidents effective January 1, 2014. Prior to that he served as Vice President, Finance since 2009. Prior to that, he served as Senior Financial Analyst.

G. Wilson Hughes.  Mr. Hughes has served as the Chief Executive Officer of The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC since July 22, 2013. Prior to that he served as our Executive Vice President – Wireless from June 4, 2012 to July 22, 2013.  Prior to that, he served as our Executive Vice President and General Manager from June 1991 to June 4, 2012.

William C. Behnke.  Mr. Behnke has served as one of our Senior Vice Presidents since January 2001.

Martin E. Cary.  Mr. Cary has served as our Vice President – General Manager, Managed Broadband Services since September 2004.

Gregory F. Chapados.  Mr. Chapados has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer since June 2012.  Prior to that, he served as one of our Senior Vice Presidents from June 2006 to June 2012.

Paul E. Landes.  Mr. Landes has served as one of our Senior Vice Presidents and as General Manager, Consumer Services since December 2010.  Prior to that, he served as our Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Services from September 2005 to December 2010.

Gregory W. Pearce.  Mr. Pearce has served as our Vice President and General Manager, Business Services since June 2010.  Prior to that, he served as our Vice President and General Manager, Commercial Services beginning in September 2005.

Tina M. Pidgeon.  Ms. Pidgeon has served as our Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, General Counsel and Government Affairs, since September 2010.  Prior to that, she served as our Vice President, Federal Regulatory Affairs from January 2003 to September 2010.

Bridget L. Baker. Ms. Baker has served as a director on our board since July 2013. Since January 2013, she has been a Principal of Baker Media, Inc., an entertainment and media consulting firm that she founded. From 2006 to

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2012, Ms. Baker was NBCUNIVERSAL's president of content distribution where she was responsible for the company's multi-billion dollar subscription revenue business across the cable, satellite, and telecommunications industry. Her present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2017 annual meeting.

Jerry A. Edgerton.  Mr. Edgerton has served as a director on our board since June 2004.  Since January 2013, he has been Chief Executive Officer of Cumulus Solutions, Inc., a provider of visual collaboration tools. From September 2011 to December 2012, he was President of Global Services for iNETWORKS Group, Inc., a comprehensive telecommunications solutions provider.  From July 2009 to August 2011, he was President of Government Markets for Core 180, a network integrator for large governmental and commercial customers.  From November 2007 to May 2009, he was Chief Executive Officer for Command Information, Inc., a next generation Internet service company.  From April 2007 to October 2007, Mr. Edgerton was an advisor on matters affecting the telecommunications industry as well as the U.S. government.  Prior to that and from January 2006 to April 2007, he was Group President of Verizon Federal.  Prior to that and from November 1996, he was Senior Vice President – Government Markets for MCI Communications Corporation, an affiliate of MCI, which was later acquired by Verizon Communications, Inc.  His present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2017 annual meeting.

Scott M. Fisher.  Mr. Fisher has served on our board since December 2005.  From 1998 to the present, he has been a partner of Fisher Capital Partners, Ltd., a private equity and real estate investment company located in Denver, Colorado.  During that time, Fisher Capital owned and operated Peak Cablevision, a multiple system cable television operator with approximately 120,000 subscribers.  At Peak Cablevision, Mr. Fisher was responsible for television programming and corporate development.  Mr. Fisher serves on the advisory boards of several private companies.  His present term as director on our board expires at the time of our 2016 annual meeting.

William P. Glasgow.  Mr. Glasgow has served as a director on our board since 1996.  From 2000 to the present Mr. Glasgow has been acting as President for the operating and investing entities of Prime IX Investment's group of companies of which he has been involved for thirty years.  His present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2016 annual meeting.

Mark W. Kroloff.  Mr. Kroloff has served as a director on our board since February 2009.  Since January 2010, he has been a principal at First Alaskan Capital Partners, LLC, an investment firm.  From May 2005 to December 2009, he was Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Arctic Slope Regional Corporation ("ASRC"), an Alaska Native regional corporation formed pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.  From 2001 to April 2005, Mr. Kroloff was Chief Operating Officer of Cook Inlet Region, Inc., also an Alaska Native regional corporation.  He also serves on the board of managers for Trilogy International Partners, LLC.  Mr. Kroloff's present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2017 annual meeting.

Stephen R. Mooney.  Mr. Mooney has served as a director on our board since January 1999.  He has been a Partner at Chessiecap Securities, Inc., an investment bank specializing in technology and telecommunications services based in Maryland since 2012.  From April 2010 to 2012, Mr. Mooney was a Managing Director with the McClean Group, LLC, a national financial advisory services firm.  From February 2008 to November 2009, Mr. Mooney was Vice President, Business Development for Affiliated Computer Services, Inc., a global information technology and business process outsourcing company.  From January 2006 to September 2007, he was Executive Director, Business Development of VerizonBusiness, a unit of Verizon.  Prior to that, he was Vice President, Corporate Development and Treasury Services at MCI beginning in 2002.  His present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2018 annual meeting.

James M. Schneider.  Mr. Schneider has served as a director on our board since July 1994.  He has been Chairman of Frontier Bancshares, Inc. since February 2007.  Prior to that, Mr. Schneider had been Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Dell, Inc. from March 2000 to February 2007.  Prior to that, he was Senior Vice President – Finance for Dell Computer Corporation from September 1998 to March 2000.  From 2012 to the present Mr. Schneider has been an Operating Partner for Lead Edge Capital. His present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2016 annual meeting.

Eric L. Zinterhofer. Mr. Zinterhofer has served as a director on our board since March 4, 2015. Mr. Zinterhofer is a Founding Partner of Searchlight Capital Partners. Prior to co-founding Searchlight, Mr. Zinterhofer was co-head of the media and telecommunications investment platform at Apollo Management, L.P. Mr. Zinterhofer has been an active cable investor over the last 15 years in companies such as Charter Communications, Liberty Cablevision Puerto Rico, Unity Media, Cablecom and Primacom. Mr. Zinterhofer is also an active investor in the fiber, wireless

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and satellite sectors, having invested in Integra Telecom, IPCS, Spectrasite and Dish TV India. His present term as a director on our board expires at the time of our 2018 annual meeting.

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

We believe all transactions that require reporting on Forms 4 were filed in a timely fashion during 2015.

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

Our current Code of Business Conduct and Ethics ("Ethics Code"), was adopted by our board in 2013.  It applies to all of our officers, directors and employees.  The Ethics Code takes as its basis a set of business principles adopted by our board several years ago.  It also builds upon the basic requirements for a code of ethics as required by federal securities law and rules adopted by the SEC.

Through our Ethics Code, we reaffirm our course of business conduct and ethics as based upon key values and characteristics and through adherence to a clear code of ethical conduct.  Our Ethics Code promotes honest and ethical conduct, including ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships of our employees.  It also promotes full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in our reports and documents filed with, or submitted to, the SEC and other public communications made by us.  Our Ethics Code further promotes compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations, internal reporting of violations of the code to appropriate persons as identified in the code and accountability for adherence to the code.

A copy of our Ethics Code is displayed on our Internet website at www.gci.com.  Except for the Ethics Code, and any other documents specifically incorporated herein, no information contained on the Company’s website shall be incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K.

No Change in Nominating Procedure

There were no changes made during 2015 to the procedure by which our shareholders may recommend nominees to our board.

Litigation and Regulatory Matters

We were, as of December 31, 2015, involved in several administrative and civil action matters primarily related to our telecommunications markets in Alaska and the remaining 49 states and other regulatory matters.  These actions are discussed in more detail elsewhere in this report.  See "Part I – Item 3 – Legal Proceedings."  However, as of that date, our board was unaware of any legal proceedings in which one or more of our directors, officers, affiliates or owners of record or beneficially of more than 5% of any class of our voting securities, or any associates of the previously listed persons were parties adverse to us or any of our subsidiaries.  Furthermore, as of that date, our board was unaware of any events occurring during the past 10 years materially adverse to an evaluation of the ability or integrity of any director, person nominated to become a director or executive officer of the Company.

In December 2010, Mr. Schneider settled charges brought against him by the SEC for actions that allegedly took place when he was the chief financial officer at Dell, Inc.  Mr. Schneider is no longer employed by Dell, Inc.  He settled the charges and consented to the issuance of an SEC administrative order without admitting or denying the SEC's findings, with limited exceptions.  The limited exceptions are acknowledgment of the SEC's jurisdiction over Mr. Schneider and the subject matter of the SEC proceedings brought against him, and the SEC findings with respect to litigation involving that company and certain of its senior executive officers including Mr. Schneider.  The court in that litigation entered an order permanently enjoining Mr. Schneider, by consent, from future violations of specified provisions of federal securities law.  Mr. Schneider paid, as specified in the court's order, $3.0 million as a civil money penalty and $83,096 in disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, as well as $38,640 in prejudgment interest.  In the settlement with the SEC, Mr. Schneider consented to his suspension from appearing or practicing before the SEC as an accountant for at least five years. Mr. Schneider has filed an application for reinstatement to appear or practice as an accountant before the Commission as a preparer or reviewer of a public company's financial statements. That application for reinstatement is currently pending before the Commission.   

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Audit Committee, Audit Committee Financial Expert

We have a board audit committee ("Audit Committee") comprised of several members of our board, i.e., Messrs. Mooney (Chair), Fisher, and Glasgow.

Our Audit Committee is governed by, and carries out its responsibilities under, an Audit Committee Charter, as adopted and amended from time to time by our board ("Audit Committee Charter").  The charter sets forth the purpose of the Audit Committee and its membership prerequisites and operating principles.  It also requires our Audit Committee to select our independent, registered, public accounting firm to provide for us accounting and audit services ("External Accountant") and sets forth other primary responsibilities.  A copy of our Audit Committee Charter is available to our shareholders on our Internet website: www.gci.com.

The Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards require that at least one member of our Audit Committee must have past employment experience in finance or accounting, requisite professional certification in accounting, or comparable experience or background which results in the individual's "financial sophistication."  This financial sophistication may derive from the person being or having been a chief executive officer, chief financial officer or other senior officer with financial oversight responsibilities.

Our board believes that Messrs. Fisher, Glasgow and Mooney, are audit committee financial experts ("Audit Committee Financial Experts") and also meet the Nasdaq requirements for financial sophistication.  Our board further believes that Messrs. Fisher, Glasgow and Mooney are each an independent director as the term is defined in the Nasdaq Stock Market corporate listing standards (to which the Company is subject), i.e., an individual other than one of our executive officers or employees or any other individual having a relationship which in the opinion of our board would interfere in carrying out the responsibilities of a director ("Independent Director") and are independent as defined by Rule 10A-3(b)(1) under the Exchange Act.

Under the SEC's rules, an Audit Committee Financial Expert is defined as a person who has all of the following attributes:

• Understanding of GAAP and financial statements.

• Ability to assess the general application of GAAP in connection with accounting for estimates, accruals and reserves.

• Experience in preparing, auditing, analyzing or evaluating financial statements that present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues that are generally comparable to the breadth and complexity of issues that can reasonably be expected to be raised by our financial statements, or experience actively supervising one or more persons engaged in such activities.

• Understanding of internal control over financial reporting.

• Understanding of audit committee functions.

The Audit Committee Charter specifies how one may determine whether a person has acquired the attributes of an Audit Committee Financial Expert.  They are one or more of the following:

• Education and experience as a principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller, public accountant or auditor or experience in one or more positions that involved the performance of similar functions.

• Experience actively supervising a principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller, public accountant, auditor or person performing similar functions.

• Experience overseeing or assessing the performance of companies or public accountants with respect to the preparation, auditing or evaluation of financial statements.

• Other relevant experience.

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Our Audit Committee acts on behalf of our board and generally carries out specific duties including the following, all of which are described in detail in our Audit Committee Charter:

• Principal Accountant Selection, Qualification– Is directly responsible for appointment, compensation, retention, oversight, qualifications and independence of our External Accountant.

• Financial Statements– Assists in our board's oversight of integrity of the Company financial statements.

• Financial Reports, Internal Control– Is directly responsible for oversight of the audit by our External Accountant of our financial reports and reports on internal control.

• Annual Reports– Prepares reports required to be included in our annual proxy statement.

• Complaints– Receives and responds to certain complaints relating to internal accounting controls, and auditing matters, confidential, anonymous submissions by our employees regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters, and certain alleged illegal acts or behavior-related conduct in violation of our Ethics Code.  See "Part III – Item 10 – Code of Business Conduct and Ethics."

• Principal Accountant Disagreements– Resolves disagreements, if any, between our External Accountant and us regarding financial reporting.

• Non-Audit Services– Reviews and pre-approves any non-audit services (audit-related, tax and other non-audit related services) offered to us by our External Accountant ("Non-Audit Services").

• Attorney Reports– Addresses certain attorney reports, if any, relating to violation of securities law or fiduciary duty by one of our officers, directors, employees or agents.

• Related Party Transactions– Reviews certain related party transactions as described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 13 – Certain Transactions."

• Other– Carries out other assignments as designated by our board.

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Overview –

Compensation of our executive officers and directors during 2015 was subject to processes and procedures carried out through our Compensation Committee ("Compensation Program").  This compensation discussion and analysis ("Compensation Discussion and Analysis") addresses the material elements of our Compensation Program as applied to our Chief Executive Officer, our Chief Financial Officer, and to each of our three other most highly compensated executive officers other than the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer who were serving as executive officers as of December 31, 2015.  All five of these officers are identified in the Summary Compensation Table ("Named Executive Officers").  See "Part III – Item 11 – Executive Compensation:  Summary Compensation Table."

Both the Compensation Committee and the Company believe that the compensation paid to the Named Executive Officers under our Compensation Program is fair, reasonable, competitive and consistent with our Compensation Principles.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis: Principles of the Compensation Program."

Our Compensation Committee is composed of Messrs. Brett, Edgerton (Chair), Mooney, and Schneider.  All of the members of the committee are considered by our board to be Independent Directors.

The charter of the Compensation Committee guides decisions regarding our Compensation Program, the aspects of which are described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and

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Analysis:  Process." A copy of our Compensation Committee Charter is available to our shareholders on our Internet website: www.gci.com.

Our Charter of the Compensation Committee sets forth the scope of authority of our Compensation Committee and requires the committee to carry out the following:

• Review, on an annual basis, plans and targets for executive officer and board member compensation, if any –

◦ Review is specifically to address expected performance and compensation of, and the criteria on which compensation is based for, the Chief Executive Officer and such other of our executive officers as our board may designate for this purpose.

• Monitor the effect of ongoing events on, and the effectiveness of, existing compensation policies, goals, and plans –

◦ Events specifically include but are not limited to the status of the premise that all pay systems correlate with our compensation goals and policies.

◦ Report from time to time, its findings to our board.

• Administer our Amended and Restated 1986 Stock Option Plan ("Stock Option Plan") and approve grants of options and awards pursuant to the plan.

• Strive to make our compensation plans fair and structured so as to maximize shareholder value.

In carrying out its duties, our Compensation Committee may accept for review and inclusion in its annual review with our board, recommendations from our Chief Executive Officer as to expected performance and compensation of, and the criteria on which compensation is based for, executive officers.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Process."

Principles of the Compensation Program –

Our Compensation Program is based upon the following principles ("Compensation Principles"):

• Compensation is related to performance and must cause alignment of interests of executive officers with the long-term interests of our shareholders.

• Compensation targets must take into consideration competitive market conditions and provide incentives for superior performance by the Company.

• Actual compensation must take into consideration the Company's and the executive officer's performance over the prior year and the long-term, and the Company's resources.

• Compensation is based upon both qualitative and quantitative factors.

• Compensation must enable the Company to attract and retain management necessary to cause the Company to succeed.

Process –

Overview.  Our Compensation Committee reviews and approves the base salary, incentive and other compensation of our Chief Executive Officer and senior executive officers, including the Named Executive Officers.  The analyses and recommendations of the Chief Executive Officer on these matters may be considered by our Compensation Committee in its deliberations and approvals.

Other elements of executive compensation and benefits as described in this section are also reviewed by our Compensation Committee on a regular basis.

Implementation.  Discussions on executive compensation and benefits made by the Compensation Committee have been guided by our Compensation Principles.  The elements of compensation as described later in this

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section are believed by the Compensation Committee to be integral and necessary parts of the Compensation Program.

Our Compensation Committee has concluded that each individual segment of each element of executive compensation continues generally to be consistent with one or more of our Compensation Principles.  Our Compensation Committee has further concluded the amount of compensation provided by the segment is reasonable, primarily based upon a comparison of the compensation amounts and segments we provide when compared to those offered by other similar companies in our industry and in our market.

Our process for determining executive compensation and benefits does not involve a precise and identifiable formula or link between each element and our Compensation Principles.  However, it takes into consideration market practice and information provided by our management.  Furthermore, it is based upon the relationship of compensation as shall be paid and financial performance of the Company.  It is also the result of discussion among our Compensation Committee members and management.  Ultimately it is based upon the judgment of our Compensation Committee.

Each year our Compensation Committee reviews elements of compensation for each of our senior executive officers including, for 2015, the Named Executive Officers.

In 2010, base salary and incentive stock targets were compared to survey data and amounts offered by a group of similar companies.  The Company's relative financial performance was reviewed in order to determine what a reasonable amount of compensation might be in relation to its peer group.  The compensation peer group is principally made up of the following:

• Companies in industries similar to our Company.

• Companies with which our Company competes for executive talent.

• Our Company's direct business competitors.

• Companies that compete with our Company for investment dollars.

The compensation peer group list used in determining the reasonableness of our Compensation Program consisted of 16 companies as follows:

Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc.	Knology, Inc.
C Beyond, Inc.	Mediacom Communications Corp.
Cincinnati Bell, Inc.	Premiere Global Services, Inc.
Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.	RCN Corp
Crown Media Holdings, Inc.	SureWest Communications
Equinix, Inc.	Time Warner Telecom, Inc.
Grande Communications	Wave Broadband
Iowa Telecommunications Services, Inc.	XO Holdings, Inc.

Individual levels of base compensation were generally targeted to be set within a range of between the 50th and 75th percentile, based upon the executive's individual performance in the prior year relative to his or her peers, the executive's future potential, and the scope of the executive's responsibilities and experience.  Input from the individual executives in terms of their expectation and requirements were considered as well.

We believe this method of setting compensation enables the Company to attract and retain individuals who are necessary to lead and manage the Company while enabling the Company to differentiate between executives and performance levels and responsibility.  The comparison to other companies also allowed the Compensation Committee to determine the reasonableness of the balance between long-term incentive and annual base compensation.

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The Compensation Committee determined that, in general, base compensation levels for the Company's senior officers were reasonable and within the 50^th and 75^th percentile when compared to officers of companies in our peer group having comparable financial performance when it completed its review in 2010.

Based on its review in 2010, the Compensation Committee established a four year compensation plan that ended in 2013.  During 2014 and 2015, the Compensation Committee analyzed such things as the economy and the business environment in which the Company operates to determine if any modifications were needed to the four year compensation plan established during 2010.  Based on its review, the Compensation Committee concluded that that the salaries and incentive compensation established in 2010 were still appropriate for the senior executive officers with a few exceptions.  See “Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis: Performance Rewarded.” The Compensation Committee believes the framework established in 2010 continues to provide an effective framework upon which the Compensation Program is based. The Compensation Committee has modified the Compensation Program at its discretion to continue its effectiveness for motivating the senior executive officers and aligning their interests with the long-term interests of our shareholders and believes it is appropriate through 2016.

Elements of Compensation –

Overview.  For 2015, the elements of compensation in our Compensation Program were as follows:

• Base Salary.

• Incentive Compensation Bonus Plan ("Incentive Compensation Plan").

• Stock Option Plan.

• Perquisites.

• Retirement and Welfare Benefits.

As of December 31, 2015, there were no compensatory plans or arrangements providing for payments to any of the Named Executive Officers in conjunction with any termination of employment or other working relationship of such an officer with us (including without limitation, resignation, severance, retirement or constructive termination of employment of the officer).  Furthermore, as of that date, there were no such plans or arrangements providing for payments to any of the Named Executive Officers in conjunction with a change of control of us or a change in such an officer's responsibilities to us.  However, in the event of a change in control, the options and restricted stock of our Named Executive Officers could vest.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Executive Compensation:  Potential Payments upon Termination or Change-in-Control."

The Company has no requirements with respect to security ownership by its officers or directors, and it has no policies regarding hedging the economic risk of ownership of Company equity.  Executive officers are invited to provide their input with respect to their compensation to the Compensation Committee primarily through our Chief Executive Officer.

A Named Executive Officer participating in the Compensation Program could, under terms of the corresponding Incentive Compensation Plan agreement with us and pursuant to our Deferred Compensation Plan, elect to defer a significant portion of that compensation.  In this instance, the Named Executive Officer becomes our unsecured creditor.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Nonqualified Deferred Compensation."

Base Salary.  Effective January 1, 2015, based upon the process previously described in this section, the base salaries reported in the Summary Compensation Table (see "Part III – Item 11 – Executive Compensation:  Summary Compensation Table") were approved by the Compensation Committee.

Mr. Duncan's base salary reflects cash compensation of $925,000 per year.  Mr. Duncan's duties remained unchanged during 2015.

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Mr. Pounds' base salary reflects cash compensation of $400,000 per year. Mr. Pounds' base salary increased in 2015 from $350,000 to $400,000 to compensate him for additional responsibilities resulting from the growth of the Company. His duties remained unchanged during 2015.

Mr. Chapados' base salary reflects cash compensation of $450,000 per year.  His duties remained unchanged during 2015.

Mr. Hughes' base salary reflects cash compensation of $362,500 per year and $125,000 credited annually to his Deferred Compensation Arrangement account with us.  Mr. Hughes' duties remained unchanged during 2015.

Mr. Landes' base salary reflects cash compensation of $300,000 per year. Mr. Landes' base salary increased in 2015 from $250,000 to $300,000 to compensate him for the growth in our Consumer business line and due to the length of time since his last base salary adjustment. Mr. Landes' duties remained unchanged during 2015.

Incentive Compensation Plan.Overview – A portion of the Company's compensation to each Named Executive Officer relates to, and is contingent upon, the officer's performance and our financial performance and resources.

Messrs. Duncan, Pounds, Chapados, Hughes, and Landes –Overview.  In October 2010, our board approved changes to our Incentive Compensation Plan to create the incentive compensation framework for our Named Executive Officers.

In the context of the Named Executive Officers, the Compensation Committee first determined the targeted annual incentive compensation for each of them.  Incentive compensation is paid out in the form of 50% cash and 50% restricted stock grants that vest 100% at the end of three years, unless otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee based on the individual circumstances of each of the Named Executive Officers.  Therefore, the incentive compensation is designed to encourage the focus of these executives on long-term performance.  Discretionary annual cash bonuses are intended to reward short-term performance and to make our senior executive compensation packages competitive with comparable executive positions in other companies.

Incentive Compensation.  The following table provides a summary of the 2015 incentive compensation targets for the Named Executive Officers:

Name	Adjusted EBITDA ($)	Capex Spending ($)	Discretionary ($)	Total 2015 Incentive Compensation Plan Target ($)
Ronald A. Duncan1	378,676	47,334	1,467,370	1,893,380
Peter J. Pounds2	80,000	10,000	310,000	400,000
Gregory F. Chapados2	180,000	22,500	697,500	900,000
G. Wilson Hughes	93,333	11,667	361,667	466,667
Paul E. Landes	75,200	—	324,800	400,000
1  Mr. Duncan's incentive compensation target is $418,380 higher than what was disclosed in the 2015 Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on May 19, 2015. As disclosed in the 2015 Proxy Statement, Mr. Duncan's final incentive compensation target is calculated by multiplying the sum of his base salary, director cash compensation, estimated value of the stock grant for service as a director, and incentive compensation ("Total Compensation") by the percentage increase in Adjusted EBITDA from Adjusted EBITDA in 2013 and adding that to his target incentive compensation.
2  Incentive Compensation is paid out in the form of 50% cash and 50% restricted stock grants that vest at the end of three years. The number of shares issued to Mr. Pounds and Mr. Chapados are determined by dividing the 50% of Incentive Compensation for shares by the price of our Class A shares on December 31, 2012, which was $9.59. This arrangement is in place for Mr. Pounds and Mr. Chapados through 2017.

The following is a description of what each of these incentive compensation targets are and how they are measured.

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Adjusted EBITDA.  The Adjusted EBITDA goal is intended to focus the Named Executive Officers on increasing Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA for purposes of this goal is Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in Note 10 in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" less the increase in financed wireless handset revenue. The goal is achieved by the Company recording Adjusted EBITDA that is greater than the Adjusted EBITDA target.

The target for this metric was $294.2 million in 2015 for the Named Executive Officers who would earn their Target Incentive Compensation for this goal if the metric was exceeded.  In the case of the Named Executive Officers, the incentive compensation earned is increased or decreased from the Target Incentive Compensation by 5% for each $1 million that the actual Adjusted EBITDA is above or below the Adjusted EBITDA metric.

Capex Spending.  The Capex Spending target is based on core capex spending adjusted for certain one-time items such as real estate purchases and grant-funded projects ("Capex Spending") not exceeding the goal set forth by our board.  For Messrs. Duncan, Pounds, Chapados, and Hughes the goal was $165.1 million in 2015.  In 2015 the targeted incentive for Capex Spending will be paid out at 100% if the total Capex Spending for the year is $165.1 million or less.  For 2015, the Capex Spending was less than $165.1 million. Mr. Landes' incentive compensation did not include this target.

Discretionary.   The board will take various factors into account when deciding on the payout of the discretionary portion of the plan applying to the Named Executive Officers.  These factors include, but are not limited to, leadership, crisis management, succession planning, strategic planning, risk management, special projects, and financial reporting.

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The following table summarizes the 2015 incentive compensation achieved by the Named Executive Officers, each of whom participated in this plan.  The 2015 incentive compensation was paid 50% in cash and 50% in the form of restricted stock grants that will vest at the end of three years after the grant date; the majority of the cash portion was paid in 2015 with the remainder paid in 2016:

Goals	Ronald A. Duncan			Peter J. Pounds			Gregory F. Chapados			G. Wilson Hughes			Paul E. Landes
Adjusted EBITDA Goal – Target Incentive Compensation	$	378,676		$	80,000		$	180,000		$	93,333		$	75,200
Adjusted EBITDA Goal Achievement1	190.0		%	190.0		%	190.0		%	190.0		%	190.0		%
2015 Adjusted EBITDA Incentive Compensation Earned	$	719,484		$	152,000		$	342,000		$	177,333		$	142,880
Capex Spending	$	47,334		$	10,000		$	22,500		$	11,667		N/A
Capex Spending Achievement	100		%	100		%	100		%	100		%	N/A
2015 Capex Spending Incentive Compensation Earned	$	47,334		$	10,000		$	22,500		$	11,667		$	—
Discretionary	$	1,467,370		$	310,000		$	697,500		$	361,667		$	324,800
Discretionary Achievement2	97.3		%	104.1		%	102.3		%	110.7		%	389.4		%
2015 Discretionary Incentive Compensation Earned	$	1,427,180		$	322,609		$	713,721		$	400,295		$	1,264,789
2015 Incentive Compensation Earned	$	2,193,998		$	484,609		$	1,078,221		$	589,295		$	1,407,669

¹    The Adjusted EBITDA for this 2015 goal was $294.2 million for the Company.  The Named Executive Officers would earn their Target Incentive Compensation for this goal if the Company had Adjusted EBITDA equal to the metric.  The Target Incentive Compensation is increased or decreased by 5% for each $1 million that the actual Adjusted EBITDA is above or below the metric.  For 2015, the actual Adjusted EBITDA for purposes of this goal was $312 million resulting in actual Adjusted EBITDA that was $17.9 million above the metric, therefore, the earned Incentive Compensation for the Adjusted EBITDA goal was increased by 90%.

²    Our Compensation Committee considered the following factors regarding the Discretionary Achievement of the Named Executive Officers.  With regard to Mr. Duncan, the Compensation Committee took into account his leadership during 2015, closing the Wireless Acquisition, performance in developing a strategic plan for key components of our business, diversification and succession planning.  With regard to Mr. Pounds, the Compensation Committee considered his leadership in regards to risk management, debt refinancing and closing the Wireless Acquisition, financial planning and management, and financial reporting.  With regard to Mr. Chapados, the Compensation Committee considered, among other things, his leadership, his operating of the Wireline segment, his strategic and financial planning, and risk management. With regard to Mr. Hughes, the Compensation Committee took into account his leadership of the Wireless Acquisition, succession planning and the operations of our wireless strategy. With regard to Mr. Landes, the Compensation Committee considered his leadership of the substantial growth in consumer subscribers and revenue, his leadership in integrating the former ACS subscribers, succession planning, and his efforts meeting core corporate goals.

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2016 Incentive Compensation Targets.  Based on discussions with our CEO, management and the practices of other companies, our Compensation Committee approved the following incentive compensation targets for our Named Executive Officers for 2016:

Name	Adjusted EBITDA and Capex Goal ($)	Discretionary ($)	Total 2016 Incentive Compensation Plan Target ($)
Ronald A. Duncan1	295,000	1,180,000	1,475,000
Peter J. Pounds2	91,000	364,000	455,000
Gregory F. Chapados2	225,000	900,000	1,125,000
G. Wilson Hughes	93,333	373,334	466,667
Paul E. Landes	70,000	330,000	400,000
1  Mr. Duncan's incentive compensation target is calculated by multiplying the sum of his base salary, director cash compensation, estimated value of the stock grant for service as a director, and incentive compensation ("Total Compensation") by the percentage increase in Adjusted EBITDA from Adjusted EBITDA in 2013 and adding that to his target incentive compensation. Therefore, the exact amount of Mr. Duncan's 2016 Incentive Compensation Plan Target will not be known until the completion of fiscal year 2016.
2  Incentive Compensation is paid out in the form of 50% cash and 50% restricted stock grants that vest at the end of three years. The number of shares issued to Mr. Pounds and Mr. Chapados are determined by dividing the 50% of Incentive Compensation for shares by the price of our Class A shares on December 31, 2012, which was $9.59. This arrangement is in place for Mr. Pounds and Mr. Chapados through 2017.

The Compensation Committee may change the incentive compensation amounts between the goals at its discretion.

Retention Incentives. Restricted stock grants are issued periodically to Named Executive Officers to encourage the executive to stay with the Company and to help the Named Executive Officers stay focused on the long-term performance of the Company. Mr. Pounds received a restricted stock grant of 3,333 shares during 2015 as a retention incentive. Such shares will vest on February 6, 2018.

Special Restricted Stock Grant. In 2015, the Compensation Committee awarded an additional restricted stock grant of 3,333 shares to Mr. Pounds related to excellent performance related to the financing and negotiations of the Wireless Acquisition. 1,667 of those shares will vest on February 6, 2016 and 1,666 of those shares will vest on February 6, 2017.

Stock Option Plan.  Awards, if granted to the Named Executive Officers, were granted pursuant to terms of our Stock Option Plan.  Awards, if granted, were granted contemporaneously with the approval of the Compensation Committee, typically early in the year in question or late in the previous year as described above.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Incentive Compensation Plan."

We adopted our stock option plan in 1986.  It has been subsequently amended from time to time and presently is our Stock Option Plan, i.e., our Amended and Restated 1986 Stock Option Plan.  Under our Stock Option Plan, we are authorized to grant awards and options to purchase shares of Class A common stock to selected officers, directors and other employees of, and consultants or advisors to, the Company and its subsidiaries.  We have not issued any stock options since 2010. The selection of grantees for awards under the plan is made by our Compensation Committee.

The number of shares of Class A common stock allocated to the Stock Option Plan is 15.7 million shares.  The number of shares for which options or awards may be granted is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of stock dividends, stock splits, mergers, consolidations and certain other changes in corporate structure or capitalization.  As of December 31, 2015, 1.5 million shares granted subject to vesting, 5.2 million share grants had vested, 8.7 million shares had been issued upon the exercise of options under the plan, 1.8 million shares repurchased by the plan and 2.1 million shares remained available for additional grants under the plan.

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Restricted stock awards granted under the Stock Option Plan may be subject to vesting conditions based upon service or performance criteria as the Compensation Committee may specify.  These specifications may include attainment of one or more performance targets.  Shares acquired pursuant to such an award may not be transferred by the participant until vested.  Unless otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, a participant will forfeit any shares of restricted stock where the restrictions have not lapsed prior to the participant's termination of service with us.  Participants holding restricted stock will have the right to vote the shares and to receive dividends paid, if any.  However, those dividends or other distributions paid in shares will be subject to the same restrictions as the original award.

Our Compensation Committee selects each grantee and the time of grant of an option or award and determines the terms of each grant, including the number of shares covered by each grant and the exercise price.  In selecting a participant, as well as in determining these other terms and conditions of each grant, our Compensation Committee takes into consideration such factors as it deems, in its sole discretion, relevant in connection with accomplishing the purpose of the plan.

Under our Stock Option Plan, our authority to modify or amend the plan is subject to prior approval of our shareholders only in cases of increasing the number of shares of our stock allocated to, and available and reserved for, issuance under the plan, changing the class of persons eligible to receive incentive stock options or where shareholder approval is required under applicable law, regulation or rule.  One such law requiring shareholder approval before the Company may rely on it is Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Subject to these limitations, the Company may terminate or amend the Stock Option Plan at any time.  However, no termination or amendment may affect any outstanding option or award unless expressly provided by the Compensation Committee.  In any event, no termination or amendment of the plan may adversely affect an outstanding option or award without the consent of the participant unless necessary to comply with applicable law, regulation or rule.

With limited exception, no maximum or minimum exists with regard to the amount, either in dollars or in numbers, of options that may be exercised in any year, either by a single optionee or by all optionees under our Stock Option Plan.  At the 2002 annual meeting, our shareholders approved an amendment to the plan placing a limitation on accumulated grants of options of not more than 500,000 shares of Class A common stock per optionee per year.

With these exceptions, there are no fixed limitations on the number or amount of securities being offered, other than the practical limitations imposed by the number of employees eligible to participate in the plan and the total number of shares of stock authorized and available for granting under the plan.   Shares covered by options which have terminated or expired for any reason prior to their exercise are available for grant of new options pursuant to the plan.

Perquisites.  The Company provides certain perquisites to its Named Executive Officers.  The Compensation Committee believes these perquisites are reasonable and appropriate and consistent with our awareness of perquisites offered by similar publicly traded companies.  The perquisites assist in attracting and retaining the Named Executive Officers and, in the case of certain perquisites, promote health, safety and efficiency of our Named Executive Officers.  These perquisites are as follows:

• Use of Company Leased Aircraft – The Company permits employees, including the Named Executive Officers, to use Company aircraft for personal travel for themselves and their guests.  Such travel generally is limited to a space available basis on flights that are otherwise business-related.  Where a Named Executive Officer, or a guest of that officer, flies on a space available basis, the additional variable cost to the Company (such as fuel, catering, and landing fees) is de minimus.  As a result, no amount is reflected in the Summary Compensation Table for that flight.  Where the additional variable cost to the Company occurs on such a flight for solely personal purposes of that Named Executive Officer or guest, that cost is included in the Summary Compensation Table entry for that officer.  Because it is rare for a flight to be purely personal in nature, fixed costs (such as hangar expenses, crew salaries and monthly leases) are not included in the Summary Compensation Table.  In any case, in the event such a cost is non-deductible by the Company under the Internal Revenue Code, the value of that lost deduction is included in the Summary Compensation Table entry for that Named Executive Officer.  When employees, including the Named Executive Officers, use Company aircraft for such travel they are attributed with taxable income in accordance with regulations pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code.  The Company does not "gross up" or

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reimburse an employee for taxes he or she owes on such attributed income.  The variable cost of the aircraft for personal travel, if any, is included in the respective entries in the Summary Compensation Table.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Executive Compensation:  Summary Compensation Table."

• Enhanced Long-Term Disability Benefit – The Company provides the Named Executive Officers and other senior executive officers of the Company with an enhanced long-term disability benefit.  This benefit provides a supplemental replacement income benefit of 60% of average monthly compensation capped at $10,000 per month.  The normal replacement income benefit applying to other of our employees is capped at $5,000 per month.

• Enhanced Short-Term Disability Benefit – The Company provides the Named Executive Officers and other senior executive officers of the Company with an enhanced short-term disability benefit.  This benefit provides a supplemental replacement income benefit of 66 2/3% of average monthly compensation, capped at $2,300 per week.  The normal replacement income benefit applying to other of our employees is capped at $1,150 per week.

• Miscellaneous – Aside from benefits offered to its employees generally, the Company provided miscellaneous other benefits to its Named Executive Officers including the following (see "Part III – Item 11 – Executive Compensation:  Summary Compensation Table – Components of 'All Other Compensation'"):

◦ Success Sharing – An incentive program offered to all of our employees that shares 15% of the excess Adjusted EBITDA over the highest previous year ("Success Sharing").

◦ Board Fees – Provided to Mr. Duncan as one of our directors. The Compensation Committee believes that it is appropriate to provide such board fees to Mr. Duncan given the additional oversight responsibilities and the accompanying liability incumbent upon members of our board.  In determining the appropriate amount of overall compensation payable to Mr. Duncan in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer, the Compensation Committee does take into account any such board fees that are payable to Mr. Duncan.  This monitoring of Mr. Duncan's overall compensation package for services rendered as Chief Executive Officer and as a director is done to ensure that Mr. Duncan is not being doubly compensated for the same services rendered to the Company.

Retirement and Welfare Benefits–GCI 401(k) Plan.  In January 1987, we adopted an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“GCI 401(k) Plan”) qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The GCI 401(k) Plan provides for acquisition of GCI’s Class Acommon stock at market value as well as various mutual funds. We may match a percentage of the employees' contributions up to certain limits. Named Executive Officers may, along with our employees generally, participate in our GCI 401(k) Plan in which we may provide matching contributions in accordance with the terms of the plan.

As of December 31, 2015, there remained 4,454,265 shares of Class A and 463,989 shares of Class B common stock allocated to our GCI 401(k) Plan and available for issuance by us or otherwise acquisition by the plan for the benefit of participants in the plan.

– Deferred Compensation Arrangements.  The Company offers to our executive officers and to certain of our Named Executive Officers nonqualified, deferred compensation arrangements specifically fashioned to the needs of the officer and us ("Deferred Compensation Arrangements").  During 2015, Mr. Hughes, a Named Executive Officer, participated in Deferred Compensation Arrangements specifically fashioned to his needs.  These Deferred Compensation Arrangements enable Mr. Hughes to defer compensation in excess of limits that apply to qualified plans, like our GCI 401(k) Plan, and to pursue his income tax goals.

Based upon its review of the Deferred Compensation Arrangement, our Compensation Committee concluded that the benefits provided are reasonable and an important tool in retaining the executive officer involved with the arrangements.

– Welfare Benefits.  With the exception of the enhanced long-term and short-term disability benefits described previously, the Company provided to the Named Executive Officers the same health and welfare benefits provided generally to all other employees of the Company at the same general premium rates as charged to those employees.  The cost of the health and welfare programs is subsidized by the Company for all eligible employees including the Named Executive Officers.

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Performance Rewarded –

Our Compensation Program is, in large part, designed to reward individual performance.  What constitutes performance varies from officer to officer, depending upon the nature of the officer's responsibilities.  Consistent with the Compensation Program, the Company identified key business metrics and established defined targets related to those metrics for each Named Executive Officer.  In the case of each Named Executive Officer, the targets were regularly reviewed by management, from time to time, and provided an immediate and clear picture of performance and enabled management to respond quickly to both potential problems as well as potential opportunities.  The Compensation Program also was used to establish and track corresponding applicable targets for individual management employees.

In 2015, the Compensation Program was used in the development of each Named Executive Officer's individual performance goals and established incentive compensation targets.  The Compensation Committee evaluated the performance of each of the executive officers and the financial performance of the Company and awarded incentive compensation as described above.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Incentive Compensation Plan."

In 2015, our Compensation Committee determined to increase the cash component of Mr. Landes’ base salary from $250,000 to $300,000 effective January 1, 2015. In addition the Compensation Committee increased Mr. Chapados' total incentive compensation plan target for 2016 from $900,000 to $1,125,000 and Mr. Pounds' total incentive compensation plan target for 2016 from $400,000 to $455,000. Messrs. Chapados and Pounds had restricted stock grants issued in the past as retention awards. The Compensation Committee approved the increase to the total incentive compensation plan targets for Messrs. Chapados and Pounds in lieu of issuing restricted stock grants. The amounts disclosed under "Part III – Item 11 – Incentive Compensation – Incentive Compensation Targets" reflect the increase to Messrs. Chapados' and Pounds’ 2016 incentive compensation targets.

Timing of Equity Awards –

Overview.  Timing of equity awards under our Director Compensation Plan and equity awards under our Compensation Program varies with the plan or portion of that program.  However, the Company does not, and has not in the past, timed its release of material nonpublic information for purposes of affecting the value of equity compensation.  Timing issues and our grant policy are described further below.

Director Compensation Plan.  As a part of the Director Compensation Plan, we grant awards of our common stock to board members, including those persons who may also be serving as one or more of our executive officers.  Mr. Duncan, a board member and Named Executive Officer, has been granted such awards in the past.  These awards are made annually in June of each year in accordance with the terms of the Director Compensation Plan.  The awards are made through our Stock Option Plan.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Stock Option Plan."

Incentive Compensation Plan.  As a part of our Compensation Program, from time to time, we grant awards in our Class A common stock to our executive officers, including the Named Executive Officers.  In particular, awards are granted in conjunction with the agreements that we enter into with Named Executive Officers pursuant to our Incentive Compensation Plan.  The grants of such awards are typically made early in the year at the time our board finalizes the prior year incentive compensation plan payouts for each of the Named Executive Officers.  All such awards are granted through the Stock Option Plan.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Incentive Compensation Plan" and "– Elements of Compensation – Stock Option Plan."

Stock Option Plan.  As a part of our Compensation Program, from time to time, we grant stock awards in our Class A common stock to our executive officers.  In all cases, regardless of the identity of the grantee, the timing, amount and other terms of the grant of awards under our Stock Option Plan are determined in the sole discretion of our Compensation Committee.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Stock Option Plan."

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Grant Policy.  Under our grant policy, all approved grants are granted effective the date they were approved by the committee and are priced at the market value at the close of trading on that date.  The terms of the award are then communicated to the recipient within a reasonable time period.

Tax and Accounting Treatment of Executive Compensation –

In determining the amount and form of compensation granted to executive officers, including the Named Executive Officers, the Company takes into consideration both tax treatment and accounting treatment of the compensation.  Tax and accounting treatment for various forms of compensation is subject to changes in, and changing interpretations of, applicable laws, regulations, rulings and other factors not within the Company's control.  As a result, tax and accounting treatment is only one of several factors that the Company takes into account in designing the previously described elements of compensation.

Compensation Policies and Practices in Relation to Our Risk Management –

At the direction of our board, Company management has reviewed our compensation policies, plans and practices to determine whether they create incentives or encourage behavior that is reasonably likely to have a materially adverse effect on the Company.  This effort included a review of our various employee compensation plans and practices as described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis: Process."

The purpose of the review was to evaluate risks and the internal controls we have implemented to manage those risks.  The controls include multiple performance metrics, corporate-wide financial measures, statutory clawbacks on equity awards, and board and board committee oversight and approvals.

In completing this review, our board and management believe risks created by our compensation policies, plans and practices that create incentives likely to have a material adverse effect on us are remote.

Shareholder Advisory Votes on Executive Compensation

At our 2014 annual meeting, our shareholders adopted a non-binding proposal pertaining to executive compensation of our Named Executive Officers. Our board anticipates placing before our shareholders a proposal on executive compensation at our 2017 annual shareholder meeting.

Our board views decisions as to compensation of Company named executive officers, including but not limited to those for 2014, as its responsibility.  Our board takes this responsibility seriously and has gone to considerable effort to establish and implement a process for determining executive compensation as described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis."

Our board carefully considers all proposals from our shareholders.  However, in light of its responsibilities to the Company, our board may or may not follow the advice of those shareholder votes.

Our board contemplates next placing before our shareholders a proposal dealing with the frequency of shareholder advisory votes on executive compensation of our named executive officers during our 2017 annual shareholder meeting.

Executive Compensation

Summary Compensation Table –

As of December 31, 2015, the Company did not have employment agreements with any of the Named Executive Officers.  The following table summarizes total compensation paid or earned by each Named Executive Officer for fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013.  The process followed by the Compensation Committee in establishing total compensation for each Named Executive Officer as set forth in the table is described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis."

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Summary Compensation Table

Name and Principal Position	Year	Salary1 ($)	Bonus ($)	Nonequity Incentive Plan Compen-sation ($)	Stock Awards2 ($)	Option Awards2 ($)	Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings3 ($)	All Other Compensation ($)4	Total ($)
Ronald A. Duncan5 President and Chief Executive Officer	2015	925,000	—	1,096,999	1,269,9096	—	—	83,000	3,374,908
	2014	925,000	—	1,087,216	1,093,8627	—	—	86,228	3,192,306
	2013	830,000	—	1,158,158	523,3718	—	—	75,000	2,586,529
Peter J. Pounds Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary9	2015	400,000	6,41710	235,888	365,45611	—	—	20,437	1,028,198
	2014	350,000	2,28110	174,503	92,2897	—	—	21,426	640,499
Gregory F. Chapados Executive Vice President   and Chief Operating Officer	2015	450,000	8,36310	530,748	757,8636	—	—	24,437	1,771,411
	2014	450,000	—	499,172	2,010,88912	—	—	23,426	2,983,487
	2013	347,917	—	542,654	143,2868	—	—	21,500	1,055,357
G. Wilson Hughes Executive Vice President --- Wireless	2015	487,500	19,44510	275,203	294,8846	—	—	25,664	1,102,696
	2014	487,500	6,90110	271,584	599,3977	—	—	18,623	1,384,005
	2013	487,500	—	754,465	285,08413	—	296	19,500	1,546,845
Paul E. Landes   Senior Vice President and   General Manager -   Consumer Services	2015	300,000	472,27910	233,735	72,3786	—	—	21,046	1,099,438
	2014	250,000	—	291,318	55,0437	—	—	23,907	620,268
	2013	250,000	—	279,209	42,9148	—	—	12,155	584,278

________________________

¹  For 2013, 2014 and 2015, salary includes deferred compensation of $125,000 for Mr. Hughes.

²  This column reflects the grant date fair values of awards of Class A common stock, restricted stock awards or stock options granted in the fiscal year indicated which were computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Options ("ASC Topic 718"). Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are set forth in Note 9 of "Part II – Item 8 – Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

³  The amount shown represents the above-market earnings on nonqualified deferred compensation plan balances. Above market-earnings is defined as earnings in excess of 120% of the long-term monthly applicable federal rate.

⁴  See, "Components of 'All Other Compensation'" table displayed below for more detail.

⁵  In 2013, Mr. Duncan received $101,450 in compensation for service on our board in the form of $57,500 in director fees and a stock award valued at $43,950. In 2014, Mr. Duncan received $148,625 in compensation for service on our board in the form of $65,000 in director fees and a stock award valued at $83,625. In 2015, Mr. Duncan received $183,650 in compensation for service on our board in the form of $65,000 in director fees and a stock award valued at $118,650.

⁶  The Stock Awards granted during 2015 were for the Named Executive Officer's performance during 2014.

⁷  The Stock Awards granted during 2014 were for the Named Executive Officer's performance during 2013.

⁸  The Stock Awards granted during 2013 were for the Named Executive Officer's performance during 2012.

⁹  Compensation for Mr. Pounds is only provided for 2015 and 2014 as he was not a Named Executive Officer in 2013.

¹⁰  The Bonus Compensation represents compensation paid pursuant to the Incentive Compensation Plan in excess of the target payment under the plan.

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¹¹  In 2015, Mr. Pounds received a stock award with a grant date fair value of $268,400 for his performance during 2014, a stock award with a grant date fair value of $48,528 for his performance related to the Wireless Acquisition, and a stock award with a grant date fair value of $48,528 as a retention incentive.

¹²  In 2014, Mr. Chapados received a stock award with a grant date fair value of $551,389 for his performance during 2013 and a stock award with a grant date fair value of $1,459,500 as a retention incentive.

¹³  In 2013, Mr. Hughes received a stock award with a grant date fair value of $194,084 for his perfomance during 2012 and a stock award with a grant date fair value of $91,000 granted upon the successful close of AWN.

______________________

The amounts reported under the "All Other Compensation" column are comprised of the following:

Components of "All Other Compensation"

Name	Year	Stock Purchase Plan1 ($)	Board Fees ($)	Success Sharing2 ($)	Use of Company Leased Aircraft3 ($)	Miscellaneous ($)	Total ($)
Ronald A. Duncan	2015	18,000	65,000	—	—	—	83,000
	2014	17,500	65,000	—	3,728	—	86,228
	2013	17,500	57,500	—	—	—	75,000
Peter J. Pounds	2015	18,000	—	2,437	—	—	20,437
	2014	17,500	—	1,926	—	2,0004	21,426
Gregory F. Chapados	2015	18,000	—	2,437	—	4,0004	24,437
	2014	17,500	—	1,926	—	4,0004	23,426
	2013	17,500	—	—	—	4,0004	21,500
G. Wilson Hughes	2015	18,000	—	3,046	4,618	—	25,664
	2014	17,500	—	1,123	—	—	18,623
	2013	17,500	—	—	—	2,0004	19,500
Paul E. Landes	2015	18,000	—	3,046	—	—	21,046
	2014	17,500	—	2,407	—	4,0004	23,907
	2013	8,155	—	—	—	4,0004	12,155

________________________

¹  Amounts are contributions by us matching each employee's contribution.  Matching contributions by us under our GCI 401(k) Plan are available to each of our full-time employees with over one year of service.  During 2015, the match was based upon the lesser of $18,000 ($17,500 for 2014 and 2013) or 10% of the employee's salary and the total of the employee's pre-tax and post-tax contributions to the plan.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Retirement and Welfare Benefits – GCI 401(k) Plan."

²  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Elements of Compensation – Perquisites."

³  The value of use of Company leased aircraft is shown at the variable cost to the Company.

⁴  Compensation for attending certain management meetings.

_____________________

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Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table –

The following table displays specific information on grants of options, awards and non-equity incentive plan awards under our Compensation Program and, in addition, in the case of Mr. Duncan, our Director Compensation Plan, made to Named Executive Officers during 2015.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

		Estimated Future PayoutsUnder Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards			Estimated Future PayoutsUnder Equity Incentive Plan Awards			All Other  Stock Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units (#)	All Other Option Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Options (#)	Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh)	Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards1 ($)
Name	Grant Date	Threshold ($)	Target ($)	Maximum ($)	Threshold (#)	Target (#)	Maximum (#)
Ronald A. Duncan	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	79,0702	---	---	1,151,259
	06/01/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	7,5003	---	---	118,650
Peter J. Pounds	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	18,4342	---	---	268,400
	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	3,3334	---	---	48,528
	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	3,3335	---	---	48,528
Gregory F. Chapados	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	52,0512	---	---	757,863
G. Wilson Hughes	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	20,2532	---	---	294,884
Paul E. Landes	02/06/15	---	---	---	---	---	---	4,9712	---	---	72,378

______________________

¹  Computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

²  Represents the 50% portion of the 2014 incentive compensation paid in the form of restricted stock grants under our Incentive Compensation Plan that were not granted until 2015.  Restricted stock awards are included in the "Stock Awards" column of the Summary Compensation Table above.

³  Mr. Duncan's stock award was granted pursuant to the terms of our Director Compensation Plan.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Director Compensation."

⁴  Mr. Pounds received a restricted stock award of 3,333 shares as a retention incentive.

⁵  Mr. Pounds received a restricted stock award of 3,333 shares for his performance related to the Wireless Acquisition.

____________________

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End Table –

The following table displays specific information on unexercised options, stock that has not vested and equity incentive plan awards for each of the Named Executive Officers and outstanding as of December 31, 2015.  Vesting of these options and awards varies for the Named Executive Officers as described in the footnotes to the table.

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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

	Option Awards				Stock Awards
Name	Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Exercisable	Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable	Option Exercise Price ($)	Option Expiration Date	Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested (#)		Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock that Have Not Vested ($)		Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#)	Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested ($)
Ronald A. Duncan	---	---	---	---	103,827	1	2,053,698	1	---	---
	---	---	---	---	79,070	2	1,564,005	2	---	---
Peter J. Pounds	---	---	---	---	9,485	1	187,613	1	---	---
	---	---	---	---	3,333	3	65,927	3	---	---
	---	---	---	---	18,434	2	364,625	2	---	---
	---	---	---	---	50,000	4	989,000	4	---	---
	---	---	---	---	3,333	5	65,927	5	---	---
Gregory F. Chapados	---	---	---	---	100,000	6	1,978,000	6	---	---
	---	---	---	---	56,669	1	1,120,913	1	---	---
	---	---	---	---	52,051	2	1,029,569	2	---	---
	---	---	---	---	120,000	7	2,373,600	7	---	---
G. Wilson Hughes	---	---	---	---	61,603	1	1,218,507	1	---	---
	---	---	---	---	20,253	8	400,604	8	---	---
Paul E. Landes	---	---	---	---	5,657	1	111,895	1	---	---
	---	---	---	---	4,971	2	98,326	2	---	---
	---	---	---	---	29,482	4	583,154	4	---	---

_____________________

¹  Restricted stock vests on November 30, 2016.

²  Restricted stock vests on November 30, 2017.

³  Restricted stock vests 1,667 shares on February 6, 2016 and 1,666 shares on February 6, 2017.

⁴  Restricted stock vests on December 7, 2017.

⁵  Restricted stock vests on February 6, 2018.

⁶  Restricted stock vests on June 3, 2016.

⁷  Restricted stock vests 30,000 shares on January 1, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively.

⁸  Restricted stock vests on January 2, 2017.

_____________________

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Option Exercises and Stock Vested Table –

The following table displays specific information on each exercise of stock options, stock appreciation rights, and similar instruments, and each vesting of stock, including restricted stock, restricted stock units and similar instruments on an aggregate basis, for each of the Named Executive Officers during 2015:

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

	Option Awards		Stock Awards
Name	Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise (#)	Value Realized on Exercise ($)	Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting (#)		Value Realized on Vesting ($)
Ronald A. Duncan	150,000	2,408,992	---		---
	---	---	59,042		1,226,302
	---	---	7,500	1	118,650
Peter J. Pounds	---	---	50,000		727,000
Gregory F. Chapados	75,000	952,502	---		---
	---	---	30,000		413,100
	---	---	50,000		861,500
	---	---	5,000		86,150
	---	---	17,646		366,507
G. Wilson Hughes	---	---	23,902		496,445
	---	---	58,963		1,166,288
Paul E. Landes	---	---	5,285		109,769

___________________

¹  This stock award relates to Mr. Duncan's service as one of our directors.

_________________

Potential Payments upon Termination or Change-in-Control–

As of December 31, 2015, there were no compensatory plans or arrangements providing for payments to any of the Named Executive Officers in conjunction with any termination of employment or other working relationship of such an officer with us (including without limitation, resignation, severance, retirement or constructive termination of employment of the officer).  Furthermore, as of December 31, 2015, there were no such plans or arrangements providing for payments to any of the Named Executive Officers in conjunction with a change of control of us or a change in such an officer's responsibilities to us.  However, the outstanding options and awards for each of our Named Executive Officers would vest upon his or her disability, planned retirement or death, or could vest upon a change-in-control of the Company.

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

Deferred Compensation Arrangements –

We have, from time to time, entered into Deferred Compensation Arrangements with certain of our executive officers, including one of the Named Executive Officers.  These arrangements are negotiated with individual officers on a case-by-case basis.  The status of our Deferred Compensation Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers during 2015 is summarized for each of our Named Executive Officers in the following table, and further descriptions of them are provided following the table.

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Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

Name	Executive Contributions in Last FY ($)	Registrant Contribution in Last FY ($)	Aggregate Earnings (Loss) in Last FY ($)	Aggregate Withdrawals/ Distributions ($)	Aggregate Balance at Last FY ($)
Ronald A. Duncan	---	---	---	---	---
Peter J. Pounds	---	---	---	---	---
Gregory F. Chapados	---	---	---	---	---
G. Wilson Hughes	125,000	---	334,268	—	2,949,075
Paul E. Landes	---	---	---	---	---

Mr. Hughes' Deferred Compensation Arrangement with us consists of three components.  The first component consisted of deferred compensation invested in 26,270 shares of Company Class A common stock.  The second component is $1,729,455 accrued at year end of which $125,000 in salary was deferred and $145,860 of interest was accrued during 2015.  This arrangement with us earns interest at the rate of 10% per year based upon the balance at the beginning of the year plus new salary deferrals during the year.  The third component is $700,000 accrued at year end of which $30,000 was accrued for 2015 interest.  This arrangement earns interest at 7.5% per year based upon the original $400,000 that was given to Mr. Hughes in consideration for his continued employment at the Company from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2009.

Mr. Hughes' Deferred Compensation Arrangement provides that at his discretion or at termination of employment, he is entitled to receive the full amount owed in a lump sum, in monthly installments paid over a ten-year period, or in installments negotiated with the Company in accordance with statutory requirements.

Messrs. Duncan, Pounds, Chapados and Landes did not participate in a Deferred Compensation Arrangement with us during 2015.

Other than the Deferred Compensation Arrangements described above, no Named Executive Officer was, as of December 31, 2015, entitled to defer any additional consideration.  Any additional Deferred Compensation Arrangements would have to be separately negotiated with, and agreed to by, the Compensation Committee.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

Our Compensation Committee is composed of four members of our board as identified elsewhere in this report.  All of these members served on the committee during all of 2015.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Compensation Discussion and Analysis:  Overview."  The relationships of them to us are described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 10 – Identification," "Part III – Item 12 – Principal Shareholders" and "Part III – Item 13 – Certain Transactions."

Compensation Committee Report

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis.  Based upon that review and discussion, the Compensation Committee recommended to our board that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in our 2015 annual report.

Compensation Committee

Jerry A. Edgerton, Chair

Stephen M. Brett

Stephen R. Mooney

James M. Schneider

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Director Compensation

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the cash and non-cash compensation earned by our directors ("Director Compensation Plan"), each for services as a director during the year ended December 31, 2015:

2015 Director Compensation¹ 

Name	Fees Earned or Paid in Cash ($)	Stock Awards2 ($)	Option Awards ($)	Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($)	Change in Pension Value and  Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings ($)	All Other Compensation ($)	Total ($)
Stephen M. Brett	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
Bridget L. Baker	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
Jerry A. Edgerton	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
Scott M. Fisher	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
William P. Glasgow	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
Mark W. Kroloff	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
Stephen R. Mooney	90,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	208,650
James M. Schneider	65,000	118,650	—	—	—	—	183,650
Eric L. Zinterhofer3	48,750	118,650	—	—	—	—	167,400

_______________________

¹  Compensation to Mr. Duncan as a director is described elsewhere in this report.  See "Part III – Item 11 – Executive Compensation" and "Compensation Discussion and Analysis."

²  Each director received a grant award of 7,500 shares of Company Class A common stock on June 1, 2015 (the grant date).  The value of the shares on the date of grant was $15.82 per share, i.e., the closing price of the stock on Nasdaq on that date and as calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

³  Mr. Zinterhofer accepted the appointment to serve on the Company's Board effective March 4, 2015.

_____________________

Our initial Director Compensation Plan was adopted in 2004 by our board to acknowledge and compensate, from time to time, directors on the board for ongoing dedicated service.  During 2015, the Director Compensation Plan provided for $65,000 per year for all Directors with the exception of Mr. Mooney, Audit Committee chair, who will receive an additional $25,000 per year (paid quarterly).

During 2015, the stock compensation portion of our Director Compensation Plan consisted of a grant of 7,500 shares of Class A common stock to a director for a year of service, or a portion of a year of service.  Because the shares vest upon award, they are subject to taxation based upon the then fair market value of the vested shares.

Except for our Director Compensation Plan, during 2015 the directors on our board received no other direct compensation for serving on the board and its committees.However, they were reimbursed for travel and out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with attendance at meetings of our board and its committees.

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Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table sets forth, as of the end of 2015, information on equity compensation plans approved by our shareholders and separately such plans not approved by our shareholders.  The information is focused on outstanding options, warrants and rights; the only such plan is our Stock Option Plan as approved by our shareholders.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

Plan category	Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights	Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights ($)	Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in the second column)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders	19,000	11.35	2,096,822
Total:	19,000	11.35	2,096,822

Ownership of Company

Principal Shareholders –

The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2015 (unless otherwise noted), certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock by each of the following:

• Each person known by us to own beneficially 5% or more of the outstanding shares of Class A common stock or Class B common stock.

• Each of our directors.

• Each of the Named Executive Officers.

• All of our executive officers and directors as a group.

All information with respect to beneficial ownership has been furnished to us by the respective shareholders.

Name of Beneficial Owner1	Title of Class2	Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership (#)		% of Class	% of Total Shares Outstanding  (Class A & B)2	% Combined Voting Power (Class A & B)2
Stephen M. Brett	Class A	82,750		*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
Ronald A. Duncan	Class A	1,511,270	3	4.2	5.6	12.1
	Class B	661,802	3	21.0
Bridget L. Baker	Class A	20,000	4	*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
Jerry A. Edgerton	Class A	46,750	5	*	*	*
	Class B	---		---

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Scott M. Fisher	Class A	71,334	6	*	1.5	7.7
	Class B	511,716	6	16.2
William P. Glasgow	Class A	59,094	7	*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
Mark W. Kroloff	Class A	51,100		*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
Stephen R. Mooney	Class A	71,400		*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
James M. Schneider	Class A	47,650		*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
G. Wilson Hughes	Class A	700,242	8	2.0	1.8	1.1
	Class B	2,695	8	*
Peter J. Pounds	Class A	115,810		*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
Gregory F. Chapados	Class A	549,832	9	1.5	1.4	*
	Class B	---		---
Paul E. Landes	Class A	75,826	10	*	*	*
	Class B	---		---
Black Rock, Inc. 40 East 52nd Street New York, New York 10022	Class A	3,969,727		11.2	10.2	5.9
	Class B	---		---
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP Palisades West, Building One 6300 Bee Cave Road Austin, Texas 78746	Class A	2,710,205	11	7.6	7.0	4.0
	Class B	---		---
GCI 401(k) Plan 2550 Denali St., Ste. 1000 Anchorage, Alaska 99503	Class A	2,564,505		7.2	6.7	4.4
	Class B	36,367		1.2
Gary Magness c/o Raymond L. Sutton, Jr. 303 East 17th Ave., Ste 1100 Denver, Colorado 80203-1264	Class A	100,000		*	1.4	6.6
	Class B	433,924		13.8
Private Management Group, Inc. 15635 Alton Parkway, Suite 400 Irvine, California 92606	Class A	1,823,205		5.1	4.7	2.7
	Class B	---		---
John W. Stanton and Theresa E. Gillespie 155 108th Avenue., N.E., Suite 450 Bellevue, Washington 98004	Class A	2,242,627		6.3	9.5	24.7
	Class B	1,436,469		45.5
The Vanguard Group, Inc. 100 Vanguard Blvd Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355	Class A	2,196,282	12	6.2	5.7	3.3
	Class B	---		---
All Directors and Executive Officers As a Group (17 Persons)	Class A	4,103,065	13	11.5	13.6	23.6
	Class B	1,176,213	13	37.3

______________________

* Represents beneficial ownership of less than 1% of the corresponding class or series of stock.

¹  Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act.  Shares of our stock that a person has the right to acquire within 60 days of December 31, 2015 are deemed to be beneficially owned by such person and are included in the computation of the ownership and voting percentages only of

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such person.  Each person has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares indicated, except as otherwise stated in the footnotes to the table.  Addresses are provided only for persons other than management who own beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of Class A or B common stock.  The Class A shares do not include the number of Class B shares owned although the Class B shares are convertible on a share-per-share basis into Class A shares.

²  "Title of Class" includes our Class A common stock and Class B common stock.  "Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership" and "% of Class" are given for each class of stock.  "% of Total Shares Outstanding" and "% Combined Voting Power" are given for the combination of outstanding Class A common stock and Class B common stock, and the voting power for Class B common stock (10 votes per share) is factored into the calculation of that combined voting power.

³  Includes 172,106 shares of Class A common stock and 6,158 shares of Class B common stock allocated to Mr. Duncan under the GCI 401(k) Plan as of December 31, 2015.  Does not include 55,560 shares of Class A common stock or 8,242 shares of Class B common stock held by the Amanda Miller Trust, with respect to which Mr. Duncan has no voting or investment power.  Ms. Miller is Mr. Duncan's daughter, and Mr. Duncan disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares. Does not include 7,500 shares owned by the Neoma Lowndes Trust which Ms. Miller is a 50% beneficiary, with respect to which Mr. Duncan has no voting or investment power and Mr. Duncan disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares. Does not include 63,186 shares of Class A common stock or 27,020 shares of Class B common stock held by Dani Bowman, Mr. Duncan's wife, of which Mr. Duncan disclaims beneficial ownership.  Does not include 10,000 shares of Class A common stock held by Missy, LLC which is 25% owned by Mr. Duncan, 25% owned by Dani Bowman and 50% owned by a trust of which Mr. Duncan’s daughter is the 50% beneficiary, of which securities Mr. Duncan disclaims beneficial ownership (Mr. Duncan claims beneficial ownership of an additional 5,000 shares of Class A Common Stock held by Missy, LLC, which are included within the shares for which Mr. Duncan has a pecuniary interest).  Includes 1,041,765 shares of Class A common stock and 655,644 shares of Class B common stock pledged as security.

⁴  Includes 5,000 shares of Class A common stock pledged as security.

⁵  Includes 46,750 shares of Class A common stock pledged as security.

⁶  Includes 13,484 shares of Class A and 511,716 shares of Class B common stock owned by Fisher Capital Partners, Ltd. of which Mr. Fisher is a partner.

⁷  Does not include 158 shares owned by a daughter of Mr. Glasgow.  Mr. Glasgow disclaims any beneficial ownership of the shares held by his daughter.

⁸  Includes 21,614 shares of Class A common stock allocated to Mr. Hughes under the GCI 401(k) Plan, as of December 31, 2015.  Includes 178,398 shares of Class A common stock pledged as security.  Excludes 26,270 shares held by the Company pursuant to Mr. Hughes' Deferred Compensation Agreement.

⁹  Includes 13,053 shares of Class A common stock allocated to Mr. Chapados under the GCI 401(k) Plan, as of December 31, 2015. Includes 213,384 shares of Class A common stock pledged as security.

¹⁰  Includes 31,839 shares of Class A common stock allocated to Mr. Landes under the GCI 401(k) Plan, as of December 31, 2015.

¹¹  As disclosed in Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 9, 2016, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP has sole voting power for 2,575,692 shares of Class A common stock and sole dispositive power for 2,710,205 shares of Class A common stock.

¹²  As disclosed in Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 10, 2016, The Vanguard Group, Inc. has sole voting power of 74,328 shares of Class A common stock, shared dispositive power for 73,128 shares of Class A common stock and sole dispositive power for 2,123,154 shares of Class A common stock.

¹³  Includes 278,810 shares of Class A common stock and 6,158 shares of Class B common stock allocated to such persons under the GCI 401(k) Plan.

______________________

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Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Certain Transactions

Transactions with Related Persons –

Stanton Shareholdings, Registration Rights Agreement.  As of December 31, 2015, John W. Stanton and Theresa E. Gillespie, husband and wife (collectively, "Stantons"), continued to be significant shareholders of our Class B common stock.  As of that date, neither the Stantons nor the Stantons' affiliates were our directors, officers, nominees for election as directors, or members of the immediate family of such directors, officers, or nominees.

We are a party to a registration rights agreement ("Stanton Registration Rights Agreement") with the Stantons regarding all unregistered shares the Stantons hold in our Class B common stock and any shares of our Class A common stock resulting from conversion of that Class B common stock to Class A common stock.  The basic terms of the Stanton Registration Rights Agreement are as follows.  If we propose to register any of our securities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("Securities Act") for our own account or for the account of one or more of our shareholders, we must notify the Stantons of that intent.  In addition, we must allow the Stantons an opportunity to include the holder's shares ("Stanton Registerable Shares") in that registration.

Under the Stanton Registration Rights Agreement, the Stantons also have the right, under certain circumstances, to require us to register all or any portion of the Stanton Registerable Shares under the Securities Act.  The agreement is subject to certain limitations and restrictions, including our right to limit the number of Stanton Registerable Shares included in the registration.  Generally, we are required to pay all registration expenses in connection with each registration of Stanton Registerable Shares pursuant to this agreement.

The Stanton Registration Rights Agreement specifically states we are not required to effect any registration on behalf of the Stantons regarding Stanton Registerable Shares if the request for registration covers an aggregate number of Stanton Registerable Shares having a market value of less than $1.5 million.  The agreement further states we are not required to effect such a registration for the Stantons where we have at that point previously filed two registration statements with the SEC, or where the registration would require us to undergo an interim audit or prepare and file with the SEC sooner than otherwise required financial statements relating to the proposed transaction.  Finally, the agreement states we are not required to effect such a registration when in the opinion of our legal counsel a registration is not required in order to permit resale under Rule 144 as adopted by the SEC pursuant to the Exchange Act.

The Stanton Registration Rights Agreement provides that the first demand for registration by the Stantons must be for no less than 15% of the total number of Stanton Registerable Shares.  However, the Stantons may take the opportunity to require us to include the Stanton Registerable Shares as incidental to a registered offering proposed by us.

Duncan Leases.  We entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s President and CEO for property occupied by us.  The leased asset was capitalized in 1991 at the owner’s cost of $900,000 and the related obligation was recorded.  The lease agreement was amended in April 2008 and our existing capital lease asset and liability increased by $1.3 million to record the extension of this capital lease.  The amended lease terminates on September 30, 2026.  The property consists of a building presently occupied by us.  As of December 31, 2015, the payments on the lease were $25,532 per month.  They continue at that rate through September 2016 at which time they will increase to $26,332 per month.

In January 2001 we entered into an aircraft operating lease agreement with a company owned by GCI’s President and CEO.  The lease was amended several times, most recently in May 2011.  The lease term of the aircraft may be terminated at any time by us upon 12 months’ written notice.  The monthly lease rate of the aircraft is $132,000.  In 2001, we paid a deposit of $1.5 million in connection with the lease.  The deposit will be repaid to us no later than six months after the agreement terminates.

Searchlight Note and Derivative Financial Instrument. On February 2, 2015 as part of the Wireless Acquisition, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. On July

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13, 2015, we amended the Searchlight transaction documents to permit Searchlight to pledge the Searchlight Note and related stock appreciation rights, subject to our right to redeem the Searchlight Note for 50% of its then current outstanding balance in the event a lender attempts to enforce its rights with respect to such pledged collateral.

In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00.

Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Notes 6(d), 8, and 11 included in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information.

Review Procedure for Transactions with Related Persons –

The following describes our policies and procedures for the review, approval or ratification of transactions in which we are to be a participant and where the amount involved in each instance exceeds $120,000 and in which any related person had or is to have a direct or indirect material interest ("Related Transactions").  Here, we use the term "related person" to mean any person who is one of our directors, a nominee for director, an immediate family member of one of our directors or executive officers, any person who is a holder of five percent or more of a class of our common stock, or any immediate family member of such a holder.

A related person who is one of our officers, directors or employees ("Employee") is subject to our Ethics Code.  The Ethics Code requires the Employee to act in the best interest of the Company and to avoid situations which may conflict with this obligation.  The code specifically provides that a conflict of interest occurs when an Employee's private interest interferes in any way with our interest.  In the event an Employee suspects such a conflict, or even an appearance of conflict, he or she is urged by the Ethics Code to report the matter to an appropriate authority.  The Ethics Code, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter and the Audit Committee Charter define that authority as being our Chief Financial Officer, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, the Audit Committee (in the context of suspected illegal or unethical behavior-related violations pertaining to accounting, or internal controls on accounting or audit matters), or the Employee's supervisor within the Company, as the case may be.

The Ethics Code further provides that an Employee is prohibited from taking a personal interest in a business opportunity discovered through use of corporate position, information or property that properly belongs to us.  The Ethics Code also provides that an Employee must not compete with, and in particular, must not use corporate position, information, or property for personal gain or to compete with, us.

The Ethics Code provides that any waiver of its provisions for our executive officers and directors may be made only by our board and must be promptly disclosed to our shareholders.  This disclosure must include an identification of the person who received the waiver, the date of the grant of the waiver by our board, and a brief description of the circumstances and reasons under which it was given.

The Ethics Code is silent as to the treatment of immediate family members of our Employees, holders of five percent or more of a class of our stock, or the immediate family members of them.  We consider such Related Transactions with such persons on a case-by-case basis, if at all, by analogy to existing procedures as above described pertaining to our Employees.

The leases described previously were entered into prior to the establishment of the Ethics Code.

Director Independence

The term Independent Director as used by us is an individual, other than one of our executive officers or employees, and other than any other individual having a relationship which in the opinion of our board would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director.  See "Part III – Item 10 – Audit Committee, Audit Committee Financial Expert."

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Mr. Brett, our Chairman of the Board, while in that capacity an officer under our Bylaws and responsible for the conduct of our board meetings and shareholder meetings when present, is considered by our board to have no greater influence on our affairs or authority to act on behalf of us than any of the non-executive directors on our board.

Our board believes each of its members satisfies the definition of an Independent Director, with the exception of Mr. Duncan who is an officer and employee of the Company.  That is, in the case of all other board members, our board believes each of them is an individual having a relationship which does not interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the member's director responsibilities to us.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Overview

On March 2, 2016, our Audit Committee approved the appointment of Grant Thornton as the Company’s External Accountant for 2016.  Also on that date, our board ratified that appointment by the Audit Committee.

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

We have established as policy, through the adoption of the Audit Committee Charter that, before our External Accountant is engaged by us to render audit services, the engagement must be approved by the Audit Committee.

Our Audit Committee Charter provides that our Audit Committee is directly responsible for appointment, compensation, retention, oversight, qualifications and independence of our External Accountant.  Also under our Audit Committee Charter, all audit services provided by our External Accountant must be pre-approved by the Audit Committee.

Our pre-approval policies and procedures with respect to Non-Audit Services include as a part of the Audit Committee Charter that the Audit Committee may choose any of the following options for approving such services:

• Full Audit Committee– The full Audit Committee can consider each Non-Audit Service.

• Designee– The Audit Committee can designate one of its members to approve a Non-Audit Service, with that member reporting approvals to the full committee.

• Pre-Approval of Categories– The Audit Committee can pre-approve categories of Non-Audit Services.  Should this option be chosen, the categories must be specific enough to ensure both of the following –

◦ The Audit Committee knows exactly what it is approving and can determine the effect of such approval on auditor independence.

◦ Management will not find it necessary to decide whether a specific service falls within a category of pre-approved Non-Audit Service.

The Audit Committee's pre-approval of Non-Audit Services may be waived under specific provisions of the Audit Committee Charter.  The prerequisites for waiver are as follows: (1) the aggregate amount of all Non-Audit Services constitutes not more than 5% of the total amount of revenue paid by us to our External Accountant during the fiscal year in which those services are provided; (2) the service is originally thought to be a part of an audit by our External Accountant; (3) the service turns out to be a Non-Audit Service; and (4) the service is promptly brought to the attention of the Audit Committee and approved prior to completion of the audit by the committee or by one or more members of the committee who are members of our board to whom authority to grant such approvals has been delegated by the committee.

During 2015, there were no waivers of our Audit Committee pre-approval policy.

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Fees and Services

The aggregate fees billed to us by our External Accountant in each of these categories for each of 2015 and 2014 are set forth as follows:

External Accountant Auditor Fees

Type of Fees	2015		2014
Audit Fees1	$	1,521,063	1,911,838
Audit-Related Fees2	28,875		29,506
Tax Fees3	223,569		121,380
All Other Fees4	—		—
Total	$	1,773,507	2,062,724
1  Consists of fees for our annual financial statement audit, quarterly financial statement reviews, reviews of other filings by us with the SEC, audit of our internal control over financial reporting and for services that are normally provided by an auditor in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.
2  Consists of fees for audit of the GCI 401(k) Plan and review of the related annual report on Form 11-K filed with the SEC.
3  Consists of fees for review of our state and federal income tax returns and consultation on various tax advice and tax planning matters.
4  Consists of fees for any services not included in the first three types of fees identified in the table.

All of the services described above were approved in conformity with the Audit Committee's pre-approval policy.

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Part IV

Item 15. Exhibits, Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules

(1)  Consolidated Financial Statements	Page No.
Included in Part II of this Report:
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm	80
Consolidated Balance Sheets, December 31, 2015 and 2014	82
Consolidated Statements of Operations, years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013	84
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity, years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013	85
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013	86
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	87
(2)  Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules
Schedules are omitted, as they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the applicable financial statements or notes thereto.
(3) Exhibits	126

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Board of Directors and Shareholders

General Communication, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of General Communication, Inc. (an Alaska corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015. 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. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of General Communication, Inc. and subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report, dated March 3, 2016, expressed an unqualified opinion.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Anchorage, Alaska

March 3, 2016

80

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Board of Directors and Shareholders

General Communication, Inc.

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of General Communication, Inc. (an Alaska corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control-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’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (“Management’s Report”). 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, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and 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, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015, and our report, dated March 3, 2016, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Anchorage, Alaska

March 3, 2016

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GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Amounts in thousands)	December 31,
ASSETS	2015		2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	26,528	15,402
Receivables (including $0 and $27,944 from a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	208,384		212,441
Less allowance for doubtful receivables	3,630		4,542
Net receivables	204,754		207,899
Prepaid expenses	12,862		12,179
Inventories	11,322		17,032
Other current assets	3,129		153
Total current assets	258,595		252,665
Property and equipment	2,384,530		2,341,511
Less accumulated depreciation	1,290,149		1,229,029
Net property and equipment	1,094,381		1,112,482
Goodwill	239,263		229,560
Cable certificates	191,635		191,635
Wireless licenses	86,347		86,347
Other intangible assets, net of amortization	69,290		66,015
Deferred loan and senior notes costs, net of amortization of $7,227 and $8,644 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively	16,335		10,949
Other assets	26,462		52,725
Total other assets	629,332		637,231
Total assets	$	1,982,308	2,002,378
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

Continued

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Continued)

(Amounts in thousands)	December 31,
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY	2015			2014
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of obligations under long-term debt and capital leases	$	12,050		8,722
Accounts payable (including $0 and $7,447 to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	63,014			76,918
Deferred revenue	34,128			29,314
Accrued payroll and payroll related obligations	31,337			32,803
Accrued liabilities	22,822			14,457
Accrued interest (including $5,132 and $0 to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	13,655			6,654
Subscriber deposits	1,242			1,212
Total current liabilities	178,248			170,080
Long-term debt, net (including $54,810 and $0 due to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	1,344,764			1,036,056
Obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturities (including $1,824 and $1,857 due to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	59,651			68,356
Deferred income taxes	106,145			131,752
Long-term deferred revenue	93,427			85,734
Other liabilities (including $32,820 and $0 for derivative stock appreciation rights with a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	80,812			43,178
Total liabilities	1,863,047			1,535,156
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock (no par):
Class A. Authorized 100,000 shares; issued 35,593 and 37,998 shares at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively; outstanding 35,567 and 37,972 shares at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively	—			13,617
Class B. Authorized 10,000 shares; issued and outstanding 3,154 and 3,159 shares at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively; convertible on a share-per-share basis into Class A common stock	2,664			2,668
Less cost of 26 Class A common shares held in treasury at December 31, 2015 and 2014	(249		)	(249	)
Paid-in capital	6,631			26,773
Retained earnings	79,217			124,547
Total General Communication, Inc. stockholders' equity	88,263			167,356
Non-controlling interests	30,998			299,866
Total stockholders’ equity	119,261			467,222
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	1,982,308		2,002,378
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014, AND 2013

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)	2015			2014		2013
Revenues:
Non-related party	$	973,251		850,656		782,971
Related party	5,283			59,542		28,677
Total revenues	978,534			910,198		811,648
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below):
Non-related party	321,457			291,770		275,701
Related party	881			10,934		4,761
Total cost of goods sold	322,338			302,704		280,462
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Non-related party	337,839			289,674		268,026
Related party	540			3,973		3,039
Total selling, general and administrative expenses	338,379			293,647		271,065
Depreciation and amortization expense	181,767			170,285		147,259
Software impairment charge	29,839			—		—
Operating income	106,211			143,562		112,862
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (including amortization of deferred loan fees)	(78,786		)	(72,496	)	(69,725	)
Related party interest expense	(6,602		)	—		—
Loss on extinguishment of debt	(27,700		)	—		(103	)
Impairment of equity method investment	(12,593		)	—		—
Unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	(11,160		)	—		—
Other	2,917			(1,793	)	(350	)
Other expense, net	(133,924		)	(74,289	)	(70,178	)
Income (loss) before income taxes	(27,713		)	69,273		42,684
Income tax (expense) benefit	1,847			(10,029	)	(10,957	)
Net income (loss)	(25,866		)	59,244		31,727
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	159			51,687		22,321
Net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc.	$	(26,025	)	7,557		9,406
Basic net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per Class A common share	$	(0.69	)	0.18		0.23
Basic net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per Class B common share	$	(0.69	)	0.18		0.23
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per Class A common share	$	(0.69	)	0.18		0.23
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per Class B common share	$	(0.69	)	0.18		0.23
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(Amounts in thousands)	Class A Common Stock			Class B Common Stock		Class A and B Shares Held in Treasury		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Non- controlling Interests		Total Stockholders’ Equity
Balances at January 1, 2013	$	22,703		2,676		(1,617	)	25,832		107,584		32,258		189,436
Net income	—			—		—		—		9,406		22,321		31,727
Common stock repurchases and retirements	(17,338		)	—		130		—		—		—		(17,208	)
Shares issued under stock option plan	622			—		—		—		—		—		622
Issuance of restricted stock awards	5,477			—		—		(5,477	)	—		—		—
Share-based compensation expense	—			—		—		6,525		—		—		6,525
Issuance of treasury shares related to deferred compensation payment	—			—		621		—		—		—		621
Investment by non-controlling interest	—			—		—		—		—		267,642		267,642
Distribution to non-controlling interest	—			—		—		—		—		(22,011	)	(22,011	)
Other	3			(3	)	—		—		—		—		—
Balances at December 31, 2013	11,467			2,673		(866	)	26,880		116,990		300,210		457,354
Net income	—			—		—		—		7,557		51,687		59,244
Common stock repurchases and retirements	(6,850		)	—		—		—		—		—		(6,850	)
Shares issued under stock option plan	466			—		—		—		—		—		466
Issuance of restricted stock awards	8,529			—		—		(8,529	)	—		—		—
Share-based compensation expense	—			—		—		8,324		—		—		8,324
Issuance of treasury shares related to deferred compensation payment	—			—		617		98		—		—		715
Distribution to non-controlling interest	—			—		—		—		—		(50,000	)	(50,000	)
Adjustment to investment by non-controlling interest	—			—		—		—		—		(2,131	)	(2,131	)
Other	5			(5	)	—		—		—		100		100
Balances at December 31, 2014	13,617			2,668		(249	)	26,773		124,547		299,866		467,222
Net income (loss)	—			—		—		—		(26,025	)	159		(25,866	)
Common stock repurchases and retirements	(34,469		)	—		—		—		(19,305	)	—		(53,774	)
Shares issued under stock option plan	474			—		—		—		—		—		474
Issuance of restricted stock awards	20,374			—		—		(20,374	)	—		—		—
Share-based compensation expense	—			—		—		10,744		—		—		10,744
Distribution to non-controlling interest	—			—		—		—		—		(765	)	(765	)
Investment by non-controlling interest	—			—		—		—		—		3,209		3,209
Non-controlling interest acquisitions	—			—		—		(10,282	)	—		(271,521	)	(281,803	)
Other	4			(4	)	—		(230	)	—		50		(180	)
Balances at December 31, 2015	$	—		2,664		(249	)	6,631		79,217		30,998		119,261
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(Amounts in thousands)	2015			2014		2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$	(25,866	)	59,244		31,727
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization expense	181,767			170,285		147,259
Loss on extinguishment of debt	27,700			—		103
Software impairment charge	29,839			—		—
Impairment of equity method investment	12,593			—		—
Unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	11,160			—		—
Share-based compensation expense	10,902			8,392		6,638
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	(1,847		)	10,029		10,957
Other noncash income and expense items	16,142			9,933		5,128
Change in operating assets and liabilities	(8,435		)	320		(42,178	)
Net cash provided by operating activities	253,955			258,203		159,634
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(176,235		)	(176,109	)	(180,554	)
Grant proceeds	14,007			1,136		2,405
Purchases of other assets and intangible assets	(13,955		)	(11,018	)	(6,027	)
Purchase of businesses, net of cash received	(12,736		)	(2,514	)	(107,600	)
Proceeds from the sale of investment	7,551			6,180		—
Note receivable issued to an equity method investee	(3,000		)	—		—
Restricted cash	65			5,871		23,997
Purchase of investments	—			(25,735	)	—
Other	(4,760		)	49		1,428
Net cash used for investing activities	(189,063		)	(202,140	)	(266,351	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of debt and capital lease obligations	(494,982		)	(118,585	)	(98,152	)
Issuance of 2025 Notes	445,973			—		—
Borrowing on Senior Credit Facility	295,000			89,000		261,000
Purchase of non-controlling interests	(282,505		)	—		—
Issuance of Searchlight note payable and derivative stock appreciation rights with related party	75,000			—		—
Purchase of treasury stock to be retired	(53,774		)	(6,850	)	(17,208	)
Payment of bond call premium	(20,244		)	—		—
Payment of debt issuance costs	(13,979		)	(84	)	(2,990	)
Distribution to non-controlling interest	(4,932		)	(50,000	)	(17,845	)
Proceeds from stock option exercises	474			466		622
Borrowing of other long-term debt	203			421		1,770
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities	(53,766		)	(85,632	)	127,197
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	11,126			(29,569	)	20,480
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	15,402			44,971		24,491
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	26,528		15,402		44,971
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(1) Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles

In the following discussion, General Communication, Inc. (“GCI”) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are referred to as “we,” “us” and “our.”

(a) Business

GCI, an Alaska corporation, was incorporated in 1979. We provide a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.

(b) Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include the consolidated accounts of GCI and its wholly owned subsidiaries, The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC ("AWN") of which we owned a two-third interest through February 2, 2015 when we purchased the remaining one-third interest, and four variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which we are the primary beneficiary after providing certain loans and guarantees.  These VIEs are Terra GCI Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF”), Terra GCI 2 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2”), Terra GCI 2-USB Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2-USB”) and Terra GCI 3 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 3”).  We also include in our consolidated financial statements non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries for which our ownership is less than 100 percent.  All significant intercompany transactions between non-regulated affiliates of our company are eliminated.  Intercompany transactions generated between regulated and non-regulated affiliates of our company are not eliminated in consolidation.

(c) Non-controlling Interests

Non-controlling interests represent the equity ownership interests in consolidated subsidiaries not owned by us.  Non-controlling interests are adjusted for contributions, distributions, and income and loss attributable to the non-controlling interest partners of the consolidated entities.  Income and loss is allocated to the non-controlling interests based on the respective governing documents.

(d) Acquisitions

Wireless Acquisition

On February 2, 2015, we purchased Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc.'s (“ACS”) interest in AWN ("AWN NCI Acquisition") and substantially all the assets of ACS and its affiliates related to ACS’s wireless operations (“Acquired ACS Assets”) (collectively the "Wireless Acquisition"). Under the terms of the agreement, we paid ACS $293.2 million, excluding working capital adjustments and agreed to terminate certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. The Acquired ACS Assets include substantially all of ACS’s wireless subscriber assets, including subscriber contracts, and certain of ACS’s CDMA network assets, including fiber strands and associated cell site electronics and microwave facilities and associated electronics. We assumed from ACS post-closing liabilities of ACS and its affiliates under contracts assumed by us and liabilities with respect to the ownership by ACS of its equity interest in AWN to the extent accruing and related to the period after closing. All other liabilities were retained by ACS and its affiliates.

We have accounted for the AWN NCI Acquisition as the acquisition of a non-controlling interest in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 810, Consolidation, and the Acquired ACS Assets as the acquisition of assets that do not constitute a business in accordance with ASC 805-50, Business Combinations - Related Issues. Total consideration transferred to ACS in the transaction consisted of the cash payment, settlement of working capital, and the fair market value of certain rights to receive future capacity terminated as part of the Wireless Acquisition agreement. The future capacity receivable assets transferred as consideration were adjusted to fair value as of the acquisition date resulting in a gain of $1.2 million recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. We allocated the total consideration transferred to ACS between the AWN NCI Acquisition and the Acquired ACS Assets based on the relative fair values of the assets and non-controlling interest received.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The following table summarizes the allocation of total consideration transferred to ACS between the AWN NCI Acquisition and the Acquired ACS Assets excluding working capital adjustments (amounts in thousands):

Total consideration transfered to ACS	$	304,838
Allocation of consideration between wireless assets and non-controlling interest acquired:
AWN non-controlling interest	$	303,831
Property and equipment	746
Other intangible assets	261
Total consideration	$	304,838

We have accounted for the AWN NCI Acquisition as an equity transaction, with the carrying amount of the non-controlling interest adjusted to reflect the change in ownership of AWN. The difference between the fair value of consideration paid and the total of the additional deferred taxes incurred as a result of the transaction and the carrying amount of the non-controlling interest and has been recognized as additional paid-in capital in our Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity. The impact of the AWN NCI Acquisition is summarized in the following table (amounts in thousands):

Reduction of non-controlling interest	$	268,364
Increase in deferred tax assets	24,028
Additional paid-in capital	11,439
Fair value of consideration paid for acquisition of equity interest	$	303,831

Pursuant to the accounting guidance in ASC 805-50, we determined that the Acquired ACS Assets did not meet the criteria necessary to constitute a business combination and was therefore accounted for as an asset purchase. We recognized the assets acquired in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at their allocated cost on the day of acquisition.

In conjunction with the Wireless Acquisition, we amended certain agreements related to the right to use ACS network assets. We adjusted the related right to use asset to fair value as of the acquisition date resulting in a loss of $3.8 million recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Other Acquisitions

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we completed three additional business acquisitions for total cash consideration of $12.7 million, net of cash received. We accounted for the transactions using the acquisition method of accounting under ASC 805, Business Combinations. Accordingly, the assets received, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interests were recorded at their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date. We determined the estimated fair values using a combination of the discounted cash flows method and estimates made by management.

AWN Acquisition

On July 22, 2013, we closed the transactions under the Asset Purchase and Contribution Agreement (“Wireless Agreement”) and other related agreements entered into on June 4, 2012 by and among ACS, GCI, ACS Wireless, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ACS, GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI, and AWN, pursuant to which the parties agreed to contribute the respective wireless network assets of GCI, ACS and their affiliates to AWN. Through the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition, AWN provided wholesale services to GCI and ACS. GCI and ACS used the AWN network in order to continue to sell services to their respective retail customers.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Under the terms of the Wireless Agreement, we contributed our wireless network assets and certain rights to use capacity to AWN. Additionally, ACS contributed its wireless network assets and certain rights to use capacity to AWN. As consideration for the contributed business assets and liabilities, ACS received $100.0 million in cash from GCI, a one-third ownership interest in AWN and entitlements to receive preferential cash distributions totaling $190.0 million over the first four years of AWN’s operations ("Preference Period") contingent on the future cash flows of AWN. We received a two-third ownership interest in AWN, as well as entitlements to receive all remaining cash distributions after ACS’s preferential cash distributions during the Preference Period. The distributions to each member were subject to adjustment based on the number of ACS and GCI wireless subscribers, with the aggregate adjustment capped at $21.8 million for each member over the Preference Period.

We accounted for the acquisition of AWN using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations with GCI treated as the acquiring entity. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities contributed by ACS were recorded at estimated fair values as of July 23, 2013, using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations. We used a combination of the discounted cash flows and market method to value the wireless licenses. We used the cost approach to value the acquired fixed assets and rights to use capacity assets. We used a discounted cash flow method to determine the fair value of the non-controlling interest. The assets and liabilities contributed to AWN by GCI were measured at their carrying amount immediately prior to the contribution as GCI is maintaining control over the assets and liabilities.

The following table summarizes the final purchase price and the estimated fair value of ACS’s assets acquired and liabilities assumed, effective July 23, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

Purchase price:	Final Purchase Price Allocation
Cash consideration paid	100,000
Fair value of the one-third ownership interest of AWN	265,511
Total purchase price	365,511
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Current assets	16,963
Property and equipment, including construction in progress	82,611
Goodwill	148,948
Wireless licenses	60,380
Rights to use capacity	45,338
Other assets	17,282
Liabilities assumed	(6,011	)
Total fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed	365,511

Goodwill in the amount of $148.9 million was recorded as a result of the acquisition and assigned to our Wireless segment. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the net assets recognized and represents the estimated future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could not be individually identified and separately recognized. The goodwill is primarily the result of synergies expected from the combination. Other assets is primarily comprised of future capacity receivable.

The acquisition resulted in additional revenues of $50.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. It is impracticable for us to determine the amount of earnings of the acquired business included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2013, due to the significant transfer of personnel, fixed assets and other expenses into and between newly created and historical cost centers that has occurred subsequent to the acquisition.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Unaudited pro forma financial information does not purport to be indicative of the actual results that would have occurred if the acquisition had actually been completed on January 1, 2013, nor is it necessarily indicative of the future revenue of the combined company. The following unaudited pro forma financial information is presented as if the acquisition occurred on January 1, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

	(unaudited)
	Year Ended   December 31,
	2013
Pro forma consolidated revenue	$	897,270

Supplemental pro forma earnings have not been provided as it would be impracticable due to the nature of GCI's and ACS's respective wireless operations prior to the business combination. GCI and ACS were unable to disaggregate the components of expenses related to their wireless operations contributed to AWN and thus the amounts would require estimates so significant that the resulting information would not be meaningful.

Transaction costs of $1.8 million were recorded in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Denali Media Holdings Acquisition

Effective November 1, 2013, Denali Media Holdings, Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Denali Media Anchorage, Corp. and Denali Media Southeast, Corp., agreed to purchase three Alaska broadcast stations: CBS affiliate KTVA-TV of Anchorage and NBC affiliates KATH-TV in Juneau and KSCT-TV of Sitka, for a total of $7.6 million (“Media Agreements”). We accounted for the acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations with GCI treated as the acquiring entity.

(e) Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This new standard provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue resulting from contracts with customers and will supersede virtually all of the current revenue recognition guidance under GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which deferred the effective date to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Early adoption is permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, however, we do not plan to early adopt this standard. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard and we expect to have our assessment of the impact on our financial position and results of operations to be completed by December 31, 2016.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-15, Interest - Imputed Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements which clarifies that the guidance in ASU 2015-03 does not apply to line-of-credit arrangements. According to ASU 2015-15, line-of-credit arrangements will continue to defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issue costs ratably over the term of the arrangement. For public business entities, this update is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis. We expect to adopt this guidance when effective, and do not expect this guidance to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operation, although it will change the financial statement classification of our debt issuance costs.

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In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The ASU provides guidance in evaluating whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the software license element of the arrangement should be accounted for as an acquisition of a software license. If the arrangement does not contain a software license, it should be accounted for as a service contract. This ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and may be adopted either retrospectively or prospectively. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In June 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Updates. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of topics in the codification and are generally categorized as follows: Amendments Related to Differences between Original Guidance and the Codification; Guidance Clarification and Reference Corrections; Simplification; and, Minor Improvements. The amendments are effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. Under ASU 2015-11, inventory will be measured at the “lower of cost and net realizable value” and options that currently exist for “market value” will be eliminated. The ASU defines net realizable value as the “estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation.” No other changes were made to the current guidance on inventory measurement. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is permitted and should be applied prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. The update requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, including the cumulative effect of the change in provisional amount as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The adjustments related to previous reporting periods since the acquisition date must be disclosed by income statement line item either on the face of the income statement or in the notes. The ASU is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The update addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted only for certain portions of the ASU related to financial liabilities. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

(f) Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115. The ASU amends various SEC paragraphs included in the FASB’s ASC to reflect the issuance of Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 115. SAB 115 rescinds portions of the interpretive guidance included in the SEC’s SAB series and brings existing guidance into conformity with ASU No. 2014-17, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting, which provides an acquired entity with an option to apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements upon occurrence of an event in which an acquirer obtains control of the acquired entity. We have adopted the amendments in ASU 2015-08 as the amendments in the update are effective upon issuance. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant effect on our financial position or results of operation.

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In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. The ASU eliminates the current requirement for organizations to present deferred tax assets and liabilities as current and noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. Instead, organizations will now be required to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. We elected to adopt ASU 2015-17 retrospectively for the year ended December 31, 2015, and have reclassified the December 31, 2014 Deferred Income Taxes balance of $56.1 million included in Total Current Assets to non-current Deferred Income Taxes included in Total Liabilities.

(g) Regulatory Accounting

We account for the regulated operations of our incumbent local exchange carriers in accordance with the accounting principles for regulated enterprises.  This accounting recognizes the economic effects of rate regulation by recording cost and a return on investment as such amounts are recovered through rates authorized by regulatory authorities.  Accordingly, plant and equipment is depreciated over lives approved by regulators and certain costs and obligations are deferred based upon approvals received from regulators to permit recovery of such amounts in future years.  Our cost studies and depreciation rates for our regulated operations are subject to periodic audits that could result in a change to recorded revenues.

(h) Earnings per Common Share

We compute net income (loss) attributable to GCI per share of Class A and Class B common stock using the “two class” method.  Therefore, basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) applicable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. The computation of the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock assumes the conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, while the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class B common stock does not assume the conversion of those shares. The computation of the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock also assumes the conversion of our derivative financial instrument that may be settled in cash or shares (as described in Note 8 of this Form 10-K), shares associated with unexercised stock options and deferred compensation that may be settled in cash or shares if the effect of conversion is dilutive. Additionally, in applying the “two-class” method, undistributed earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities. Our restricted stock grants are entitled to dividends and meet the criteria of a participating security.

We allocate undistributed earnings in periods of net income based on the contractual participation rights of Class A common shares, Class B common shares, and participating securities as if the earnings for the period had been distributed. We do not allocate undistributed earnings to participating securities in periods in which we have a net loss. In accordance with our Articles of Incorporation, if and when dividends are declared on our common stock in accordance with Alaska corporate law, equivalent dividends shall be paid with respect to the shares of Class A and Class B common stock, including participating securities. Both classes of common stock have identical dividend rights and would therefore share equally in our net assets in the event of liquidation. As such, we have allocated undistributed earnings on a proportionate basis.

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Earnings per common share (“EPS”) and common shares used to calculate basic and diluted EPS consist of the following (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Year Ended December 31, 2015
	Class A			Class B
Basic net loss per share:
Numerator:
Net loss available to common stockholders	$	(23,858	)	(2,167	)
Less: Undistributed income allocable to participating securities	—			—
Undistributed loss allocable to common stockholders	(23,858		)	(2,167	)
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding	34,764			3,157
Basic net loss attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	(0.69	)	(0.69	)
Diluted net loss per share:
Numerator:
Undistributed loss allocable to common stockholders for basic computation	$	(23,858	)	(2,167	)
Reallocation of undistributed loss as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A shares	(2,167		)	—
Net loss adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares	$	(26,025	)	(2,167	)
Denominator:
Number of shares used in basic computation	34,764			3,157
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding	3,157			—
Number of shares used in per share computation	37,921			3,157
Diluted net loss attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	(0.69	)	(0.69	)

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	Years Ended December 31,
	2014					2013
	Class A			Class B		Class A		Class B
Basic net income per share:
Numerator:
Net income available to common stockholders	$	6,980		577		8,678		728
Less: Undistributed income allocable to participating securities	(385		)	—		(354	)	—
Undistributed income allocable to common stockholders	$	6,595		577		8,324		728
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding	36,112			3,162		36,194		3,166
Basic net income attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	0.18		0.18		0.23		0.23
Diluted net income per share:
Numerator:
Undistributed income allocable to common stockholders for basic computation	$	6,595		577		8,324		728
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A shares	577			—		728		—
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of dilutive securities	1			(2	)	1		(3	)
Net income adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares	$	7,173		575		9,053		725
Denominator:
Number of shares used in basic computation	36,112			3,162		36,194		3,166
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding	3,162			—		3,166		—
Unexercised stock options	112			—		142		—
Number of shares used in per share computation	39,386			3,162		39,502		3,166
Diluted net income attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	0.18		0.18		0.23		0.23

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Weighted average shares associated with outstanding securities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 which have been excluded from the computations of diluted EPS, because the effect of including these securities would have been anti-dilutive, consist of the following (shares, in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015	2014	2013
Derivative instrument that may be settled in cash or shares	724	—	—
Shares associated with unexercised stock options	108	29	86
Share-based compensation that may be settled in cash or shares	26	26	90
Total excluded	858	55	176

(i) Common Stock

Following are the changes in issued common stock for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (shares, in thousands):

	Class A		Class B
Balances at January 1, 2013	38,534		3,169
Class B shares converted to Class A	4		(4	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	87		—
Share awards issued	680		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(1,822	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(147	)	—
Other	(37	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2013	37,299		3,165
Class B shares converted to Class A	6		(6	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	51		—
Share awards issued	1,267		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(429	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(196	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2014	37,998		3,159
Class B shares converted to Class A	5		(5	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	219		—
Share awards issued	688		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(2,983	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(334	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2015	35,593		3,154

GCI’s Board of Directors has authorized a common stock buyback program for the repurchase of GCI’s Class A and Class B common stock in order to reduce the outstanding shares of Class A and Class B common stock.  Under the common stock buyback plan approved by GCI’s Board of Directors in 2010 we are authorized to repurchase up to $200.0 million worth of GCI common stock, to increase our repurchase limit $5.0 million per quarter indefinitely and to use stock option exercise proceeds to repurchase additional shares.  If stock repurchases are less than the total approved quarterly amount the difference may be carried forward and used to repurchase additional shares in future quarters.  During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 we repurchased shares of our Class A common stock under the stock buyback program at a cost of $47.4 million, $4.2 million and $15.6 million, respectively.  Under this program we are currently authorized to make up to $95.3 million of repurchases as of December 31, 2015.  The cost

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of the repurchased common stock reduced Common Stock and Retained Earnings in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and was constructively retired as of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

We expect to continue the repurchases for an indefinite period dependent on leverage, liquidity, company performance, and market conditions and subject to continued oversight by GCI’s Board of Directors.

(j) Redeemable Preferred Stock

We have 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock authorized with no shares issued and outstanding at years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

(k) Treasury Stock

We account for treasury stock purchased for general corporate purposes under the cost method and include treasury stock as a component of Stockholders’ Equity.  Treasury stock purchased with intent to retire (whether or not the retirement is actually accomplished) is charged to Class A or Class B Common Stock.

(l) Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of certificates of deposit which have an original maturity of three months or less at the date acquired and are readily convertible into cash.

(m) Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful receivables is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing accounts receivable. We base our estimates on the aging of our accounts receivable balances, financial health of specific customers, regional economic data, changes in our collections process, regulatory requirements and our customers’ compliance with Universal Service Administrative Company rules. We review our allowance for doubtful receivables methodology at least annually.

Depending upon the type of account receivable our allowance is calculated using a pooled basis with an allowance for all accounts greater than 120 days past due or a specific identification method.  When a specific identification method is used, potentially uncollectible accounts due to bankruptcy or other issues are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we feel it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. We do not have any off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to our customers.

Wireless Equipment Installment Plan ("EIP") Receivables

We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that provides eligible customers with the ability to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a period of up to 24 months. Participating customers have the right to trade-in the original equipment for a new device after making the equivalent of 12 monthly installment payments, provided their handset is in good working condition. Upon upgrade, the outstanding balance of the EIP is exchanged for the used handset.

At the time of sale, we impute interest on the receivables associated with Upgrade Now. We record the imputed interest as a reduction to the related accounts receivable. Interest income, which is included in Other Income and (Expense) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, is recognized over the financed installment term.

We assess the collectability of our EIP receivables based upon a variety of factors, including payment trends and other qualitative factors. The credit profiles of our customers with a Upgrade Now plan are similar to those of our customers with a traditional subsidized plan. Customers with a credit profile which carries a higher risk are required to make a down payment for equipment financed through Upgrade Now.

(n) Inventories

Wireless handset inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average cost method. Handset costs in excess of the revenues generated from handset sales, or handset subsidies, are expensed at the time of sale. We do not recognize the expected handset subsidies prior to

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the time of sale because the promotional discount decision is made at the point of sale and/or because we expect to recover the handset subsidies through service revenue.

Inventories of other merchandise for resale and parts are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average cost method.

(o) Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Construction costs of facilities are capitalized. Equipment financed under capital leases is recorded at the lower of fair market value or the present value of future minimum lease payments at inception of the lease. Construction in progress represents transmission equipment and support equipment and systems not placed in service on December 31, 2015, that management intends to place in service during 2016.

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease term, if applicable, in the following ranges:

Asset Category	Asset Lives
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-20 years
Fiber optic cable systems	15-25 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-30 years
Support equipment and systems	3-20 years
Transportation equipment	5-13 years
Property and equipment under capital leases	12-20 years
Buildings	25 years
Customer premise equipment	2-20 years
Studio equipment	10-15 years

Amortization of property and equipment under capital leases is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for major renewals and betterments are capitalized. Accumulated depreciation is removed and gains or losses are recognized at the time of sales or other dispositions of property and equipment.

(p) Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Goodwill, cable certificates (certificates of convenience and public necessity), wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are not amortized. Cable certificates represent certain perpetual operating rights to provide cable services. Wireless licenses represent the right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services.  Broadcast licenses represent the right to broadcast television stations in certain areas. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition.

All other amortizable intangible assets are being amortized over 2 to 20 year periods using the straight-line method.

(q) Impairment of Intangibles, Goodwill, and Long-lived Assets

Cable certificates, wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are treated as indefinite-lived intangible assets and are tested annually for impairment or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.  We are allowed to assess qualitative factors (“Step Zero”) in our annual test over our indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill.The impairment test for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the asset becomes its new accounting basis.  Impairment testing of our cable certificate, wireless license and broadcast license assets as of October 31, 2015 and 2014, used a

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direct discounted cash flow method. This approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

Our goodwill is tested annually for impairment, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired.  In our annual test of goodwill, we are allowed to use Step Zero to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired.  We chose not to apply Step Zero and chose to test for goodwill impairment using the traditional quantitative two-step process.  The first step of the quantitative goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount.  To determine our reporting units, we evaluate the components one level below the segment level and we aggregate the components if they have similar economic characteristics. As a result of this assessment, our reporting units are the same as our two reportable segments. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be recognized in a business combination.  We use an income approach to determine the fair value of our reporting units for purposes of our goodwill impairment test.  In addition, a market-based approach is used where possible to corroborate the fair values determined by the income approach.  The income approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

We completed our annual goodwill and intangibles review and no impairment charge was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

Long-lived assets, such as property, plant, and equipment, and purchased or developed intangibles subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of an asset group to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to estimatedundiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group.  If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the fair value of the asset group.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we recorded impairment charges related to our long-lived software assets (see Note 14 of this Form 10-K for detailed information). We recorded no impairment charges related to our long lived assets for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

(r) Amortization and Write-off of Loan Fees

Debt issuance costs are deferred and amortized using the effective interest method. If a refinancing or amendment of a debt instrument is a substantial modification, all or a portion of the applicable debt issuance costs are written off.  If a debt instrument is repaid prior to the maturity date we will write-off the related unamortized amount of debt issuance costs.

(s) Other Assets

Other Assets primarily include broadcast licenses, equity investments that are accounted for using the equity or cost method, restricted cash, long-term deposits, prepayments, long-term EIP receivables and long-term non-trade accounts receivable.

As of December 31, 2014, Other Assets included future capacity receivable that we acquired under the terms of the Wireless Agreement. We terminated certain agreements related to the future capacity receivable as part of the consideration transferred in the Wireless Acquisition resulting in an immaterial future capacity receivable balance as of December 31, 2015.

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(t) Investments

We hold investments in equity method and cost method investees. Investments in equity method investees are those for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence but do not control and are not the primary beneficiary. Significant influence typically exists if we have a 20% to 50% ownership interest in the venture unless persuasive evidence to the contrary exists. Under this method of accounting, we record our proportionate share of the net earnings or losses of equity method investees and a corresponding increase or decrease to the investment balances. Cash payments to equity method investees such as additional investments, loans and advances and expenses incurred on behalf of investees, as well as payments from equity method investees such as dividends, distributions and repayments of loans and advances are recorded as adjustments to investment balances. Investments in entities in which we have no control or significant influence are accounted for under the cost method.

We review our investment portfolio each reporting period to determine whether there are identified events or circumstances that would indicate there is a decline in the fair value that would be considered other than temporary. We recorded an impairment loss of $12.6 million related to one of our equity investments during the year ended December 31, 2015 (see "Equity Method Investment" section of Note 12 of this Form 10-K for additional information). We recorded no impairment charges to equity method or cost method investments for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

(u) Asset Retirement Obligations

We record the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred in Other Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. When the liability is initially recorded, we capitalize a cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, changes in the liability for an asset retirement obligation resulting from revisions to either the timing or the amount of the original estimate of undiscounted cash flows are recognized.  Over time,the liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset.  Upon settlement of the liability, we either settle the obligation for itsrecorded amount or incur a gain or loss upon settlement.

The majority of our asset retirement obligations are the estimated cost to remove telephony transmission equipment and support equipment from leased property.  Following is a reconciliation of thebeginning and ending aggregate carrying amounts of our liability for asset retirement obligations (amounts in thousands):

Balance at December 31, 2013	$	26,802
Liability incurred	4,268
Accretion expense	1,249
Revision in estimate	(355		)
Liability settled	(24		)
Balance at December 31, 2014	31,940
Liability incurred	2,048
Accretion expense	1,121
Liability settled	(49		)
Balance at December 31 2015	$	35,060

During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we recorded additional capitalized costs of $2.0 million and $4.3 million, respectively, in Property and Equipment.

Certain of our network facilities are on property that requires us to have a permit and the permit contains provisions requiring us to remove our network facilities in the event the permit is not renewed.  We expect to continually renew our permits and therefore cannot estimate any liabilities associated with such agreements.  A remote possibility exists that we would not be able to successfully renew a permit, which could result in us incurring significant expense in complying with restoration or removal provisions.

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(v) Derivative Financial Instrument

We account for our derivative instrument in accordance with ASC 815-10, Derivatives and Hedging. ASC 815-10 establishes accounting and reporting standards requiring that derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. ASC 815-10 also requires that changes in the fair value of derivative instruments be recognized currently in results of operations unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. We have not entered into any hedging activities to date. We recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at their respective fair values. Our derivative instrument (as described in Note 8 of this Form 10-K) includes stock appreciation rights, which have been recorded as a liability at fair value, and will be revalued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value of the instrument included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as Derivative Instrument Unrealized Loss.

(w) Revenue Recognition

All revenues are recognized when the earnings process is complete. Revenue recognition is as follows:

• Revenues generated from long-distance service usage and plan fees, Internet service excess usage, and managed services are recognized when the services are provided,

• We recognize unbilled revenues when the service is provided based upon minutes of use processed, and/or established rates, net of credits and adjustments,

• Video service package fees, local access and Internet service plan fees, and data network revenues are billed in advance, recorded as Deferred Revenue on the balance sheet, and are recognized as the associated service is provided,

• Certain of our wireless services offerings have been determined to be revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables. Revenues are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements. Revenues generated from wireless service usage and plan fees are recognized when the services are provided. Revenues generated from the sale of wireless handsets and accessories are recognized when the amount is known and title to the handset and accessories passes to the customer. As the non-refundable, up-front activation fee charged to the customer does not meet the criteria as a separate unit of accounting, we allocate the additional arrangement consideration received from the activation fee to the handset (the delivered item) to the extent that the aggregate handset and activation fee proceeds do not exceed the fair value of the handset. Any activation fees not allocated to the handset would be deferred upon activation and recognized as service revenue on a straight-line basis over the expected customer relationship period,

• We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that is described above in Note 1(m) of this Form 10-K. Upgrade Now is a multiple-element arrangement typically consisting of the trade-in right, handset, and one month of wireless service. At the inception of the arrangement, revenue is allocated between the separate units of accounting based upon each components' relative selling price on a standalone basis. This is subject to the requirement that revenue recognized is limited to the amounts already received from the customer that are not contingent on the delivery of additional products or services to the customer in the future. We recognize the full amount of the fair value of the trade-in right (not an allocated value) as a guarantee liability and the remaining allocable consideration is allocated to the handset and wireless service. We recognize revenue for the entire amount of the EIP receivable at the time of sale, net of the fair value of the trade-in right guarantee and imputed interest. See Note 1(ag) of this Form 10-K for additional information on guarantee liabilities and Note 1(m) of this Form 10-K for additional information on EIP receivables.

• The majority of our non-wireless equipment sale transactions involve the sale of communications equipment with no other services involved. Such equipment is subject to standard manufacturer warranties and we do not manufacture any of the equipment we sell. In such instances, the customer takes title to the equipment generally upon delivery. We recognize revenue for such transactions when title passes to the customer and the revenue is earned and realizable. On certain occasions we enter into agreements to sell and satisfactorily install or integrate telecommunications equipment for a fixed fee. Customers may have refund rights if the installed equipment does not meet certain performance criteria. We defer revenue recognition until we have received customer

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acceptance per the contract or agreement, and all other required revenue recognition elements have been achieved. Revenues from contracts with multiple element arrangements, such as those including installation and integration services, are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements,

• Technical services revenues are derived primarily from maintenance contracts on equipment and are recognized on a prorated basis over the term of the contracts,

• We account for fiber capacity Indefeasible Right to Use ("IRU") agreements as an operating lease or service arrangement and we defer the revenue and recognize it ratably over the life of the IRU or as service is rendered,

• Access revenue is recognized when earned.  We participate in access revenue pools with other telephone companies.  Such pools are funded by toll revenue and/or access charges regulated by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") within the intrastate jurisdiction and the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) within the interstate jurisdiction. Much of the interstate access revenue is initially recorded based on estimates. These estimates are derived from interim financial information, available separation studies and the most recent information available about achieved rates of return. These estimates are subject to adjustment in future accounting periods as additional information becomes available. To the extent that a dispute arises over revenue settlements, our policy is to defer revenue recognition until the dispute is resolved,

• We receive grant revenue for the purpose of building or operating communication infrastructure in rural areas.  We defer the revenue and recognize it over the life of the asset that was constructed using grant funds or the period of grant compliance,

• We offer sales incentives to new and existing customers as motivation to purchase our products and services. Cash incentives are recorded as an offset to revenue while noncash incentives are recorded as an operating expense. Sales incentives that relate to a customer contract over a specific period of time are recognized using the straight-line method over the contract term. For sales incentives that are earned by the customer over a specific period of time, we accrue an estimated offset to revenue or expense amount over the period that the incentive is earned by the customer,

• Other revenues are recognized when the service is provided.

Universal Service Fund

As an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier ("ETC"), we receive support from the Universal Service Fund ("USF") to support the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in Remote and Urban high cost areas.

Remote High Cost Support

Remote high cost support is based upon the 2011 support disbursed to Competitive Eligible Telecommunications Carriers (“CETCs”) (“Statewide Support Cap”) providing supported services in Remote Alaska, except AT&T. On January 1, 2012, the per-line rates paid in the Remote areas were frozen by the USF and cannot exceed $250 per line per month on a study area basis. Line count growth that causes support to exceed the Statewide Support Cap triggers a pro rata support payment reduction to all subject Alaska CETCs until the support is reduced to the Statewide Support Cap amount.

We accrue estimated program revenue based on current line counts and the frozen per-line rates, reduced as needed by our estimate of the impact of the Statewide Support Cap. When determining the estimated program revenue accrual, we also consider our assessment of the impact of current FCC regulations and of the potential outcome of FCC proceedings. Our estimated accrued revenue is subject to our judgment regarding the outcome of many variables and is subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.

Remote support will continue to be based on line counts (subject to the Statewide Support Cap) until the last full month prior to the implementation of a successor funding mechanism. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

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Urban High Cost Support

Urban high cost support payments are frozen at the monthly average of the subject CETC’s 2011 annual support and are not dependent upon line counts. A 20% annual phase down commenced July 1, 2012.

The phase down has been halted at 60% and the subject CETCs will continue to receive annual support payments at the 60% level until a successor funding mechanism is implemented. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

We apply the proportional performance revenue recognition method to account for the impact of the declining payments while our level of service provided and associated costs remain constant. Included in the calculation are the scheduled Urban high cost support payments from October 2011 through July 2017 net of our Urban accounts receivable balance at September 30, 2011. An equal amount of this result is recognized as Urban support revenue each period.

For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our ability to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuation of the USF program and upon our eligibility to participate in that program, which are subject to change by future regulatory, legislative or judicial actions. We adjust revenue and the account receivable in the period the FCC makes a program change or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. We do not recognize revenue related to a particular service area until our ETC status has been approved by the RCA.

We recorded high cost support revenue under the USF program of $66.2 million, $66.7 million and $55.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  At December 31, 2015, we have $45.5 million in high cost accounts receivable.

(x) Advertising Expense

We expense advertising costs in the period during which the first advertisement appears. Advertising expenses were $5.7 million, $5.7 million and $5.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

(y) Leases

Scheduled operating lease rent increases are amortized over the expected lease term on a straight-line basis. Rent holidays are recognized on a straight-line basis over the operating lease term(including any rent holiday period).

Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their economic lives or the lease term. We may amortize a leasehold improvement over a term that includes assumption of a lease renewal ifthe renewal is reasonably assured. Leasehold improvements acquired in a business combination are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required leaseperiods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date of acquisition. Leasehold improvements that are placed in service significantly after and are not contemplated at or near thebeginning of the lease term are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvements are purchased. Leasehold improvements made by us and funded by landlord incentives or allowances under an operating lease are recorded as deferred rent and amortized as reductions to lease expense over the lease term.

(z) Interest Expense

Material interest costs incurred during the construction period of non-software capital projects are capitalized.  Interest costs incurred during the development period of a software capital project are capitalized.  Interest is capitalized in the period commencing with the first expenditure for a qualifying capital project and ending when the capital project is substantially complete and ready for its intended use. We capitalized interest costs of $3.0 million, $3.6 million and $4.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

(aa) Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for their future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financialstatement

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carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable earningsin the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. A valuation allowance is recognized if it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred tax assetwill not be realized.

(ab) Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Total comprehensive income (loss) was equal to net income (loss) during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

(ac) Share-based Payment Arrangements

Compensation expense is recognized in the financial statements for share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. Share-based compensation expense includes an estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures and is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term.

We are required to report the benefits associated with tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost as a financing cash flow rather than as an operating cash flow.

(ad) Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Significant items subject to estimates and assumptions include the allowance for doubtful receivables, unbilled revenues, accrual of the USF high cost program support, share-based compensation, inventory at lower of cost or market, reserve for future customer credits, liability for incurred but not reported medical insurance claims, valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets, depreciable and amortizable lives of assets, the carrying value of long-lived assets including goodwill, cable certificates, wireless licenses,and broadcast licenses, the fair value of equity method investments evaluated for impairment, our effective tax rate, imputed interest rate, purchase price allocations, deferred lease expense, asset retirement obligations, the accrual of cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense), depreciation, the derivative stock appreciation rights liability, guarantees, and the accrual of contingencies and litigation.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The accounting estimates related to revenues from the USF high cost program are dependent on various inputs including our estimate of the Statewide Support Cap, our assessment of the impact of new FCC regulations, and the potential outcome of FCC proceedings.  These inputs are subjective and based on our judgment regarding the outcome of certain variables and are subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.

(ae) Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Excess cash is invested in high quality short-term liquid money instruments. At December 31, 2015, and 2014, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents were invested in short-term liquid money instruments and the balances were in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limits.

We have one major customer for the year ended December 31, 2015 (see Note 10 of this Form 10-K for additional information).  Our remaining customers are located primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, our growth and operations depend upon economic conditions in Alaska.

(af) Software Capitalization Policy

Internally used software, whether purchased or developed, is capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of three to five years. We capitalize certain costs associated with internally developed software such as payroll costs of employees devoting time to the projects and external direct costs for materials and services. Costs associated with internally developed software to be used internally are expensed until the point the project has reached the development stage. Subsequent additions, modifications or upgrades to internal-use software are capitalized only to the extent that they

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allow the software to perform a task it previously did not perform. Software maintenance and training costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred. The capitalization of software requires judgment in determining when a project has reached the development stage.

(ag) Guarantees

Certain of our customers have guaranteed levels of service.  If an interruption in service occurs we do not recognize revenue for any portion of the monthly service fee that will be refunded to the customer or not billed to the customer due to these service level agreements.

Additionally, we have provided certain guarantees to U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (“US Bancorp”), our tax credit investor in our four VIEs.  We have guaranteed the delivery of $56.0 million of New Markets Tax Credits (“NMTC”) to US Bancorp, as well as certain loan and management fee payments between our subsidiaries and the VIEs, for which we are the primary beneficiary.  In the event that the tax credits are not delivered or certain payments not made, we are obligated to provide prompt and complete payment of these obligations.  See Note 12 of this Form 10-K for more information about our NMTC transactions.

EIP Trade-in Right

We offer a device trade-in program, "Upgrade Now", which provides eligible customers a specified-price trade-in right to upgrade their device. Participating customers must have purchased a financed device using an equipment installment plan from us and have a qualifying monthly wireless service plan. Upon qualifying for an Upgrade Now device trade-in, the customer's remaining EIP balance is settled provided they trade in their eligible used device in good working condition and purchase a new device from us on a new EIP.

For customers who enroll in Upgrade Now, we defer the portion of equipment sales revenue which represents the estimated value of the trade-in right guarantee. The estimated value of the guarantees are based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, including the customer's estimated remaining EIP balance at trade-in, the expected fair value of the used handset at trade-in and the probability and timing of a trade-in.

We assess facts and circumstances at each reporting date to determine if we need to adjust the guarantee liability. The recognition of subsequent adjustments to the guarantee liability as a result of these assessments are recorded as adjustments to revenue. When customers upgrade their devices, the difference between the trade-in credit to the customer and the fair value of the returned devices is recorded against the guarantee liabilities. Guarantee liabilities are included in Accrued Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

(ah) Classification of Taxes Collected from Customers

We report sales, use, excise, and value added taxes assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between us and a customer on a net basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The following are certain surcharges reported on a gross basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Surcharges reported gross	$	5,058	4,252	4,644

(ai) Reclassifications

Reclassifications have been made to the prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to classifications used in the current year.

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(2) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures

Changes in operating assets and liabilities consist of (amounts in thousands):

Year ended December 31,	2015			2014		2013
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable, net	$	(4,230	)	15,357		(68,360	)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses	(632		)	(4,454	)	672
(Increase) decrease in inventories	5,710			(6,631	)	1,751
Decrease in other current assets	24			88		1,448
Increase in other assets	(11,491		)	(878	)	(1,459	)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	(5,579		)	(4,648	)	15,334
Increase in deferred revenues	1,743			1,728		2,368
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and payroll related obligations	(1,469		)	2,997		10,263
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities	8,192			(242	)	(883	)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest	7,001			(434	)	302
Decrease in subscriber deposits	(448		)	(114	)	(40	)
Decrease in long-term deferred revenue	(8,561		)	(4,163	)	(3,554	)
Increase (decrease) in components of other long-term liabilities	1,305			1,714		(20	)
Total change in operating assets and liabilities	$	(8,435	)	320		(42,178	)

The following items are for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (amounts in thousands):

Net cash paid or received:	2015		2014	2013
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	$	76,796	74,618	71,749

The following items are non-cash investing and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014	2013
Non-cash additions for purchases of property and equipment	$	26,799	42,958	17,230
Non-cash consideration for Wireless Acquisition	$	23,326	—	—
Asset retirement obligation additions to property and equipment	$	2,048	4,268	5,292
Net capital lease obligation	$	—	9,386	—
Distribution to non-controlling interest	$	—	4,167	4,167
Deferred compensation distribution denominated in shares	$	—	617	621
Net assets acquired with equity in AWN (see Note 1(d))	$	—	—	267,642

(3) Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Receivables consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Trade	$	205,645	209,811
Employee	1,271		801
Other	1,468		1,829
Total receivables	$	208,384	212,441

As described in Note 1(w) of this Form 10-K we receive support from each of the various USF programs: high cost, low income, rural health care, and schools and libraries.  This support was 19%, 19%, and 18% of our

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revenue for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  We had USF net receivables of $98.1 million and $109.6 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Changes in the allowance for doubtful receivables during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

			Additions			Deductions
Description	Balance at beginning of year		Charged to costs and expenses	Charged to other accounts		Write-offs net of recoveries	Balance at end of year
December 31, 2015	$	4,542	6,359	—		7,271	3,630
December 31, 2014	$	2,346	3,994	—		1,798	4,542
December 31, 2013	$	3,215	2,370	(446	)	2,793	2,346

(4) Net Property and Equipment

Net property and equipment consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Land and buildings	$	108,145	100,038
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	1,215,796		1,189,470
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	218,259		193,832
Studio equipment	15,171		14,396
Support equipment and systems	251,302		270,629
Transportation equipment	17,398		15,667
Customer premise equipment	155,971		153,039
Fiber optic cable systems	309,217		305,200
Construction in progress	93,271		99,240
	2,384,530		2,341,511
Less accumulated depreciation	1,231,457		1,178,982
Less accumulated amortization	58,692		50,047
Net property and equipment	$	1,094,381	1,112,482
Property and equipment under capital leases	$	112,495	112,495

(5) Intangible Assets and Goodwill

As of October 31, 2015, cable certificates, wireless licenses, broadcast licenses and goodwill were tested for impairment and the fair values were greater than the carrying amounts, therefore these intangible assets were determined not to be impaired at December 31, 2015.  The remaining useful lives of our cable certificates, wireless licenses, broadcast licenses and goodwill were evaluated as of October 31, 2015, and events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life.  There are no indicators of impairment of our intangible assets subject to amortization as of December 31, 2015.

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Other Intangible Assets subject to amortization include the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Software license fees	$	63,760	52,683
Rights to use	44,937		48,283
Customer relationships	1,530		3,226
Right-of-way	784		783
	111,011		104,975
Less accumulated amortization	41,721		38,960
Net other intangible assets	$	69,290	66,015

Changes in Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Goodwill		Other Intangible Assets
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	219,041	71,435
AWN purchase price adjustment - Wireless Segment	8,866		(7,298	)
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment	1,653		—
Asset additions	—		11,593
Amortization expense	—		(9,715	)
Balance at December 31, 2014	229,560		66,015
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment	9,703		—
Asset additions	—		15,023
Software impairment	—		(1,306	)
Amortization expense	—		(10,442	)
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	239,263	69,290

Amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 follow (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Amortization expense	$	10,442	9,715	7,044

Amortized intangible assets are definite-life assets, and as such, we record amortization expense based on a method that most appropriately reflects our expected cash flows from these assets. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method with a weighted-average life of 14.4 years.

Amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is estimated to be (amounts in thousands):

Years Ending December 31,
2016	$	9,841
2017	$	7,508
2018	$	5,573
2019	$	4,241
2020	$	3,232

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(6) Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Senior Credit Facility (a)	$	512,937	279,000
2025 Notes (b)	450,000		—
2021 Notes (c)	325,000		325,000
Searchlight Note (d)	75,000		—
Wells Fargo note payable (e)	9,176		9,767
2019 Notes (b)	—		425,000
Rural Utilities Service ("RUS") debt (f)	—		29
Debt	1,372,113		1,038,796
Less unamortized discount on Searchlight Note	20,190		—
Less unamortized discount paid on the 2025 Notes	3,817		—
Less unamortized discount paid on the 2019 Notes	—		2,118
Less current portion of long-term debt	3,342		622
Long-term debt, net	$	1,344,764	1,036,056

(a) On February 2, 2015, GCI Holdings, Inc. ("GCI Holdings"), our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement with MUFG Union Bank, N.A., Suntrust Bank, Bank of America, N.A., as documentation agent, and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent ("Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility provides a $275.0 million Term B loan, up to $240.0 million in delayed draw term loans and a $150.0 million revolving credit facility. The Senior Credit Facility was subsequently amended on August 3, 2015 ("First Amendment").

Under the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, the interest rate for the Term B loan is London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 3.25%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The interest rate on our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility is LIBOR plus the following Applicable Margin set forth opposite each applicable Total Leverage Ratio below.

Total Leverage Ratio (as defined)	Applicable Margin
>=5.5	3.00%
>=5.0 but <5.5	2.75%
>=4.5 but <5.0	2.50%
>=4.0 but <4.5	2.25%
<4.0	2.00%

The Term B loan requires principal payments of 0.25% of the original principal amount on the last day of each calendar quarter with the full amount maturing on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020 if our Senior Notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to such date. The full principal amount of our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on April 30, 2018.

Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility are subject to certain financial covenants and restrictions on indebtedness.  Our Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 5.95 to one; the Senior Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 3.00 to one; and our Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined) must not be less than 2.50 to one at any time.

The terms of the Senior Credit Facility include customary representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Senior Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the Senior Credit

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Facility are secured by a security interest on substantially all of the assets of GCI Holdings and the subsidiary guarantors, as defined in the Senior Credit Facility, and on the stock of GCI Holdings.

In connection with the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, we paid loan fees and other expenses of $0.3 million that were expensed immediately in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 and $6.2 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the Senior Credit Facility.

We have outstanding $272.9 million under the Term B loan, $240.0 million under the delayed draw term loan, $0.0 million under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility and $22.5 million in letters of credit under the Senior Credit Facility at December 31, 2015, which leaves $127.5 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2015.

(b) On April 1, 2015 (“Closing Date”), GCI, Inc. completed an offering of $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 (“2025 Notes”) at an issue price of 99.105%. We used the net proceeds from this offering to repay and retire all $425.0 million of our outstanding senior unsecured notes due 2019 (“2019 Notes”).

At any time before April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes, plus a premium calculated as defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.

At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2020	103.438	%
2021	102.292	%
2022	101.146	%
2023 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2025 Notes mature on April 15, 2025. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on April 15 and October 15.

The 2025 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2015, between us and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.

We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2025 Notes.

Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2025 Notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2025 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

The 2025 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The covenants in the indenture restrict GCI, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or

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repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions, as further described in the 2025 Notes indenture.

At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2025 Notes immediately due and payable.

We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. Included in the loss was $20.2 million in call premium payments to redeem our 2019 Notes, $5.4 million in unamortized 2019 Notes deferred loan costs, and $2.1 million for the unamortized portion of the 2019 Notes original issue discount.

We were in compliance with all 2025 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

(c) We pay interest of 6.75% on notes that are due in 2021 ("2021 Notes"). The 2021 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 2025 Notes, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The 2021 Notes are not redeemable prior to June 1, 2016.  At any time on or after June 1, 2016, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing June 1 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2016	103.375	%
2017	102.250	%
2018	101.125	%
2019 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2021 Notes mature on June 1, 2021.  Semi-annual interest payments are payable on June 1 and December 1.

The 2021 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2011, between us and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.

We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2021 Notes.

Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2021 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part (equal to $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, except that no 2021 Note will be purchased in part if the remaining portion thereof would not be at least $2,000) of such holder’s 2021 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2021 Notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2021 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

The terms of the Indenture include customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 25% in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2021 Notes immediately due and payable.

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We paid closing costs totaling $3.6 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2021 Notes.

We were in compliance with all 2021 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

(d) On February 2, 2015, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Note 11 of this Form 10-K for additional information.

In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. We allocated the $75.0 million in total proceeds received to the stock appreciation rights based on the fair value of the stock appreciation rights on the day of issuance with the remainder allocated to the Searchlight Note. The allocation resulted in a $21.7 million discount for the Searchlight Note that will be amortized over the term of the note using the effective interest method. See Note 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information on the stock appreciation rights.

We have the option to pay the annual interest obligation on the Searchlight Note in cash or by capitalizing such interest and adding it to the outstanding principal amount of the note. If we elect to capitalize interest in a given year, we are also required to issue additional stock appreciation rights in the amount of four hundredths of a stock appreciation right for each dollar of interest being capitalized.

(e) GCI Holdings, entered into a $10.0 million loan agreement with Wells Fargo Bank on June 30, 2014 to finance the purchase of a building.  The note matures on July 15, 2029 and is due in monthly installments of principal and interest.  The interest rate is variable at one month LIBOR plus 2.25%.

The note is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as our Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the note are secured by a security interest and lien on the purchased building. In connection with the note issuance, we paid loan fees of $0.1 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the note.

(f) UUI, our wholly owned subsidiary, has entered into various loans with the RUS. We repaid substantially all amounts owed to the RUS in 2014 and the remainder of amounts owed in 2015.

Maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31,
2016	$	3,342
2017	3,358
2018	243,374
2019	3,391
2020	3,407
2021 and thereafter	1,115,241
Total debt	1,372,113
Less unamortized discount on Searchlight Note	20,190
Less unamortized discount paid on 2025 Notes	3,817
Less current portion of long-term debt	3,342
Long-term debt, net	$	1,344,764

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(7) Income Taxes

Total income tax (expense) benefit of $1.8 million, $(10.0) million and $(11.0) million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, was allocated to income (loss) in each year. Income tax (expense) benefit consists of the following (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014		2013
Deferred tax (expense) benefit:
Federal taxes	$	1,360	(9,081	)	(9,267	)
State taxes	487		(948	)	(1,690	)
	$	1,847	(10,029	)	(10,957	)

Total income tax (expense) benefit differed from the “expected” income tax (expense) benefit determined by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015			2014		2013
“Expected” statutory tax (expense) benefit	$	9,699		(24,246	)	(14,939	)
Nondeductible unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	(4,566		)	—		—
Nondeductible officer compensation	(1,906		)	(1,351	)	(824	)
Nondeductible entertainment expenses	(1,059		)	(1,125	)	(1,045	)
Nondeductible lobbying expenses	(442		)	(425	)	(369	)
State income taxes, net of federal (expense) benefit	487			(948	)	(1,690	)
Impact of non-controlling interest attributable to non-tax paying entity	220			18,255		7,977
Other, net	(586		)	(189	)	(67	)
	$	1,847		(10,029	)	(10,957	)

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The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	139,238	131,938
Deferred revenue for financial reporting purposes	41,151		36,077
Asset retirement obligations in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	14,338		6,660
Compensated absences accrued for financial reporting purposes	3,339		3,117
Share-based compensation expense for financial reporting purposes in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	2,773		1,458
Accounts receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful receivables	1,912		2,585
Workers compensation and self-insurance health reserves, principally due to accrual for financial reporting purposes	1,795		2,043
Alternative minimum tax credits	1,735		1,735
Deferred compensation expense for tax purposes in excess of amounts recognized for financial reporting purposes	1,603		1,374
Other	13,144		5,866
Total deferred tax assets	$	221,028	192,853
Deferred tax liabilities:
Plant and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation	$	246,172	231,109
Intangible assets	79,255		48,768
Flow-through entity deferred tax items	—		44,728
Other	1,746		—
Total deferred tax liabilities	327,173		324,605
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	106,145	131,752

At December 31, 2015, we have tax net operating loss carryforwards of $340.5 million that will begin expiring in 2020 if not utilized, and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $1.7 million available to offset regular income taxes payable in future years.  Our utilization of remaining acquired net operating loss carryforwards is subject to annual limitations pursuant to Internal Revenue Code section 382 which could reduce or defer the utilization of these losses.

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Our tax net operating loss carryforwards are summarized below by year of expiration (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31,	Federal		State
2020	$	34,958	34,301
2021	29,614		28,987
2022	14,081		13,788
2023	3,968		3,903
2024	722		—
2025	737		—
2026	150		—
2027	1,010		—
2028	39,879		39,715
2029	48,370		47,558
2031	110,933		109,376
2033	5,031		4,927
2034	39,133		37,866
2035	11,885		11,290
Total tax net operating loss carryforwards	$	340,471	331,711

Tax benefits associated with recorded deferred tax assets are considered to be more likely than not realizable through taxable income earned in carryback years, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.

We file federal income tax returns in the U.S. and in various state jurisdictions. We are not subject to U.S. or state tax examinations by tax authorities for years 2011 and earlier except that certain U.S. federal income tax returns for years after 1998 are not closed by relevant statutes of limitations due to unused net operating losses reported on those income tax returns.

We recognize accrued interest on unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in selling, general and administrative expenses.  We did not have any unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, and accordingly, we did not recognize any interest expense.  Additionally, we recorded no penalties during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

We did not record any excess tax benefit generated from stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, since we are in a net operating loss carryforward position and the income tax deduction will not yet reduce income taxes payable.  The cumulative excess tax benefits generated for stock options exercised that have not been recognized is $3.4 million at December 31, 2015.

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(8) Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instrument

Recurring Fair Value Measurements

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2015	Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)	Level 3 (3)	Total
Assets:
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$	1,728	—	—	1,728
Liabilities:
Derivative stock appreciation rights	$	—	—	32,820	32,820
December 31, 2014	Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)	Level 3 (3)	Total
Assets:
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$	2,068	—	—	2,068
(1) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
(2) Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities
(3) Inputs that are generally unobservable and not corroborated by market data

The fair value of our mutual funds is determined using quoted market prices in active markets utilizing market observable inputs.

The fair value of our derivative stock appreciation rights was determined using a lattice-based valuation model (see the section "Derivative Financial Instrument" below for more information).

Current and Long-Term Debt

The carrying amounts and approximate fair values of our current and long-term debt, excluding capital leases at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	December 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value	Carrying Amount	Fair Value
Current and long-term debt	$	1,348,106	1,390,743	1,036,678	1,055,952

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair values:

• The fair values of the 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 and the 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 both issued by GCI, Inc. are based upon quoted market prices for the same or similar issues (Level 2).

• The fair value of our Searchlight Note is based on the current rates offered to us for similar remaining maturities plus an additional premium to reflect its subordination to our 2021 and 2025 Notes (Level 3). 

• The fair value of our Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo note payable are estimated to approximate their carrying value because the instruments are subject to variable interest rates (Level 2).

Derivative Financial Instrument

In connection with the $75.0 million unsecured promissory note issued to Searchlight on February 2, 2015, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights. Each stock appreciation right entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. The instrument is exercisable on the fourth anniversary of the grant date and will expire 8 years from the date of grant. We have determined that the stock appreciation rights are required to be separately accounted for as a derivative instrument and are subject to fair value liability accounting under ASC 815-10.

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We use a lattice-based valuation model to value the stock appreciation rights liability at each reporting date. The model incorporates transaction details such as our stock price, instrument term and settlement provisions, as well as highly complex and subjective assumptions about volatility, risk-free interest rates, issuer behavior and holder behavior. The lattice model uses highly subjective assumptions and the use of other reasonable assumptions could provide different results. The following table shows our significant assumptions and inputs used in the lattice-based valuation model to value the stock appreciation right liability at December 31, 2015:

	December 31, 2015
Expected term (in years)	4 - 8
Volatility	40	%
Risk-free interest rate	2.1	%

We revalue our derivative liability at each reporting period and recognize gains or losses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations attributable to the change in the fair value of the instrument. The stock appreciation rights liability is included within Other Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and is classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

The following table summarizes the changes in fair value of all financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the year ended December 31, 2015:

Fair Value Measurement Using Level 3 Inputs
	Derivative Stock Appreciation Rights
Balance at January 1, 2015	$	—
Issuance	21,660
Fair value adjustment at end of period, included in Other Income (Expense)	11,160
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	32,820

(9) Stockholders’ Equity

Common Stock

GCI’s Class A and Class B common stock are identical in all respects, except that each share of Class A common stock has one vote per share and each share of Class B common stock has ten votes per share. Each share of Class B common stock outstanding is convertible, at the option of the holder, into one share of Class A common stock.

See Note 1(i) of this Form 10-K for details of our share repurchase program.

Shared-Based Compensation

Our Amended and Restated 1986 Stock Option Plan ("Stock Option Plan"), provides for the grant of options and restricted stock awards (collectively "award") for a maximum of 15.7 million shares of GCIClass A common stock, subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of stock dividends, stock splits, mergers, consolidations or certain other changes in corporate structure or capitalization. If an awardexpires or terminates, the shares subject to the award will be available for further grants of awards under the Stock Option Plan. The Compensation Committee of GCI’s Board of Directors administers theStock Option Plan. Substantially all restricted stock awards granted vest over periods of up to three years. Substantially all options vest in equal installments over a period of five years and expire ten yearsfrom the date of grant. The requisite service period of our awards is generally the same as the vesting period.  Options granted pursuant to the Stock Option Plan are only exercisable if at the time of exercisethe option holder is our employee, non-employee director, or a consultant or advisor working on our behalf.  New shares are issued when stock option agreements are exercised or restricted stock awards are granted. We have not issued any new options since 2010 when we transitioned to issuing restricted stock awards. We have 2.1 million shares available for grant under the Stock Option Plan at December 31, 2015.

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The fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock.  We estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures at the time of grant and periodically revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. We record share-based compensation expense only for those awards expected to vest using an estimated forfeiture rate based on our historical pre-vesting forfeiture data. We review our forfeiture estimates annually and adjust our share-based compensation expense in the period our estimate changes.

A summary of option activity under the Stock Option Plan as of December 31, 2015 and changes during the year then ended is presented below:

	Shares (in thousands)		Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)
Outstanding at January 1, 2015	308		$	6.86
Exercised	(286	)	$	6.56
Expired	(3	)	$	7.51
Outstanding at December 31, 2015	19		$	11.35	1.0 year	$	160
Exercisable at December 31, 2015	19		$	11.35	1.0 year	$	160

The total intrinsic values, determined as of thedate of exercise, of options exercised in the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, were $3.8 million, $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively.

A summary of nonvested restricted stock award activity under the Stock Option Plan for the year ended December 31, 2015, follows (share amounts in thousands):

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at January 1, 2015	1,744		$	9.11
Granted	688		$	15.06
Vested	(930	)	$	18.29
Forfeited	(7	)	$	12.65
Nonvested at December 31, 2015	1,495		$	11.08

The weighted average grant date fair value of awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $15.06, $10.04 and $8.30, respectively. The total fair value of awards vesting during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $17.0 million, $8.5 million and $5.5 million, respectively. We have recorded share-based compensation expense of $10.9 million, $8.4 million, and $6.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Share-based compensation expense is classified as Selling, General and Administrative Expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.  Unrecognized share-based compensation expense is $9.6 million as of December 31, 2015.  We expect to recognize share-based compensation expense over a weighted average period of 1.8 years for restricted stock awards.

GCI 401(k) Plan

In 1986, we adopted an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“GCI 401(k) Plan”) qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The GCI 401(k) Plan provides for acquisition of GCI’s Class Acommon stock at market value as well as various mutual funds. We may match a percentage of the employees' contributions up to certain limits, decided by GCI’s Board of Directors each year. Our matching contributions allocated to participant accounts totaled $9.8 million, $9.1 million and $8.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015,

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2014 and 2013, respectively.  We used cash to fund all of our employer-matching contributions during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

(10) Industry Segments Data

We have two reportable segments, Wireless and Wireline. Our reportable segments are business units that offer different products and are each managed separately. A description of our reportable segments follows:

Wireless - We offer wholesale wireless services.  

Wireline - We provide a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.

We evaluate performance and allocate resources based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as earnings plus imputed interest on financed devices before:

•Net interest expense,

•Income taxes,

•Depreciation and amortization expense,

•Loss on extinguishment of debt,

•Software impairment charge,

•Derivative instrument unrealized income (loss),

•Share-based compensation expense,

•Accretion expense,

•Loss attributable to non-controlling interest resulting from NMTC transactions,

•Gains and impairment losses on equity and cost method investments, and

•Other non-cash adjustments.

Management believes that this measure is useful to investors and other users of our financial information in understanding and evaluating operating performance as an analytical indicator of income generated to service debt and fund capital expenditures.  In addition, multiples of current or projected Adjusted EBITDA are used to estimate current or prospective enterprise value.  

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of this Form 10-K.  We have no intersegment sales. We earn all revenues through sales of services and products within the United States. All of our long-lived assets are located within the United States of America, except approximately 82% of our undersea fiber optic cable systems which transit international waters and all of our satellite transponders.

Wireless plan fee and usage revenues from external customers are allocated between our Wireless and Wireline segments.  The Wireless segment recorded subsidies to the Wireline segment related to wireless equipment sales based upon equipment sales and agreed-upon subsidy rates through the AWN transaction close on July 23, 2013. Subsequent to the transaction close and through March 31, 2014, although permitted, the Wireline segment was unable to meet the requirements in order to request a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements. These subsidies, which eliminate in consolidation, increase the Wireline segment Adjusted EBITDA and reduce the Wireless segment Adjusted EBITDA.  The wireless equipment subsidy recorded by the Wireless segment was $7.7 million, $17.3 million, and $12.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Selling, general and administrative expenses are charged to the Wireless segment based upon a shared services agreement.  The remaining selling, general and administrative expenses are charged to the Wireline segment.

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Summarized financial information for our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 follows (amounts in thousands):

	Wireless			Wireline		Total Reportable Segments
2015
Revenues
Wholesale	$	267,676		—		267,676
Consumer	—			351,196		351,196
Business Services	—			209,975		209,975
Managed Broadband	—			149,687		149,687
Total	267,676			710,858		978,534
Cost of Goods Sold	70,899			251,439		322,338
Contribution	196,777			459,419		656,196
Less SG&A	(18,137		)	(320,242	)	(338,379	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			10,902		10,902
Plus accretion expense	559			562		1,121
Other	—			511		511
Adjusted EBITDA	$	179,199		151,152		330,351
Capital expenditures	$	47,892		128,343		176,235
Goodwill	$	164,312		74,951		239,263
Total assets	$	594,250		1,388,058		1,982,308

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	Wireless			Wireline		Total Reportable Segments
2014
Revenues
Wholesale	$	269,977		—		269,977
Consumer	—			288,014		288,014
Business Services	—			225,963		225,963
Managed Broadband	—			126,244		126,244
Total	269,977			640,221		910,198
Cost of Good Sold	90,920			211,784		302,704
Contribution	179,057			428,437		607,494
Less SG&A	(21,631		)	(272,016	)	(293,647	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			8,392		8,392
Plus accretion expense	733			516		1,249
Other expense	—			(372	)	(372	)
Adjusted EBITDA	$	158,159		164,957		323,116
Capital expenditures	$	30,243		145,866		176,109
Goodwill	$	164,312		65,248		229,560
Total assets	$	625,417		1,376,961		2,002,378
2013
Revenues
Wholesale	$	197,218		—		197,218
Consumer	—			274,805		274,805
Business Services	—			222,814		222,814
Managed Broadband	—			116,811		116,811
Total	197,218			614,430		811,648
Cost of Good Sold	68,086			212,376		280,462
Contribution	129,132			402,054		531,186
Less SG&A	(20,030		)	(251,035	)	(271,065	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			6,638		6,638
Plus accretion expense	507			(430	)	77
Other expense	—			447		447
Adjusted EBITDA	$	109,609		157,674		267,283
Capital expenditures	$	28,156		152,398		180,554
Goodwill	$	155,445		63,596		219,041
Total assets	$	624,740		1,347,314		1,972,054

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A reconciliation of reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes follows (amounts in thousands):

Years Ended December 31,	2015			2014		2013
Reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA	$	330,351		323,116		267,283
Less depreciation and amortization expense	(181,767		)	(170,285	)	(147,259	)
Less software impairment charge	(29,839		)	—		—
Less share-based compensation expense	(10,902		)	(8,392	)	(6,638	)
Less accretion expense	(1,121		)	(1,249	)	(77	)
Other	(511		)	372		(447	)
Consolidated operating income	106,211			143,562		112,862
Less other expense, net	(133,924		)	(74,289	)	(70,178	)
Consolidated income (loss) before income taxes	$	(27,713	)	69,273		42,684

We earn revenues included in both the Wireless and Wireline segment from a major customer. We earned revenues from our major customer, net of discounts, of $130.8 million or 13% and $108.3 million or 12% of total consolidated revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015, and 2014, respectively. We had no major customers for the years ended December 31, 2013.

(11) Related Party Transactions

We entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s President and CEO for property occupied by us.  The leased asset was capitalized in 1991 at the owner’s cost of $0.9 million and the related obligation was recorded.  The lease agreement was amended in April 2008 and our existing capital lease asset and liability increased by $1.3 million to record the extension of this capital lease.  The amended lease terminates on September 30, 2026.

In January 2001 we entered into an aircraft operating lease agreement with a company owned by GCI’s President and CEO.  The lease was amended several times, most recently in May 2011.  The lease term of the aircraft may be terminated at any time by us upon 12 months’ written notice.  The monthly lease rate of the aircraft is $132,000.  In 2001, we paid a deposit of $1.5 million in connection with the lease.  The deposit will be repaid to us no later than six months after the agreement terminates.

ACS was a related party for financial statement reporting purposes from the date of the Wireless Agreement, July 22, 2013, through the date of the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015. Included in our related party disclosures were ACS' provision to us of local service lines and network capacity in locations where we do not have our own facilities, our provision to ACS of wholesale wireless services for their use of our network to sell services to their respective retail customers, and our receipt of ACS' high cost support from USF for its wireless customers. For the period January 1, 2015 to February 2, 2015, we paid ACS $6.2 million and received $8.1 million in payments from ACS. For the year ended December 31, 2014 and the period from the Wireless Agreement date, July 23, 2013, to December 31, 2013, payments to ACS were $62.9 million and $25.1 million, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2014 and the period from the Wireless Agreement date, July 23, 2013, to December 31, 2013, we received $50.9 million and $23.9 million, respectively, in payments from ACS. We also have long-term capacity exchange agreements with ACS for which no money is exchanged.

As disclosed in Note 6(d) and Note 8 of this Form 10-K, we have an unsecured promissory note and stock appreciation rights with Searchlight. Searchlight received one seat on our Board of Directors pursuant to a Securityholder Agreement dated as of December 4, 2014. As a result, Searchlight became a related party on February 2, 2015 when we closed the Wireless Acquisition.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(12) Variable Interest Entities

New Markets Tax Credit Entities

We have entered into several arrangements under the NMTC program with US Bancorp to help fund a project that extended terrestrial broadband service for the first time to rural Northwestern Alaska communities via a high capacity hybrid fiber optic and microwave network (“TERRA-NW”).  The NMTC program was provided for in the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000 (the “Act”) to induce capital investment in qualified lower income communities.  The Act permits taxpayers to claim credits against their federal income taxes for up to 39% of qualified investments in the equity of community development entities (“CDEs”).  CDEs are privately managed investment institutions that are certified to make qualified low-income community investments.

On August 30, 2011, we entered into the first arrangement (“NMTC #1”).  In connection with the NMTC #1 transaction we loaned $58.3 million to TIF, a special purpose entity created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due August 30, 2041.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $22.4 million in TIF.  TIF then contributed US Bancorp’s contribution and the loan proceeds to certain CDEs.  The CDEs, in turn, loaned the $76.8 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at interest rates varying from 1% to 3.96%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

On October 3, 2012, we entered into the second arrangement (“NMTC #2”).  In connection with the NMTC #2 transaction we loaned $37.7 million to TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB, special purpose entities created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due October 2, 2042.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $17.5 million in TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB.  TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB then contributed US Bancorp’s contributions and the loan proceeds to certain CDEs.  The CDEs, in turn, loaned the $55.2 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at interest rates varying from 0.7099% to 0.7693%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

On December 11, 2012, we entered into the third arrangement (“NMTC #3”).  In connection with the NMTC #3 transaction we loaned $8.2 million to TIF 3, a special purpose entity created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due December 10, 2042.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $3.8 million in TIF 3.  TIF 3 then contributed US Bancorp’s contributions and the loan proceeds to a CDE.  The CDE, in turn, loaned the $12.0 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at an interest rate of 1.35%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

US Bancorp is the sole investor in TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3, and as such, is entitled to substantially all of the benefits derived from the NMTCs.  All of the loan proceeds to Unicom, net of syndication and arrangement fees, are restricted for use on TERRA-NW.  Restricted cash of $1.1 million and $1.1 million was held by Unicom at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and is included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We completed construction of TERRA-NW and placed the final phase into service in late 2014.

These transactions include put/call provisions whereby we may be obligated or entitled to repurchase US Bancorp’s interests in TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and/or TIF 3. We believe that US Bancorp will exercise the put options in August 2018, October 2019 and December 2019, at the end of the compliance periods for NMTC #1, NMTC #2 and NMTC #3, respectively.  The NMTCs are subject to 100% recapture for a period of seven years as provided in the Internal Revenue Code.  We are required to be in compliance with various regulations and contractual provisions that apply to the NMTC arrangements.  Non-compliance with applicable requirements could result in projected tax benefits not being realized by US Bancorp.  We have agreed to indemnify US Bancorp for any loss or recapture of NMTCs until such time as our obligation to deliver tax benefits is relieved.  There have been no credit recaptures as of December 31, 2015.  The value attributed to the put/calls is nominal.

We have determined that TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3 are VIEs.  The consolidated financial statements of TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3 include the CDEs discussed above.  The ongoing activities of the VIEs – collecting and remitting interest and fees and NMTC compliance – were all considered in the initial design and are not expected to significantly affect economic performance throughout the life of the VIEs.  Management considered the contractual arrangements that obligate us to deliver tax benefits and provide various other guarantees to US Bancorp; US Bancorp’s lack of a material interest in the underlying economics of the project; and the fact that we are obligated to absorb losses of the VIEs.  We concluded that we are the primary beneficiary of each and consolidated the VIEs in accordance with the accounting standard for consolidation.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

US Bancorp’s contributions, net of syndication fees and other direct costs incurred in structuring the NMTC arrangements, are included in Non-controlling Interests on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Incremental costs to maintain the structure during the compliance period are recognized as incurred to selling, general and administrative expense.

The assets and liabilities of our consolidated VIEs were $140.9 million and $104.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.

The assets of the VIEs serve as the sole source of repayment for the debt issued by these entities. US Bank does not have recourse to us or our other assets, with the exception of customary representations and indemnities we have provided. We are not required and do not currently intend to provide additional financial support to these VIEs. While these subsidiaries are included in our consolidated financial statements, these subsidiaries are separate legal entities and their assets are legally owned by them and not available to our creditors.

Equity Method Investment

We own a 40.8% interest in a next generation carrier-class communications services firm. We account for our investment using the equity method. Due to declining economic conditions in the sector that it operates, additional financing was needed for the company to maintain its business plan. In March 2015, the existing owners provided financial support in the form of a loan of which our portion is $3.0 million. We determined that the additional financing provided to the company was a reconsideration event under ASC 810 and have subsequently determined that the entity is a VIE due to insufficient equity to finance its operations as a result of the decline in economic conditions.

We concluded that the company's board has the power to direct the significant activities of the entity. The board is comprised of five members of which we may choose two of the board members. As we do not control the board, we concluded that we do not have the power to direct the significant activities of the entity and are not the primary beneficiary. Our maximum exposure of loss related to the VIE is the combination of the investment and note receivable. We do not have a contractual obligation to provide additional financing.

During the second quarter of 2015, it became apparent that we would not recover the carrying value of our investment. We determined that the fair value of the equity investment was $0 and subsequently wrote-off the entire value of our investment resulting in an impairment loss of $12.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 that is recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. The fair value determination was based upon market information obtained during the second quarter of 2015, the estimated liquidation value of the entity's assets and the amount of senior secured debt at the valuation date.

We have a note receivable with the entity of $3.0 million that is recorded in Other Current Assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 for which we received full payment in January 2016.

(13) Commitments and Contingencies

Operating Leases as Lessee

We lease business offices, have entered into site lease agreements and use satellite transponder and fiber capacity and certain equipment pursuant to operating lease arrangements.  Many of our leases are for multiple years and contain renewal options.  Rental costs under such arrangements amounted to $51.5 million, $43.8 million and $46.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Capital Leases as Lessee

We entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s President and CEO for property occupied by us as further described in Note 11 of this Form 10-K.

We have a capital lease agreement for transponder capacity on Intelsat, Ltd.’s (“Intelsat”) Galaxy 18 spacecraft.  The Intelsat Galaxy 18 C-band and Ku-Band transponders are being leased over an expected term of 14 years.  At lease inception the present value of the lease payments, excluding telemetry, tracking and command services and back-up protection, was $98.6 million.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A summary of future minimum lease payments follows (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31:	Operating		Capital
2016	$	45,585	13,454
2017	35,642		13,433
2018	28,822		13,440
2019	23,611		13,450
2020	20,134		13,459
2021 and thereafter	50,933		19,752
Total minimum lease payments	$	204,727	86,988
Less amount representing interest			18,629
Less current maturity of obligations under capital leases			8,708
Long-term obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturity			$	59,651

The leases generally provide that we pay the taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the leased assets.  Several of our leases include renewal options, escalation clauses and immaterial amounts of contingent rent expense.  We expect that in the normal course of business leases that expire will be renewed or replaced by leases on other properties.

Guaranteed Service Levels

Certain customers have guaranteed levels of service with varying terms. In the event we are unable to provide the minimum service levels we may incur penalties or issue credits to customers.

Self-Insurance

Through December 31, 2015, we were self-insured for losses and liabilities related to health and welfare claims up to $600,000 per incident per year above which third party insurance applied. A reserve of $4.1 million and $4.0 million was recorded at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, to cover estimated reported losses, estimated unreported losses based on past experience modified for current trends, and estimated expenses for settling claims.  We are self-insured for all losses and liabilities related to workers’ compensation claims in Alaska and have a workers compensation excess insurance policy to make claims for any losses in excess of $500,000 per incident.  A reserve of $3.6 million and $3.8 million was recorded at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, to cover estimated reported losses and estimated expenses for open and active claims.  Actual losses will vary from the recorded reserves.  While we use what we believe are pertinent information and factors in determining the amount of reserves, future additions or reductions to the reserves may be necessary due to changes in the information and factors used.

We are self-insured for damage or loss to certain of our transmission facilities, including our buried, undersea, and above-ground transmission lines. If we become subject to substantial uninsured liabilities due to damage or loss to such facilities, our financial position, results of operations or liquidity may be adversely affected.

Litigation, Disputes, and Regulatory Matters

We are involved in various lawsuits, billing disputes, legal proceedings, and regulatory matters that have arisen from time to time in the normal course of business.  Management believes there are no proceedings from asserted and unasserted claims which if determined adversely would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Universal Service

As an ETC, we receive support from the USF for the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in Remote and Urban high cost areas as further described in Note 1(w) of this Form 10-K. Remote and Urban high cost support may change once a new funding mechanism is in place. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our ability to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuation of the USF program and upon our eligibility to participate in that program, which are subject to change by future regulatory, legislative or judicial actions. We adjust revenue and the account receivable in the period the FCC makes a program change or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. Our revenue for providing local and wireless services in these areas would be materially adversely affected by a substantial reduction of USF support.

Tribal Mobility Fund I Grant

In February 2014, the FCC announced our winning bids in the Tribal Mobility Fund I auction for a $41.4 million grant to partially fund expansion of our 3G wireless network, or better, to locations in Alaska where we would not otherwise be able to construct within our return-on-investment requirements. We received $13.8 million in 2015 and expect to receive $27.6 million in additional grant fund disbursements in the future depending on the timing of upgrades completed and test results submitted to and approved by the FCC.

(14) Software Impairment

During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, we internally developed computer software in our Wireline segment to replace our wireless, Internet, video, local service, and long distance customer billing systems. During the first quarter of 2015, we completed a detailed assessment of our progress to date and determined it was no longer probable that the computer software being developed would be completed and placed in service. Our assessment concluded that the cost of continuing the development would be much higher than originally estimated, and the timing and scope risks were substantial. We identified development work, hardware, and software recorded as Construction in Progress through the first quarter of 2015, that may be applicable to our replacement customer billing solution, future internally developed software, and other system needs and therefore should remain capital assets. We considered the remaining capital expenditures for this billing system to have a fair value of $0 and recorded an impairment charge of $20.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we reassessed our plans for our internally developed machine-to-machine billing system in our Wireline segment, and decided to no longer market this system to third parties. Accordingly, we recognized an impairment of $7.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we evaluated user management software we purchased in 2014 in our Wireline segment and determined that we would not be able to use the software. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $1.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

(15) Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

	First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter	Fourth Quarter
2015
Total revenues	$	231,089		247,528		258,573	241,344
Operating income	$	741		39,203		45,473	20,794
Net income (loss)	$	(18,725	)	(15,757	)	17,495	(8,879	)
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$	(19,269	)	(15,627	)	17,631	(8,760	)
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.49	)	(0.41	)	0.45	(0.24	)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.49	)	(0.41	)	0.44	(0.24	)
2014
Total revenues	$	216,283		224,399		240,725	228,791
Operating income	$	30,265		38,414		49,336	25,547
Net income	$	10,761		16,840		25,847	5,796
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$	1,140		5,927		9,915	(9,425	)
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	0.03		0.14		0.24	(0.24	)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	0.03		0.14		0.24	(0.24	)

Item 15(b). Exhibits

Listed below are the exhibits that are filed as a part of this Report (according to the number assigned to them in Item 601 of Regulation S-K):

Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
2.1	Amendment, dated as of October 1, 2012, to Asset Purchase and Contribution Agreement, dated as of June 4, 2012, among Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc., General Communication, Inc., ACS Wireless, Inc., GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC and The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period October 1, 2012 filed October 2, 2012.
2.2	Purchase and Sale Agreement between Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc. with General Communication, Inc., an Alaska corporation (“GCI”), GCI Communication Corp., an Alaska corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of GCI, ACS Wireless, Inc., an Alaska corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of ACS, GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC, an Alaska limited liability company and wholly owned subsidiary of GCI and The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 filed March 7, 2015.
3.1	Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company dated August 20, 2007	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 filed March 7, 2008.
3.2	Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company dated September 26, 2014	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Report on Form 8-K for the period September 26, 2014 filed October 2, 2014.

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Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
4.1	General Communication, Inc. Amended and Restated 1986 Stock Option Plan	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 filed March 7, 2015.
4.2	Amended and Restated Securityholder Agreement by and among General Communication, Inc., Searchlight ALX, L.P., and Searchlight ALX, LTD dated as of July 13, 2015	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015.
4.3	Unsecured Promissory Note Due 2023 entered into as of July 13, 2015 by and between General Communication, Inc. and Searchlight ALX, LTD	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015.
4.4	Amended and Restated Stock Appreciation Rights Agreement entered into as of July 13, 2015 by and between General Communication, Inc. and Searchlight ALX, LTD	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015.
10.1	Order approving Application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to operate as a Telecommunications (Intrastate Interexchange Carrier) Public Utility within Alaska	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1991.
10.2	The GCI Special Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan1	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995.
10.3	Transponder Purchase Agreement for Galaxy X between Hughes Communications Galaxy, Inc. and GCI Communication Corp.	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995.
10.4	Lease Agreement dated September 30, 1991 between RDB Company and General Communication, Inc.	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1991.
10.5	Transponder Lease Agreement between General Communication Incorporated and Hughes Communications Satellite Services, Inc., executed August 8, 1989	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993.
10.6	Addendum to Galaxy X Transponder Purchase Agreement between GCI Communication Corp. and Hughes Communications Galaxy, Inc. dated August 24, 1995	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3/A Registration Statement (File No. 333-28001) dated July 8, 1997.
10.7	First Amendment to Lease Agreement dated as of September 2002 between RDB Company and GCI Communication Corp. as successor in interest to General Communication, Inc.	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
10.8	Aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of January 22, 2001	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
10.9	First amendment to aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of February 8, 2002	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
10.10	Full-time Transponder Capacity Agreement with PanAmSat Corporation dated March 31, 2006 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2006.

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Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
10.11	Registration Rights Agreement dated as of March 5, 2007 between General Communication, Inc. and John W. Stanton and Theresa E. Gillespie	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 of the Schedule 13D dated March 5, 2007 filed on March 12, 2007.
10.12	Second Amendment to Lease Agreement dated as of April 8, 2008 between RDB Company and GCI Communication Corp. as successor in interest to General Communication, Inc.	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2008.
10.13	Fifth Amendment to the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of October 17, 2008 by and among Holdings, Inc. the other parties thereto and Calyon New York Branch, as administrative agent, and the other Lenders party thereto	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2008.
10.14	First Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated February 15, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.15	Second Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated April 9, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.16	Third Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 4, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.17	Fourth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 4, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.18	Fifth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated September 30, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.19	Sixth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated October 31, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.20	Seventh Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated November 6, 2008 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.21	Eighth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 8, 2009 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.22	Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of January 29, 2010 by and among GCI Holdings, Inc., the other parties thereto and Calyon New York Branch, as administrative agent, and the other Lenders party thereto	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period January 29, 2010 filed February 3, 2010.
10.23	Ninth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated June 29, 2010 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2010 filed August 5, 2010.
10.24	Amended and restated aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of February 25, 2005	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.

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Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
10.25	First amendment to the amended and restated aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of December 27, 2010	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.26	Tenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated September 24, 2010 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.27	Eleventh Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated September 23, 2010 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.28	Twelfth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated November 5, 2010 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.29	Broadband Initiatives Program Loan/Grant and Security Agreement between United Utilities, Inc. and the United States of America dated as of June 1, 2010 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.30	Indenture dated as of May 20, 2011 between GCI, Inc. and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee	Incorporated by reference to GCI, Inc.'s Report on Form 8-K for the period May 20, 2011 filed May 25, 2011.
10.31	Supplemental Indenture dated as of May 23, 2011 between GCI, Inc. and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee	Incorporated by reference to GCI, Inc.'s Report on Form 8-K for the period May 20, 2011 filed May 25, 2011.
10.32	Add-on Term Loan Supplement No. 1, dated as of June 10, 2011 to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of January 29, 2010, among GCI Holdings, Inc., GCI, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative Agent, and the other Agents named therein.	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period June 10, 2011 filed June 14, 2011.
10.33	Second Amended and Restated Aircraft Lease Agreement between GCI Communication Corp., an Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated May 9, 2011	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2011 filed August 9, 2011.
10.34	Add-on Term Loan Supplement No. 2, dated as of July 22, 2011 to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of January 29, 2010, among GCI Holdings, Inc., GCI, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative Agent, and the other Agents named therein.	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period July 22, 2011 filed July 26, 2011.
10.35	Credit Agreement dated August 30, 2011 by and between Unicom, Inc. as borrower and Northern Development Fund VIII, LLC as Lender and Travois New Markets Project CDE X, LLC as Lender and Waveland Sub CDE XVI, LLC as Lender and Alaska Growth Capital Bidco, Inc. as Disbursing Agent	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period August 30, 2011 filed September 6, 2011.

129

Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
10.36	Asset Purchase and Contribution Agreement Dated as of June 4, 2012 By and Among Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc., ACS Wireless, Inc., General Communication, Inc., GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC and The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC  #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2012 filed August 6, 2012.
10.37	Add-on Term Loan Supplement No. 3, dated as of July 31, 2012 to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of January 29, 2010, among GCI Holdings, Inc., GCI, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative Agent, and the other Agents named therein.	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2012 filed August 6, 2012.
10.38	Credit Agreement dated October 3, 2012 by and between Unicom, Inc. as borrower and USBCDE Sub-CDE 74, LLC as Lender and Cherokee Nation Sub-CDE II, LLC as Lender and LBCDE Sub2, LLC as Lender and Waveland Sub CDE XXII, LLC as Lender	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period October 3, 2012 filed October 9, 2012.
10.39	Thirteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated March 14, 2011  #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.40	Fourteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated June 7, 2011  #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.41	Fifteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated December 29, 2011  #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.42	Sixteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated December 21, 2012  #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.43	Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of April 30, 2013 by and among GCI Holdings, Inc., GCI, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto, Union Bank, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Documentation Agent and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative Agent	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period April 30, 2013 filed May 6, 2013.
10.44	Seventeenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated June 4, 2013 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.
10.45	Eighteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated October 17, 2013 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.
10.46	First Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC dated July 22, 2013 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.

130

Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
10.47	Broadband Initiatives Program Loan/Grant and Security Agreement between United Utilities, Inc. and The United States of America dated June 1, 2010	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.
10.48	Nineteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated March 20, 2014 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2014 filed May 5, 2014.
10.49	Twentieth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2014 filed March 5, 2015.
10.50	Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of February 2, 2015 by and among GCI Holdings, Inc., GCI, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto, Union Bank, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Documentation Agent and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative Agent	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2014 filed March 5, 2015.
10.51	Twenty-First Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2015 filed May 8, 2015
10.52	Indenture dated as of April 1, 2015 between GCI, Inc. and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee	Incorporated by reference to GCI, Inc.'s Report on Form 8-K for the period April 1, 2015 filed April 6, 2015.
10.53	Twenty-Second Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2015 filed August 5, 2015
10.54	First Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of February 2, 2015	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2015 filed August 5, 2015
10.55	Twenty-Third Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015 filed November 5, 2015
10.56	Twenty-Fourth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015 filed November 5, 2015
10.57	Twenty-Fifth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication, Corp. dated December 31, 2015 # *
10.58	Second Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of February 2, 2015*
10.59	Description of Incentive Compensation Plan for Named Executive Officers1 *	“Executive Compensation” in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2015.

131

Exhibit No.	Description	Where Located
14	Code Of Business Conduct and Ethics	Incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period September 27, 2013 filed October 3, 2013.
21.1	Subsidiaries of the Registrant  *
23.1	Consent of Grant Thornton LLP (Independent Public Accountant for Company) *
31	Certifications Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 *
32	Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 *
101	The following materials from General Communication, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014; (ii) Consolidated Income Statements for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013; and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements *

#	CONFIDENTIAL PORTION has been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment by us to, and the material has been separately filed with, the SEC.  Each omitted Confidential Portion is marked by three asterisks.
*	Filed herewith.
1	Constitute management contracts or compensatory plans.

132

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC.

By:	/s/ Ronald A. Duncan
	Ronald A. Duncan, President (Chief Executive Officer)

Date: March 3, 2016

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 the capacities and on the date indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/ Stephen M. Brett	Chairman of Board and Director	March 3, 2016
Stephen M. Brett
/s/ Ronald A. Duncan	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	March 3, 2016
Ronald A. Duncan
/s/ Bridget L. Baker	Director	March 3, 2016
Bridget L. Baker
/s/ Jerry A. Edgerton	Director	March 3, 2016
Jerry A. Edgerton
/s/ Scott M. Fisher	Director	March 3, 2016
Scott M. Fisher
/s/ William P. Glasgow	Director	March 3, 2016
William P. Glasgow
/s/ Mark W. Kroloff	Director	March 3, 2016
Mark W. Kroloff
/s/ Stephen R. Mooney	Director	March 3, 2016
Stephen R. Mooney
/s/ James M. Schneider	Director	March 3, 2016
James M. Schneider
/s/ Eric L. Zinterhofer	Director	March 3, 2016
Eric L. Zinterhofer
/s/ Peter J. Pounds	Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Secretary (Principal Financial Officer)	March 3, 2016
Peter J. Pounds
/s/ Lynda L. Tarbath	Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)	March 3, 2016
Lynda L. Tarbath

133

EX-10.57

Exhibit 10.57

****CONFIDENTIAL PORTION has been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment by the Company to, and the material has been separately filed with, the SEC. Each omitted Confidential Portion is marked by four asterisks.

TWENTY-FIFTH AMENDMENT TO THE

FULL-TIME TRANSPONDER CAPACITY AGREEMENT (PRE-LAUNCH)

This Twenty-Fifth Amendment to the Full-time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) (the “Twenty-Fifth Amendment”) is made and entered into as of this 31st day of December, 2015 (the “Effective Date”) by and between INTELSAT CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation (“Intelsat”), and GCI COMMUNICATIONS CORP., an Alaskan corporation (“Customer”).

RECITALS

WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) dated as of March 31, 2006, as amended (collectively, the “Agreement”) between Intelsat and Customer, Intelsat is providing Customer with **** transponders on ***** (the “**** Transponders”); **** transponders on **** (the “**** Transponders”); **** Transponders on **** (the “**** Transponders”); **** on ****; and **** transponders on ****;

WHEREAS, Customer wishes to **** Transponder on the **** satellite and **** Transponder **** on the **** satellite, both from Intelsat, all of which is further defined below;

AGREEMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and of mutual covenants and agreements hereinafter set forth, the sufficiency and receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:

1. Except as specifically provided herein, all terms and provisions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

2. Section 1.1, Description of Capacity. This Section shall be deleted and replaced with the following:

“Intelsat agrees to provide to Customer and Customer agrees to accept from Intelsat, **** (****) **** a day, **** (****) **** a week), in outerspace, for the Capacity Term (as defined here), the Customer’s Transponder Capacity (defined below) meeting the “Performance Specifications” set forth in the “Technical Appendix” attached hereto as Appendix B. For purposes of this Agreement, the “Customer’s Transponder Capacity” or “Customer’s Transponders” shall consist of (a) **** (as defined in Section 1.2, below) **** transponders (collectively, the “**** Transponders’ and individually, the “****

Transponder”) from that certain U.S. domestic satellite referred to by Intelsat as “****,” located in **** at **** Longitude, (b) **** transponders from the **** of that certain satellite referred to by Intelsat as “****” at **** Longitude (“**** Transponder”); (c) **** Transponder **** on ****; (d) **** Transponder on **** (the “**** Transponder”); (e) **** Transponder **** on **** (the “**** Transponder ****”); (f) **** Transponder **** (the “**** Transponder ****”); (g) **** Transponder from ***** (the “**** Transponder”); (h) **** Transponder from **** (the “**** Transponder”); (i) **** Transponder from **** (the “**** Transponder; (j) **** Transponder **** (the “**** Transponder ****”); (k) **** Transponder **** (the “**** Transponder”), and (l) **** Transponder **** (the “****Transponder****”).”

3. Article 2, Capacity Term. The Capacity Term for the **** Transponder and the **** Transponder **** shall commence on **** and continue until **** for the **** Transponder and until **** for the **** Transponder ****.

4. Section 3.1, **** Fee. Customer’s **** Fee **** Transponder and the **** Transponder **** shall be as set forth in Appendix A.

5. Except as specifically set forth in this Amendment, all terms and conditions of the Agreement remain in full force and effect.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the Parties hereto has duly executed and delivered this Twenty-Fifth Amendment as of the day and year above written.

INTELSAT CORPORATION		GCI COMMUNICATION CORP.
By:	/s/ Denise Olmsted	By:	/s/ Jimmy R. Sipes
Name:	Denise Olmsted	Name:	Jimmy R. Sipes
Title:	AGC, Global Sales	Title:	VP Network Services & Chief Engineer
Date:	December 31, 2015	Date:	December 31, 2015

APPENDIX A

CUSTOMER’S TRANSPONDER CAPACITY AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE FOR

GCI COMMUNICATIONS CORP.

SVO #	****/ Transponder No	Transponder Type	Capacity Term	**** Fee
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **
	****	****	****–****	US$**** **

* **** includes US$**** for **** Fee and the US$**** for each of Customer’s **** Transponders under Article 14. If the **** Transponder is **** or when Customer is **** a Transponder on **** (of its successor satellite), the **** Fee for such **** Transponder shall be ****. If, however, the **** Transponder ****, then the **** Fee for such **** Transponder shall ****. The **** fee shall be ****.

** **** Fee includes US$**** for **** and the US$**** for each of **** and **** Transponders with **** Replacement **** under Article 15. If the **** Transponder is **** or when Customer is using a Transponder on ****, the **** Fee ****. If, however, the **** Transponder later ****, then the **** Fee for such **** Transponder shall ****. The **** Fee shall be ****.

*** **** Fee includes US$**** for **** and the US$**** for each of the Customer’s **** Transponder **** Fees, **** transponder (hereinafter referred to as the “**** Fee” as **** is the ****), **** transponder ****. If the **** Transponder ****, the **** Fee for such **** Transponder shall ****. If, however, the **** Transponder ****, then the **** Fee for such **** Transponder shall ****. The **** shall be ****.

**** **** Fee includes US$**** for ****. No **** is provided for this Transponder.

EX-10.58

Exhibit 10.58

EXECUTION COPY

SECOND AMENDMENT dated as of February 12, 2016 (this “Amendment”) to the Credit Agreement (as defined below) among GCI Holdings, Inc. (the “Borrower”), the Lenders party hereto and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative Agent (the “Administrative Agent”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in the Credit Agreement.

RECITALS

A.     The Borrower, Parent, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Lenders party thereto and the Administrative Agent are party to that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement dated as of February 2, 2015, as amended by the First Amendment dated as of August 3, 2015 (as so amended and as hereafter amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “Credit Agreement”).

B.    The Borrower has requested that the Lenders amend the Credit Agreement to the extent and in the manner set forth in this Amendment and the Lenders executing this Amendment have agreed to do so subject to the terms and conditions herein set forth.

AGREEMENTS

Accordingly, in consideration of the Recitals and the covenants, conditions and agreements hereinafter set forth, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1.The definition of “Senior Debt” contained in Section 1.1 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended by inserting “minus (d) Indebtedness permitted by Section 7.1(n) to the extent that annual payments of principal on such Indebtedness due prior to the Permitted Debt Maturity Date do not exceed 1% of the original principal amount” immediately prior to the period at the end thereof.

2.The definition of “Towers” contained in Section 1.1 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended and restated its entirety to read as follows:

““Towers” means cellular telephone sites (including rooftops) owned, leased or operated by any of the Loan Parties and antennae, electronic communications equipment and other related equipment located on such sites.”

3.Section 7.1(n) of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows:

“(n)    Indebtedness incurred in connection with sales and lease-backs of Towers (excluding antennae and electronic communications equipment), which, to the extent secured by Liens, is secured solely by one or more Towers and the proceeds thereof, provided that (i) immediately before and immediately after the incurrence thereof, no Default shall or would exist, (ii) the aggregate principal amount of all such Indebtedness shall not exceed $100,000,000 at any one time outstanding and

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

(iii) such Indebtedness has a final stated maturity date that is no earlier than the Permitted Debt Maturity Date;”

4.Amendment Effectiveness. This Amendment shall become effective as of the first date (the “Second Amendment Effective Date”) on which the following conditions have been satisfied:

(a)the Administrative Agent (or its counsel) shall have received from (i) the Borrower, (ii) Required Lenders and (iii) the Administrative Agent, either (x) counterparts of this Amendment signed on behalf of such parties or (y) written evidence satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (which may include facsimile or other electronic transmissions of signed signature pages) that such parties have signed counterparts of this Amendment;

(b)the Administrative Agent shall have received a Closing Certificate of the Borrower dated the Second Amendment Effective Date, in form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, with appropriate insertions and attachments (including the articles of incorporation and bylaws of the Borrower (or a certification that there have been no amendments thereto since August 3, 2015)), resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Borrower authorizing the transactions contemplated by this Amendment and as to the incumbency of the officers executing this Amendment on behalf of the Borrower; and

(c)the Borrower shall have paid all fees and reimbursed all expenses as the Borrower shall have agreed to pay to the Administrative Agent on or prior to the Second Amendment Effective Date in connection with the negotiation, preparation, execution and delivery of this Amendment, including the reasonable fees and disbursements of its counsel.

5.Representations and Warranties. (a) To induce the other parties hereto to enter into this Amendment, the Borrower represents and warrants to each of the Lenders and the Administrative Agent that, as of the Second Amendment Effective Date and after giving effect to the transactions and amendments to occur on the Second Amendment Effective Date, this Amendment has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Borrower and constitutes, and the Credit Agreement, as amended hereby on the Second Amendment Effective Date, will constitute, its legal, valid and binding obligation, enforceable against each of the Loan Parties party thereto in accordance with its terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and subject to general principles of equity, regardless of whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law, and implied covenants of good faith and fair dealing.

(b)The representations and warranties of each Loan Party set forth in the Loan Documents are, after giving effect to this Amendment, true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Second Amendment Effective Date with the same effect as though made on and as of such date, except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date (in which case such representations and warranties were true and correct in all material respects as of such earlier date).

-2-

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

(c)After giving effect to this Amendment and the transactions contemplated hereby, no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing on the Second Amendment Effective Date.

6.Effect of Amendment. (a) Except as expressly set forth herein, this Amendment shall not by implication or otherwise limit, impair, constitute a waiver of, or otherwise affect the rights and remedies of, the Lenders or the Administrative Agent under the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document, and shall not alter, modify, amend or in any way affect any of the terms, conditions, obligations, covenants or agreements contained in the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document, all of which are ratified and affirmed in all respects and shall continue in full force and effect. Nothing herein shall be deemed to establish a precedent for purposes of interpreting the provisions of the Credit Agreement or entitle any Loan Party to a consent to, or a waiver, amendment, modification or other change of, any of the terms, conditions, obligations, covenants or agreements contained in the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document in similar or different circumstances. This Amendment shall apply to and be effective only with respect to the provisions of the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Documents specifically referred to herein.

(b)On and after the Second Amendment Effective Date, each reference in the Credit Agreement to “this Agreement”, “hereunder”, “hereof”, “herein” or words of like import, and each reference to the Credit Agreement, “thereunder”, “thereof”, “therein” or words of like import in any other Loan Document, shall be deemed a reference to the Credit Agreement, as amended hereby.

7.Governing Law. This Amendment shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. The provisions of Sections 10.9 and 10.10 of the Credit Agreement shall apply to this Amendment to the same extent as if fully set forth herein.

8.Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts together shall constitute but one and the same instrument. Delivery of any executed counterpart of a signature page of this Amendment by facsimile transmission or other electronic imaging means shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

9.Headings. The headings of this Amendment are for purposes of reference only and shall not limit or otherwise affect the meaning hereof.

Signature pages follow

-3-

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

GCI HOLDINGS, INC.

By:    /s/ Peter Pounds        

Name:     Peter Pounds

Title:    Senior Vice President and Chief

Financial Officer

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent

By:    /s/ Tanya Crossley

Name:    Tanya Crossley

Title:    Managing Director

By:    /s/ Kestrina Budina

Name:    Kestrina Budina    

Title:    Director

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

SunTrust Bank,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ Brian Guffin

Name:    Brian Guffin    

Title:    Director

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

            IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

MUFG Union Bank, N.A.,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ David Hill

Name:    David Hill    

Title:    Director

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

Bank of America, N.A.,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ James McCary

Name:    James McCary    

Title:    Vice President

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ Anca Trifan

Name:    Anca Trifan    

Title:    Managing Director

BY    /s/ Michael Shannon

Name:    Michael Shannon

Title:    Vice President    

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

ROYAL BANK OF CANADA,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ Edward Valderrama

Name:    Edward Valderrama    

Title:    Authorized Signatory

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

COBANK, ACB,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ Jaqueline Bove

Name:    Jaqueline Bove    

Title:    Vice President

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

Northrim Bank,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ James R. Miller

Name:    James R. Miller    

Title:    Executive Vice President

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Second Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their officers as of the date first above written.

SIEMENS FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.,
as a Lender

BY    /s/ Maria Levy

Name:    Maria Levy    

Title:    VP

BY    /s/ Michael Zion

Name:    Michael Zion    

Title:    VP    

GCI Holdings, Inc. Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

EX-21.1

Exhibit 21.1

SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT

Entity	Jurisdiction of Organization	Name Under Which Subsidiary Does Business
Alaska United Fiber System Partnership	Alaska	Alaska United Fiber System Partnership, Alaska United Fiber System, Alaska United
BBN, Inc.	Alaska	BBN, BBN, Inc.
Bortek, LLC	Delaware	Bortek, Bortek, LLC
Cycle30, Inc.	Alaska	Cycle30, Inc., Cycle30
Denali Media Anchorage, Corp.	Alaska	Denali Media Anchorage, Corp.
Denali Media Holdings, Corp.	Alaska	Denali Media Holdings, Corp., DMH
Denali Media Juneau, Corp.	Alaska	Denali Media Juneau, Corp.
Denali Media Southeast, Corp.	Alaska	Denali Media Southeast, Corp.
GCI, Inc.	Alaska	GCI, Inc.
GCI Cable, Inc.	Alaska	GCI Cable, GCI Cable, Inc.
GCI Communication Corp.	Alaska	GCI, GCC, GCICC, GCI Communication Corp.
GCI Community Development, LLC	Alaska	GCI Community Development, LLC
GCI Fiber Communication Co., Inc.	Alaska	GCI Fiber Communication, Co., Inc., GFCC,  Kanas
GCI Holdings, Inc.	Alaska	GCI Holdings, Inc.
GCI NADC, LLC	Alaska	GCI, GCI NADC, LLC
GCI SADC, LLC	Alaska	GCI, GCI SADC, LLC
GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC	Alaska	GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC
Integrated Logic, LLC	Alaska	Integrated Logic
Potter View Development Co., Inc.	Alaska	Potter View Development Co., Inc.
Supervision, Inc.	Alaska	Supervision, Supervision, Inc.
The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC	Delaware	The Alaska Wireless Network, AWN
Unicom, Inc.	Alaska	Unicom, Inc., Unicom
United-KUC, Inc.	Alaska	United-KUC, Inc., United-KUC, KUC
United Utilities, Inc.	Alaska	United Utilities, Inc. United Utilities, UUI
United2, LLC	Alaska	United2, LLC, United2
Yukon Tech, Inc.	Alaska	Yukon Tech, Yukon Tech, Inc.
Yukon Tel. Co., Inc.	Alaska	Yukon Tel, Yukon Tel. Co., Inc.

EX-23.1

Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We have issued our reports dated March 3, 2016, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and internal control over financial reporting included in the Annual Report of General Communication, Inc. on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. We consent to the incorporation by reference of said reports in the Registration Statements of General Communication, Inc. on Forms S-8 (File Nos. 33-60728, 333-08760, 333-66877, 333-45054, 333-106453, 333-152857, 33-60222, 333-08758, 333-08762, 333-87639, 333-59796, 333-99003, 333-117783, 333-144916, 333-165878, and 333-188434).

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Anchorage, Alaska

March 3, 2016

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION

I, Ronald A. Duncan, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of General Communication, Inc. for the period ended December 31, 2015;

2. Based on my knowledge, this 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 report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this 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 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 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) 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;

d) Disclosed in this 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 the 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.

March 3, 2016	/s/ Ronald A. Duncan
	Ronald A. Duncan President and Director

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION

I, Peter J. Pounds, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of General Communication, Inc. for the period ended December 31, 2015;

2. Based on my knowledge, this 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 report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this 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 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 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) 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;

d) Disclosed in this 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 the 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.

March 3, 2016	/s/ Peter J. Pounds
	Peter J. Pounds
	Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Secretary (Principal Financial Officer)

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of General Communication, Inc. (the "Company") on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Ronald A. Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

Date: March 3, 2016	/s/ Ronald A. Duncan
	Ronald A. Duncan Chief Executive Officer General Communication, Inc.

EX-32.2

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of General Communication, Inc. (the "Company") on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Peter J. Pounds, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

Date: March 3, 2016	/s/ Peter J. Pounds
	Peter J. Pounds Chief Financial Officer General Communication, Inc.

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Document and Entity Information - USD ($) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 26, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Registrant Name	GENERAL COMMUNICATION INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000808461
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Well Known Seasoned Issuer	No
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Public Float			$ 160,967,837
Class A Common Stock
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		35,473
Class B Common Stock
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		3,154

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 26,528	$ 15,402
Receivables (including $0 and $27,944 from a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	208,384	212,441
Less allowance for doubtful receivables	3,630	4,542
Net receivables	204,754	207,899
Prepaid expenses	12,862	12,179
Inventories	11,322	17,032
Other current assets	3,129	153
Total current assets	258,595	252,665
Property and equipment	2,384,530	2,341,511
Less accumulated depreciation	1,290,149	1,229,029
Net property and equipment	1,094,381	1,112,482
Goodwill	239,263	229,560
Cable certificates	191,635	191,635
Wireless licenses	86,347	86,347
Other intangible assets, net of amortization	69,290	66,015
Deferred loan and senior notes costs, net of amortization of $7,227 and $8,644 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively	16,335	10,949
Other assets	26,462	52,725
Total other assets	629,332	637,231
Total assets	1,982,308	2,002,378
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of obligations under long-term debt and capital leases	12,050	8,722
Accounts payable (including $0 and $7,447 to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	63,014	76,918
Deferred revenue	34,128	29,314
Accrued payroll and payroll related obligations	31,337	32,803
Accrued liabilities	22,822	14,457
Accrued interest (including $5,132 and $0 to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	13,655	6,654
Subscriber deposits	1,242	1,212
Total current liabilities	178,248	170,080
Long-term debt, net (including $54,810 and $0 due to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	1,344,764	1,036,056
Obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturities (including $1,824 and $1,857 due to a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	59,651	68,356
Deferred income taxes	106,145	131,752
Long-term deferred revenue	93,427	85,734
Other liabilities (including $32,820 and $0 for derivative stock appreciation rights with a related party at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)	80,812	43,178
Total liabilities	$ 1,863,047	$ 1,535,156
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Paid-in capital	$ 6,631	$ 26,773
Retained earnings	79,217	124,547
Total General Communication, Inc. stockholders' equity	88,263	167,356
Non-controlling interests	30,998	299,866
Total stockholders’ equity	119,261	467,222
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	1,982,308	2,002,378
Class A Common Stock
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock (no par)	0	13,617
Less cost of 26 Class A common shares held in treasury at December 31, 2015 and 2014	(249)	(249)
Total stockholders’ equity	0	13,617
Class B Common Stock
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock (no par)	2,664	2,668
Total stockholders’ equity	$ 2,664	$ 2,668

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parentheticals) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
ASSETS
Related party receivable	$ 0	$ 27,944
Deferred loan and senior notes costs, accumulated amortization	7,227	8,644
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Related party payable	0	7,447
Related party accrued interest	5,132	0
Related party long-term debt	54,810	0
Capital leases related party	1,824	1,857
Related party derivative stock appreciation rights liability	$ 32,820	$ 0
Class A Common Stock
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Common Stock, No Par Value	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000	100,000
Common stock, shares issued	35,593	37,998
Common stock, shares outstanding	35,567	37,972
Treasury stock, shares	26	26
Class B Common Stock
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Common Stock, No Par Value	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, shares authorized	10,000	10,000
Common stock, shares issued	3,154	3,159
Common stock, shares outstanding	3,154	3,159

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CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues:
Non-related party	$ 973,251	$ 850,656	$ 782,971
Related party	5,283	59,542	28,677
Total revenues	978,534	910,198	811,648
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below):
Non-related party	321,457	291,770	275,701
Related party	881	10,934	4,761
Total cost of goods sold	322,338	302,704	280,462
Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract]
Non-related party	337,839	289,674	268,026
Related party	540	3,973	3,039
Total selling, general and administrative expenses	338,379	293,647	271,065
Depreciation and amortization expense	181,767	170,285	147,259
Software impairment charge	29,839	0	0
Operating income	106,211	143,562	112,862
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (including amortization of deferred loan fees)	(78,786)	(72,496)	(69,725)
Interest Expense, Related Party	(6,602)	0	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	(27,700)	0	(103)
Impairment of equity method investment	(12,593)	0	0
Unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	(11,160)	0	0
Other	2,917	(1,793)	(350)
Other expense, net	(133,924)	(74,289)	(70,178)
Income (loss) before income taxes	(27,713)	69,273	42,684
Income tax (expense) benefit	1,847	(10,029)	(10,957)
Net income (loss)	(25,866)	59,244	31,727
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	159	51,687	22,321
Net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc.	(26,025)	7,557	9,406
Class A Common Stock
Other income (expense):
Net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc.	$ (23,858)	$ 6,980	$ 8,678
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Class B Common Stock
Other income (expense):
Net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc.	$ (2,167)	$ 577	$ 728
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Class A and B Shares Held in Treasury	Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Non-controlling Interests	Class B Common Stock	Class A Common Stock
Beginning balances, total stockholders' equity at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 189,436	$ (1,617)	$ 25,832	$ 107,584	$ 32,258	$ 2,676	$ 22,703
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	31,727			9,406	22,321
Common stock repurchases and retirements	(17,208)	130					(17,338)
Shares issued under stock option plan	622						622
Issuance of restricted stock awards			(5,477)				5,477
Share-based compensation expense	6,525		6,525
Issuance of treasury shares related to deferred compensation payment	621	621
Investment by non-controlling interest	267,642				267,642
Distribution to non-controlling interest	(22,011)				(22,011)
Other	0					(3)	3
Ending balances, total stockholders' equity at Dec. 31, 2013	457,354	(866)	26,880	116,990	300,210	2,673	11,467
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	59,244			7,557	51,687
Common stock repurchases and retirements	(6,850)						(6,850)
Shares issued under stock option plan	466						466
Issuance of restricted stock awards			(8,529)				8,529
Share-based compensation expense	8,324		8,324
Issuance of treasury shares related to deferred compensation payment	715	617	98
Distribution to non-controlling interest	(50,000)				(50,000)
Adjustment to investment by non-controlling interest	(2,131)				(2,131)
Other	100				100	(5)	5
Ending balances, total stockholders' equity at Dec. 31, 2014	467,222	(249)	26,773	124,547	299,866	2,668	13,617
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(25,866)			(26,025)	159
Common stock repurchases and retirements	(53,774)			(19,305)			(34,469)
Shares issued under stock option plan	474						474
Issuance of restricted stock awards			(20,374)				20,374
Share-based compensation expense	10,744		10,744
Investment by non-controlling interest	3,209				3,209
Distribution to non-controlling interest	(765)				(765)
Non-controlling interest acquisitions	(281,803)		(10,282)		(271,521)
Other	(180)		(230)		50	(4)	4
Ending balances, total stockholders' equity at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 119,261	$ (249)	$ 6,631	$ 79,217	$ 30,998	$ 2,664	$ 0

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ (25,866)	$ 59,244	$ 31,727
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization expense	181,767	170,285	147,259
Loss on extinguishment of debt	27,700	0	103
Software impairment charge	29,839	0	0
Impairment of equity method investment	12,593	0	0
Unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	11,160	0	0
Share-based compensation expense	10,902	8,392	6,638
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	(1,847)	10,029	10,957
Other noncash income and expense items	16,142	9,933	5,128
Change in operating assets and liabilities	(8,435)	320	(42,178)
Net cash provided by operating activities	253,955	258,203	159,634
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(176,235)	(176,109)	(180,554)
Grant proceeds	14,007	1,136	2,405
Purchases of other assets and intangible assets	(13,955)	(11,018)	(6,027)
Purchase of businesses, net of cash received	(12,736)	(2,514)	(107,600)
Proceeds from the sale of investment	7,551	6,180	0
Note receivable issued to an equity method investee	(3,000)	0	0
Restricted cash	65	5,871	23,997
Purchase of investments	0	(25,735)	0
Other	(4,760)	49	1,428
Net cash used for investing activities	(189,063)	(202,140)	(266,351)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of debt and capital lease obligations	(494,982)	(118,585)	(98,152)
Issuance of 2025 Notes	445,973	0	0
Borrowing on Senior Credit Facility	295,000	89,000	261,000
Purchase of non-controlling interests	(282,505)	0	0
Issuance of Searchlight note payable and derivative stock appreciation rights with related party	75,000	0	0
Purchase of treasury stock to be retired	(53,774)	(6,850)	(17,208)
Payment of bond call premium	(20,244)	0	0
Payment of debt issuance costs	(13,979)	(84)	(2,990)
Distribution to non-controlling interest	(4,932)	(50,000)	(17,845)
Proceeds from stock option exercises	474	466	622
Borrowing of other long-term debt	203	421	1,770
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities	(53,766)	(85,632)	127,197
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	11,126	(29,569)	20,480
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	15,402	44,971	24,491
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 26,528	$ 15,402	$ 44,971

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles

In the following discussion, General Communication, Inc. (“GCI”) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are referred to as “we,” “us” and “our.”

(a) Business

GCI, an Alaska corporation, was incorporated in 1979. We provide a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.

(b) Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include the consolidated accounts of GCI and its wholly owned subsidiaries, The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC ("AWN") of which we owned a two-third interest through February 2, 2015 when we purchased the remaining one-third interest, and four variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which we are the primary beneficiary after providing certain loans and guarantees.  These VIEs are Terra GCI Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF”), Terra GCI 2 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2”), Terra GCI 2-USB Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2-USB”) and Terra GCI 3 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 3”).  We also include in our consolidated financial statements non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries for which our ownership is less than 100 percent.  All significant intercompany transactions between non-regulated affiliates of our company are eliminated.  Intercompany transactions generated between regulated and non-regulated affiliates of our company are not eliminated in consolidation.

(c) Non-controlling Interests

Non-controlling interests represent the equity ownership interests in consolidated subsidiaries not owned by us.  Non-controlling interests are adjusted for contributions, distributions, and income and loss attributable to the non-controlling interest partners of the consolidated entities.  Income and loss is allocated to the non-controlling interests based on the respective governing documents.

(d) Acquisitions

Wireless Acquisition

On February 2, 2015, we purchased Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc.'s (“ACS”) interest in AWN ("AWN NCI Acquisition") and substantially all the assets of ACS and its affiliates related to ACS’s wireless operations (“Acquired ACS Assets”) (collectively the "Wireless Acquisition"). Under the terms of the agreement, we paid ACS $293.2 million, excluding working capital adjustments and agreed to terminate certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. The Acquired ACS Assets include substantially all of ACS’s wireless subscriber assets, including subscriber contracts, and certain of ACS’s CDMA network assets, including fiber strands and associated cell site electronics and microwave facilities and associated electronics. We assumed from ACS post-closing liabilities of ACS and its affiliates under contracts assumed by us and liabilities with respect to the ownership by ACS of its equity interest in AWN to the extent accruing and related to the period after closing. All other liabilities were retained by ACS and its affiliates.

We have accounted for the AWN NCI Acquisition as the acquisition of a non-controlling interest in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 810, Consolidation, and the Acquired ACS Assets as the acquisition of assets that do not constitute a business in accordance with ASC 805-50, Business Combinations - Related Issues. Total consideration transferred to ACS in the transaction consisted of the cash payment, settlement of working capital, and the fair market value of certain rights to receive future capacity terminated as part of the Wireless Acquisition agreement. The future capacity receivable assets transferred as consideration were adjusted to fair value as of the acquisition date resulting in a gain of $1.2 million recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. We allocated the total consideration transferred to ACS between the AWN NCI Acquisition and the Acquired ACS Assets based on the relative fair values of the assets and non-controlling interest received.

The following table summarizes the allocation of total consideration transferred to ACS between the AWN NCI Acquisition and the Acquired ACS Assets excluding working capital adjustments (amounts in thousands):

Total consideration transfered to ACS	$	304,838
Allocation of consideration between wireless assets and non-controlling interest acquired:
AWN non-controlling interest	$	303,831
Property and equipment	746
Other intangible assets	261
Total consideration	$	304,838

We have accounted for the AWN NCI Acquisition as an equity transaction, with the carrying amount of the non-controlling interest adjusted to reflect the change in ownership of AWN. The difference between the fair value of consideration paid and the total of the additional deferred taxes incurred as a result of the transaction and the carrying amount of the non-controlling interest and has been recognized as additional paid-in capital in our Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity. The impact of the AWN NCI Acquisition is summarized in the following table (amounts in thousands):

Reduction of non-controlling interest	$	268,364
Increase in deferred tax assets	24,028
Additional paid-in capital	11,439
Fair value of consideration paid for acquisition of equity interest	$	303,831

Pursuant to the accounting guidance in ASC 805-50, we determined that the Acquired ACS Assets did not meet the criteria necessary to constitute a business combination and was therefore accounted for as an asset purchase. We recognized the assets acquired in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at their allocated cost on the day of acquisition.

In conjunction with the Wireless Acquisition, we amended certain agreements related to the right to use ACS network assets. We adjusted the related right to use asset to fair value as of the acquisition date resulting in a loss of $3.8 million recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Other Acquisitions

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we completed three additional business acquisitions for total cash consideration of $12.7 million, net of cash received. We accounted for the transactions using the acquisition method of accounting under ASC 805, Business Combinations. Accordingly, the assets received, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interests were recorded at their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date. We determined the estimated fair values using a combination of the discounted cash flows method and estimates made by management.

AWN Acquisition

On July 22, 2013, we closed the transactions under the Asset Purchase and Contribution Agreement (“Wireless Agreement”) and other related agreements entered into on June 4, 2012 by and among ACS, GCI, ACS Wireless, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ACS, GCI Wireless Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI, and AWN, pursuant to which the parties agreed to contribute the respective wireless network assets of GCI, ACS and their affiliates to AWN. Through the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition, AWN provided wholesale services to GCI and ACS. GCI and ACS used the AWN network in order to continue to sell services to their respective retail customers.

Under the terms of the Wireless Agreement, we contributed our wireless network assets and certain rights to use capacity to AWN. Additionally, ACS contributed its wireless network assets and certain rights to use capacity to AWN. As consideration for the contributed business assets and liabilities, ACS received $100.0 million in cash from GCI, a one-third ownership interest in AWN and entitlements to receive preferential cash distributions totaling $190.0 million over the first four years of AWN’s operations ("Preference Period") contingent on the future cash flows of AWN. We received a two-third ownership interest in AWN, as well as entitlements to receive all remaining cash distributions after ACS’s preferential cash distributions during the Preference Period. The distributions to each member were subject to adjustment based on the number of ACS and GCI wireless subscribers, with the aggregate adjustment capped at $21.8 million for each member over the Preference Period.

We accounted for the acquisition of AWN using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations with GCI treated as the acquiring entity. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities contributed by ACS were recorded at estimated fair values as of July 23, 2013, using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations. We used a combination of the discounted cash flows and market method to value the wireless licenses. We used the cost approach to value the acquired fixed assets and rights to use capacity assets. We used a discounted cash flow method to determine the fair value of the non-controlling interest. The assets and liabilities contributed to AWN by GCI were measured at their carrying amount immediately prior to the contribution as GCI is maintaining control over the assets and liabilities.

The following table summarizes the final purchase price and the estimated fair value of ACS’s assets acquired and liabilities assumed, effective July 23, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

Purchase price:	Final Purchase Price Allocation
Cash consideration paid	100,000
Fair value of the one-third ownership interest of AWN	265,511
Total purchase price	365,511
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Current assets	16,963
Property and equipment, including construction in progress	82,611
Goodwill	148,948
Wireless licenses	60,380
Rights to use capacity	45,338
Other assets	17,282
Liabilities assumed	(6,011	)
Total fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed	365,511

Goodwill in the amount of $148.9 million was recorded as a result of the acquisition and assigned to our Wireless segment. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the net assets recognized and represents the estimated future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could not be individually identified and separately recognized. The goodwill is primarily the result of synergies expected from the combination. Other assets is primarily comprised of future capacity receivable.

The acquisition resulted in additional revenues of $50.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. It is impracticable for us to determine the amount of earnings of the acquired business included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2013, due to the significant transfer of personnel, fixed assets and other expenses into and between newly created and historical cost centers that has occurred subsequent to the acquisition.

Unaudited pro forma financial information does not purport to be indicative of the actual results that would have occurred if the acquisition had actually been completed on January 1, 2013, nor is it necessarily indicative of the future revenue of the combined company. The following unaudited pro forma financial information is presented as if the acquisition occurred on January 1, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

	(unaudited)
	Year Ended   December 31,
	2013
Pro forma consolidated revenue	$	897,270

Supplemental pro forma earnings have not been provided as it would be impracticable due to the nature of GCI's and ACS's respective wireless operations prior to the business combination. GCI and ACS were unable to disaggregate the components of expenses related to their wireless operations contributed to AWN and thus the amounts would require estimates so significant that the resulting information would not be meaningful.

Transaction costs of $1.8 million were recorded in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Denali Media Holdings Acquisition

Effective November 1, 2013, Denali Media Holdings, Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Denali Media Anchorage, Corp. and Denali Media Southeast, Corp., agreed to purchase three Alaska broadcast stations: CBS affiliate KTVA-TV of Anchorage and NBC affiliates KATH-TV in Juneau and KSCT-TV of Sitka, for a total of $7.6 million (“Media Agreements”). We accounted for the acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations with GCI treated as the acquiring entity.

(e) Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This new standard provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue resulting from contracts with customers and will supersede virtually all of the current revenue recognition guidance under GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which deferred the effective date to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Early adoption is permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, however, we do not plan to early adopt this standard. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard and we expect to have our assessment of the impact on our financial position and results of operations to be completed by December 31, 2016.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-15, Interest - Imputed Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements which clarifies that the guidance in ASU 2015-03 does not apply to line-of-credit arrangements. According to ASU 2015-15, line-of-credit arrangements will continue to defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issue costs ratably over the term of the arrangement. For public business entities, this update is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis. We expect to adopt this guidance when effective, and do not expect this guidance to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operation, although it will change the financial statement classification of our debt issuance costs.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The ASU provides guidance in evaluating whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the software license element of the arrangement should be accounted for as an acquisition of a software license. If the arrangement does not contain a software license, it should be accounted for as a service contract. This ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and may be adopted either retrospectively or prospectively. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In June 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Updates. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of topics in the codification and are generally categorized as follows: Amendments Related to Differences between Original Guidance and the Codification; Guidance Clarification and Reference Corrections; Simplification; and, Minor Improvements. The amendments are effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. Under ASU 2015-11, inventory will be measured at the “lower of cost and net realizable value” and options that currently exist for “market value” will be eliminated. The ASU defines net realizable value as the “estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation.” No other changes were made to the current guidance on inventory measurement. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is permitted and should be applied prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. The update requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, including the cumulative effect of the change in provisional amount as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The adjustments related to previous reporting periods since the acquisition date must be disclosed by income statement line item either on the face of the income statement or in the notes. The ASU is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The update addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted only for certain portions of the ASU related to financial liabilities. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

(f) Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115. The ASU amends various SEC paragraphs included in the FASB’s ASC to reflect the issuance of Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 115. SAB 115 rescinds portions of the interpretive guidance included in the SEC’s SAB series and brings existing guidance into conformity with ASU No. 2014-17, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting, which provides an acquired entity with an option to apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements upon occurrence of an event in which an acquirer obtains control of the acquired entity. We have adopted the amendments in ASU 2015-08 as the amendments in the update are effective upon issuance. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant effect on our financial position or results of operation.

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. The ASU eliminates the current requirement for organizations to present deferred tax assets and liabilities as current and noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. Instead, organizations will now be required to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. We elected to adopt ASU 2015-17 retrospectively for the year ended December 31, 2015, and have reclassified the December 31, 2014 Deferred Income Taxes balance of $56.1 million included in Total Current Assets to non-current Deferred Income Taxes included in Total Liabilities.

(g) Regulatory Accounting

We account for the regulated operations of our incumbent local exchange carriers in accordance with the accounting principles for regulated enterprises.  This accounting recognizes the economic effects of rate regulation by recording cost and a return on investment as such amounts are recovered through rates authorized by regulatory authorities.  Accordingly, plant and equipment is depreciated over lives approved by regulators and certain costs and obligations are deferred based upon approvals received from regulators to permit recovery of such amounts in future years.  Our cost studies and depreciation rates for our regulated operations are subject to periodic audits that could result in a change to recorded revenues.

(h) Earnings per Common Share

We compute net income (loss) attributable to GCI per share of Class A and Class B common stock using the “two class” method.  Therefore, basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) applicable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. The computation of the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock assumes the conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, while the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class B common stock does not assume the conversion of those shares. The computation of the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock also assumes the conversion of our derivative financial instrument that may be settled in cash or shares (as described in Note 8 of this Form 10-K), shares associated with unexercised stock options and deferred compensation that may be settled in cash or shares if the effect of conversion is dilutive. Additionally, in applying the “two-class” method, undistributed earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities. Our restricted stock grants are entitled to dividends and meet the criteria of a participating security.

We allocate undistributed earnings in periods of net income based on the contractual participation rights of Class A common shares, Class B common shares, and participating securities as if the earnings for the period had been distributed. We do not allocate undistributed earnings to participating securities in periods in which we have a net loss. In accordance with our Articles of Incorporation, if and when dividends are declared on our common stock in accordance with Alaska corporate law, equivalent dividends shall be paid with respect to the shares of Class A and Class B common stock, including participating securities. Both classes of common stock have identical dividend rights and would therefore share equally in our net assets in the event of liquidation. As such, we have allocated undistributed earnings on a proportionate basis.

Earnings per common share (“EPS”) and common shares used to calculate basic and diluted EPS consist of the following (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Year Ended December 31, 2015
	Class A			Class B
Basic net loss per share:
Numerator:
Net loss available to common stockholders	$	(23,858	)	(2,167	)
Less: Undistributed income allocable to participating securities	—			—
Undistributed loss allocable to common stockholders	(23,858		)	(2,167	)
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding	34,764			3,157
Basic net loss attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	(0.69	)	(0.69	)
Diluted net loss per share:
Numerator:
Undistributed loss allocable to common stockholders for basic computation	$	(23,858	)	(2,167	)
Reallocation of undistributed loss as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A shares	(2,167		)	—
Net loss adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares	$	(26,025	)	(2,167	)
Denominator:
Number of shares used in basic computation	34,764			3,157
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding	3,157			—
Number of shares used in per share computation	37,921			3,157
Diluted net loss attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	(0.69	)	(0.69	)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2014					2013
	Class A			Class B		Class A		Class B
Basic net income per share:
Numerator:
Net income available to common stockholders	$	6,980		577		8,678		728
Less: Undistributed income allocable to participating securities	(385		)	—		(354	)	—
Undistributed income allocable to common stockholders	$	6,595		577		8,324		728
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding	36,112			3,162		36,194		3,166
Basic net income attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	0.18		0.18		0.23		0.23
Diluted net income per share:
Numerator:
Undistributed income allocable to common stockholders for basic computation	$	6,595		577		8,324		728
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A shares	577			—		728		—
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of dilutive securities	1			(2	)	1		(3	)
Net income adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares	$	7,173		575		9,053		725
Denominator:
Number of shares used in basic computation	36,112			3,162		36,194		3,166
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding	3,162			—		3,166		—
Unexercised stock options	112			—		142		—
Number of shares used in per share computation	39,386			3,162		39,502		3,166
Diluted net income attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	0.18		0.18		0.23		0.23

Weighted average shares associated with outstanding securities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 which have been excluded from the computations of diluted EPS, because the effect of including these securities would have been anti-dilutive, consist of the following (shares, in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015	2014	2013
Derivative instrument that may be settled in cash or shares	724	—	—
Shares associated with unexercised stock options	108	29	86
Share-based compensation that may be settled in cash or shares	26	26	90
Total excluded	858	55	176

(i) Common Stock

Following are the changes in issued common stock for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (shares, in thousands):

	Class A		Class B
Balances at January 1, 2013	38,534		3,169
Class B shares converted to Class A	4		(4	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	87		—
Share awards issued	680		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(1,822	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(147	)	—
Other	(37	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2013	37,299		3,165
Class B shares converted to Class A	6		(6	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	51		—
Share awards issued	1,267		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(429	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(196	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2014	37,998		3,159
Class B shares converted to Class A	5		(5	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	219		—
Share awards issued	688		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(2,983	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(334	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2015	35,593		3,154

GCI’s Board of Directors has authorized a common stock buyback program for the repurchase of GCI’s Class A and Class B common stock in order to reduce the outstanding shares of Class A and Class B common stock.  Under the common stock buyback plan approved by GCI’s Board of Directors in 2010 we are authorized to repurchase up to $200.0 million worth of GCI common stock, to increase our repurchase limit $5.0 million per quarter indefinitely and to use stock option exercise proceeds to repurchase additional shares.  If stock repurchases are less than the total approved quarterly amount the difference may be carried forward and used to repurchase additional shares in future quarters.  During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 we repurchased shares of our Class A common stock under the stock buyback program at a cost of $47.4 million, $4.2 million and $15.6 million, respectively.  Under this program we are currently authorized to make up to $95.3 million of repurchases as of December 31, 2015.  The cost of the repurchased common stock reduced Common Stock and Retained Earnings in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and was constructively retired as of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

We expect to continue the repurchases for an indefinite period dependent on leverage, liquidity, company performance, and market conditions and subject to continued oversight by GCI’s Board of Directors.

(j) Redeemable Preferred Stock

We have 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock authorized with no shares issued and outstanding at years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

(k) Treasury Stock

We account for treasury stock purchased for general corporate purposes under the cost method and include treasury stock as a component of Stockholders’ Equity.  Treasury stock purchased with intent to retire (whether or not the retirement is actually accomplished) is charged to Class A or Class B Common Stock.

(l) Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of certificates of deposit which have an original maturity of three months or less at the date acquired and are readily convertible into cash.

(m) Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful receivables is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing accounts receivable. We base our estimates on the aging of our accounts receivable balances, financial health of specific customers, regional economic data, changes in our collections process, regulatory requirements and our customers’ compliance with Universal Service Administrative Company rules. We review our allowance for doubtful receivables methodology at least annually.

Depending upon the type of account receivable our allowance is calculated using a pooled basis with an allowance for all accounts greater than 120 days past due or a specific identification method.  When a specific identification method is used, potentially uncollectible accounts due to bankruptcy or other issues are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we feel it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. We do not have any off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to our customers.

Wireless Equipment Installment Plan ("EIP") Receivables

We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that provides eligible customers with the ability to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a period of up to 24 months. Participating customers have the right to trade-in the original equipment for a new device after making the equivalent of 12 monthly installment payments, provided their handset is in good working condition. Upon upgrade, the outstanding balance of the EIP is exchanged for the used handset.

At the time of sale, we impute interest on the receivables associated with Upgrade Now. We record the imputed interest as a reduction to the related accounts receivable. Interest income, which is included in Other Income and (Expense) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, is recognized over the financed installment term.

We assess the collectability of our EIP receivables based upon a variety of factors, including payment trends and other qualitative factors. The credit profiles of our customers with a Upgrade Now plan are similar to those of our customers with a traditional subsidized plan. Customers with a credit profile which carries a higher risk are required to make a down payment for equipment financed through Upgrade Now.

(n) Inventories

Wireless handset inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average cost method. Handset costs in excess of the revenues generated from handset sales, or handset subsidies, are expensed at the time of sale. We do not recognize the expected handset subsidies prior to the time of sale because the promotional discount decision is made at the point of sale and/or because we expect to recover the handset subsidies through service revenue.

Inventories of other merchandise for resale and parts are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average cost method.

(o) Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Construction costs of facilities are capitalized. Equipment financed under capital leases is recorded at the lower of fair market value or the present value of future minimum lease payments at inception of the lease. Construction in progress represents transmission equipment and support equipment and systems not placed in service on December 31, 2015, that management intends to place in service during 2016.

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease term, if applicable, in the following ranges:

Asset Category	Asset Lives
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-20 years
Fiber optic cable systems	15-25 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-30 years
Support equipment and systems	3-20 years
Transportation equipment	5-13 years
Property and equipment under capital leases	12-20 years
Buildings	25 years
Customer premise equipment	2-20 years
Studio equipment	10-15 years

Amortization of property and equipment under capital leases is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for major renewals and betterments are capitalized. Accumulated depreciation is removed and gains or losses are recognized at the time of sales or other dispositions of property and equipment.

(p) Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Goodwill, cable certificates (certificates of convenience and public necessity), wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are not amortized. Cable certificates represent certain perpetual operating rights to provide cable services. Wireless licenses represent the right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services.  Broadcast licenses represent the right to broadcast television stations in certain areas. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition.

All other amortizable intangible assets are being amortized over 2 to 20 year periods using the straight-line method.

(q) Impairment of Intangibles, Goodwill, and Long-lived Assets

Cable certificates, wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are treated as indefinite-lived intangible assets and are tested annually for impairment or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.  We are allowed to assess qualitative factors (“Step Zero”) in our annual test over our indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill.The impairment test for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the asset becomes its new accounting basis.  Impairment testing of our cable certificate, wireless license and broadcast license assets as of October 31, 2015 and 2014, used a direct discounted cash flow method. This approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

Our goodwill is tested annually for impairment, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired.  In our annual test of goodwill, we are allowed to use Step Zero to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired.  We chose not to apply Step Zero and chose to test for goodwill impairment using the traditional quantitative two-step process.  The first step of the quantitative goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount.  To determine our reporting units, we evaluate the components one level below the segment level and we aggregate the components if they have similar economic characteristics. As a result of this assessment, our reporting units are the same as our two reportable segments. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be recognized in a business combination.  We use an income approach to determine the fair value of our reporting units for purposes of our goodwill impairment test.  In addition, a market-based approach is used where possible to corroborate the fair values determined by the income approach.  The income approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

We completed our annual goodwill and intangibles review and no impairment charge was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

Long-lived assets, such as property, plant, and equipment, and purchased or developed intangibles subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of an asset group to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to estimatedundiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group.  If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the fair value of the asset group.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we recorded impairment charges related to our long-lived software assets (see Note 14 of this Form 10-K for detailed information). We recorded no impairment charges related to our long lived assets for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

(r) Amortization and Write-off of Loan Fees

Debt issuance costs are deferred and amortized using the effective interest method. If a refinancing or amendment of a debt instrument is a substantial modification, all or a portion of the applicable debt issuance costs are written off.  If a debt instrument is repaid prior to the maturity date we will write-off the related unamortized amount of debt issuance costs.

(s) Other Assets

Other Assets primarily include broadcast licenses, equity investments that are accounted for using the equity or cost method, restricted cash, long-term deposits, prepayments, long-term EIP receivables and long-term non-trade accounts receivable.

As of December 31, 2014, Other Assets included future capacity receivable that we acquired under the terms of the Wireless Agreement. We terminated certain agreements related to the future capacity receivable as part of the consideration transferred in the Wireless Acquisition resulting in an immaterial future capacity receivable balance as of December 31, 2015.

(t) Investments

We hold investments in equity method and cost method investees. Investments in equity method investees are those for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence but do not control and are not the primary beneficiary. Significant influence typically exists if we have a 20% to 50% ownership interest in the venture unless persuasive evidence to the contrary exists. Under this method of accounting, we record our proportionate share of the net earnings or losses of equity method investees and a corresponding increase or decrease to the investment balances. Cash payments to equity method investees such as additional investments, loans and advances and expenses incurred on behalf of investees, as well as payments from equity method investees such as dividends, distributions and repayments of loans and advances are recorded as adjustments to investment balances. Investments in entities in which we have no control or significant influence are accounted for under the cost method.

We review our investment portfolio each reporting period to determine whether there are identified events or circumstances that would indicate there is a decline in the fair value that would be considered other than temporary. We recorded an impairment loss of $12.6 million related to one of our equity investments during the year ended December 31, 2015 (see "Equity Method Investment" section of Note 12 of this Form 10-K for additional information). We recorded no impairment charges to equity method or cost method investments for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

(u) Asset Retirement Obligations

We record the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred in Other Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. When the liability is initially recorded, we capitalize a cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, changes in the liability for an asset retirement obligation resulting from revisions to either the timing or the amount of the original estimate of undiscounted cash flows are recognized.  Over time,the liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset.  Upon settlement of the liability, we either settle the obligation for itsrecorded amount or incur a gain or loss upon settlement.

The majority of our asset retirement obligations are the estimated cost to remove telephony transmission equipment and support equipment from leased property.  Following is a reconciliation of thebeginning and ending aggregate carrying amounts of our liability for asset retirement obligations (amounts in thousands):

Balance at December 31, 2013	$	26,802
Liability incurred	4,268
Accretion expense	1,249
Revision in estimate	(355		)
Liability settled	(24		)
Balance at December 31, 2014	31,940
Liability incurred	2,048
Accretion expense	1,121
Liability settled	(49		)
Balance at December 31 2015	$	35,060

During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we recorded additional capitalized costs of $2.0 million and $4.3 million, respectively, in Property and Equipment.

Certain of our network facilities are on property that requires us to have a permit and the permit contains provisions requiring us to remove our network facilities in the event the permit is not renewed.  We expect to continually renew our permits and therefore cannot estimate any liabilities associated with such agreements.  A remote possibility exists that we would not be able to successfully renew a permit, which could result in us incurring significant expense in complying with restoration or removal provisions.

(v) Derivative Financial Instrument

We account for our derivative instrument in accordance with ASC 815-10, Derivatives and Hedging. ASC 815-10 establishes accounting and reporting standards requiring that derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. ASC 815-10 also requires that changes in the fair value of derivative instruments be recognized currently in results of operations unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. We have not entered into any hedging activities to date. We recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at their respective fair values. Our derivative instrument (as described in Note 8 of this Form 10-K) includes stock appreciation rights, which have been recorded as a liability at fair value, and will be revalued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value of the instrument included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as Derivative Instrument Unrealized Loss.

(w) Revenue Recognition

All revenues are recognized when the earnings process is complete. Revenue recognition is as follows:

• Revenues generated from long-distance service usage and plan fees, Internet service excess usage, and managed services are recognized when the services are provided,

• We recognize unbilled revenues when the service is provided based upon minutes of use processed, and/or established rates, net of credits and adjustments,

• Video service package fees, local access and Internet service plan fees, and data network revenues are billed in advance, recorded as Deferred Revenue on the balance sheet, and are recognized as the associated service is provided,

• Certain of our wireless services offerings have been determined to be revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables. Revenues are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements. Revenues generated from wireless service usage and plan fees are recognized when the services are provided. Revenues generated from the sale of wireless handsets and accessories are recognized when the amount is known and title to the handset and accessories passes to the customer. As the non-refundable, up-front activation fee charged to the customer does not meet the criteria as a separate unit of accounting, we allocate the additional arrangement consideration received from the activation fee to the handset (the delivered item) to the extent that the aggregate handset and activation fee proceeds do not exceed the fair value of the handset. Any activation fees not allocated to the handset would be deferred upon activation and recognized as service revenue on a straight-line basis over the expected customer relationship period,

• We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that is described above in Note 1(m) of this Form 10-K. Upgrade Now is a multiple-element arrangement typically consisting of the trade-in right, handset, and one month of wireless service. At the inception of the arrangement, revenue is allocated between the separate units of accounting based upon each components' relative selling price on a standalone basis. This is subject to the requirement that revenue recognized is limited to the amounts already received from the customer that are not contingent on the delivery of additional products or services to the customer in the future. We recognize the full amount of the fair value of the trade-in right (not an allocated value) as a guarantee liability and the remaining allocable consideration is allocated to the handset and wireless service. We recognize revenue for the entire amount of the EIP receivable at the time of sale, net of the fair value of the trade-in right guarantee and imputed interest. See Note 1(ag) of this Form 10-K for additional information on guarantee liabilities and Note 1(m) of this Form 10-K for additional information on EIP receivables.

• The majority of our non-wireless equipment sale transactions involve the sale of communications equipment with no other services involved. Such equipment is subject to standard manufacturer warranties and we do not manufacture any of the equipment we sell. In such instances, the customer takes title to the equipment generally upon delivery. We recognize revenue for such transactions when title passes to the customer and the revenue is earned and realizable. On certain occasions we enter into agreements to sell and satisfactorily install or integrate telecommunications equipment for a fixed fee. Customers may have refund rights if the installed equipment does not meet certain performance criteria. We defer revenue recognition until we have received customer acceptance per the contract or agreement, and all other required revenue recognition elements have been achieved. Revenues from contracts with multiple element arrangements, such as those including installation and integration services, are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements,

• Technical services revenues are derived primarily from maintenance contracts on equipment and are recognized on a prorated basis over the term of the contracts,

• We account for fiber capacity Indefeasible Right to Use ("IRU") agreements as an operating lease or service arrangement and we defer the revenue and recognize it ratably over the life of the IRU or as service is rendered,

• Access revenue is recognized when earned.  We participate in access revenue pools with other telephone companies.  Such pools are funded by toll revenue and/or access charges regulated by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") within the intrastate jurisdiction and the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) within the interstate jurisdiction. Much of the interstate access revenue is initially recorded based on estimates. These estimates are derived from interim financial information, available separation studies and the most recent information available about achieved rates of return. These estimates are subject to adjustment in future accounting periods as additional information becomes available. To the extent that a dispute arises over revenue settlements, our policy is to defer revenue recognition until the dispute is resolved,

• We receive grant revenue for the purpose of building or operating communication infrastructure in rural areas.  We defer the revenue and recognize it over the life of the asset that was constructed using grant funds or the period of grant compliance,

• We offer sales incentives to new and existing customers as motivation to purchase our products and services. Cash incentives are recorded as an offset to revenue while noncash incentives are recorded as an operating expense. Sales incentives that relate to a customer contract over a specific period of time are recognized using the straight-line method over the contract term. For sales incentives that are earned by the customer over a specific period of time, we accrue an estimated offset to revenue or expense amount over the period that the incentive is earned by the customer,

• Other revenues are recognized when the service is provided.

Universal Service Fund

As an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier ("ETC"), we receive support from the Universal Service Fund ("USF") to support the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in Remote and Urban high cost areas.

Remote High Cost Support

Remote high cost support is based upon the 2011 support disbursed to Competitive Eligible Telecommunications Carriers (“CETCs”) (“Statewide Support Cap”) providing supported services in Remote Alaska, except AT&T. On January 1, 2012, the per-line rates paid in the Remote areas were frozen by the USF and cannot exceed $250 per line per month on a study area basis. Line count growth that causes support to exceed the Statewide Support Cap triggers a pro rata support payment reduction to all subject Alaska CETCs until the support is reduced to the Statewide Support Cap amount.

We accrue estimated program revenue based on current line counts and the frozen per-line rates, reduced as needed by our estimate of the impact of the Statewide Support Cap. When determining the estimated program revenue accrual, we also consider our assessment of the impact of current FCC regulations and of the potential outcome of FCC proceedings. Our estimated accrued revenue is subject to our judgment regarding the outcome of many variables and is subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.

Remote support will continue to be based on line counts (subject to the Statewide Support Cap) until the last full month prior to the implementation of a successor funding mechanism. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

Urban High Cost Support

Urban high cost support payments are frozen at the monthly average of the subject CETC’s 2011 annual support and are not dependent upon line counts. A 20% annual phase down commenced July 1, 2012.

The phase down has been halted at 60% and the subject CETCs will continue to receive annual support payments at the 60% level until a successor funding mechanism is implemented. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

We apply the proportional performance revenue recognition method to account for the impact of the declining payments while our level of service provided and associated costs remain constant. Included in the calculation are the scheduled Urban high cost support payments from October 2011 through July 2017 net of our Urban accounts receivable balance at September 30, 2011. An equal amount of this result is recognized as Urban support revenue each period.

For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our ability to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuation of the USF program and upon our eligibility to participate in that program, which are subject to change by future regulatory, legislative or judicial actions. We adjust revenue and the account receivable in the period the FCC makes a program change or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. We do not recognize revenue related to a particular service area until our ETC status has been approved by the RCA.

We recorded high cost support revenue under the USF program of $66.2 million, $66.7 million and $55.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  At December 31, 2015, we have $45.5 million in high cost accounts receivable.

(x) Advertising Expense

We expense advertising costs in the period during which the first advertisement appears. Advertising expenses were $5.7 million, $5.7 million and $5.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

(y) Leases

Scheduled operating lease rent increases are amortized over the expected lease term on a straight-line basis. Rent holidays are recognized on a straight-line basis over the operating lease term(including any rent holiday period).

Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their economic lives or the lease term. We may amortize a leasehold improvement over a term that includes assumption of a lease renewal ifthe renewal is reasonably assured. Leasehold improvements acquired in a business combination are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required leaseperiods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date of acquisition. Leasehold improvements that are placed in service significantly after and are not contemplated at or near thebeginning of the lease term are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvements are purchased. Leasehold improvements made by us and funded by landlord incentives or allowances under an operating lease are recorded as deferred rent and amortized as reductions to lease expense over the lease term.

(z) Interest Expense

Material interest costs incurred during the construction period of non-software capital projects are capitalized.  Interest costs incurred during the development period of a software capital project are capitalized.  Interest is capitalized in the period commencing with the first expenditure for a qualifying capital project and ending when the capital project is substantially complete and ready for its intended use. We capitalized interest costs of $3.0 million, $3.6 million and $4.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

(aa) Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for their future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financialstatement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable earningsin the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. A valuation allowance is recognized if it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred tax assetwill not be realized.

(ab) Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Total comprehensive income (loss) was equal to net income (loss) during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

(ac) Share-based Payment Arrangements

Compensation expense is recognized in the financial statements for share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. Share-based compensation expense includes an estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures and is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term.

We are required to report the benefits associated with tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost as a financing cash flow rather than as an operating cash flow.

(ad) Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Significant items subject to estimates and assumptions include the allowance for doubtful receivables, unbilled revenues, accrual of the USF high cost program support, share-based compensation, inventory at lower of cost or market, reserve for future customer credits, liability for incurred but not reported medical insurance claims, valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets, depreciable and amortizable lives of assets, the carrying value of long-lived assets including goodwill, cable certificates, wireless licenses,and broadcast licenses, the fair value of equity method investments evaluated for impairment, our effective tax rate, imputed interest rate, purchase price allocations, deferred lease expense, asset retirement obligations, the accrual of cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense), depreciation, the derivative stock appreciation rights liability, guarantees, and the accrual of contingencies and litigation.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The accounting estimates related to revenues from the USF high cost program are dependent on various inputs including our estimate of the Statewide Support Cap, our assessment of the impact of new FCC regulations, and the potential outcome of FCC proceedings.  These inputs are subjective and based on our judgment regarding the outcome of certain variables and are subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.

(ae) Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Excess cash is invested in high quality short-term liquid money instruments. At December 31, 2015, and 2014, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents were invested in short-term liquid money instruments and the balances were in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limits.

We have one major customer for the year ended December 31, 2015 (see Note 10 of this Form 10-K for additional information).  Our remaining customers are located primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, our growth and operations depend upon economic conditions in Alaska.

(af) Software Capitalization Policy

Internally used software, whether purchased or developed, is capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of three to five years. We capitalize certain costs associated with internally developed software such as payroll costs of employees devoting time to the projects and external direct costs for materials and services. Costs associated with internally developed software to be used internally are expensed until the point the project has reached the development stage. Subsequent additions, modifications or upgrades to internal-use software are capitalized only to the extent that they allow the software to perform a task it previously did not perform. Software maintenance and training costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred. The capitalization of software requires judgment in determining when a project has reached the development stage.

(ag) Guarantees

Certain of our customers have guaranteed levels of service.  If an interruption in service occurs we do not recognize revenue for any portion of the monthly service fee that will be refunded to the customer or not billed to the customer due to these service level agreements.

Additionally, we have provided certain guarantees to U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (“US Bancorp”), our tax credit investor in our four VIEs.  We have guaranteed the delivery of $56.0 million of New Markets Tax Credits (“NMTC”) to US Bancorp, as well as certain loan and management fee payments between our subsidiaries and the VIEs, for which we are the primary beneficiary.  In the event that the tax credits are not delivered or certain payments not made, we are obligated to provide prompt and complete payment of these obligations.  See Note 12 of this Form 10-K for more information about our NMTC transactions.

EIP Trade-in Right

We offer a device trade-in program, "Upgrade Now", which provides eligible customers a specified-price trade-in right to upgrade their device. Participating customers must have purchased a financed device using an equipment installment plan from us and have a qualifying monthly wireless service plan. Upon qualifying for an Upgrade Now device trade-in, the customer's remaining EIP balance is settled provided they trade in their eligible used device in good working condition and purchase a new device from us on a new EIP.

For customers who enroll in Upgrade Now, we defer the portion of equipment sales revenue which represents the estimated value of the trade-in right guarantee. The estimated value of the guarantees are based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, including the customer's estimated remaining EIP balance at trade-in, the expected fair value of the used handset at trade-in and the probability and timing of a trade-in.

We assess facts and circumstances at each reporting date to determine if we need to adjust the guarantee liability. The recognition of subsequent adjustments to the guarantee liability as a result of these assessments are recorded as adjustments to revenue. When customers upgrade their devices, the difference between the trade-in credit to the customer and the fair value of the returned devices is recorded against the guarantee liabilities. Guarantee liabilities are included in Accrued Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

(ah) Classification of Taxes Collected from Customers

We report sales, use, excise, and value added taxes assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between us and a customer on a net basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The following are certain surcharges reported on a gross basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Surcharges reported gross	$	5,058	4,252	4,644

(ai) Reclassifications

Reclassifications have been made to the prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to classifications used in the current year.

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and Supplemental Disclosures

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures

Changes in operating assets and liabilities consist of (amounts in thousands):

Year ended December 31,	2015			2014		2013
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable, net	$	(4,230	)	15,357		(68,360	)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses	(632		)	(4,454	)	672
(Increase) decrease in inventories	5,710			(6,631	)	1,751
Decrease in other current assets	24			88		1,448
Increase in other assets	(11,491		)	(878	)	(1,459	)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	(5,579		)	(4,648	)	15,334
Increase in deferred revenues	1,743			1,728		2,368
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and payroll related obligations	(1,469		)	2,997		10,263
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities	8,192			(242	)	(883	)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest	7,001			(434	)	302
Decrease in subscriber deposits	(448		)	(114	)	(40	)
Decrease in long-term deferred revenue	(8,561		)	(4,163	)	(3,554	)
Increase (decrease) in components of other long-term liabilities	1,305			1,714		(20	)
Total change in operating assets and liabilities	$	(8,435	)	320		(42,178	)

The following items are for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (amounts in thousands):

Net cash paid or received:	2015		2014	2013
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	$	76,796	74,618	71,749

The following items are non-cash investing and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014	2013
Non-cash additions for purchases of property and equipment	$	26,799	42,958	17,230
Non-cash consideration for Wireless Acquisition	$	23,326	—	—
Asset retirement obligation additions to property and equipment	$	2,048	4,268	5,292
Net capital lease obligation	$	—	9,386	—
Distribution to non-controlling interest	$	—	4,167	4,167
Deferred compensation distribution denominated in shares	$	—	617	621
Net assets acquired with equity in AWN (see Note 1(d))	$	—	—	267,642

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Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Receivables [Abstract]

Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Receivables consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Trade	$	205,645	209,811
Employee	1,271		801
Other	1,468		1,829
Total receivables	$	208,384	212,441

As described in Note 1(w) of this Form 10-K we receive support from each of the various USF programs: high cost, low income, rural health care, and schools and libraries.  This support was 19%, 19%, and 18% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  We had USF net receivables of $98.1 million and $109.6 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Changes in the allowance for doubtful receivables during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

			Additions			Deductions
Description	Balance at beginning of year		Charged to costs and expenses	Charged to other accounts		Write-offs net of recoveries	Balance at end of year
December 31, 2015	$	4,542	6,359	—		7,271	3,630
December 31, 2014	$	2,346	3,994	—		1,798	4,542
December 31, 2013	$	3,215	2,370	(446	)	2,793	2,346

XML

Net Property and Equipment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]

Net Property and Equipment in Service

Net Property and Equipment

Net property and equipment consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Land and buildings	$	108,145	100,038
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	1,215,796		1,189,470
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	218,259		193,832
Studio equipment	15,171		14,396
Support equipment and systems	251,302		270,629
Transportation equipment	17,398		15,667
Customer premise equipment	155,971		153,039
Fiber optic cable systems	309,217		305,200
Construction in progress	93,271		99,240
	2,384,530		2,341,511
Less accumulated depreciation	1,231,457		1,178,982
Less accumulated amortization	58,692		50,047
Net property and equipment	$	1,094,381	1,112,482
Property and equipment under capital leases	$	112,495	112,495

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Intangible Assets and Goodwill

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

As of October 31, 2015, cable certificates, wireless licenses, broadcast licenses and goodwill were tested for impairment and the fair values were greater than the carrying amounts, therefore these intangible assets were determined not to be impaired at December 31, 2015.  The remaining useful lives of our cable certificates, wireless licenses, broadcast licenses and goodwill were evaluated as of October 31, 2015, and events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life.  There are no indicators of impairment of our intangible assets subject to amortization as of December 31, 2015.

Other Intangible Assets subject to amortization include the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Software license fees	$	63,760	52,683
Rights to use	44,937		48,283
Customer relationships	1,530		3,226
Right-of-way	784		783
	111,011		104,975
Less accumulated amortization	41,721		38,960
Net other intangible assets	$	69,290	66,015

Changes in Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Goodwill		Other Intangible Assets
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	219,041	71,435
AWN purchase price adjustment - Wireless Segment	8,866		(7,298	)
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment	1,653		—
Asset additions	—		11,593
Amortization expense	—		(9,715	)
Balance at December 31, 2014	229,560		66,015
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment	9,703		—
Asset additions	—		15,023
Software impairment	—		(1,306	)
Amortization expense	—		(10,442	)
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	239,263	69,290

Amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 follow (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Amortization expense	$	10,442	9,715	7,044

Amortized intangible assets are definite-life assets, and as such, we record amortization expense based on a method that most appropriately reflects our expected cash flows from these assets. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method with a weighted-average life of 14.4 years.

Amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is estimated to be (amounts in thousands):

Years Ending December 31,
2016	$	9,841
2017	$	7,508
2018	$	5,573
2019	$	4,241
2020	$	3,232

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Long-Term Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Senior Credit Facility (a)	$	512,937	279,000
2025 Notes (b)	450,000		—
2021 Notes (c)	325,000		325,000
Searchlight Note (d)	75,000		—
Wells Fargo note payable (e)	9,176		9,767
2019 Notes (b)	—		425,000
Rural Utilities Service ("RUS") debt (f)	—		29
Debt	1,372,113		1,038,796
Less unamortized discount on Searchlight Note	20,190		—
Less unamortized discount paid on the 2025 Notes	3,817		—
Less unamortized discount paid on the 2019 Notes	—		2,118
Less current portion of long-term debt	3,342		622
Long-term debt, net	$	1,344,764	1,036,056

(a) On February 2, 2015, GCI Holdings, Inc. ("GCI Holdings"), our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement with MUFG Union Bank, N.A., Suntrust Bank, Bank of America, N.A., as documentation agent, and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent ("Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility provides a $275.0 million Term B loan, up to $240.0 million in delayed draw term loans and a $150.0 million revolving credit facility. The Senior Credit Facility was subsequently amended on August 3, 2015 ("First Amendment").

Under the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, the interest rate for the Term B loan is London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 3.25%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The interest rate on our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility is LIBOR plus the following Applicable Margin set forth opposite each applicable Total Leverage Ratio below.

Total Leverage Ratio (as defined)	Applicable Margin
>=5.5	3.00%
>=5.0 but <5.5	2.75%
>=4.5 but <5.0	2.50%
>=4.0 but <4.5	2.25%
<4.0	2.00%

The Term B loan requires principal payments of 0.25% of the original principal amount on the last day of each calendar quarter with the full amount maturing on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020 if our Senior Notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to such date. The full principal amount of our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on April 30, 2018.

Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility are subject to certain financial covenants and restrictions on indebtedness.  Our Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 5.95 to one; the Senior Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 3.00 to one; and our Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined) must not be less than 2.50 to one at any time.

The terms of the Senior Credit Facility include customary representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Senior Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the Senior Credit Facility are secured by a security interest on substantially all of the assets of GCI Holdings and the subsidiary guarantors, as defined in the Senior Credit Facility, and on the stock of GCI Holdings.

In connection with the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, we paid loan fees and other expenses of $0.3 million that were expensed immediately in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 and $6.2 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the Senior Credit Facility.

We have outstanding $272.9 million under the Term B loan, $240.0 million under the delayed draw term loan, $0.0 million under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility and $22.5 million in letters of credit under the Senior Credit Facility at December 31, 2015, which leaves $127.5 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2015.

(b) On April 1, 2015 (“Closing Date”), GCI, Inc. completed an offering of $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 (“2025 Notes”) at an issue price of 99.105%. We used the net proceeds from this offering to repay and retire all $425.0 million of our outstanding senior unsecured notes due 2019 (“2019 Notes”).

At any time before April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes, plus a premium calculated as defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.

At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2020	103.438	%
2021	102.292	%
2022	101.146	%
2023 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2025 Notes mature on April 15, 2025. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on April 15 and October 15.

The 2025 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2015, between us and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.

We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2025 Notes.

Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2025 Notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2025 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

The 2025 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The covenants in the indenture restrict GCI, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions, as further described in the 2025 Notes indenture.

At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2025 Notes immediately due and payable.

We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. Included in the loss was $20.2 million in call premium payments to redeem our 2019 Notes, $5.4 million in unamortized 2019 Notes deferred loan costs, and $2.1 million for the unamortized portion of the 2019 Notes original issue discount.

We were in compliance with all 2025 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

(c) We pay interest of 6.75% on notes that are due in 2021 ("2021 Notes"). The 2021 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 2025 Notes, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The 2021 Notes are not redeemable prior to June 1, 2016.  At any time on or after June 1, 2016, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing June 1 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2016	103.375	%
2017	102.250	%
2018	101.125	%
2019 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2021 Notes mature on June 1, 2021.  Semi-annual interest payments are payable on June 1 and December 1.

The 2021 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2011, between us and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.

We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2021 Notes.

Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2021 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part (equal to $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, except that no 2021 Note will be purchased in part if the remaining portion thereof would not be at least $2,000) of such holder’s 2021 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2021 Notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2021 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

The terms of the Indenture include customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 25% in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2021 Notes immediately due and payable.

We paid closing costs totaling $3.6 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2021 Notes.

We were in compliance with all 2021 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

(d) On February 2, 2015, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Note 11 of this Form 10-K for additional information.

In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. We allocated the $75.0 million in total proceeds received to the stock appreciation rights based on the fair value of the stock appreciation rights on the day of issuance with the remainder allocated to the Searchlight Note. The allocation resulted in a $21.7 million discount for the Searchlight Note that will be amortized over the term of the note using the effective interest method. See Note 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information on the stock appreciation rights.

We have the option to pay the annual interest obligation on the Searchlight Note in cash or by capitalizing such interest and adding it to the outstanding principal amount of the note. If we elect to capitalize interest in a given year, we are also required to issue additional stock appreciation rights in the amount of four hundredths of a stock appreciation right for each dollar of interest being capitalized.

(e) GCI Holdings, entered into a $10.0 million loan agreement with Wells Fargo Bank on June 30, 2014 to finance the purchase of a building.  The note matures on July 15, 2029 and is due in monthly installments of principal and interest.  The interest rate is variable at one month LIBOR plus 2.25%.

The note is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as our Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the note are secured by a security interest and lien on the purchased building. In connection with the note issuance, we paid loan fees of $0.1 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the note.

(f) UUI, our wholly owned subsidiary, has entered into various loans with the RUS. We repaid substantially all amounts owed to the RUS in 2014 and the remainder of amounts owed in 2015.

Maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31,
2016	$	3,342
2017	3,358
2018	243,374
2019	3,391
2020	3,407
2021 and thereafter	1,115,241
Total debt	1,372,113
Less unamortized discount on Searchlight Note	20,190
Less unamortized discount paid on 2025 Notes	3,817
Less current portion of long-term debt	3,342
Long-term debt, net	$	1,344,764

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Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

Total income tax (expense) benefit of $1.8 million, $(10.0) million and $(11.0) million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, was allocated to income (loss) in each year. Income tax (expense) benefit consists of the following (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014		2013
Deferred tax (expense) benefit:
Federal taxes	$	1,360	(9,081	)	(9,267	)
State taxes	487		(948	)	(1,690	)
	$	1,847	(10,029	)	(10,957	)

Total income tax (expense) benefit differed from the “expected” income tax (expense) benefit determined by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015			2014		2013
“Expected” statutory tax (expense) benefit	$	9,699		(24,246	)	(14,939	)
Nondeductible unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	(4,566		)	—		—
Nondeductible officer compensation	(1,906		)	(1,351	)	(824	)
Nondeductible entertainment expenses	(1,059		)	(1,125	)	(1,045	)
Nondeductible lobbying expenses	(442		)	(425	)	(369	)
State income taxes, net of federal (expense) benefit	487			(948	)	(1,690	)
Impact of non-controlling interest attributable to non-tax paying entity	220			18,255		7,977
Other, net	(586		)	(189	)	(67	)
	$	1,847		(10,029	)	(10,957	)

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	139,238	131,938
Deferred revenue for financial reporting purposes	41,151		36,077
Asset retirement obligations in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	14,338		6,660
Compensated absences accrued for financial reporting purposes	3,339		3,117
Share-based compensation expense for financial reporting purposes in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	2,773		1,458
Accounts receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful receivables	1,912		2,585
Workers compensation and self-insurance health reserves, principally due to accrual for financial reporting purposes	1,795		2,043
Alternative minimum tax credits	1,735		1,735
Deferred compensation expense for tax purposes in excess of amounts recognized for financial reporting purposes	1,603		1,374
Other	13,144		5,866
Total deferred tax assets	$	221,028	192,853
Deferred tax liabilities:
Plant and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation	$	246,172	231,109
Intangible assets	79,255		48,768
Flow-through entity deferred tax items	—		44,728
Other	1,746		—
Total deferred tax liabilities	327,173		324,605
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	106,145	131,752

At December 31, 2015, we have tax net operating loss carryforwards of $340.5 million that will begin expiring in 2020 if not utilized, and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $1.7 million available to offset regular income taxes payable in future years.  Our utilization of remaining acquired net operating loss carryforwards is subject to annual limitations pursuant to Internal Revenue Code section 382 which could reduce or defer the utilization of these losses.

Our tax net operating loss carryforwards are summarized below by year of expiration (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31,	Federal		State
2020	$	34,958	34,301
2021	29,614		28,987
2022	14,081		13,788
2023	3,968		3,903
2024	722		—
2025	737		—
2026	150		—
2027	1,010		—
2028	39,879		39,715
2029	48,370		47,558
2031	110,933		109,376
2033	5,031		4,927
2034	39,133		37,866
2035	11,885		11,290
Total tax net operating loss carryforwards	$	340,471	331,711

Tax benefits associated with recorded deferred tax assets are considered to be more likely than not realizable through taxable income earned in carryback years, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.

We file federal income tax returns in the U.S. and in various state jurisdictions. We are not subject to U.S. or state tax examinations by tax authorities for years 2011 and earlier except that certain U.S. federal income tax returns for years after 1998 are not closed by relevant statutes of limitations due to unused net operating losses reported on those income tax returns.

We recognize accrued interest on unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in selling, general and administrative expenses.  We did not have any unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, and accordingly, we did not recognize any interest expense.  Additionally, we recorded no penalties during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

We did not record any excess tax benefit generated from stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, since we are in a net operating loss carryforward position and the income tax deduction will not yet reduce income taxes payable.  The cumulative excess tax benefits generated for stock options exercised that have not been recognized is $3.4 million at December 31, 2015.

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Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Financial Instruments

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instrument

Recurring Fair Value Measurements

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2015	Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)	Level 3 (3)	Total
Assets:
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$	1,728	—	—	1,728
Liabilities:
Derivative stock appreciation rights	$	—	—	32,820	32,820
December 31, 2014	Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)	Level 3 (3)	Total
Assets:
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$	2,068	—	—	2,068
(1) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
(2) Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities
(3) Inputs that are generally unobservable and not corroborated by market data

The fair value of our mutual funds is determined using quoted market prices in active markets utilizing market observable inputs.

The fair value of our derivative stock appreciation rights was determined using a lattice-based valuation model (see the section "Derivative Financial Instrument" below for more information).

Current and Long-Term Debt

The carrying amounts and approximate fair values of our current and long-term debt, excluding capital leases at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	December 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value	Carrying Amount	Fair Value
Current and long-term debt	$	1,348,106	1,390,743	1,036,678	1,055,952

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair values:

• The fair values of the 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 and the 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 both issued by GCI, Inc. are based upon quoted market prices for the same or similar issues (Level 2).

• The fair value of our Searchlight Note is based on the current rates offered to us for similar remaining maturities plus an additional premium to reflect its subordination to our 2021 and 2025 Notes (Level 3). 

• The fair value of our Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo note payable are estimated to approximate their carrying value because the instruments are subject to variable interest rates (Level 2).

Derivative Financial Instrument

In connection with the $75.0 million unsecured promissory note issued to Searchlight on February 2, 2015, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights. Each stock appreciation right entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. The instrument is exercisable on the fourth anniversary of the grant date and will expire 8 years from the date of grant. We have determined that the stock appreciation rights are required to be separately accounted for as a derivative instrument and are subject to fair value liability accounting under ASC 815-10.

We use a lattice-based valuation model to value the stock appreciation rights liability at each reporting date. The model incorporates transaction details such as our stock price, instrument term and settlement provisions, as well as highly complex and subjective assumptions about volatility, risk-free interest rates, issuer behavior and holder behavior. The lattice model uses highly subjective assumptions and the use of other reasonable assumptions could provide different results. The following table shows our significant assumptions and inputs used in the lattice-based valuation model to value the stock appreciation right liability at December 31, 2015:

	December 31, 2015
Expected term (in years)	4 - 8
Volatility	40	%
Risk-free interest rate	2.1	%

We revalue our derivative liability at each reporting period and recognize gains or losses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations attributable to the change in the fair value of the instrument. The stock appreciation rights liability is included within Other Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and is classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

The following table summarizes the changes in fair value of all financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the year ended December 31, 2015:

Fair Value Measurement Using Level 3 Inputs
	Derivative Stock Appreciation Rights
Balance at January 1, 2015	$	—
Issuance	21,660
Fair value adjustment at end of period, included in Other Income (Expense)	11,160
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	32,820

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Stockholders' Equity

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]

Stockholders Equity

Stockholders’ Equity

Common Stock

GCI’s Class A and Class B common stock are identical in all respects, except that each share of Class A common stock has one vote per share and each share of Class B common stock has ten votes per share. Each share of Class B common stock outstanding is convertible, at the option of the holder, into one share of Class A common stock.

See Note 1(i) of this Form 10-K for details of our share repurchase program.

Shared-Based Compensation

Our Amended and Restated 1986 Stock Option Plan ("Stock Option Plan"), provides for the grant of options and restricted stock awards (collectively "award") for a maximum of 15.7 million shares of GCIClass A common stock, subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of stock dividends, stock splits, mergers, consolidations or certain other changes in corporate structure or capitalization. If an awardexpires or terminates, the shares subject to the award will be available for further grants of awards under the Stock Option Plan. The Compensation Committee of GCI’s Board of Directors administers theStock Option Plan. Substantially all restricted stock awards granted vest over periods of up to three years. Substantially all options vest in equal installments over a period of five years and expire ten yearsfrom the date of grant. The requisite service period of our awards is generally the same as the vesting period.  Options granted pursuant to the Stock Option Plan are only exercisable if at the time of exercisethe option holder is our employee, non-employee director, or a consultant or advisor working on our behalf.  New shares are issued when stock option agreements are exercised or restricted stock awards are granted. We have not issued any new options since 2010 when we transitioned to issuing restricted stock awards. We have 2.1 million shares available for grant under the Stock Option Plan at December 31, 2015.

The fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock.  We estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures at the time of grant and periodically revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. We record share-based compensation expense only for those awards expected to vest using an estimated forfeiture rate based on our historical pre-vesting forfeiture data. We review our forfeiture estimates annually and adjust our share-based compensation expense in the period our estimate changes.

A summary of option activity under the Stock Option Plan as of December 31, 2015 and changes during the year then ended is presented below:

	Shares (in thousands)		Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)
Outstanding at January 1, 2015	308		$	6.86
Exercised	(286	)	$	6.56
Expired	(3	)	$	7.51
Outstanding at December 31, 2015	19		$	11.35	1.0 year	$	160
Exercisable at December 31, 2015	19		$	11.35	1.0 year	$	160

The total intrinsic values, determined as of thedate of exercise, of options exercised in the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, were $3.8 million, $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively.

A summary of nonvested restricted stock award activity under the Stock Option Plan for the year ended December 31, 2015, follows (share amounts in thousands):

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at January 1, 2015	1,744		$	9.11
Granted	688		$	15.06
Vested	(930	)	$	18.29
Forfeited	(7	)	$	12.65
Nonvested at December 31, 2015	1,495		$	11.08

The weighted average grant date fair value of awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $15.06, $10.04 and $8.30, respectively. The total fair value of awards vesting during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $17.0 million, $8.5 million and $5.5 million, respectively. We have recorded share-based compensation expense of $10.9 million, $8.4 million, and $6.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Share-based compensation expense is classified as Selling, General and Administrative Expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.  Unrecognized share-based compensation expense is $9.6 million as of December 31, 2015.  We expect to recognize share-based compensation expense over a weighted average period of 1.8 years for restricted stock awards.

GCI 401(k) Plan

In 1986, we adopted an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“GCI 401(k) Plan”) qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The GCI 401(k) Plan provides for acquisition of GCI’s Class Acommon stock at market value as well as various mutual funds. We may match a percentage of the employees' contributions up to certain limits, decided by GCI’s Board of Directors each year. Our matching contributions allocated to participant accounts totaled $9.8 million, $9.1 million and $8.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  We used cash to fund all of our employer-matching contributions during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

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Industry Segments Data

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Industry Segments Data

Industry Segments Data

We have two reportable segments, Wireless and Wireline. Our reportable segments are business units that offer different products and are each managed separately. A description of our reportable segments follows:

Wireless - We offer wholesale wireless services.  

Wireline - We provide a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.

We evaluate performance and allocate resources based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as earnings plus imputed interest on financed devices before:

•Net interest expense,

•Income taxes,

•Depreciation and amortization expense,

•Loss on extinguishment of debt,

•Software impairment charge,

•Derivative instrument unrealized income (loss),

•Share-based compensation expense,

•Accretion expense,

•Loss attributable to non-controlling interest resulting from NMTC transactions,

•Gains and impairment losses on equity and cost method investments, and

•Other non-cash adjustments.

Management believes that this measure is useful to investors and other users of our financial information in understanding and evaluating operating performance as an analytical indicator of income generated to service debt and fund capital expenditures.  In addition, multiples of current or projected Adjusted EBITDA are used to estimate current or prospective enterprise value.  

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of this Form 10-K.  We have no intersegment sales. We earn all revenues through sales of services and products within the United States. All of our long-lived assets are located within the United States of America, except approximately 82% of our undersea fiber optic cable systems which transit international waters and all of our satellite transponders.

Wireless plan fee and usage revenues from external customers are allocated between our Wireless and Wireline segments.  The Wireless segment recorded subsidies to the Wireline segment related to wireless equipment sales based upon equipment sales and agreed-upon subsidy rates through the AWN transaction close on July 23, 2013. Subsequent to the transaction close and through March 31, 2014, although permitted, the Wireline segment was unable to meet the requirements in order to request a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements. These subsidies, which eliminate in consolidation, increase the Wireline segment Adjusted EBITDA and reduce the Wireless segment Adjusted EBITDA.  The wireless equipment subsidy recorded by the Wireless segment was $7.7 million, $17.3 million, and $12.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Selling, general and administrative expenses are charged to the Wireless segment based upon a shared services agreement.  The remaining selling, general and administrative expenses are charged to the Wireline segment.

Summarized financial information for our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 follows (amounts in thousands):

	Wireless			Wireline		Total Reportable Segments
2015
Revenues
Wholesale	$	267,676		—		267,676
Consumer	—			351,196		351,196
Business Services	—			209,975		209,975
Managed Broadband	—			149,687		149,687
Total	267,676			710,858		978,534
Cost of Goods Sold	70,899			251,439		322,338
Contribution	196,777			459,419		656,196
Less SG&A	(18,137		)	(320,242	)	(338,379	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			10,902		10,902
Plus accretion expense	559			562		1,121
Other	—			511		511
Adjusted EBITDA	$	179,199		151,152		330,351
Capital expenditures	$	47,892		128,343		176,235
Goodwill	$	164,312		74,951		239,263
Total assets	$	594,250		1,388,058		1,982,308

	Wireless			Wireline		Total Reportable Segments
2014
Revenues
Wholesale	$	269,977		—		269,977
Consumer	—			288,014		288,014
Business Services	—			225,963		225,963
Managed Broadband	—			126,244		126,244
Total	269,977			640,221		910,198
Cost of Good Sold	90,920			211,784		302,704
Contribution	179,057			428,437		607,494
Less SG&A	(21,631		)	(272,016	)	(293,647	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			8,392		8,392
Plus accretion expense	733			516		1,249
Other expense	—			(372	)	(372	)
Adjusted EBITDA	$	158,159		164,957		323,116
Capital expenditures	$	30,243		145,866		176,109
Goodwill	$	164,312		65,248		229,560
Total assets	$	625,417		1,376,961		2,002,378
2013
Revenues
Wholesale	$	197,218		—		197,218
Consumer	—			274,805		274,805
Business Services	—			222,814		222,814
Managed Broadband	—			116,811		116,811
Total	197,218			614,430		811,648
Cost of Good Sold	68,086			212,376		280,462
Contribution	129,132			402,054		531,186
Less SG&A	(20,030		)	(251,035	)	(271,065	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			6,638		6,638
Plus accretion expense	507			(430	)	77
Other expense	—			447		447
Adjusted EBITDA	$	109,609		157,674		267,283
Capital expenditures	$	28,156		152,398		180,554
Goodwill	$	155,445		63,596		219,041
Total assets	$	624,740		1,347,314		1,972,054

A reconciliation of reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes follows (amounts in thousands):

Years Ended December 31,	2015			2014		2013
Reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA	$	330,351		323,116		267,283
Less depreciation and amortization expense	(181,767		)	(170,285	)	(147,259	)
Less software impairment charge	(29,839		)	—		—
Less share-based compensation expense	(10,902		)	(8,392	)	(6,638	)
Less accretion expense	(1,121		)	(1,249	)	(77	)
Other	(511		)	372		(447	)
Consolidated operating income	106,211			143,562		112,862
Less other expense, net	(133,924		)	(74,289	)	(70,178	)
Consolidated income (loss) before income taxes	$	(27,713	)	69,273		42,684

We earn revenues included in both the Wireless and Wireline segment from a major customer. We earned revenues from our major customer, net of discounts, of $130.8 million or 13% and $108.3 million or 12% of total consolidated revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015, and 2014, respectively. We had no major customers for the years ended December 31, 2013.

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Related Party Transactions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Related Party Transactions [Abstract]

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions

We entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s President and CEO for property occupied by us.  The leased asset was capitalized in 1991 at the owner’s cost of $0.9 million and the related obligation was recorded.  The lease agreement was amended in April 2008 and our existing capital lease asset and liability increased by $1.3 million to record the extension of this capital lease.  The amended lease terminates on September 30, 2026.

In January 2001 we entered into an aircraft operating lease agreement with a company owned by GCI’s President and CEO.  The lease was amended several times, most recently in May 2011.  The lease term of the aircraft may be terminated at any time by us upon 12 months’ written notice.  The monthly lease rate of the aircraft is $132,000.  In 2001, we paid a deposit of $1.5 million in connection with the lease.  The deposit will be repaid to us no later than six months after the agreement terminates.

ACS was a related party for financial statement reporting purposes from the date of the Wireless Agreement, July 22, 2013, through the date of the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015. Included in our related party disclosures were ACS' provision to us of local service lines and network capacity in locations where we do not have our own facilities, our provision to ACS of wholesale wireless services for their use of our network to sell services to their respective retail customers, and our receipt of ACS' high cost support from USF for its wireless customers. For the period January 1, 2015 to February 2, 2015, we paid ACS $6.2 million and received $8.1 million in payments from ACS. For the year ended December 31, 2014 and the period from the Wireless Agreement date, July 23, 2013, to December 31, 2013, payments to ACS were $62.9 million and $25.1 million, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2014 and the period from the Wireless Agreement date, July 23, 2013, to December 31, 2013, we received $50.9 million and $23.9 million, respectively, in payments from ACS. We also have long-term capacity exchange agreements with ACS for which no money is exchanged.

As disclosed in Note 6(d) and Note 8 of this Form 10-K, we have an unsecured promissory note and stock appreciation rights with Searchlight. Searchlight received one seat on our Board of Directors pursuant to a Securityholder Agreement dated as of December 4, 2014. As a result, Searchlight became a related party on February 2, 2015 when we closed the Wireless Acquisition.

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Variable Interest Entities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Variable Interest Entity, Measure of Activity [Abstract]

Variable Interest Entities

Variable Interest Entities

New Markets Tax Credit Entities

We have entered into several arrangements under the NMTC program with US Bancorp to help fund a project that extended terrestrial broadband service for the first time to rural Northwestern Alaska communities via a high capacity hybrid fiber optic and microwave network (“TERRA-NW”).  The NMTC program was provided for in the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000 (the “Act”) to induce capital investment in qualified lower income communities.  The Act permits taxpayers to claim credits against their federal income taxes for up to 39% of qualified investments in the equity of community development entities (“CDEs”).  CDEs are privately managed investment institutions that are certified to make qualified low-income community investments.

On August 30, 2011, we entered into the first arrangement (“NMTC #1”).  In connection with the NMTC #1 transaction we loaned $58.3 million to TIF, a special purpose entity created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due August 30, 2041.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $22.4 million in TIF.  TIF then contributed US Bancorp’s contribution and the loan proceeds to certain CDEs.  The CDEs, in turn, loaned the $76.8 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at interest rates varying from 1% to 3.96%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

On October 3, 2012, we entered into the second arrangement (“NMTC #2”).  In connection with the NMTC #2 transaction we loaned $37.7 million to TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB, special purpose entities created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due October 2, 2042.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $17.5 million in TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB.  TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB then contributed US Bancorp’s contributions and the loan proceeds to certain CDEs.  The CDEs, in turn, loaned the $55.2 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at interest rates varying from 0.7099% to 0.7693%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

On December 11, 2012, we entered into the third arrangement (“NMTC #3”).  In connection with the NMTC #3 transaction we loaned $8.2 million to TIF 3, a special purpose entity created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due December 10, 2042.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $3.8 million in TIF 3.  TIF 3 then contributed US Bancorp’s contributions and the loan proceeds to a CDE.  The CDE, in turn, loaned the $12.0 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at an interest rate of 1.35%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

US Bancorp is the sole investor in TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3, and as such, is entitled to substantially all of the benefits derived from the NMTCs.  All of the loan proceeds to Unicom, net of syndication and arrangement fees, are restricted for use on TERRA-NW.  Restricted cash of $1.1 million and $1.1 million was held by Unicom at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and is included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We completed construction of TERRA-NW and placed the final phase into service in late 2014.

These transactions include put/call provisions whereby we may be obligated or entitled to repurchase US Bancorp’s interests in TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and/or TIF 3. We believe that US Bancorp will exercise the put options in August 2018, October 2019 and December 2019, at the end of the compliance periods for NMTC #1, NMTC #2 and NMTC #3, respectively.  The NMTCs are subject to 100% recapture for a period of seven years as provided in the Internal Revenue Code.  We are required to be in compliance with various regulations and contractual provisions that apply to the NMTC arrangements.  Non-compliance with applicable requirements could result in projected tax benefits not being realized by US Bancorp.  We have agreed to indemnify US Bancorp for any loss or recapture of NMTCs until such time as our obligation to deliver tax benefits is relieved.  There have been no credit recaptures as of December 31, 2015.  The value attributed to the put/calls is nominal.

We have determined that TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3 are VIEs.  The consolidated financial statements of TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3 include the CDEs discussed above.  The ongoing activities of the VIEs – collecting and remitting interest and fees and NMTC compliance – were all considered in the initial design and are not expected to significantly affect economic performance throughout the life of the VIEs.  Management considered the contractual arrangements that obligate us to deliver tax benefits and provide various other guarantees to US Bancorp; US Bancorp’s lack of a material interest in the underlying economics of the project; and the fact that we are obligated to absorb losses of the VIEs.  We concluded that we are the primary beneficiary of each and consolidated the VIEs in accordance with the accounting standard for consolidation.

US Bancorp’s contributions, net of syndication fees and other direct costs incurred in structuring the NMTC arrangements, are included in Non-controlling Interests on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Incremental costs to maintain the structure during the compliance period are recognized as incurred to selling, general and administrative expense.

The assets and liabilities of our consolidated VIEs were $140.9 million and $104.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.

The assets of the VIEs serve as the sole source of repayment for the debt issued by these entities. US Bank does not have recourse to us or our other assets, with the exception of customary representations and indemnities we have provided. We are not required and do not currently intend to provide additional financial support to these VIEs. While these subsidiaries are included in our consolidated financial statements, these subsidiaries are separate legal entities and their assets are legally owned by them and not available to our creditors.

Equity Method Investment

We own a 40.8% interest in a next generation carrier-class communications services firm. We account for our investment using the equity method. Due to declining economic conditions in the sector that it operates, additional financing was needed for the company to maintain its business plan. In March 2015, the existing owners provided financial support in the form of a loan of which our portion is $3.0 million. We determined that the additional financing provided to the company was a reconsideration event under ASC 810 and have subsequently determined that the entity is a VIE due to insufficient equity to finance its operations as a result of the decline in economic conditions.

We concluded that the company's board has the power to direct the significant activities of the entity. The board is comprised of five members of which we may choose two of the board members. As we do not control the board, we concluded that we do not have the power to direct the significant activities of the entity and are not the primary beneficiary. Our maximum exposure of loss related to the VIE is the combination of the investment and note receivable. We do not have a contractual obligation to provide additional financing.

During the second quarter of 2015, it became apparent that we would not recover the carrying value of our investment. We determined that the fair value of the equity investment was $0 and subsequently wrote-off the entire value of our investment resulting in an impairment loss of $12.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 that is recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. The fair value determination was based upon market information obtained during the second quarter of 2015, the estimated liquidation value of the entity's assets and the amount of senior secured debt at the valuation date.

We have a note receivable with the entity of $3.0 million that is recorded in Other Current Assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 for which we received full payment in January 2016.

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Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

Operating Leases as Lessee

We lease business offices, have entered into site lease agreements and use satellite transponder and fiber capacity and certain equipment pursuant to operating lease arrangements.  Many of our leases are for multiple years and contain renewal options.  Rental costs under such arrangements amounted to $51.5 million, $43.8 million and $46.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Capital Leases as Lessee

We entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s President and CEO for property occupied by us as further described in Note 11 of this Form 10-K.

We have a capital lease agreement for transponder capacity on Intelsat, Ltd.’s (“Intelsat”) Galaxy 18 spacecraft.  The Intelsat Galaxy 18 C-band and Ku-Band transponders are being leased over an expected term of 14 years.  At lease inception the present value of the lease payments, excluding telemetry, tracking and command services and back-up protection, was $98.6 million.

A summary of future minimum lease payments follows (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31:	Operating		Capital
2016	$	45,585	13,454
2017	35,642		13,433
2018	28,822		13,440
2019	23,611		13,450
2020	20,134		13,459
2021 and thereafter	50,933		19,752
Total minimum lease payments	$	204,727	86,988
Less amount representing interest			18,629
Less current maturity of obligations under capital leases			8,708
Long-term obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturity			$	59,651

The leases generally provide that we pay the taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the leased assets.  Several of our leases include renewal options, escalation clauses and immaterial amounts of contingent rent expense.  We expect that in the normal course of business leases that expire will be renewed or replaced by leases on other properties.

Guaranteed Service Levels

Certain customers have guaranteed levels of service with varying terms. In the event we are unable to provide the minimum service levels we may incur penalties or issue credits to customers.

Self-Insurance

Through December 31, 2015, we were self-insured for losses and liabilities related to health and welfare claims up to $600,000 per incident per year above which third party insurance applied. A reserve of $4.1 million and $4.0 million was recorded at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, to cover estimated reported losses, estimated unreported losses based on past experience modified for current trends, and estimated expenses for settling claims.  We are self-insured for all losses and liabilities related to workers’ compensation claims in Alaska and have a workers compensation excess insurance policy to make claims for any losses in excess of $500,000 per incident.  A reserve of $3.6 million and $3.8 million was recorded at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, to cover estimated reported losses and estimated expenses for open and active claims.  Actual losses will vary from the recorded reserves.  While we use what we believe are pertinent information and factors in determining the amount of reserves, future additions or reductions to the reserves may be necessary due to changes in the information and factors used.

We are self-insured for damage or loss to certain of our transmission facilities, including our buried, undersea, and above-ground transmission lines. If we become subject to substantial uninsured liabilities due to damage or loss to such facilities, our financial position, results of operations or liquidity may be adversely affected.

Litigation, Disputes, and Regulatory Matters

We are involved in various lawsuits, billing disputes, legal proceedings, and regulatory matters that have arisen from time to time in the normal course of business.  Management believes there are no proceedings from asserted and unasserted claims which if determined adversely would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Universal Service

As an ETC, we receive support from the USF for the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in Remote and Urban high cost areas as further described in Note 1(w) of this Form 10-K. Remote and Urban high cost support may change once a new funding mechanism is in place. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our ability to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuation of the USF program and upon our eligibility to participate in that program, which are subject to change by future regulatory, legislative or judicial actions. We adjust revenue and the account receivable in the period the FCC makes a program change or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. Our revenue for providing local and wireless services in these areas would be materially adversely affected by a substantial reduction of USF support.

Tribal Mobility Fund I Grant

In February 2014, the FCC announced our winning bids in the Tribal Mobility Fund I auction for a $41.4 million grant to partially fund expansion of our 3G wireless network, or better, to locations in Alaska where we would not otherwise be able to construct within our return-on-investment requirements. We received $13.8 million in 2015 and expect to receive $27.6 million in additional grant fund disbursements in the future depending on the timing of upgrades completed and test results submitted to and approved by the FCC.

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Software Impairment Software Impairment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]

Software Impairment

During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, we internally developed computer software in our Wireline segment to replace our wireless, Internet, video, local service, and long distance customer billing systems. During the first quarter of 2015, we completed a detailed assessment of our progress to date and determined it was no longer probable that the computer software being developed would be completed and placed in service. Our assessment concluded that the cost of continuing the development would be much higher than originally estimated, and the timing and scope risks were substantial. We identified development work, hardware, and software recorded as Construction in Progress through the first quarter of 2015, that may be applicable to our replacement customer billing solution, future internally developed software, and other system needs and therefore should remain capital assets. We considered the remaining capital expenditures for this billing system to have a fair value of $0 and recorded an impairment charge of $20.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we reassessed our plans for our internally developed machine-to-machine billing system in our Wireline segment, and decided to no longer market this system to third parties. Accordingly, we recognized an impairment of $7.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we evaluated user management software we purchased in 2014 in our Wireline segment and determined that we would not be able to use the software. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $1.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

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Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

	First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter	Fourth Quarter
2015
Total revenues	$	231,089		247,528		258,573	241,344
Operating income	$	741		39,203		45,473	20,794
Net income (loss)	$	(18,725	)	(15,757	)	17,495	(8,879	)
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$	(19,269	)	(15,627	)	17,631	(8,760	)
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.49	)	(0.41	)	0.45	(0.24	)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.49	)	(0.41	)	0.44	(0.24	)
2014
Total revenues	$	216,283		224,399		240,725	228,791
Operating income	$	30,265		38,414		49,336	25,547
Net income	$	10,761		16,840		25,847	5,796
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$	1,140		5,927		9,915	(9,425	)
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	0.03		0.14		0.24	(0.24	)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	0.03		0.14		0.24	(0.24	)

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include the consolidated accounts of GCI and its wholly owned subsidiaries, The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC ("AWN") of which we owned a two-third interest through February 2, 2015 when we purchased the remaining one-third interest, and four variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which we are the primary beneficiary after providing certain loans and guarantees.  These VIEs are Terra GCI Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF”), Terra GCI 2 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2”), Terra GCI 2-USB Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2-USB”) and Terra GCI 3 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 3”).  We also include in our consolidated financial statements non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries for which our ownership is less than 100 percent.  All significant intercompany transactions between non-regulated affiliates of our company are eliminated.  Intercompany transactions generated between regulated and non-regulated affiliates of our company are not eliminated in consolidation.

Non-controlling Interests

Non-controlling Interests

Non-controlling interests represent the equity ownership interests in consolidated subsidiaries not owned by us.  Non-controlling interests are adjusted for contributions, distributions, and income and loss attributable to the non-controlling interest partners of the consolidated entities.  Income and loss is allocated to the non-controlling interests based on the respective governing documents.

Acquisitions

We have accounted for the AWN NCI Acquisition as the acquisition of a non-controlling interest in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 810, Consolidation, and the Acquired ACS Assets as the acquisition of assets that do not constitute a business in accordance with ASC 805-50, Business Combinations - Related Issues.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This new standard provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue resulting from contracts with customers and will supersede virtually all of the current revenue recognition guidance under GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which deferred the effective date to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Early adoption is permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, however, we do not plan to early adopt this standard. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard and we expect to have our assessment of the impact on our financial position and results of operations to be completed by December 31, 2016.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-15, Interest - Imputed Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements which clarifies that the guidance in ASU 2015-03 does not apply to line-of-credit arrangements. According to ASU 2015-15, line-of-credit arrangements will continue to defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issue costs ratably over the term of the arrangement. For public business entities, this update is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis. We expect to adopt this guidance when effective, and do not expect this guidance to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operation, although it will change the financial statement classification of our debt issuance costs.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The ASU provides guidance in evaluating whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the software license element of the arrangement should be accounted for as an acquisition of a software license. If the arrangement does not contain a software license, it should be accounted for as a service contract. This ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and may be adopted either retrospectively or prospectively. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In June 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Updates. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of topics in the codification and are generally categorized as follows: Amendments Related to Differences between Original Guidance and the Codification; Guidance Clarification and Reference Corrections; Simplification; and, Minor Improvements. The amendments are effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. Under ASU 2015-11, inventory will be measured at the “lower of cost and net realizable value” and options that currently exist for “market value” will be eliminated. The ASU defines net realizable value as the “estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation.” No other changes were made to the current guidance on inventory measurement. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is permitted and should be applied prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. The update requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, including the cumulative effect of the change in provisional amount as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The adjustments related to previous reporting periods since the acquisition date must be disclosed by income statement line item either on the face of the income statement or in the notes. The ASU is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The update addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted only for certain portions of the ASU related to financial liabilities. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

(f) Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115. The ASU amends various SEC paragraphs included in the FASB’s ASC to reflect the issuance of Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 115. SAB 115 rescinds portions of the interpretive guidance included in the SEC’s SAB series and brings existing guidance into conformity with ASU No. 2014-17, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting, which provides an acquired entity with an option to apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements upon occurrence of an event in which an acquirer obtains control of the acquired entity. We have adopted the amendments in ASU 2015-08 as the amendments in the update are effective upon issuance. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant effect on our financial position or results of operation.

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. The ASU eliminates the current requirement for organizations to present deferred tax assets and liabilities as current and noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. Instead, organizations will now be required to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. We elected to adopt ASU 2015-17 retrospectively for the year ended December 31, 2015, and have reclassified the December 31, 2014 Deferred Income Taxes balance of $56.1 million included in Total Current Assets to non-current Deferred Income Taxes included in Total Liabilities.

Regulatory Accounting

Regulatory Accounting

We account for the regulated operations of our incumbent local exchange carriers in accordance with the accounting principles for regulated enterprises.  This accounting recognizes the economic effects of rate regulation by recording cost and a return on investment as such amounts are recovered through rates authorized by regulatory authorities.  Accordingly, plant and equipment is depreciated over lives approved by regulators and certain costs and obligations are deferred based upon approvals received from regulators to permit recovery of such amounts in future years.  Our cost studies and depreciation rates for our regulated operations are subject to periodic audits that could result in a change to recorded revenues.

Earnings per Common Share

Earnings per Common Share

We compute net income (loss) attributable to GCI per share of Class A and Class B common stock using the “two class” method.  Therefore, basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) applicable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. The computation of the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock assumes the conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, while the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class B common stock does not assume the conversion of those shares. The computation of the dilutive net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock also assumes the conversion of our derivative financial instrument that may be settled in cash or shares (as described in Note 8 of this Form 10-K), shares associated with unexercised stock options and deferred compensation that may be settled in cash or shares if the effect of conversion is dilutive. Additionally, in applying the “two-class” method, undistributed earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities. Our restricted stock grants are entitled to dividends and meet the criteria of a participating security.

We allocate undistributed earnings in periods of net income based on the contractual participation rights of Class A common shares, Class B common shares, and participating securities as if the earnings for the period had been distributed. We do not allocate undistributed earnings to participating securities in periods in which we have a net loss. In accordance with our Articles of Incorporation, if and when dividends are declared on our common stock in accordance with Alaska corporate law, equivalent dividends shall be paid with respect to the shares of Class A and Class B common stock, including participating securities. Both classes of common stock have identical dividend rights and would therefore share equally in our net assets in the event of liquidation. As such, we have allocated undistributed earnings on a proportionate basis.

Treasury Stock

Treasury Stock

We account for treasury stock purchased for general corporate purposes under the cost method and include treasury stock as a component of Stockholders’ Equity.  Treasury stock purchased with intent to retire (whether or not the retirement is actually accomplished) is charged to Class A or Class B Common Stock.

Cash Equivalents

Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of certificates of deposit which have an original maturity of three months or less at the date acquired and are readily convertible into cash.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful receivables is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing accounts receivable. We base our estimates on the aging of our accounts receivable balances, financial health of specific customers, regional economic data, changes in our collections process, regulatory requirements and our customers’ compliance with Universal Service Administrative Company rules. We review our allowance for doubtful receivables methodology at least annually.

Depending upon the type of account receivable our allowance is calculated using a pooled basis with an allowance for all accounts greater than 120 days past due or a specific identification method.  When a specific identification method is used, potentially uncollectible accounts due to bankruptcy or other issues are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we feel it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. We do not have any off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to our customers.

Wireless Equipment Installment Plan ("EIP") Receivables

We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that provides eligible customers with the ability to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a period of up to 24 months. Participating customers have the right to trade-in the original equipment for a new device after making the equivalent of 12 monthly installment payments, provided their handset is in good working condition. Upon upgrade, the outstanding balance of the EIP is exchanged for the used handset.

At the time of sale, we impute interest on the receivables associated with Upgrade Now. We record the imputed interest as a reduction to the related accounts receivable. Interest income, which is included in Other Income and (Expense) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, is recognized over the financed installment term.

We assess the collectability of our EIP receivables based upon a variety of factors, including payment trends and other qualitative factors. The credit profiles of our customers with a Upgrade Now plan are similar to those of our customers with a traditional subsidized plan. Customers with a credit profile which carries a higher risk are required to make a down payment for equipment financed through Upgrade Now.

Inventories

Inventories

Wireless handset inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average cost method. Handset costs in excess of the revenues generated from handset sales, or handset subsidies, are expensed at the time of sale. We do not recognize the expected handset subsidies prior to the time of sale because the promotional discount decision is made at the point of sale and/or because we expect to recover the handset subsidies through service revenue.

Inventories of other merchandise for resale and parts are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average cost method.

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Construction costs of facilities are capitalized. Equipment financed under capital leases is recorded at the lower of fair market value or the present value of future minimum lease payments at inception of the lease. Construction in progress represents transmission equipment and support equipment and systems not placed in service on December 31, 2015, that management intends to place in service during 2016.

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease term, if applicable, in the following ranges:

Asset Category	Asset Lives
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-20 years
Fiber optic cable systems	15-25 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-30 years
Support equipment and systems	3-20 years
Transportation equipment	5-13 years
Property and equipment under capital leases	12-20 years
Buildings	25 years
Customer premise equipment	2-20 years
Studio equipment	10-15 years

Amortization of property and equipment under capital leases is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for major renewals and betterments are capitalized. Accumulated depreciation is removed and gains or losses are recognized at the time of sales or other dispositions of property and equipment.

Depreciation

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease term, if applicable

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Goodwill, cable certificates (certificates of convenience and public necessity), wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are not amortized. Cable certificates represent certain perpetual operating rights to provide cable services. Wireless licenses represent the right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services.  Broadcast licenses represent the right to broadcast television stations in certain areas. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition.

All other amortizable intangible assets are being amortized over 2 to 20 year periods using the straight-line method.

Impairment of Intangibles, Goodwill, and Long-lived Assets

Impairment of Intangibles, Goodwill, and Long-lived Assets

Cable certificates, wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are treated as indefinite-lived intangible assets and are tested annually for impairment or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.  We are allowed to assess qualitative factors (“Step Zero”) in our annual test over our indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill.The impairment test for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the asset becomes its new accounting basis.  Impairment testing of our cable certificate, wireless license and broadcast license assets as of October 31, 2015 and 2014, used a direct discounted cash flow method. This approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

Our goodwill is tested annually for impairment, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired.  In our annual test of goodwill, we are allowed to use Step Zero to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired.  We chose not to apply Step Zero and chose to test for goodwill impairment using the traditional quantitative two-step process.  The first step of the quantitative goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount.  To determine our reporting units, we evaluate the components one level below the segment level and we aggregate the components if they have similar economic characteristics. As a result of this assessment, our reporting units are the same as our two reportable segments. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be recognized in a business combination.  We use an income approach to determine the fair value of our reporting units for purposes of our goodwill impairment test.  In addition, a market-based approach is used where possible to corroborate the fair values determined by the income approach.  The income approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

We completed our annual goodwill and intangibles review and no impairment charge was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

Long-lived assets, such as property, plant, and equipment, and purchased or developed intangibles subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of an asset group to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to estimatedundiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group.  If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the fair value of the asset group.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we recorded impairment charges related to our long-lived software assets (see Note 14 of this Form 10-K for detailed information). We recorded no impairment charges related to our long lived assets for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Investment, Policy

Investments

We hold investments in equity method and cost method investees. Investments in equity method investees are those for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence but do not control and are not the primary beneficiary. Significant influence typically exists if we have a 20% to 50% ownership interest in the venture unless persuasive evidence to the contrary exists. Under this method of accounting, we record our proportionate share of the net earnings or losses of equity method investees and a corresponding increase or decrease to the investment balances. Cash payments to equity method investees such as additional investments, loans and advances and expenses incurred on behalf of investees, as well as payments from equity method investees such as dividends, distributions and repayments of loans and advances are recorded as adjustments to investment balances. Investments in entities in which we have no control or significant influence are accounted for under the cost method.

We review our investment portfolio each reporting period to determine whether there are identified events or circumstances that would indicate there is a decline in the fair value that would be considered other than temporary.

Asset Retirement Obligations

Asset Retirement Obligations

We record the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred in Other Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. When the liability is initially recorded, we capitalize a cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, changes in the liability for an asset retirement obligation resulting from revisions to either the timing or the amount of the original estimate of undiscounted cash flows are recognized.  Over time,the liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset.  Upon settlement of the liability, we either settle the obligation for itsrecorded amount or incur a gain or loss upon settlement.

The majority of our asset retirement obligations are the estimated cost to remove telephony transmission equipment and support equipment from leased property.

Derivatives

Derivative Financial Instrument

We account for our derivative instrument in accordance with ASC 815-10, Derivatives and Hedging. ASC 815-10 establishes accounting and reporting standards requiring that derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. ASC 815-10 also requires that changes in the fair value of derivative instruments be recognized currently in results of operations unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. We have not entered into any hedging activities to date. We recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at their respective fair values. Our derivative instrument (as described in Note 8 of this Form 10-K) includes stock appreciation rights, which have been recorded as a liability at fair value, and will be revalued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value of the instrument included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as Derivative Instrument Unrealized Loss.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

All revenues are recognized when the earnings process is complete. Revenue recognition is as follows:

• Revenues generated from long-distance service usage and plan fees, Internet service excess usage, and managed services are recognized when the services are provided,

• We recognize unbilled revenues when the service is provided based upon minutes of use processed, and/or established rates, net of credits and adjustments,

• Video service package fees, local access and Internet service plan fees, and data network revenues are billed in advance, recorded as Deferred Revenue on the balance sheet, and are recognized as the associated service is provided,

• Certain of our wireless services offerings have been determined to be revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables. Revenues are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements. Revenues generated from wireless service usage and plan fees are recognized when the services are provided. Revenues generated from the sale of wireless handsets and accessories are recognized when the amount is known and title to the handset and accessories passes to the customer. As the non-refundable, up-front activation fee charged to the customer does not meet the criteria as a separate unit of accounting, we allocate the additional arrangement consideration received from the activation fee to the handset (the delivered item) to the extent that the aggregate handset and activation fee proceeds do not exceed the fair value of the handset. Any activation fees not allocated to the handset would be deferred upon activation and recognized as service revenue on a straight-line basis over the expected customer relationship period,

• We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that is described above in Note 1(m) of this Form 10-K. Upgrade Now is a multiple-element arrangement typically consisting of the trade-in right, handset, and one month of wireless service. At the inception of the arrangement, revenue is allocated between the separate units of accounting based upon each components' relative selling price on a standalone basis. This is subject to the requirement that revenue recognized is limited to the amounts already received from the customer that are not contingent on the delivery of additional products or services to the customer in the future. We recognize the full amount of the fair value of the trade-in right (not an allocated value) as a guarantee liability and the remaining allocable consideration is allocated to the handset and wireless service. We recognize revenue for the entire amount of the EIP receivable at the time of sale, net of the fair value of the trade-in right guarantee and imputed interest. See Note 1(ag) of this Form 10-K for additional information on guarantee liabilities and Note 1(m) of this Form 10-K for additional information on EIP receivables.

• The majority of our non-wireless equipment sale transactions involve the sale of communications equipment with no other services involved. Such equipment is subject to standard manufacturer warranties and we do not manufacture any of the equipment we sell. In such instances, the customer takes title to the equipment generally upon delivery. We recognize revenue for such transactions when title passes to the customer and the revenue is earned and realizable. On certain occasions we enter into agreements to sell and satisfactorily install or integrate telecommunications equipment for a fixed fee. Customers may have refund rights if the installed equipment does not meet certain performance criteria. We defer revenue recognition until we have received customer acceptance per the contract or agreement, and all other required revenue recognition elements have been achieved. Revenues from contracts with multiple element arrangements, such as those including installation and integration services, are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements,

• Technical services revenues are derived primarily from maintenance contracts on equipment and are recognized on a prorated basis over the term of the contracts,

• We account for fiber capacity Indefeasible Right to Use ("IRU") agreements as an operating lease or service arrangement and we defer the revenue and recognize it ratably over the life of the IRU or as service is rendered,

• Access revenue is recognized when earned.  We participate in access revenue pools with other telephone companies.  Such pools are funded by toll revenue and/or access charges regulated by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") within the intrastate jurisdiction and the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) within the interstate jurisdiction. Much of the interstate access revenue is initially recorded based on estimates. These estimates are derived from interim financial information, available separation studies and the most recent information available about achieved rates of return. These estimates are subject to adjustment in future accounting periods as additional information becomes available. To the extent that a dispute arises over revenue settlements, our policy is to defer revenue recognition until the dispute is resolved,

• We receive grant revenue for the purpose of building or operating communication infrastructure in rural areas.  We defer the revenue and recognize it over the life of the asset that was constructed using grant funds or the period of grant compliance,

• We offer sales incentives to new and existing customers as motivation to purchase our products and services. Cash incentives are recorded as an offset to revenue while noncash incentives are recorded as an operating expense. Sales incentives that relate to a customer contract over a specific period of time are recognized using the straight-line method over the contract term. For sales incentives that are earned by the customer over a specific period of time, we accrue an estimated offset to revenue or expense amount over the period that the incentive is earned by the customer,

• Other revenues are recognized when the service is provided.

Universal Service Fund

As an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier ("ETC"), we receive support from the Universal Service Fund ("USF") to support the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in Remote and Urban high cost areas.

Remote High Cost Support

Remote high cost support is based upon the 2011 support disbursed to Competitive Eligible Telecommunications Carriers (“CETCs”) (“Statewide Support Cap”) providing supported services in Remote Alaska, except AT&T. On January 1, 2012, the per-line rates paid in the Remote areas were frozen by the USF and cannot exceed $250 per line per month on a study area basis. Line count growth that causes support to exceed the Statewide Support Cap triggers a pro rata support payment reduction to all subject Alaska CETCs until the support is reduced to the Statewide Support Cap amount.

We accrue estimated program revenue based on current line counts and the frozen per-line rates, reduced as needed by our estimate of the impact of the Statewide Support Cap. When determining the estimated program revenue accrual, we also consider our assessment of the impact of current FCC regulations and of the potential outcome of FCC proceedings. Our estimated accrued revenue is subject to our judgment regarding the outcome of many variables and is subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.

Remote support will continue to be based on line counts (subject to the Statewide Support Cap) until the last full month prior to the implementation of a successor funding mechanism. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

Urban High Cost Support

Urban high cost support payments are frozen at the monthly average of the subject CETC’s 2011 annual support and are not dependent upon line counts. A 20% annual phase down commenced July 1, 2012.

The phase down has been halted at 60% and the subject CETCs will continue to receive annual support payments at the 60% level until a successor funding mechanism is implemented. A further rulemaking to consider successor funding mechanisms is underway and could result in a substantial reduction of USF support.

We apply the proportional performance revenue recognition method to account for the impact of the declining payments while our level of service provided and associated costs remain constant. Included in the calculation are the scheduled Urban high cost support payments from October 2011 through July 2017 net of our Urban accounts receivable balance at September 30, 2011. An equal amount of this result is recognized as Urban support revenue each period.

For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our ability to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuation of the USF program and upon our eligibility to participate in that program, which are subject to change by future regulatory, legislative or judicial actions. We adjust revenue and the account receivable in the period the FCC makes a program change or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. We do not recognize revenue related to a particular service area until our ETC status has been approved by the RCA.

Advertising Expense

Advertising Expense

We expense advertising costs in the period during which the first advertisement appears.

Leases

Leases

Scheduled operating lease rent increases are amortized over the expected lease term on a straight-line basis. Rent holidays are recognized on a straight-line basis over the operating lease term(including any rent holiday period).

Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their economic lives or the lease term. We may amortize a leasehold improvement over a term that includes assumption of a lease renewal ifthe renewal is reasonably assured. Leasehold improvements acquired in a business combination are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required leaseperiods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date of acquisition. Leasehold improvements that are placed in service significantly after and are not contemplated at or near thebeginning of the lease term are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvements are purchased. Leasehold improvements made by us and funded by landlord incentives or allowances under an operating lease are recorded as deferred rent and amortized as reductions to lease expense over the lease term.

Interest Expense

Amortization and Write-off of Loan Fees

Debt issuance costs are deferred and amortized using the effective interest method. If a refinancing or amendment of a debt instrument is a substantial modification, all or a portion of the applicable debt issuance costs are written off.  If a debt instrument is repaid prior to the maturity date we will write-off the related unamortized amount of debt issuance costs.

Interest Expense

Material interest costs incurred during the construction period of non-software capital projects are capitalized.  Interest costs incurred during the development period of a software capital project are capitalized.  Interest is capitalized in the period commencing with the first expenditure for a qualifying capital project and ending when the capital project is substantially complete and ready for its intended use.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for their future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financialstatement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable earningsin the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. A valuation allowance is recognized if it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred tax assetwill not be realized.

Share-based Payment Arrangements

Share-based Payment Arrangements

Compensation expense is recognized in the financial statements for share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. Share-based compensation expense includes an estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures and is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term.

We are required to report the benefits associated with tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost as a financing cash flow rather than as an operating cash flow.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Significant items subject to estimates and assumptions include the allowance for doubtful receivables, unbilled revenues, accrual of the USF high cost program support, share-based compensation, inventory at lower of cost or market, reserve for future customer credits, liability for incurred but not reported medical insurance claims, valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets, depreciable and amortizable lives of assets, the carrying value of long-lived assets including goodwill, cable certificates, wireless licenses,and broadcast licenses, the fair value of equity method investments evaluated for impairment, our effective tax rate, imputed interest rate, purchase price allocations, deferred lease expense, asset retirement obligations, the accrual of cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense), depreciation, the derivative stock appreciation rights liability, guarantees, and the accrual of contingencies and litigation.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The accounting estimates related to revenues from the USF high cost program are dependent on various inputs including our estimate of the Statewide Support Cap, our assessment of the impact of new FCC regulations, and the potential outcome of FCC proceedings.  These inputs are subjective and based on our judgment regarding the outcome of certain variables and are subject to upward or downward adjustment in subsequent periods.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Excess cash is invested in high quality short-term liquid money instruments. At December 31, 2015, and 2014, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents were invested in short-term liquid money instruments and the balances were in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limits.

We have one major customer for the year ended December 31, 2015 (see Note 10 of this Form 10-K for additional information).  Our remaining customers are located primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, our growth and operations depend upon economic conditions in Alaska.

Software Capitalization Policy

Software Capitalization Policy

Internally used software, whether purchased or developed, is capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of three to five years. We capitalize certain costs associated with internally developed software such as payroll costs of employees devoting time to the projects and external direct costs for materials and services. Costs associated with internally developed software to be used internally are expensed until the point the project has reached the development stage. Subsequent additions, modifications or upgrades to internal-use software are capitalized only to the extent that they allow the software to perform a task it previously did not perform. Software maintenance and training costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred. The capitalization of software requires judgment in determining when a project has reached the development stage.

Guarantees

Guarantees

Certain of our customers have guaranteed levels of service.  If an interruption in service occurs we do not recognize revenue for any portion of the monthly service fee that will be refunded to the customer or not billed to the customer due to these service level agreements.

Additionally, we have provided certain guarantees to U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (“US Bancorp”), our tax credit investor in our four VIEs.  We have guaranteed the delivery of $56.0 million of New Markets Tax Credits (“NMTC”) to US Bancorp, as well as certain loan and management fee payments between our subsidiaries and the VIEs, for which we are the primary beneficiary.  In the event that the tax credits are not delivered or certain payments not made, we are obligated to provide prompt and complete payment of these obligations.  See Note 12 of this Form 10-K for more information about our NMTC transactions.

EIP Trade-in Right

We offer a device trade-in program, "Upgrade Now", which provides eligible customers a specified-price trade-in right to upgrade their device. Participating customers must have purchased a financed device using an equipment installment plan from us and have a qualifying monthly wireless service plan. Upon qualifying for an Upgrade Now device trade-in, the customer's remaining EIP balance is settled provided they trade in their eligible used device in good working condition and purchase a new device from us on a new EIP.

For customers who enroll in Upgrade Now, we defer the portion of equipment sales revenue which represents the estimated value of the trade-in right guarantee. The estimated value of the guarantees are based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, including the customer's estimated remaining EIP balance at trade-in, the expected fair value of the used handset at trade-in and the probability and timing of a trade-in.

We assess facts and circumstances at each reporting date to determine if we need to adjust the guarantee liability. The recognition of subsequent adjustments to the guarantee liability as a result of these assessments are recorded as adjustments to revenue. When customers upgrade their devices, the difference between the trade-in credit to the customer and the fair value of the returned devices is recorded against the guarantee liabilities. Guarantee liabilities are included in Accrued Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Classification of Taxes Collected from Customers

We report sales, use, excise, and value added taxes assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between us and a customer on a net basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications

Reclassifications have been made to the prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to classifications used in the current year.

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Schedule of Consideration Transferred to Acquire Assets and Interest [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the allocation of total consideration transferred to ACS between the AWN NCI Acquisition and the Acquired ACS Assets excluding working capital adjustments (amounts in thousands):

Total consideration transfered to ACS	$	304,838
Allocation of consideration between wireless assets and non-controlling interest acquired:
AWN non-controlling interest	$	303,831
Property and equipment	746
Other intangible assets	261
Total consideration	$	304,838

Changes in Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block]

The impact of the AWN NCI Acquisition is summarized in the following table (amounts in thousands):

Reduction of non-controlling interest	$	268,364
Increase in deferred tax assets	24,028
Additional paid-in capital	11,439
Fair value of consideration paid for acquisition of equity interest	$	303,831

Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed

The following table summarizes the final purchase price and the estimated fair value of ACS’s assets acquired and liabilities assumed, effective July 23, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

Purchase price:	Final Purchase Price Allocation
Cash consideration paid	100,000
Fair value of the one-third ownership interest of AWN	265,511
Total purchase price	365,511
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Current assets	16,963
Property and equipment, including construction in progress	82,611
Goodwill	148,948
Wireless licenses	60,380
Rights to use capacity	45,338
Other assets	17,282
Liabilities assumed	(6,011	)
Total fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed	365,511

Pro Forma Information

The following unaudited pro forma financial information is presented as if the acquisition occurred on January 1, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

	(unaudited)
	Year Ended   December 31,
	2013
Pro forma consolidated revenue	$	897,270

Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share

Earnings per common share (“EPS”) and common shares used to calculate basic and diluted EPS consist of the following (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Year Ended December 31, 2015
	Class A			Class B
Basic net loss per share:
Numerator:
Net loss available to common stockholders	$	(23,858	)	(2,167	)
Less: Undistributed income allocable to participating securities	—			—
Undistributed loss allocable to common stockholders	(23,858		)	(2,167	)
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding	34,764			3,157
Basic net loss attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	(0.69	)	(0.69	)
Diluted net loss per share:
Numerator:
Undistributed loss allocable to common stockholders for basic computation	$	(23,858	)	(2,167	)
Reallocation of undistributed loss as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A shares	(2,167		)	—
Net loss adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares	$	(26,025	)	(2,167	)
Denominator:
Number of shares used in basic computation	34,764			3,157
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding	3,157			—
Number of shares used in per share computation	37,921			3,157
Diluted net loss attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	(0.69	)	(0.69	)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2014					2013
	Class A			Class B		Class A		Class B
Basic net income per share:
Numerator:
Net income available to common stockholders	$	6,980		577		8,678		728
Less: Undistributed income allocable to participating securities	(385		)	—		(354	)	—
Undistributed income allocable to common stockholders	$	6,595		577		8,324		728
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding	36,112			3,162		36,194		3,166
Basic net income attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	0.18		0.18		0.23		0.23
Diluted net income per share:
Numerator:
Undistributed income allocable to common stockholders for basic computation	$	6,595		577		8,324		728
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A shares	577			—		728		—
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of dilutive securities	1			(2	)	1		(3	)
Net income adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares	$	7,173		575		9,053		725
Denominator:
Number of shares used in basic computation	36,112			3,162		36,194		3,166
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding	3,162			—		3,166		—
Unexercised stock options	112			—		142		—
Number of shares used in per share computation	39,386			3,162		39,502		3,166
Diluted net income attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$	0.18		0.18		0.23		0.23

Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share

Weighted average shares associated with outstanding securities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 which have been excluded from the computations of diluted EPS, because the effect of including these securities would have been anti-dilutive, consist of the following (shares, in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015	2014	2013
Derivative instrument that may be settled in cash or shares	724	—	—
Shares associated with unexercised stock options	108	29	86
Share-based compensation that may be settled in cash or shares	26	26	90
Total excluded	858	55	176

Schedule of Stock by Class

Following are the changes in issued common stock for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (shares, in thousands):

	Class A		Class B
Balances at January 1, 2013	38,534		3,169
Class B shares converted to Class A	4		(4	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	87		—
Share awards issued	680		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(1,822	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(147	)	—
Other	(37	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2013	37,299		3,165
Class B shares converted to Class A	6		(6	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	51		—
Share awards issued	1,267		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(429	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(196	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2014	37,998		3,159
Class B shares converted to Class A	5		(5	)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	219		—
Share awards issued	688		—
Shares repurchased and retired	(2,983	)	—
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(334	)	—
Balances at December 31, 2015	35,593		3,154

Property Plant and Equipment Useful Life

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease term, if applicable, in the following ranges:

Asset Category	Asset Lives
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-20 years
Fiber optic cable systems	15-25 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	5-30 years
Support equipment and systems	3-20 years
Transportation equipment	5-13 years
Property and equipment under capital leases	12-20 years
Buildings	25 years
Customer premise equipment	2-20 years
Studio equipment	10-15 years

Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations

Following is a reconciliation of thebeginning and ending aggregate carrying amounts of our liability for asset retirement obligations (amounts in thousands):

Balance at December 31, 2013	$	26,802
Liability incurred	4,268
Accretion expense	1,249
Revision in estimate	(355		)
Liability settled	(24		)
Balance at December 31, 2014	31,940
Liability incurred	2,048
Accretion expense	1,121
Liability settled	(49		)
Balance at December 31 2015	$	35,060

Excise and Sales Taxes

The following are certain surcharges reported on a gross basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Surcharges reported gross	$	5,058	4,252	4,644

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]

Cash Flow, Operating Capital

Changes in operating assets and liabilities consist of (amounts in thousands):

Year ended December 31,	2015			2014		2013
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable, net	$	(4,230	)	15,357		(68,360	)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses	(632		)	(4,454	)	672
(Increase) decrease in inventories	5,710			(6,631	)	1,751
Decrease in other current assets	24			88		1,448
Increase in other assets	(11,491		)	(878	)	(1,459	)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	(5,579		)	(4,648	)	15,334
Increase in deferred revenues	1,743			1,728		2,368
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and payroll related obligations	(1,469		)	2,997		10,263
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities	8,192			(242	)	(883	)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest	7,001			(434	)	302
Decrease in subscriber deposits	(448		)	(114	)	(40	)
Decrease in long-term deferred revenue	(8,561		)	(4,163	)	(3,554	)
Increase (decrease) in components of other long-term liabilities	1,305			1,714		(20	)
Total change in operating assets and liabilities	$	(8,435	)	320		(42,178	)

Cash Payments for Interest

The following items are for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (amounts in thousands):

Net cash paid or received:	2015		2014	2013
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	$	76,796	74,618	71,749

Schedule of Other Significant Noncash Transactions

The following items are non-cash investing and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014	2013
Non-cash additions for purchases of property and equipment	$	26,799	42,958	17,230
Non-cash consideration for Wireless Acquisition	$	23,326	—	—
Asset retirement obligation additions to property and equipment	$	2,048	4,268	5,292
Net capital lease obligation	$	—	9,386	—
Distribution to non-controlling interest	$	—	4,167	4,167
Deferred compensation distribution denominated in shares	$	—	617	621
Net assets acquired with equity in AWN (see Note 1(d))	$	—	—	267,642

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Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Receivables [Abstract]

Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable

Receivables consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Trade	$	205,645	209,811
Employee	1,271		801
Other	1,468		1,829
Total receivables	$	208,384	212,441

Changes in the allowance for doubtful receivables during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

			Additions			Deductions
Description	Balance at beginning of year		Charged to costs and expenses	Charged to other accounts		Write-offs net of recoveries	Balance at end of year
December 31, 2015	$	4,542	6,359	—		7,271	3,630
December 31, 2014	$	2,346	3,994	—		1,798	4,542
December 31, 2013	$	3,215	2,370	(446	)	2,793	2,346

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Net Property and Equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]

Schedule of Net Property and Equipment in Service

Net property and equipment consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Land and buildings	$	108,145	100,038
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities	1,215,796		1,189,470
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities	218,259		193,832
Studio equipment	15,171		14,396
Support equipment and systems	251,302		270,629
Transportation equipment	17,398		15,667
Customer premise equipment	155,971		153,039
Fiber optic cable systems	309,217		305,200
Construction in progress	93,271		99,240
	2,384,530		2,341,511
Less accumulated depreciation	1,231,457		1,178,982
Less accumulated amortization	58,692		50,047
Net property and equipment	$	1,094,381	1,112,482
Property and equipment under capital leases	$	112,495	112,495

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Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets

Other Intangible Assets subject to amortization include the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Software license fees	$	63,760	52,683
Rights to use	44,937		48,283
Customer relationships	1,530		3,226
Right-of-way	784		783
	111,011		104,975
Less accumulated amortization	41,721		38,960
Net other intangible assets	$	69,290	66,015

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets

Changes in Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Goodwill		Other Intangible Assets
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	219,041	71,435
AWN purchase price adjustment - Wireless Segment	8,866		(7,298	)
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment	1,653		—
Asset additions	—		11,593
Amortization expense	—		(9,715	)
Balance at December 31, 2014	229,560		66,015
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment	9,703		—
Asset additions	—		15,023
Software impairment	—		(1,306	)
Amortization expense	—		(10,442	)
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	239,263	69,290

Schedule of Amortization Expense

Amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 follow (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014	2013
Amortization expense	$	10,442	9,715	7,044

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense

Amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is estimated to be (amounts in thousands):

Years Ending December 31,
2016	$	9,841
2017	$	7,508
2018	$	5,573
2019	$	4,241
2020	$	3,232

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Long-Term Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments

Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Senior Credit Facility (a)	$	512,937	279,000
2025 Notes (b)	450,000		—
2021 Notes (c)	325,000		325,000
Searchlight Note (d)	75,000		—
Wells Fargo note payable (e)	9,176		9,767
2019 Notes (b)	—		425,000
Rural Utilities Service ("RUS") debt (f)	—		29
Debt	1,372,113		1,038,796
Less unamortized discount on Searchlight Note	20,190		—
Less unamortized discount paid on the 2025 Notes	3,817		—
Less unamortized discount paid on the 2019 Notes	—		2,118
Less current portion of long-term debt	3,342		622
Long-term debt, net	$	1,344,764	1,036,056

(a) On February 2, 2015, GCI Holdings, Inc. ("GCI Holdings"), our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement with MUFG Union Bank, N.A., Suntrust Bank, Bank of America, N.A., as documentation agent, and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent ("Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility provides a $275.0 million Term B loan, up to $240.0 million in delayed draw term loans and a $150.0 million revolving credit facility. The Senior Credit Facility was subsequently amended on August 3, 2015 ("First Amendment").

Under the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, the interest rate for the Term B loan is London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 3.25%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The interest rate on our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility is LIBOR plus the following Applicable Margin set forth opposite each applicable Total Leverage Ratio below.

Total Leverage Ratio (as defined)	Applicable Margin
>=5.5	3.00%
>=5.0 but <5.5	2.75%
>=4.5 but <5.0	2.50%
>=4.0 but <4.5	2.25%
<4.0	2.00%

The Term B loan requires principal payments of 0.25% of the original principal amount on the last day of each calendar quarter with the full amount maturing on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020 if our Senior Notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to such date. The full principal amount of our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on April 30, 2018.

Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility are subject to certain financial covenants and restrictions on indebtedness.  Our Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 5.95 to one; the Senior Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 3.00 to one; and our Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined) must not be less than 2.50 to one at any time.

The terms of the Senior Credit Facility include customary representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Senior Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the Senior Credit Facility are secured by a security interest on substantially all of the assets of GCI Holdings and the subsidiary guarantors, as defined in the Senior Credit Facility, and on the stock of GCI Holdings.

In connection with the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, we paid loan fees and other expenses of $0.3 million that were expensed immediately in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 and $6.2 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the Senior Credit Facility.

We have outstanding $272.9 million under the Term B loan, $240.0 million under the delayed draw term loan, $0.0 million under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility and $22.5 million in letters of credit under the Senior Credit Facility at December 31, 2015, which leaves $127.5 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2015.

(b) On April 1, 2015 (“Closing Date”), GCI, Inc. completed an offering of $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 (“2025 Notes”) at an issue price of 99.105%. We used the net proceeds from this offering to repay and retire all $425.0 million of our outstanding senior unsecured notes due 2019 (“2019 Notes”).

At any time before April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes, plus a premium calculated as defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.

At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2020	103.438	%
2021	102.292	%
2022	101.146	%
2023 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2025 Notes mature on April 15, 2025. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on April 15 and October 15.

The 2025 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2015, between us and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.

We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2025 Notes.

Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2025 Notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2025 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

The 2025 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The covenants in the indenture restrict GCI, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions, as further described in the 2025 Notes indenture.

At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2025 Notes immediately due and payable.

We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. Included in the loss was $20.2 million in call premium payments to redeem our 2019 Notes, $5.4 million in unamortized 2019 Notes deferred loan costs, and $2.1 million for the unamortized portion of the 2019 Notes original issue discount.

We were in compliance with all 2025 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

(c) We pay interest of 6.75% on notes that are due in 2021 ("2021 Notes"). The 2021 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 2025 Notes, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The 2021 Notes are not redeemable prior to June 1, 2016.  At any time on or after June 1, 2016, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing June 1 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2016	103.375	%
2017	102.250	%
2018	101.125	%
2019 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2021 Notes mature on June 1, 2021.  Semi-annual interest payments are payable on June 1 and December 1.

The 2021 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2011, between us and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.

We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2021 Notes.

Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2021 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part (equal to $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, except that no 2021 Note will be purchased in part if the remaining portion thereof would not be at least $2,000) of such holder’s 2021 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2021 Notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2021 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

The terms of the Indenture include customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 25% in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2021 Notes immediately due and payable.

We paid closing costs totaling $3.6 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2021 Notes.

We were in compliance with all 2021 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

(d) On February 2, 2015, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Note 11 of this Form 10-K for additional information.

In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. We allocated the $75.0 million in total proceeds received to the stock appreciation rights based on the fair value of the stock appreciation rights on the day of issuance with the remainder allocated to the Searchlight Note. The allocation resulted in a $21.7 million discount for the Searchlight Note that will be amortized over the term of the note using the effective interest method. See Note 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information on the stock appreciation rights.

We have the option to pay the annual interest obligation on the Searchlight Note in cash or by capitalizing such interest and adding it to the outstanding principal amount of the note. If we elect to capitalize interest in a given year, we are also required to issue additional stock appreciation rights in the amount of four hundredths of a stock appreciation right for each dollar of interest being capitalized.

(e) GCI Holdings, entered into a $10.0 million loan agreement with Wells Fargo Bank on June 30, 2014 to finance the purchase of a building.  The note matures on July 15, 2029 and is due in monthly installments of principal and interest.  The interest rate is variable at one month LIBOR plus 2.25%.

The note is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as our Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the note are secured by a security interest and lien on the purchased building. In connection with the note issuance, we paid loan fees of $0.1 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the note.

(f) UUI, our wholly owned subsidiary, has entered into various loans with the RUS. We repaid substantially all amounts owed to the RUS in 2014 and the remainder of amounts owed in 2015.

Interest Margin

The interest rate on our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility is LIBOR plus the following Applicable Margin set forth opposite each applicable Total Leverage Ratio below.

Total Leverage Ratio (as defined)	Applicable Margin
>=5.5	3.00%
>=5.0 but <5.5	2.75%
>=4.5 but <5.0	2.50%
>=4.0 but <4.5	2.25%
<4.0	2.00%

Debt Instrument Redemption

At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2020	103.438	%
2021	102.292	%
2022	101.146	%
2023 and thereafter	100.000	%

The 2021 Notes are not redeemable prior to June 1, 2016.  At any time on or after June 1, 2016, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:

If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing June 1 of the year indicated:	Redemption Price
2016	103.375	%
2017	102.250	%
2018	101.125	%
2019 and thereafter	100.000	%

Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt

Maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31,
2016	$	3,342
2017	3,358
2018	243,374
2019	3,391
2020	3,407
2021 and thereafter	1,115,241
Total debt	1,372,113
Less unamortized discount on Searchlight Note	20,190
Less unamortized discount paid on 2025 Notes	3,817
Less current portion of long-term debt	3,342
Long-term debt, net	$	1,344,764

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Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

Income tax (expense) benefit consists of the following (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015		2014		2013
Deferred tax (expense) benefit:
Federal taxes	$	1,360	(9,081	)	(9,267	)
State taxes	487		(948	)	(1,690	)
	$	1,847	(10,029	)	(10,957	)

Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation

Total income tax (expense) benefit differed from the “expected” income tax (expense) benefit determined by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% as follows (amounts in thousands):

	Years Ended December 31,
	2015			2014		2013
“Expected” statutory tax (expense) benefit	$	9,699		(24,246	)	(14,939	)
Nondeductible unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	(4,566		)	—		—
Nondeductible officer compensation	(1,906		)	(1,351	)	(824	)
Nondeductible entertainment expenses	(1,059		)	(1,125	)	(1,045	)
Nondeductible lobbying expenses	(442		)	(425	)	(369	)
State income taxes, net of federal (expense) benefit	487			(948	)	(1,690	)
Impact of non-controlling interest attributable to non-tax paying entity	220			18,255		7,977
Other, net	(586		)	(189	)	(67	)
	$	1,847		(10,029	)	(10,957	)

Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

	2015		2014
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	139,238	131,938
Deferred revenue for financial reporting purposes	41,151		36,077
Asset retirement obligations in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	14,338		6,660
Compensated absences accrued for financial reporting purposes	3,339		3,117
Share-based compensation expense for financial reporting purposes in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	2,773		1,458
Accounts receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful receivables	1,912		2,585
Workers compensation and self-insurance health reserves, principally due to accrual for financial reporting purposes	1,795		2,043
Alternative minimum tax credits	1,735		1,735
Deferred compensation expense for tax purposes in excess of amounts recognized for financial reporting purposes	1,603		1,374
Other	13,144		5,866
Total deferred tax assets	$	221,028	192,853
Deferred tax liabilities:
Plant and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation	$	246,172	231,109
Intangible assets	79,255		48,768
Flow-through entity deferred tax items	—		44,728
Other	1,746		—
Total deferred tax liabilities	327,173		324,605
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	106,145	131,752

Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards

Our tax net operating loss carryforwards are summarized below by year of expiration (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31,	Federal		State
2020	$	34,958	34,301
2021	29,614		28,987
2022	14,081		13,788
2023	3,968		3,903
2024	722		—
2025	737		—
2026	150		—
2027	1,010		—
2028	39,879		39,715
2029	48,370		47,558
2031	110,933		109,376
2033	5,031		4,927
2034	39,133		37,866
2035	11,885		11,290
Total tax net operating loss carryforwards	$	340,471	331,711

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Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2015	Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)	Level 3 (3)	Total
Assets:
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$	1,728	—	—	1,728
Liabilities:
Derivative stock appreciation rights	$	—	—	32,820	32,820
December 31, 2014	Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)	Level 3 (3)	Total
Assets:
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$	2,068	—	—	2,068
(1) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
(2) Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities
(3) Inputs that are generally unobservable and not corroborated by market data

Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping

The carrying amounts and approximate fair values of our current and long-term debt, excluding capital leases at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

	December 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value	Carrying Amount	Fair Value
Current and long-term debt	$	1,348,106	1,390,743	1,036,678	1,055,952

Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]

The following table shows our significant assumptions and inputs used in the lattice-based valuation model to value the stock appreciation right liability at December 31, 2015:

	December 31, 2015
Expected term (in years)	4 - 8
Volatility	40	%
Risk-free interest rate	2.1	%

Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the changes in fair value of all financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the year ended December 31, 2015:

Fair Value Measurement Using Level 3 Inputs
	Derivative Stock Appreciation Rights
Balance at January 1, 2015	$	—
Issuance	21,660
Fair value adjustment at end of period, included in Other Income (Expense)	11,160
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	32,820

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Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]

Schedule of Option Activity

A summary of option activity under the Stock Option Plan as of December 31, 2015 and changes during the year then ended is presented below:

	Shares (in thousands)		Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)
Outstanding at January 1, 2015	308		$	6.86
Exercised	(286	)	$	6.56
Expired	(3	)	$	7.51
Outstanding at December 31, 2015	19		$	11.35	1.0 year	$	160
Exercisable at December 31, 2015	19		$	11.35	1.0 year	$	160

Schedule of Restricted Stock Activity

A summary of nonvested restricted stock award activity under the Stock Option Plan for the year ended December 31, 2015, follows (share amounts in thousands):

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at January 1, 2015	1,744		$	9.11
Granted	688		$	15.06
Vested	(930	)	$	18.29
Forfeited	(7	)	$	12.65
Nonvested at December 31, 2015	1,495		$	11.08

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Industry Segments Data (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment

Summarized financial information for our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 follows (amounts in thousands):

	Wireless			Wireline		Total Reportable Segments
2015
Revenues
Wholesale	$	267,676		—		267,676
Consumer	—			351,196		351,196
Business Services	—			209,975		209,975
Managed Broadband	—			149,687		149,687
Total	267,676			710,858		978,534
Cost of Goods Sold	70,899			251,439		322,338
Contribution	196,777			459,419		656,196
Less SG&A	(18,137		)	(320,242	)	(338,379	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			10,902		10,902
Plus accretion expense	559			562		1,121
Other	—			511		511
Adjusted EBITDA	$	179,199		151,152		330,351
Capital expenditures	$	47,892		128,343		176,235
Goodwill	$	164,312		74,951		239,263
Total assets	$	594,250		1,388,058		1,982,308

	Wireless			Wireline		Total Reportable Segments
2014
Revenues
Wholesale	$	269,977		—		269,977
Consumer	—			288,014		288,014
Business Services	—			225,963		225,963
Managed Broadband	—			126,244		126,244
Total	269,977			640,221		910,198
Cost of Good Sold	90,920			211,784		302,704
Contribution	179,057			428,437		607,494
Less SG&A	(21,631		)	(272,016	)	(293,647	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			8,392		8,392
Plus accretion expense	733			516		1,249
Other expense	—			(372	)	(372	)
Adjusted EBITDA	$	158,159		164,957		323,116
Capital expenditures	$	30,243		145,866		176,109
Goodwill	$	164,312		65,248		229,560
Total assets	$	625,417		1,376,961		2,002,378
2013
Revenues
Wholesale	$	197,218		—		197,218
Consumer	—			274,805		274,805
Business Services	—			222,814		222,814
Managed Broadband	—			116,811		116,811
Total	197,218			614,430		811,648
Cost of Good Sold	68,086			212,376		280,462
Contribution	129,132			402,054		531,186
Less SG&A	(20,030		)	(251,035	)	(271,065	)
Plus share-based compensation expense	—			6,638		6,638
Plus accretion expense	507			(430	)	77
Other expense	—			447		447
Adjusted EBITDA	$	109,609		157,674		267,283
Capital expenditures	$	28,156		152,398		180,554
Goodwill	$	155,445		63,596		219,041
Total assets	$	624,740		1,347,314		1,972,054

Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated

A reconciliation of reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes follows (amounts in thousands):

Years Ended December 31,	2015			2014		2013
Reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA	$	330,351		323,116		267,283
Less depreciation and amortization expense	(181,767		)	(170,285	)	(147,259	)
Less software impairment charge	(29,839		)	—		—
Less share-based compensation expense	(10,902		)	(8,392	)	(6,638	)
Less accretion expense	(1,121		)	(1,249	)	(77	)
Other	(511		)	372		(447	)
Consolidated operating income	106,211			143,562		112,862
Less other expense, net	(133,924		)	(74,289	)	(70,178	)
Consolidated income (loss) before income taxes	$	(27,713	)	69,273		42,684

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Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule Of Future Minimum Lease Payments

A summary of future minimum lease payments follows (amounts in thousands):

Years ending December 31:	Operating		Capital
2016	$	45,585	13,454
2017	35,642		13,433
2018	28,822		13,440
2019	23,611		13,450
2020	20,134		13,459
2021 and thereafter	50,933		19,752
Total minimum lease payments	$	204,727	86,988
Less amount representing interest			18,629
Less current maturity of obligations under capital leases			8,708
Long-term obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturity			$	59,651

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Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information

The following is a summary of unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

	First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter	Fourth Quarter
2015
Total revenues	$	231,089		247,528		258,573	241,344
Operating income	$	741		39,203		45,473	20,794
Net income (loss)	$	(18,725	)	(15,757	)	17,495	(8,879	)
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$	(19,269	)	(15,627	)	17,631	(8,760	)
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.49	)	(0.41	)	0.45	(0.24	)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	(0.49	)	(0.41	)	0.44	(0.24	)
2014
Total revenues	$	216,283		224,399		240,725	228,791
Operating income	$	30,265		38,414		49,336	25,547
Net income	$	10,761		16,840		25,847	5,796
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$	1,140		5,927		9,915	(9,425	)
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	0.03		0.14		0.24	(0.24	)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI per common share	$	0.03		0.14		0.24	(0.24	)

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Narratives) (Details)							3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Feb. 02, 2015 USD ($)	Nov. 01, 2013 USD ($) station	Jul. 23, 2013 USD ($)	Jul. 22, 2013 USD ($)	Jul. 01, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) entity shares	Sep. 30, 2015 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($) shares	Sep. 30, 2014 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) entity shares	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($) shares	Dec. 31, 2013 USD ($) shares	Dec. 31, 2010 USD ($)
Business
Year founded															1979
Principles of Consolidation [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities, Number of Entities | entity							4								4
Acquisition
Payments to Acquire Assets and Interest	$ 293,200,000
Impairment of intangible assets															$ 1,306,000
Goodwill							$ 239,263,000				$ 229,560,000				$ 239,263,000	$ 229,560,000	$ 219,041,000
Accounting Pronouncements
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current											$ 56,100,000					$ 56,100,000
Common Stock
Authorized amount, repurchase of stock																		$ 200,000,000.0
Redeemable Preferred Stock
Preferred stock, shares authorized | shares							1,000,000				1,000,000				1,000,000	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding | shares							0				0				0	0	0
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables
Past due period															120 days
Intangible Assets
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life															14 years 5 months
Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment															$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Investments
Impairment of equity method investment															12,593,000	0	0
Asset Retirement Obligation
Additional capitalized costs							$ 2,000,000				$ 4,300,000				2,000,000	4,300,000
Revenue Recognition
Revenues							241,344,000	$ 258,573,000	$ 247,528,000	$ 231,089,000	228,791,000	$ 240,725,000	$ 224,399,000	$ 216,283,000	978,534,000	910,198,000	811,648,000
Receivables							208,384,000				$ 212,441,000				208,384,000	212,441,000
Guarantees
Guarantor liabilities							56,000,000								56,000,000
Advertising Expense
Advertising expense															5,700,000	5,700,000	5,200,000
Interest Expense
Interest costs capitalized															$ 3,000,000	3,600,000	4,600,000
Urban High Cost Support Program
Revenue Recognition
Percentage phase down, decrease in support payments					20.00%
Percentage phase down, maximum decrease in support payments															60.00%
Remote High Cost Support Program
Revenue Recognition
Maximum cost per line, per month						$ 250
Total High Cost Support Program
Revenue Recognition
Revenues															$ 66,200,000	66,700,000	55,600,000
Receivables							45,500,000								$ 45,500,000
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Acquisition
Number of Businesses Acquired | entity															3
Total purchase price															$ 12,700,000
ACS
Acquisition
Total purchase price			$ 365,511,000
Cash consideration paid			100,000,000	$ 100,000,000
Preferential cash distributions				$ 190,000,000
Preference period				4 years
Preferential adjustment maximum				$ 21,800,000
Goodwill			$ 148,948,000
Additional revenue																	50,600,000
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired				33.30%
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired from Noncontrolling Interest				66.60%
Denali Media Holdings
Acquisition
Total purchase price		$ 7,600,000
Number of broadcast stations acquired | station		3
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses | ACS
Acquisition
Transaction costs																	1,800,000
Rights to Receive Future Capacity [Member]
Acquisition
Assets, Fair Value Adjustment	$ 1,200,000
Rights to Use Capacity
Acquisition
Impairment of intangible assets															$ 3,800,000
Minimum | Other Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life															2 years
Maximum | Other Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life															20 years
Stock Buyback Program [Member]
Common Stock
Authorized amount per quarter, repurchase of stock																		$ 5,000,000
Stock repurchase program, remaining value authorized to be repurchased							$ 95,300,000.0								$ 95,300,000.0
Stock Buyback Program [Member] | Class A Common Stock
Common Stock
Stock repurchased during period, value															$ 47,400,000	$ 4,200,000	$ 15,600,000

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Wireless Acquisition) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Total consideration transfered to ACS	$ 304,838
Non-controlling interest acquisitions	303,831
Property and equipment	746	$ 176,235	$ 176,109	$ 180,554
Other intangible assets	261
Non-controlling interest acquisition		281,803
Increase in Deferred Tax Assets	24,028
Non-controlling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Non-controlling interest acquisition	268,364	271,521
Paid-in Capital
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Non-controlling interest acquisition	$ 11,439	$ 10,282

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Business Acquisition) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 23, 2013	Jul. 22, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Goodwill			$ 239,263	$ 229,560	$ 219,041
ACS
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration paid	$ 100,000	$ 100,000
Fair value of the one-third ownership interest of AWN	265,511
Total purchase price	365,511
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Current assets	16,963
Property and equipment, including construction in progress	82,611
Goodwill	148,948
Other assets	17,282
Liabilities assumed	(6,011)
Total fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed	365,511
ACS | Wireless Licenses
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Intangible assets	60,380
ACS | Rights to Use Capacity
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Intangible assets	$ 45,338

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Pro-Forma Information) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 USD ($)
ACS
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pro forma consolidated revenue	$ 897,270

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (EPS Calculations) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders	$ (8,760)	$ 17,631	$ (15,627)	$ (19,269)	$ (9,425)	$ 9,915	$ 5,927	$ 1,140	$ (26,025)	$ 7,557	$ 9,406
Class A Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders									(23,858)	6,980	8,678
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic									0	(385)	(354)
Undistributed income (loss) allocable to common stockholders									$ (23,858)	$ 6,595	$ 8,324
Weighted average common shares outstanding									34,764	36,112	36,194
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$ (0.24)	$ 0.45	$ (0.41)	$ (0.49)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.24	$ 0.14	$ 0.03	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Reallocation Of Undistributed Earnings As Result Of Conversion Of Shares									$ (2,167)	$ 577	$ 728
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of dilutive securities										1	1
Net income (loss) adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares									$ (26,025)	$ 7,173	$ 9,053
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding									3,157	3,162	3,166
Unexercised stock options										112	142
Number of shares used in per share computation									37,921	39,386	39,502
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share	$ (0.24)	$ 0.44	$ (0.41)	$ (0.49)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.24	$ 0.14	$ 0.03	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Class B Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders									$ (2,167)	$ 577	$ 728
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic									0	0	0
Undistributed income (loss) allocable to common stockholders									$ (2,167)	$ 577	$ 728
Weighted average common shares outstanding									3,157	3,162	3,166
Basic net income (loss) attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share									$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Reallocation Of Undistributed Earnings As Result Of Conversion Of Shares									$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Reallocation of undistributed earnings as a result of conversion of dilutive securities										(2)	(3)
Net income (loss) adjusted for allocation of undistributed earnings and effect of contracts that may be settled in cash or shares									$ (2,167)	$ 575	$ 725
Conversion of Class B to Class A common shares outstanding									0	0	0
Unexercised stock options										0	0
Number of shares used in per share computation									3,157	3,162	3,166
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to GCI common stockholders per common share									$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Weighted Average Shares Outstanding Which Are Anti-Dilutive) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Shares associated with anti-dilutive	858	55	176
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Shares associated with anti-dilutive	724	0	0
Stock Options
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Shares associated with anti-dilutive	108	29	86
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Shares associated with anti-dilutive	26	26	90

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Changes in Issued Common Stock) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Class A Common Stock
Common Stock [Roll Forward]
Balance, Beginning	37,998	37,299	38,534
Class B shares converted to Class A	5	6	4
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	219	51	87
Share awards issued	688	1,267	680
Shares repurchased and retired	(2,983)	(429)	(1,822)
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	(334)	(196)	(147)
Other			(37)
Balance, Ending	35,593	37,998	37,299
Class B Common Stock
Common Stock [Roll Forward]
Balance, Beginning	3,159	3,165	3,169
Class B shares converted to Class A	(5)	(6)	(4)
Shares issued upon stock option exercises	0	0	0
Share awards issued	0	0	0
Shares repurchased and retired	0	0	0
Shares acquired to settle minimum statutory tax withholding requirements and subsequently retired	0	0	0
Other			0
Balance, Ending	3,154	3,159	3,165

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Depreciation) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Technology Equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	5 years
Technology Equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	20 years
Fiber optic cable systems | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	15 years
Fiber optic cable systems | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	25 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	5 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	30 years
Support equipment and systems | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	3 years
Support equipment and systems | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	20 years
Transportation Equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	5 years
Transportation Equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	13 years
Assets Held under Capital Leases | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	12 years
Assets Held under Capital Leases | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	20 years
Building
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	25 years
Customer premise equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	2 years
Customer premise equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	20 years
Studio equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	10 years
Studio equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property plant and equipment useful life	15 years

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Asset Retirement Obligation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	$ 31,940	$ 26,802
Liability incurred	2,048	4,268	$ 5,292
Accretion expense	1,121	1,249	77
Revision in estimate		(355)
Liability settled	(49)	(24)
Balance, ending	$ 35,060	$ 31,940	$ 26,802

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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Surcharges Reported Gross) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Surcharges reported gross	$ 5,058	$ 4,252	$ 4,644

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures (Changes in operating assets and liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable, net	$ (4,230)	$ 15,357	$ (68,360)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses	(632)	(4,454)	672
(Increase) decrease in inventories	5,710	(6,631)	1,751
Decrease in other current assets	24	88	1,448
Increase in other assets	(11,491)	(878)	(1,459)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	(5,579)	(4,648)	15,334
Increase in deferred revenues	1,743	1,728	2,368
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and payroll related obligations	(1,469)	2,997	10,263
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities	8,192	(242)	(883)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest	7,001	(434)	302
Decrease in subscriber deposits	(448)	(114)	(40)
Decrease in long-term deferred revenue	(8,561)	(4,163)	(3,554)
Increase (decrease) in components of other long-term liabilities	1,305	1,714	(20)
Total change in operating assets and liabilities	$ (8,435)	$ 320	$ (42,178)

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures (Net cash paid or received) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	$ 76,796	$ 74,618	$ 71,749

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures ( Non-cash investing and financing activities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Non-cash additions for purchases of property and equipment	$ 26,799	$ 42,958	$ 17,230
Non-cash consideration for Wireless Acquisition	23,326	0	0
Asset retirement obligation additions to property and equipment	2,048	4,268	5,292
Net capital lease obligation	0	9,386	0
Distribution to non-controlling interest	0	4,167	4,167
Deferred compensation distribution denominated in shares	0	617	621
Net assets acquired with equity in AWN (see Note 1(d))	$ 0	$ 0	$ 267,642

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Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables (Narrative) (Details) - USF Program - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Revenue support from regulatory agency, percentage	19.00%	19.00%	18.00%
Receivables net current	$ 98.1	$ 109.6

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Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables (Receivables by Type) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables	$ 208,384	$ 212,441
Trade Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables	205,645	209,811
Employee Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables	1,271	801
Other Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables	$ 1,468	$ 1,829

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Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables (Allowance for Doubtful Receivables Rollforward) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	$ 4,542	$ 2,346	$ 3,215
Charged to costs and expenses	6,359	3,994	2,370
Charged to other accounts	0	0	(446)
Write-offs net of recoveries	7,271	1,798	2,793
Balance at end of year	$ 3,630	$ 4,542	$ 2,346

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Net Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 2,384,530	$ 2,341,511
Less accumulated depreciation	1,231,457	1,178,982
Less accumulated amortization	58,692	50,047
Net property and equipment	1,094,381	1,112,482
Property and equipment under capital leases	112,495	112,495
Land and buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	108,145	100,038
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	1,215,796	1,189,470
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	218,259	193,832
Studio equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	15,171	14,396
Support equipment and systems
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	251,302	270,629
Transportation equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	17,398	15,667
Customer premise equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	155,971	153,039
Fiber optic cable systems
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	309,217	305,200
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 93,271	$ 99,240

XML

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Narratives) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	14 years 5 months

XML

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Finite Lived) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	$ 111,011	$ 104,975
Less accumulated amortization	41,721	38,960
Net other intangible assets	69,290	66,015	$ 71,435
Software License Fee
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	63,760	52,683
Rights to Use
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	44,937	48,283
Customer Relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	1,530	3,226
Right Of Way
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	$ 784	$ 783

XML

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Rollforward) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill beginning balance	$ 229,560	$ 219,041
Goodwill ending balance	239,263	229,560	$ 219,041
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	66,015	71,435
Asset additions	15,023	11,593
Software impairment	(1,306)
Amortization expense	(10,442)	(9,715)	(7,044)
Ending Balance	69,290	66,015	71,435
Wireless
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill beginning balance	164,312	155,445
Goodwill ending balance	164,312	164,312	155,445
Wireless | ACS
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired during period		8,866
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Purchase price adjustment		(7,298)
Wireline
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill beginning balance	65,248	63,596
Goodwill acquired during period	9,703	1,653
Goodwill ending balance	$ 74,951	$ 65,248	$ 63,596

XML

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Amortization expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization expense	$ 10,442	$ 9,715	$ 7,044

XML

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (5 year Future Amortization ) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2016	$ 9,841
2017	7,508
2018	5,573
2019	4,241
2020	$ 3,232

XML

Long Term Debt (Schedule of Long Term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross		$ 1,372,113		$ 1,038,796
Less current portion of long-term debt		3,342		622
Long-term debt, net		1,344,764		1,036,056
Senior Credit Facility | Medium-term Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[1]	512,937		279,000
2025 Notes | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[2]	450,000		0
Less unamortized discount		3,817
2021 Notes | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[3]	325,000		325,000
Searchlight ALX, LP Promissory Note [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[4]	75,000		0
Less unamortized discount		20,190	$ 21,700
Wells Fargo Note | Notes Payable to Banks
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[5]	9,176		9,767
2019 Notes | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[2]	0		425,000
Less unamortized discount				2,118
Rural Utilities Service (RUS) debt | Notes Payable to Banks
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[6]	$ 0		$ 29

[1] On February 2, 2015, GCI Holdings, Inc. ("GCI Holdings"), our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement with MUFG Union Bank, N.A., Suntrust Bank, Bank of America, N.A., as documentation agent, and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent ("Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility provides a $275.0 million Term B loan, up to $240.0 million in delayed draw term loans and a $150.0 million revolving credit facility. The Senior Credit Facility was subsequently amended on August 3, 2015 ("First Amendment").Under the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, the interest rate for the Term B loan is London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 3.25%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The interest rate on our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility is LIBOR plus the following Applicable Margin set forth opposite each applicable Total Leverage Ratio below.Total Leverage Ratio (as defined)Applicable Margin>=5.53.00%>=5.0 but <5.52.75%>=4.5 but <5.02.50%>=4.0 but <4.52.25%<4.02.00%The Term B loan requires principal payments of 0.25% of the original principal amount on the last day of each calendar quarter with the full amount maturing on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020 if our Senior Notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to such date. The full principal amount of our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on April 30, 2018. Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility are subject to certain financial covenants and restrictions on indebtedness. Our Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 5.95 to one; the Senior Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 3.00 to one; and our Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined) must not be less than 2.50 to one at any time. The terms of the Senior Credit Facility include customary representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Senior Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the Senior Credit Facility are secured by a security interest on substantially all of the assets of GCI Holdings and the subsidiary guarantors, as defined in the Senior Credit Facility, and on the stock of GCI Holdings.In connection with the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, we paid loan fees and other expenses of $0.3 million that were expensed immediately in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 and $6.2 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the Senior Credit Facility.We have outstanding $272.9 million under the Term B loan, $240.0 million under the delayed draw term loan, $0.0 million under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility and $22.5 million in letters of credit under the Senior Credit Facility at December 31, 2015, which leaves $127.5 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2015.

[2] On April 1, 2015 (“Closing Date”), GCI, Inc. completed an offering of $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 (“2025 Notes”) at an issue price of 99.105%. We used the net proceeds from this offering to repay and retire all $425.0 million of our outstanding senior unsecured notes due 2019 (“2019 Notes”).At any time before April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes, plus a premium calculated as defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:Redemption Price2020103.438%2021102.292%2022101.146%2023 and thereafter100.000%The 2025 Notes mature on April 15, 2025. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on April 15 and October 15. The 2025 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2015, between us and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2025 Notes.Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2025 Notes, if any. If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2025 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.The 2025 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.The covenants in the indenture restrict GCI, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions, as further described in the 2025 Notes indenture.At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2025 Notes immediately due and payable.We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. Included in the loss was $20.2 million in call premium payments to redeem our 2019 Notes, $5.4 million in unamortized 2019 Notes deferred loan costs, and $2.1 million for the unamortized portion of the 2019 Notes original issue discount.We were in compliance with all 2025 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

[3] We pay interest of 6.75% on notes that are due in 2021 ("2021 Notes"). The 2021 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 2025 Notes, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.The 2021 Notes are not redeemable prior to June 1, 2016. At any time on or after June 1, 2016, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing June 1 of the year indicated:Redemption Price2016103.375%2017102.250%2018101.125%2019 and thereafter100.000%The 2021 Notes mature on June 1, 2021. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on June 1 and December 1.The 2021 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2011, between us and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2021 Notes. Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2021 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part (equal to $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, except that no 2021 Note will be purchased in part if the remaining portion thereof would not be at least $2,000) of such holder’s 2021 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2021 Notes, if any. If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2021 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.The terms of the Indenture include customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 25% in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2021 Notes immediately due and payable.We paid closing costs totaling $3.6 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2021 Notes.We were in compliance with all 2021 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

[4] On February 2, 2015, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Note 11 of this Form 10-K for additional information.In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. We allocated the $75.0 million in total proceeds received to the stock appreciation rights based on the fair value of the stock appreciation rights on the day of issuance with the remainder allocated to the Searchlight Note. The allocation resulted in a $21.7 million discount for the Searchlight Note that will be amortized over the term of the note using the effective interest method. See Note 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information on the stock appreciation rights.We have the option to pay the annual interest obligation on the Searchlight Note in cash or by capitalizing such interest and adding it to the outstanding principal amount of the note. If we elect to capitalize interest in a given year, we are also required to issue additional stock appreciation rights in the amount of four hundredths of a stock appreciation right for each dollar of interest being capitalized.

[5] GCI Holdings, entered into a $10.0 million loan agreement with Wells Fargo Bank on June 30, 2014 to finance the purchase of a building. The note matures on July 15, 2029 and is due in monthly installments of principal and interest. The interest rate is variable at one month LIBOR plus 2.25%. The note is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as our Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the note are secured by a security interest and lien on the purchased building. In connection with the note issuance, we paid loan fees of $0.1 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the note.

[6] UUI, our wholly owned subsidiary, has entered into various loans with the RUS. We repaid substantially all amounts owed to the RUS in 2014 and the remainder of amounts owed in 2015.

XML

Long Term Debt (Narratives) (Details)					12 Months Ended
		Aug. 03, 2015	Apr. 01, 2015 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013 USD ($)	Feb. 02, 2015 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total leverage ratio		5.95
Senior leverage ratio		3.00
Interest coverage ratio		2.50
Debt issuance costs					$ 13,979,000	$ 84,000	$ 2,990,000
Long-term debt, gross					1,372,113,000	1,038,796,000
Letters of credit outstanding					22,500,000
Remaining borrowing capacity					127,500,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt					27,700,000	0	103,000
Payment of bond call premium					20,244,000	0	$ 0
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Class A Common Stock
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stock appreciation rights | shares								3,000,000
Exercise price of rights | $ / shares								$ 13.00
Searchlight ALX, LP Promissory Note [Member] | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Class A Common Stock
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stock appreciation rights | shares								3,000,000
Exercise price of rights | $ / shares								$ 13.00
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Senior Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loan fees and other expenses					300,000
Debt issuance costs					6,200,000
Long-term debt, gross	[1]				512,937,000	279,000,000
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Senior Credit Facility | Term B Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt								$ 275,000,000.0
Required principal payment percentage		0.25%
Long-term debt, gross					272,900,000
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Senior Credit Facility | Term B Loan | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		3.25%
LIBOR floor		0.0075
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Senior Credit Facility | Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity								240,000,000.0
Long-term debt, gross					240,000,000
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Senior Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity								150,000,000.0
Long-term debt, gross					0
Senior Notes [Member] | 2025 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt			$ 450,000,000.0
Debt issuance costs			$ 7,900,000
Long-term debt, gross	[2]				$ 450,000,000	0
Stated percentage			6.875%		6.875%
Issuance price, percent			99.105%
Redemption price, percentage			100.00%
Maturity date			Apr. 15, 2025
Frequency of periodic payment					Semi-annual interest payments
Percentage of principal amount if default			30.00%
Unamortized discount					$ 3,817,000
Senior Notes [Member] | 2025 Notes | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of principal			1
Senior Notes [Member] | 2025 Notes | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of principal			1.01
Senior Notes [Member] | 2019 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[2]				0	425,000,000
Repayments of Debt			$ 425,000,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt					(27,700,000)
Payment of bond call premium					20,200,000
Unamortized deferred loan costs					5,400,000
Write off of deferred debt discount					2,100,000
Unamortized discount						2,118,000
Senior Notes [Member] | 2021 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issuance costs					3,600,000
Long-term debt, gross	[3]				$ 325,000,000	325,000,000
Stated percentage			6.75%		6.75%
Maturity date					Jun. 01, 2021
Frequency of periodic payment					Semi-annual interest payments
Percentage of principal amount if default					25.00%
Earliest call date					Jun. 01, 2016
Senior Notes [Member] | 2021 Notes | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of principal					1.00
Amount eligible for purchase					$ 1,000
Senior Notes [Member] | 2021 Notes | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of principal					1.01
Amount eligible for purchase					$ 2,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Searchlight ALX, LP Promissory Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt								$ 75,000,000.0
Long-term debt, gross	[4]				75,000,000	0
Stated percentage								7.50%
Issuance price, percent								100.00%
Unamortized discount					20,190,000			$ 21,700,000
Notes Payable to Banks | Wells Fargo Note
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt				$ 10,000,000
Debt issuance costs				$ 100,000
Long-term debt, gross	[5]				$ 9,176,000	$ 9,767,000
Notes Payable to Banks | Wells Fargo Note | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate				2.25%

[1] On February 2, 2015, GCI Holdings, Inc. ("GCI Holdings"), our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement with MUFG Union Bank, N.A., Suntrust Bank, Bank of America, N.A., as documentation agent, and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent ("Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility provides a $275.0 million Term B loan, up to $240.0 million in delayed draw term loans and a $150.0 million revolving credit facility. The Senior Credit Facility was subsequently amended on August 3, 2015 ("First Amendment").Under the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, the interest rate for the Term B loan is London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 3.25%, with a 0.75% LIBOR floor. The interest rate on our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility is LIBOR plus the following Applicable Margin set forth opposite each applicable Total Leverage Ratio below.Total Leverage Ratio (as defined)Applicable Margin>=5.53.00%>=5.0 but <5.52.75%>=4.5 but <5.02.50%>=4.0 but <4.52.25%<4.02.00%The Term B loan requires principal payments of 0.25% of the original principal amount on the last day of each calendar quarter with the full amount maturing on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020 if our Senior Notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to such date. The full principal amount of our delayed draw term loans and revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on April 30, 2018. Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility are subject to certain financial covenants and restrictions on indebtedness. Our Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 5.95 to one; the Senior Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 3.00 to one; and our Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined) must not be less than 2.50 to one at any time. The terms of the Senior Credit Facility include customary representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Senior Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the Senior Credit Facility are secured by a security interest on substantially all of the assets of GCI Holdings and the subsidiary guarantors, as defined in the Senior Credit Facility, and on the stock of GCI Holdings.In connection with the Senior Credit Facility and First Amendment, we paid loan fees and other expenses of $0.3 million that were expensed immediately in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 and $6.2 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the Senior Credit Facility.We have outstanding $272.9 million under the Term B loan, $240.0 million under the delayed draw term loan, $0.0 million under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility and $22.5 million in letters of credit under the Senior Credit Facility at December 31, 2015, which leaves $127.5 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2015.

[2] On April 1, 2015 (“Closing Date”), GCI, Inc. completed an offering of $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 (“2025 Notes”) at an issue price of 99.105%. We used the net proceeds from this offering to repay and retire all $425.0 million of our outstanding senior unsecured notes due 2019 (“2019 Notes”).At any time before April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes, plus a premium calculated as defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:Redemption Price2020103.438%2021102.292%2022101.146%2023 and thereafter100.000%The 2025 Notes mature on April 15, 2025. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on April 15 and October 15. The 2025 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2015, between us and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2025 Notes.Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2025 Notes, if any. If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2025 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.The 2025 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.The covenants in the indenture restrict GCI, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions, as further described in the 2025 Notes indenture.At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2025 Notes immediately due and payable.We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. Included in the loss was $20.2 million in call premium payments to redeem our 2019 Notes, $5.4 million in unamortized 2019 Notes deferred loan costs, and $2.1 million for the unamortized portion of the 2019 Notes original issue discount.We were in compliance with all 2025 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

[3] We pay interest of 6.75% on notes that are due in 2021 ("2021 Notes"). The 2021 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 2025 Notes, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.The 2021 Notes are not redeemable prior to June 1, 2016. At any time on or after June 1, 2016, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing June 1 of the year indicated:Redemption Price2016103.375%2017102.250%2018101.125%2019 and thereafter100.000%The 2021 Notes mature on June 1, 2021. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on June 1 and December 1.The 2021 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2011, between us and Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2021 Notes. Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2021 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part (equal to $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, except that no 2021 Note will be purchased in part if the remaining portion thereof would not be at least $2,000) of such holder’s 2021 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2021 Notes, if any. If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2021 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.The terms of the Indenture include customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 25% in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2021 Notes immediately due and payable.We paid closing costs totaling $3.6 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2021 Notes.We were in compliance with all 2021 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

[4] On February 2, 2015, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Note 11 of this Form 10-K for additional information.In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. We allocated the $75.0 million in total proceeds received to the stock appreciation rights based on the fair value of the stock appreciation rights on the day of issuance with the remainder allocated to the Searchlight Note. The allocation resulted in a $21.7 million discount for the Searchlight Note that will be amortized over the term of the note using the effective interest method. See Note 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information on the stock appreciation rights.We have the option to pay the annual interest obligation on the Searchlight Note in cash or by capitalizing such interest and adding it to the outstanding principal amount of the note. If we elect to capitalize interest in a given year, we are also required to issue additional stock appreciation rights in the amount of four hundredths of a stock appreciation right for each dollar of interest being capitalized.

[5] GCI Holdings, entered into a $10.0 million loan agreement with Wells Fargo Bank on June 30, 2014 to finance the purchase of a building. The note matures on July 15, 2029 and is due in monthly installments of principal and interest. The interest rate is variable at one month LIBOR plus 2.25%. The note is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as our Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the note are secured by a security interest and lien on the purchased building. In connection with the note issuance, we paid loan fees of $0.1 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the note.

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Long Term Debt (Schedule of Long Term Debt Applicable Margin) (Details) - London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) - Medium-term Notes [Member] - Senior Credit Facility	Aug. 03, 2015
Greater than or equal to 5.5
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	3.00%
Greater than or equal to 5.0 but less than 5.5
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.75%
Greater than or equal to 4.5 but less than 5.0
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.50%
Greater than or equal to 4.0 but less than 4.5
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.25%
Less than 4.0
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.00%

XML

Long Term Debt (Schedule of Redemption Prices) (Details) - Senior Notes [Member]		12 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
2025 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage	100.00%
2025 Notes | Redemption period one
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage	103.438%
2025 Notes | Redemption period two
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage	102.292%
2025 Notes | Redemption period three
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage	101.146%
2025 Notes | Redemption period four
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage	100.00%
2021 Notes | Redemption period one
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage		103.375%
2021 Notes | Redemption period two
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage		102.25%
2021 Notes | Redemption period three
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage		101.125%
2021 Notes | Redemption period four
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price, percentage		100.00%

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Long Term Debt (Schedule of Long Term Debt Payments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2016		$ 3,342
2017		3,358
2018		243,374
2019		3,391
2020		3,407
2021 and thereafter		1,115,241
Long-term debt, gross		1,372,113		$ 1,038,796
Less current portion of long-term debt		3,342		622
Long-term debt, net		1,344,764		1,036,056
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Searchlight ALX, LP Promissory Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[1]	75,000		0
Less unamortized discount		20,190	$ 21,700
Senior Notes [Member] | 2025 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, gross	[2]	450,000		$ 0
Less unamortized discount		$ 3,817

[1] On February 2, 2015, we sold an unsecured promissory note to an affiliate of Searchlight Capital, L.P. ("Searchlight") in the principal amount of $75.0 million at an issue price of 100% that will mature on February 2, 2023 and bears interest at a rate of 7.5% per year ("Searchlight Note"). We may not prepay the Searchlight Note prior to February 2, 2019. Searchlight became a related party as of February 2, 2015, see Note 11 of this Form 10-K for additional information.In conjunction with the Searchlight Note, we entered into a stock appreciation rights agreement pursuant to which we issued to Searchlight three million stock appreciation rights which entitles Searchlight to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable at our election in either cash or shares of GCI's Class A common stock equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of a share of GCI Class A common stock on the date of exercise over the price of $13.00. We allocated the $75.0 million in total proceeds received to the stock appreciation rights based on the fair value of the stock appreciation rights on the day of issuance with the remainder allocated to the Searchlight Note. The allocation resulted in a $21.7 million discount for the Searchlight Note that will be amortized over the term of the note using the effective interest method. See Note 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information on the stock appreciation rights.We have the option to pay the annual interest obligation on the Searchlight Note in cash or by capitalizing such interest and adding it to the outstanding principal amount of the note. If we elect to capitalize interest in a given year, we are also required to issue additional stock appreciation rights in the amount of four hundredths of a stock appreciation right for each dollar of interest being capitalized.

[2] On April 1, 2015 (“Closing Date”), GCI, Inc. completed an offering of $450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 (“2025 Notes”) at an issue price of 99.105%. We used the net proceeds from this offering to repay and retire all $425.0 million of our outstanding senior unsecured notes due 2019 (“2019 Notes”).At any time before April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes, plus a premium calculated as defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.At any time on or after April 15, 2020, the 2025 Notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on not less than thirty nor more than sixty days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption:If redeemed during the twelve month period commencing April 15 of the year indicated:Redemption Price2020103.438%2021102.292%2022101.146%2023 and thereafter100.000%The 2025 Notes mature on April 15, 2025. Semi-annual interest payments are payable on April 15 and October 15. The 2025 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2015, between us and MUFG Union Bank, N.A., as trustee.We are not required to make mandatory sinking fund payments with respect to the 2025 Notes.Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such 2021 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such 2025 Notes, if any. If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the 2025 Notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds, with the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.The 2025 Notes are senior unsecured obligations which rank equally in right of payment with our existing and future senior unsecured debt, including our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, and senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.The covenants in the indenture restrict GCI, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions, as further described in the 2025 Notes indenture.At any time after the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Indenture, the trustee or holders of not less than 30% in aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes may, among other options, declare the 2025 Notes immediately due and payable.We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 million in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferred loan costs and are being amortized over the term of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. Included in the loss was $20.2 million in call premium payments to redeem our 2019 Notes, $5.4 million in unamortized 2019 Notes deferred loan costs, and $2.1 million for the unamortized portion of the 2019 Notes original issue discount.We were in compliance with all 2025 Notes loan covenants at December 31, 2015.

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Income Taxes (Narratives) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Income tax expense	$ 1,847,000	$ (10,029,000)	$ (10,957,000)
Federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%
Unrecognized tax benefits	$ 0	0	0
Income tax interest expense	0	0	0
Income tax penalties expense	0	$ 0	$ 0
Cumulative excess tax benefits, share based compensation expense, not recognize	3,400,000
Alternative Minimum Tax Credit Carryforward
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward, amount	1,700,000
Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 340,471,000

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Income Taxes (Schedule of Income tax expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred tax (expense) benefit:
Federal taxes	$ 1,360	$ (9,081)	$ (9,267)
State taxes	487	(948)	(1,690)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	$ 1,847	$ (10,029)	$ (10,957)

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Income Taxes (Statutory tax rate impact on Income tax expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract]
“Expected” statutory tax (expense) benefit	$ 9,699	$ (24,246)	$ (14,939)
Nondeductible unrealized loss on derivative instrument with related party	(4,566)	0
Nondeductible officer compensation	(1,906)	(1,351)	(824)
Nondeductible entertainment expenses	(1,059)	(1,125)	(1,045)
Nondeductible lobbying expenses	(442)	(425)	(369)
State income taxes, net of federal (expense) benefit	487	(948)	(1,690)
Impact of non-controlling interest attributable to non-tax paying entity	220	18,255	7,977
Other, net	(586)	(189)	(67)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	$ 1,847	$ (10,029)	$ (10,957)

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Income Taxes (Tax effects of temporary differences) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 139,238	$ 131,938
Deferred revenue for financial reporting purposes	41,151	36,077
Asset retirement obligations in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	14,338	6,660
Compensated absences accrued for financial reporting purposes	3,339	3,117
Share-based compensation expense for financial reporting purposes in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes	2,773	1,458
Accounts receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful receivables	1,912	2,585
Workers compensation and self-insurance health reserves, principally due to accrual for financial reporting purposes	1,795	2,043
Alternative minimum tax credits	1,735	1,735
Deferred compensation expense for tax purposes in excess of amounts recognized for financial reporting purposes	1,603	1,374
Other	13,144	5,866
Total deferred tax assets	221,028	192,853
Deferred tax liabilities:
Plant and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation	246,172	231,109
Intangible assets	79,255	48,768
Flow-through entity deferred tax items	0	44,728
Other	1,746	0
Total deferred tax liabilities	327,173	324,605
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ 106,145	$ 131,752

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Income Taxes (Summary of tax net operating loss carryforwards) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)
Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 340,471
Federal | 2020
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	34,958
Federal | 2021
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	29,614
Federal | 2022
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	14,081
Federal | 2023
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	3,968
Federal | 2024
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	722
Federal | 2025
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	737
Federal | 2026
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	150
Federal | 2027
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	1,010
Federal | 2028
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	39,879
Federal | 2029
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	48,370
Federal | 2031
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	110,933
Federal | 2033
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	5,031
Federal | 2034
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	39,133
Federal | 2035
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	11,885
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	331,711
State | 2020
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	34,301
State | 2021
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	28,987
State | 2022
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	13,788
State | 2023
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	3,903
State | 2024
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	0
State | 2025
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	0
State | 2026
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	0
State | 2027
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	0
State | 2028
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	39,715
State | 2029
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	47,558
State | 2031
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	109,376
State | 2033
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	4,927
State | 2034
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	37,866
State | 2035
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 11,290

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Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basics) (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	$ 1,728	$ 2,068
Derivative Liability	32,820
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	1,728	2,068
Derivative Liability	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	0	0
Derivative Liability	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)	0	$ 0
Derivative Liability	$ 32,820

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Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Carrying amounts and fair value of the financial instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Apr. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Carrying Amount
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Current and long-term debt	$ 1,348,106		$ 1,036,678
Fair Value
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Current and long-term debt	$ 1,390,743		$ 1,055,952
Senior Notes [Member] | 2021 Notes
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Stated percentage	6.75%	6.75%
Senior Notes [Member] | 2025 Notes
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Stated percentage	6.875%	6.875%

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Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Derivative Financial Instruments) (Details) - USD ($)		12 Months Ended
	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Stock Appreciation Rights, Expiration Date	8 years
Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate		40.00%
Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate		2.10%
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Searchlight ALX, LP Promissory Note [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Face amount of debt	$ 75,000,000.0
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value		$ 32,820,000	$ 0
Issuance		21,660,000
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value adjustment at end of period, included in Other Income (Expense)		$ 11,160,000
Class A Common Stock | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Rights outstanding	3,000,000
Exercise price of rights	$ 13.00
Class A Common Stock | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Searchlight ALX, LP Promissory Note [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Rights outstanding	3,000,000
Exercise price of rights	$ 13.00
Minimum
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term		4 years
Maximum
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term		8 years

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Stockholders' Equity (Narratives) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) vote $ / shares shares	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($) $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2013 USD ($) $ / shares
Share-Based Compensation
Fair value assumptions, method used	The fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock.
Share-based compensation expense	$ 10.9	$ 8.4	$ 6.6
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense	9.6
GCI 401(k) Plan
Matching contributions	$ 9.8	$ 9.1	$ 8.2
Class A Common Stock
Common Stock
Common stock, voting rights, number of votes | vote	1
Stock conversion ratio	1
Class B Common Stock
Common Stock
Common stock, voting rights, number of votes | vote	10
Restricted Stock
Share-Based Compensation
Weighted average period for recognition of unvested shares	1 year 10 months 2 days
Stock Options
Share-Based Compensation
Vesting period	5 years
Expiration period	10 years
Maximum | Restricted Stock
Share-Based Compensation
Vesting period	3 years
Stock Option Plan [Member] | Class A Common Stock
Share-Based Compensation
Number of shares authorized | shares	15,700,000.0
Number of shares available for grant | shares	2,100,000
Stock Option Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock
Share-Based Compensation
Granted (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 15.06	$ 10.04	$ 8.30
Fair value of awards vesting	$ 17.0	$ 8.5	$ 5.5
Stock Option Plan [Member] | Stock Options
Share-Based Compensation
Intrinsic values of options exercised	$ 3.8	$ 0.1	$ 0.2

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Stockholders' Equity (Summary of Option activity under the Stock Option Plan) (Details) - Stock Option Plan [Member] - Stock Options $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Shares:
Outstanding, beginning | shares	308
Exercised | shares	(286)
Expired | shares	(3)
Outstanding, ending | shares	19
Exercisable | shares	19
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Oustanding, beginning (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 6.86
Exercised (USD per share) | $ / shares	6.56
Expired (USD per share) | $ / shares	7.51
Oustanding, ending (USD per share) | $ / shares	11.35
Exercisable (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 11.35
Outstanding, Weighted Average Contractual Term	1 year
Exercisable, Weighted Average Contractual Term	1 year
Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 160
Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 160

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Stockholders' Equity (Summary of nonvested restricted stock award activity) (Details) - Stock Option Plan [Member] - Restricted Stock - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Shares
Nonvested, Beginning	1,744
Granted	688
Vested	(930)
Forfeited	(7)
Nonvested, Ending	1,495	1,744
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, Beginning (USD per share)	$ 9.11
Granted (USD per share)	15.06	$ 10.04	$ 8.30
Vested (USD per share)	18.29
Forfeited (USD per share)	12.65
Nonvested, Ending (USD per share)	$ 11.08	$ 9.11

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Industry Segments Data (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) segment	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013 USD ($) customer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment	2
Percentage of long-lived assets not in US	82.00%
Revenues	$ 978,534	$ 910,198	$ 811,648
Number of Major Customers | customer			0
Wireless
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Equipment subsidy	7,700	17,300	$ 12,200
Revenues	267,676	269,977	$ 197,218
Wireless and Wireline | Customer Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue, Net
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 130,800	$ 108,300
Concentration Risk, Percentage	13.00%	12.00%

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Industry Segments Data (Reportable segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		$ 978,534	$ 910,198	$ 811,648
Cost of Goods Sold		322,338	302,704	280,462
Contribution		656,196	607,494	531,186
Less SG&A		(338,379)	(293,647)	(271,065)
Plus share-based compensation expense		10,902	8,392	6,638
Plus accretion expense		1,121	1,249	77
Other		511	(372)	447
Adjusted EBITDA		330,351	323,116	267,283
Capital expenditures	$ 746	176,235	176,109	180,554
Goodwill		239,263	229,560	219,041
Total assets		1,982,308	2,002,378	1,972,054
Wholesale
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		267,676	269,977	197,218
Consumer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		351,196	288,014	274,805
Business Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		209,975	225,963	222,814
Managed Broadband
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		149,687	126,244	116,811
Wireless
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		267,676	269,977	197,218
Cost of Goods Sold		70,899	90,920	68,086
Contribution		196,777	179,057	129,132
Less SG&A		(18,137)	(21,631)	(20,030)
Plus share-based compensation expense		0	0	0
Plus accretion expense		559	733	507
Other		0	0	0
Adjusted EBITDA		179,199	158,159	109,609
Capital expenditures		47,892	30,243	28,156
Goodwill		164,312	164,312	155,445
Total assets		594,250	625,417	624,740
Wireless | Wholesale
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		267,676	269,977	197,218
Wireless | Consumer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		0	0	0
Wireless | Business Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		0	0	0
Wireless | Managed Broadband
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		0	0	0
Wireline
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		710,858	640,221	614,430
Cost of Goods Sold		251,439	211,784	212,376
Contribution		459,419	428,437	402,054
Less SG&A		(320,242)	(272,016)	(251,035)
Plus share-based compensation expense		10,902	8,392	6,638
Plus accretion expense		562	516	(430)
Other		511	(372)	447
Adjusted EBITDA		151,152	164,957	157,674
Capital expenditures		128,343	145,866	152,398
Goodwill		74,951	65,248	63,596
Total assets		1,388,058	1,376,961	1,347,314
Wireline | Wholesale
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		0	0	0
Wireline | Consumer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		351,196	288,014	274,805
Wireline | Business Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		209,975	225,963	222,814
Wireline | Managed Broadband
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		$ 149,687	$ 126,244	$ 116,811

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Industry Segments Data (Reconciliation of reportable segment adjusted EBITDA) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Adjusted EBITDA									$ 330,351	$ 323,116	$ 267,283
Less depreciation and amortization expense									(181,767)	(170,285)	(147,259)
Less software impairment charge									(29,839)	0	0
Less share-based compensation expense									(10,902)	(8,392)	(6,638)
Less accretion expense									(1,121)	(1,249)	(77)
Other									(511)	372	(447)
Operating income	$ 20,794	$ 45,473	$ 39,203	$ 741	$ 25,547	$ 49,336	$ 38,414	$ 30,265	106,211	143,562	112,862
Less other expense, net									(133,924)	(74,289)	(70,178)
Income (loss) before income taxes									$ (27,713)	$ 69,273	$ 42,684

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Related Party Transactions (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)		1 Months Ended	5 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 01, 2001	Feb. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2001	Apr. 30, 2008	Dec. 31, 1991
Immediate Family Member of Management or Principal Owner [Member] | Property
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Capital lease obligations							$ 900,000
Immediate Family Member of Management or Principal Owner [Member] | Capital Lease Obligation Addition
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Capital lease obligations						$ 1,300,000
Chief Executive Officer [Member] | Second Aircraft
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Termination period on lease	12 months
Monthly lease payment	$ 132,000
Capital lease deposit					$ 1,500,000
Deposit termination period					6 months
ACS
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payments to related party		$ 6,200,000	$ 25,100,000	$ 62,900,000
Receipts from Related Parties		$ 8,100,000	$ 23,900,000	$ 50,900,000

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Variable Interest Entities (New Markets Tax Credit Entities) (Details) - Primary Beneficiary - USD ($) $ in Millions				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 11, 2012	Oct. 03, 2012	Aug. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Tax credit percentage				39.00%
Restricted cash				$ 1.1	$ 1.1
Percentage of recapture				100.00%
Recapture period				7 years
Assets				$ 140.9	140.9
Liabilities				$ 104.2	$ 104.2
NMTC 1
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support			$ 58.3
Interest rate percent on financial support			1.00%
NMTC 1 | Minimum
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Interest rate percent on financial support			1.00%
NMTC 1 | Maximum
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Interest rate percent on financial support			3.96%
NMTC 2
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support		$ 37.7
Interest rate percent on financial support		1.00%
NMTC 2 | Minimum
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Interest rate percent on financial support		0.7099%
NMTC 2 | Maximum
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Interest rate percent on financial support		0.7693%
NMTC 3
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support	$ 8.2
Interest rate percent on financial support	1.00%
NMTC 3 | Maximum
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Interest rate percent on financial support	1.35%
US Bancorp [Member] | NMTC 1
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support to other entity			$ 22.4
US Bancorp [Member] | NMTC 2
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support to other entity		$ 17.5
US Bancorp [Member] | NMTC 3
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support to other entity	$ 3.8
CDE's | NMTC 1
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support to other entity			$ 76.8
CDE's | NMTC 2
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support to other entity		$ 55.2
CDE's | NMTC 3
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Financial support to other entity	$ 12.0

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Variable Interest Entities Variable Interest Entities (Equity Method Investment) (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2015
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Impairment of equity method investment		$ 12,593,000	$ 0	$ 0
Next Generation Carrier-Class Communications Services Firm [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage		40.80%
Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure					$ 0
Other Current Assets [Member] | Next Generation Carrier-Class Communications Services Firm [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Notes Receivable, Related Parties, Current		$ 3,000,000
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] | Next Generation Carrier-Class Communications Services Firm [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount	$ 3,000,000

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Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 28, 2014
Operating Leases as Lessee
Rental costs	$ 51,500,000	$ 43,800,000	$ 46,500,000
Capital Leases as Lessee
Capital lease term	14 years
Capital lease obligations	$ 98,600,000
Self-Insurance
Coverage limit per incident	600,000
Self insurance reserve	4,100,000	4,000,000
Workers compensation self insurance coverage limit per incident	500,000
Workers compensation self insurance reserve	3,600,000	3,800,000
Tribal Mobility Fund I Grant
Grant proceeds	14,007,000	$ 1,136,000	$ 2,405,000
FCC [Member]
Tribal Mobility Fund I Grant
Federal Grant Award				$ 41,400,000
Grant proceeds	13,800,000
Grant awards	$ 27,600,000

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Commitments and Contingencies (Summary of minimum future lease payments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating
2016	$ 45,585
2017	35,642
2018	28,822
2019	23,611
2020	20,134
2021 and thereafter	50,933
Total minimum lease payments	204,727
Capital
2016	13,454
2017	13,433
2018	13,440
2019	13,450
2020	13,459
2021 and thereafter	19,752
Total minimum lease payments	86,988
Less amount representing interest	18,629
Less current maturity of obligations under capital leases	8,708
Long-term obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturity	$ 59,651	$ 68,356

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Software Impairment Software Impairment (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Software impairment charge	$ 29,839,000	$ 0	$ 0
Wireless, Internet, Video, Local Service, and Long Distance Customer Billing Systems [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Fair Value of Future Capital Expenditures	0
Software impairment charge	20,700,000
Internally Developed Machine-To-Machine Billing System [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Software impairment charge	7,100,000
User Management Software [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Software impairment charge	$ 1,000,000

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Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 241,344	$ 258,573	$ 247,528	$ 231,089	$ 228,791	$ 240,725	$ 224,399	$ 216,283	$ 978,534	$ 910,198	$ 811,648
Operating income	20,794	45,473	39,203	741	25,547	49,336	38,414	30,265	106,211	143,562	112,862
Net income (loss)	(8,879)	17,495	(15,757)	(18,725)	5,796	25,847	16,840	10,761	(25,866)	59,244	31,727
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI	$ (8,760)	$ 17,631	$ (15,627)	$ (19,269)	$ (9,425)	$ 9,915	$ 5,927	$ 1,140	(26,025)	7,557	9,406
Class A Common Stock
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI									$ (23,858)	$ 6,980	$ 8,678
Basic net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.45	$ (0.41)	$ (0.49)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.24	$ 0.14	$ 0.03	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to General Communication, Inc. common stockholders per common share (USD per share)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.44	$ (0.41)	$ (0.49)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.24	$ 0.14	$ 0.03	$ (0.69)	$ 0.18	$ 0.23