As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 27, 2013
File No. 001-
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10
GENERAL FORM FOR REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES
PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
New Media Investment Group Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware | 38-3910250 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
1345 Avenue of the Americas,
New York, New York, 10105
212-479-3160
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrants principal executive offices)
Cameron D. MacDougall, Esq.
Fortress Investment Group LLC
1345 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10105
212-479-1522
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)
With copies to:
Duane McLaughlin, Esq.
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP
One Liberty Plaza
New York, New York 10006
212-225-2000
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class to be so registered |
Name of each exchange on which each class is to be registered |
|
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share | New York Stock Exchange |
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
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. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer | ¨ | Accelerated filer | ¨ | |||
Non-accelerated filer | x (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company | ¨ |
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC.
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN REGISTRATION STATEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN INFORMATION STATEMENT AND ITEMS OF FORM 10
Certain information required to be included in this Form 10 is incorporated by reference to specifically-identified portions of the body of the information statement filed herewith as Exhibit 99.1. None of the information contained in the information statement shall be incorporated by reference herein or deemed to be a part hereof unless such information is specifically incorporated by reference.
Item 1. | Business. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled Summary, Risk Factors, Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information, Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Business, Certain Relationships and Transactions with Related Persons, Affiliates and Affiliated Entities and Where You Can Find More Information. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 1A. | Risk Factors . |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled Risk Factors and Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information. Those section are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 2. | Financial Information. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled SummarySummary Historical Consolidated and Pro Forma Financial Data, Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data, Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 3. | Properties. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled BusinessProperties. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 4. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 5. | Directors and Executive Officers. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled Management and Our Manager and Management Agreement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 6. | Executive Compensation. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled Compensation of Directors, Executive Compensation and Our Manager and Management Agreement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 7. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled Management, Our Manager and Management Agreement and Certain Relationships and Transactions with Related Persons, Affiliates and Affiliated Entities. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 8. | Legal Proceedings. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled BusinessLegal Proceedings. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 9. | Market Price of, and Dividends on, the Registrants Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled Questions and Answers About the Spin-Off, Market Price Information and Dividends and Description of Our Capital Stock. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 10. | Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities. |
Not applicable.
Item 11. | Description of Registrants Securities to be Registered. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled The Spin-Off and Restructuring and Description of Our Capital Stock. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. | Indemnification of Directors and Officers. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled Description of Capital StockLimitations on Liability and Indemnification of Directors and Officers. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled Index to Financial Statements (and the financial statements and related notes referenced therein). That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. |
Not applicable.
Item 15. | Financial Statements and Exhibits. |
(a) Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules
(1) Financial Statements
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled Index to Financial Statements (and the financial statements referenced therein). That section is incorporated herein by reference.
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
Schedule IIValuation and Qualifying Accounts.
GateHouse Media, Inc.
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
(In Thousands)
Balance at Beginning
of Period |
Charges to
Earnings |
Charges to
Other Accounts |
Deductions |
Balance at End
of Period |
||||||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts |
||||||||||||||||||||
Year ended December 30, 2012 |
$ | 2,976 | $ | 2,304 | $ | | $ | (2,824 | ) (1) | $ | 2,456 | |||||||||
Year ended January 1, 2012 |
$ | 3,260 | $ | 3,093 | $ | | $ | (3,377 | ) (1) | $ | 2,976 | |||||||||
Year ended December 31, 2010 |
$ | 4,569 | $ | 3,624 | $ | | $ | (4,933 | ) (1) | $ | 3,260 | |||||||||
Deferred tax valuation allowance |
||||||||||||||||||||
Year ended December 30, 2012 |
$ | 432,954 | $ | 11,795 | $ | (159 | ) (2) | $ | | $ | 444,590 | |||||||||
Year ended January 1, 2012 |
$ | 430,247 | $ | 6,551 | $ | (3,844 | ) (2) | $ | | $ | 432,954 | |||||||||
Year ended December 31, 2010 |
$ | 419,267 | $ | 5,617 | $ | 5,363 | (2) | $ | | $ | 430,247 |
(1) | Amounts are primarily related to the write off of fully reserved accounts receivable. |
(2) | Amount is primarily related to the change in derivative value and is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). |
All other schedules are omitted because the conditions requiring their filing do not exist, or because the required information is provided in the consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto.
(b) Exhibits
See below.
The following documents are filed as exhibits hereto:
Exhibit
|
Description of Exhibit |
Included
|
Incorporated by Reference to GateHouse Media, Inc.s Filing Herein |
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Form |
Exhibit |
Filing Date |
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2.1 | Share Purchase Agreement, dated as of January 28, 2007, by and among SureWest Communications, as Seller, SureWest Directories and GateHouse Media, Inc., as Purchaser | 8-K | 2.1 | March 1, 2007 | ||||||
2.2 | Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 13, 2007, by and between GateHouse Media Illinois Holdings, Inc., as Buyer, and The Copley Press, Inc., as Seller | 8-K | 2.1 | April 11, 2007 | ||||||
2.3 | Amended and Restated Asset Purchase Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, by and among Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc., Gannett River States Publishing Corporation, Pacific and Southern Company, Inc., Federated Publications, Inc., Media WestGSI, Inc., Media WestGRS, Inc., as Sellers, and GateHouse Media Illinois Holdings, Inc., as Buyer, and GateHouse Media, Inc., as Buyer guarantor | 8-K | 2.1 | May 8, 2007 | ||||||
2.4 | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, by and among Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc., | 8-K | 2.2 | May 8, 2007 |
Exhibit
|
Description of Exhibit |
Included
|
Incorporated by Reference to GateHouse Media, Inc.s Filing Herein |
|||||||
Form |
Exhibit |
Filing Date |
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Media WestGSI, Inc., as Sellers, GateHouse Media Illinois Holdings, Inc., as Buyer, and GateHouse Media, Inc., as Buyer guarantor | ||||||||||
2.5 | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated June 28, 2007, by and among GateHouse Media, Inc., GateHouse Media West Virginia Holdings, Inc., GateHouse Media Illinois Holdings, Inc., Champion Publishing, Inc. and Champion Industries, Inc. | S-1/A | 2.9 | July 13, 2007 | ||||||
2.6 | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated October 23, 2007, by and among GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., as Buyer, GateHouse Media, Inc., as Buyer guarantor, Morris Communications Company LLC, Morris Publishing Group, LLC, MPG Allegan Property, LLC, Broadcaster Press, Inc., MPG Holland Property, LLC, The Oak Ridger, LLC, and Yankton Printing Company, as Sellers, and Morris Communications Company, LLC, as Sellers guarantor | 8-K | 2.1 | December 3, 2007 | ||||||
2.7 | Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of June 28, 2013 by and among Dow Jones Ventures VII, Inc., Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc., Newcastle Investment Corp. and Dow Jones & Company, Inc. | |||||||||
2.8 | Debtors Joint Prepackaged Chapter 11 Plan | |||||||||
3.1 | Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of New Media Investment Group Inc. | |||||||||
3.2 | Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws of New Media Investment Group Inc. | |||||||||
4.1 | Form of Investor Rights Agreement by and among GateHouse Media, Inc. and FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC | S-1/A | 4.2 | October 11, 2006 | ||||||
4.2 | Restructuring Support Agreement, dated September 3, 2013, by and among GateHouse Media, Inc. and certain subsidiaries of GateHouse, Newcastle Investment Corp, as Plan Sponsor, each of the Participating Creditors, and Cortland Products Corp., in its capacity as administrative agent under the Credit Agreement | 8-K | 4.1 | September 10, 2013 | ||||||
4.3 | Investment Commitment Letter, dated September 3, 2013, by and among GateHouse Media, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries that are signatories thereto and Newcastle Investment Corp. | 8-K | 4.2 | September 10, 2013 | ||||||
4.4 | Credit Amendment, dated as of September 3, 2013, by and among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc. (Holdco), GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts II, Inc. and ENHE Acquisition, LLC, those subsidiaries of Holdco party hereto as Guarantors and the Required Lenders party hereto | 8-K | 4.3 | September 10, 2013 |
Exhibit
|
Description of Exhibit |
Included
|
Incorporated by Reference to GateHouse Media, Inc.s Filing Herein |
|||||||
Form |
Exhibit |
Filing Date |
||||||||
4.5 | Form of Registration Rights Agreement between New Media Investment Group Inc. and Omega Advisors, Inc. | |||||||||
*10.1 | GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan | S-1/A | 10.1 | October 11, 2006 | ||||||
*10.2 | Form of Restricted Share Award Agreement under the GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (three-year vesting) | 10-K | 10.2 | March 17, 2008 | ||||||
*10.3 | Form of Restricted Share Award Agreement under the GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (April 15, 2008 vesting) | 10-K | 10.3 | March 17, 2008 | ||||||
*10.4 | Liberty Group Publishing, Inc. Publishers Deferred Compensation Plan | S-1 | 10.2 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
*10.5 | Liberty Group Publishing, Inc. Executive Benefit Plan | S-1 | 10.3 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
*10.6 | Liberty Group Publishing, Inc. Executive Deferral Plan | S-1 | 10.4 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
*10.7 | Employment Agreement, dated as of January 3, 2006, by and among Liberty Group Publishing, Inc., Liberty Group Operating, Inc. and Michael E. Reed | S-1 | 10.8 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
*10.8 | Employment Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2006, by and among GateHouse Media, Inc., GateHouse Media Operating, Inc. and Polly G. Sack | S-1 | 10.12 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
*10.9 | Management Stockholder Agreement, dated as of January 29, 2006, by and between Liberty Group Publishing, Inc., FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC and Michael E. Reed | S-1 | 10.13 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
*10.10 | Management Stockholder Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2006, by and between GateHouse Media, Inc., FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC and Polly G. Sack | S-1 | 10.19 | July 21, 2006 | ||||||
10.11 | Form of Indemnification Agreement to be entered into by New Media Investment Group Inc. with each of its executive officers and directors | |||||||||
10.12 | License Agreement, dated as of February 28, 2007, by and between SureWest Communications and GateHouse Media, Inc. | 8-K | 10.1 | March 1, 2007 | ||||||
10.13 | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2007, among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc., as Holdco, GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., as the Company, GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts II, Inc., and ENHE Acquisition, LLC, as Subsidiary Borrowers, the Domestic Subsidiaries of Holdco from time to time Parties thereto, as Guarantors, the Lenders Parties thereto, Goldman Sachs Credit Partners L.P., as Syndication Agent, Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc., and BMO Capital Markets Financing, Inc., as co-documentation Agents and Cortland Products Corp., as | 8-K | 10.1 | March 1, 2007 |
Exhibit
|
Description of Exhibit |
Included
|
Incorporated by Reference to GateHouse Media, Inc.s Filing Herein |
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Form |
Exhibit |
Filing Date |
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successor to Wells Fargo Bank, as Administrative Agent, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, as Goldman Sachs Credit Partners, L.P., General Electric Capital Corporation and Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc., as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Runners | ||||||||||
10.14 | Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated as of February 28, 2007, among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc., as Holdco, GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., as the Company, GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts II, Inc., and ENHE Acquisition, LLC, as Subsidiary Borrowers, the Domestic Subsidiaries of Holdco from time to time Parties thereto, as Guarantors, and Wells Fargo Bank, as Administrative Agent, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, as Goldman Sachs Credit Partners, L.P., General Electric Capital Corporation and Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc., as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Runners | 8-K | 10.2 | March 1, 2007 | ||||||
10.15 | Amended and Restated Pledge Agreement, dated as of February 28, 2007, among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc., as Holdco, GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., as the Company, GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts II, Inc., and ENHE Acquisition, LLC, as Subsidiary Borrowers, the Domestic Subsidiaries of Holdco from time to time Parties thereto, as Guarantors, and Wells Fargo Bank, as Administrative Agent, for the several banks and other financial institutions as may from time to time becomes parties to such Credit Agreement | 8-K | 10.3 | March 1, 2007 | ||||||
10.16 | First Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of May 7, 2007, by and among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc., as Holdco, GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., as the Company, GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts II, Inc. and ENHE Acquisition, LLC, as Subsidiary Borrowers, the Domestic Subsidiaries of Holdco from time to time Parties thereto, as Guarantors, the Lenders Parties thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, as Administrative Agent | 8-K | 99.1 | May 11, 2007 | ||||||
10.17 | Underwriting Agreement, dated July 17, 2007, among GateHouse Media, Inc. and Goldman, Sachs & Co., Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated | 8-K | 1.1 | July 18, 2007 | ||||||
10.18 | Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 3, 2009, by and among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc., as Holdco, GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., as the Company, GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media | 8-K | 99.1 | February 5, 2009 |
Exhibit
|
Description of Exhibit |
Included
|
Incorporated by Reference to GateHouse Media, Inc.s Filing Herein |
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Form |
Exhibit |
Filing Date |
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Massachusetts II, Inc. and ENHE Acquisition, LLC, as Subsidiary Borrowers, the Domestic Subsidiaries of Holdco from time to time Parties thereto, as Guarantors, the Lenders Parties thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, as Administrative Agent | ||||||||||
*10.19 | Offer letter dated December 23, 2008, between GateHouse Media, Inc., and Melinda A. Janik | 10-K | 10.23 | March 13, 2009 | ||||||
*10.20 | Employment Agreement dated as of January 9, 2009, by and among GateHouse Media, Inc., GateHouse Media Operating Inc., and Kirk Davis. | 8-K | 10.1 | January 9, 2009 | ||||||
*10.21 | Offer letter dated February 4, 2008, between GateHouse Media, Inc., and Mark Maring. | 10-Q | 10.1 | November 7, 2008 | ||||||
*10.22 | Form of amendment to Employment Agreement for Michael E. Reed. | 10-K | 10.22 | March 8, 2012 | ||||||
*10.23 | Form of amendment to Employment Agreement for Kirk Davis. | 10-K | 10.23 | March 8, 2012 | ||||||
*10.24 | Form of Employment Agreement by and among GateHouse Media, Inc., GateHouse Operating, Inc. and Melinda A. Janik. | 10-K | 10.24 | March 8, 2012 | ||||||
*10.25 | Form of amendment to Employment Agreement for Polly G. Sack. | 10-K | 10.25 | March 8, 2012 | ||||||
10.26 | Agency Succession and Amendment Agreement, dated as of March 30, 2011 by and among GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc., GateHouse Media Operating, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts I, Inc., GateHouse Media Massachusetts II, Inc., ENHE Acquisition, LLC, each of those domestic subsidiaries of Holdco identified as a Guarantor on the signature pages of the Credit Agreement, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., successor-by-merger to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as the resigning Administrative Agent, and the Successor Agent | 8-K | 99.1 | April 7, 2011 | ||||||
10.27 | Form of Warrant Agreement | |||||||||
10.28 | Form of Management Agreement between New Media Investment Group Inc. and FIG LLC | X | ||||||||
16.1 | Letter from KPMG LLP to the Securities and Exchange Commission dated April 13, 2007 | 8-K/A | 16.1 | April 13, 2007 | ||||||
21.1 | Subsidiaries of New Media Investment Group Inc. | |||||||||
99.1 | Preliminary Information Statement of New Media Investment Group Inc., subject to completion, dated September 27, 2013 | X | ||||||||
99.2 | List of dailies, weeklies, shoppers, websites and directories of GateHouse Media, Inc. | X |
Exhibit
|
Description of Exhibit |
Included
|
Incorporated by Reference to GateHouse Media, Inc.s Filing Herein |
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Form |
Exhibit |
Filing Date |
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99.3 | Sections under the headings Director Compensation, Directors and Compensation of Named Executive Officers, in GateHouse Media Inc.s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed with the SEC on April 9, 2013. |
DEF
14A |
April 9, 2013 |
For purposes of the incorporation by reference of documents as Exhibits, all references to Forms 10-Q, 8-K and DEF 14A of GateHouse Media, Inc. refer to Forms 10-Q, 8-K and DEF 14A filed with the Commission under Commission file number 001-33091; and all references to Forms S-1 and S-1/A of GateHouse Media, Inc. refer to Forms S-1 and S-1/A filed with the Commission under Registration Number 333-135944.
| To be filed by amendment. |
* | Asterisks identify management contracts and compensatory plans or arrangements. |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Cameron D. MacDougall |
|
Name: |
Cameron D. MacDougall | |
Title: |
Secretary |
Date: September 27, 2013
Exhibit 10.28
MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORY AGREEMENT
dated as of [], 2013
between
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC.
and
FIG LLC
Page | ||||||
SECTION 1. |
DEFINITIONS | 1 | ||||
SECTION 2. |
APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES OF THE MANAGER | 2 | ||||
SECTION 3. |
DEVOTION OF TIME; ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES | 7 | ||||
SECTION 4. |
AGENCY | 7 | ||||
SECTION 5. |
BANK ACCOUNTS | 7 | ||||
SECTION 6. |
RECORDS; CONFIDENTIALITY | 8 | ||||
SECTION 7. |
OBLIGATIONS OF MANAGER; RESTRICTIONS | 8 | ||||
SECTION 8. |
COMPENSATION | 9 | ||||
SECTION 9. |
EXPENSES OF THE COMPANY | 10 | ||||
SECTION 10. |
CALCULATIONS OF EXPENSES | 12 | ||||
SECTION 11. |
LIMITS OF MANAGER RESPONSIBILITY; INDEMNIFICATION | 12 | ||||
SECTION 12. |
NO JOINT VENTURE | 13 | ||||
SECTION 13. |
TERM; TERMINATION | 13 | ||||
SECTION 14. |
ASSIGNMENT | 14 | ||||
SECTION 15. |
TERMINATION FOR CAUSE | 15 | ||||
SECTION 16. |
ACTION UPON TERMINATION | 15 | ||||
SECTION 17. |
RELEASE OF MONEY OR OTHER PROPERTY UPON WRITTEN REQUEST | 16 | ||||
SECTION 18. |
NOTICES | 17 | ||||
SECTION 19. |
BINDING NATURE OF AGREEMENT; SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS | 17 | ||||
SECTION 20. |
ENTIRE AGREEMENT | 17 | ||||
SECTION 21. |
CONTROLLING LAW | 18 | ||||
SECTION 22. |
INDULGENCES, NOT WAIVERS | 18 | ||||
SECTION 23. |
TITLES NOT TO AFFECT INTERPRETATION | 18 | ||||
SECTION 24. |
EXECUTION IN COUNTERPARTS | 18 | ||||
SECTION 25. |
PROVISIONS SEPARABLE | 18 | ||||
SECTION 26. |
GENDER | 18 |
i
MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORY AGREEMENT
THIS MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORY AGREEMENT, is made as of [] 1 , 2013 (the Agreement) by and among NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC., a Delaware corporation (the Company), and FIG LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (together with its permitted assignees, the Manager).
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, the Company desires to avail itself of the experience, sources of information, advice, assistance and certain facilities of or available to the Manager and to have the Manager undertake the duties and responsibilities hereinafter set forth, on behalf of the Company, as provided in this Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Manager is willing to render such services on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.
NOW THEREFORE, IN CONSIDERATION OF THE MUTUAL AGREEMENTS HEREIN SET FORTH, THE PARTIES HERETO AGREE AS FOLLOWS:
The following terms have the meanings assigned them:
(a) Agreement means this Management and Advisory Agreement, as amended from time to time.
(b) Board of Directors means the Board of Directors of the Company.
(c) Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
(d) Common Share means a share of capital stock of the Company now or hereafter authorized as common voting stock of the Company.
(e) Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
(f) Adjusted Net Income means net income (computed in accordance with GAAP) plus depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships, joint ventures and permanent cash tax savings. Adjusted Net Income will be computed on an unconsolidated basis. The computation of Adjusted Net Income may be adjusted at the direction of the Independent Directors based on changes in, or certain applications of, GAAP.
(g) Governing Instruments means, with regard to any entity, the articles of incorporation and bylaws in the case of a corporation, certificate of limited partnership (if applicable) and the partnership agreement in the case of a general or limited partnership, the articles of formation and the operating agreement in the case of a limited liability company, or, in each case, comparable governing documents.
1 | Date will be the Effective Date as defined in the Plan. |
1
(h) Independent Directors means the members of the Board of Directors who are not officers or employees of the Manager.
(i) Investment Company Act means the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
(j) Investments means the investments of the Company.
(k) Junior Share means a share of capital stock of the Company now or hereafter authorized or reclassified that has dividend rights, or rights upon liquidation, winding up and dissolution, that are inferior or junior to the Ordinary Shares.
(l) Listing means the commencement date of regular-way trading of Common Shares of the Company on a major U.S. national securities exchange.
(m) Ordinary Share means a share of the Companys Common Shares, par value $0.01 per share. Where relevant in this Agreement, Ordinary Shares includes shares of the Companys Common Shares, par value $0.01 per share, issued upon conversion of Preferred Shares or Junior Shares.
(n) Plan means the Debtors Joint Prepackaged Chapter 11 Plan dated as of September 20, 2013 (together with all Exhibits, Annexes and Schedules thereto), in each case as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, in the cases captioned in re: Gatehouse Media, Inc., et al., Case No 13-[ ] ([ ]) in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
(o) Preferred Share means a share of capital stock of the Company now or hereafter authorized or reclassified that has dividend rights, or rights upon liquidation, winding up and dissolution, that are superior or prior to the Ordinary Shares.
(p) Subsidiary means any subsidiary of the Company and any partnership, the general partner of which is the Company or any subsidiary of the Company and any limited liability company, the managing member of which is the Company or any subsidiary of the Company.
SECTION 2. APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES OF THE MANAGER.
(a) The Company hereby appoints the Manager to manage the assets of the Company subject to the further terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement and the Manager hereby agrees to use its commercially reasonable efforts to perform each of the duties set forth herein. The appointment of the Manager shall be exclusive to the Manager except to the extent that the Manager otherwise agrees, in its sole and absolute discretion, and except to the extent that the Manager elects, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, to cause the duties of the Manager hereunder to be provided by third parties.
2
(b) The Manager, in its capacity as manager of the assets and the day-to-day operations of the Company, at all times will be subject to the supervision of the Companys Board of Directors and will have only such functions and authority as the Company may delegate to it including, without limitation, the functions and authority identified herein and delegated to the Manager hereby. The Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Company and will perform (or cause to be performed) such services and activities relating to the assets and operations of the Company as may be appropriate, including, without limitation:
(i) serving as the Companys consultant with respect to the periodic review of the investment criteria and parameters for Investments, borrowings and operations;
(ii) investigation, analysis, valuation and selection of investment opportunities;
(iii) with respect to prospective Investments by the Company and dispositions of Investments, conducting negotiations with brokers, sellers and purchasers and their respective agents and representatives, investment bankers and owners of privately and publicly held companies;
(iv) engaging and supervising, on behalf of the Company and at the Companys expense, independent contractors that provide services relating to the Investments, including, but not limited to, investment banking, legal advisory, tax advisory, accounting advisory, securities brokerage, real estate advisory and brokerage, and other financial and consulting services as the Manager determines from time to time is advisable;
(v) negotiating on behalf of the Company for the sale, exchange or other disposition of any Investments;
(vi) coordinating and managing operations of any joint venture or co-investment interests held by the Company and conducting all matters with the joint venture or co-investment partners;
(vii) providing executive and administrative personnel, office space and office services required in rendering services to the Company;
(viii) administering the day-to-day operations of the Company and performing and supervising the performance of such other administrative functions necessary in the management of the Company as may be agreed upon by the Manager and the Board of Directors, including, without limitation, the collection of revenues and the payment of the Companys debts and obligations and maintenance of appropriate computer services to perform such administrative functions;
3
(ix) communicating on behalf of the Company with the holders of any equity or debt securities of the Company as required to satisfy the reporting and other requirements of any governmental bodies or agencies or trading markets and to maintain effective relations with such holders;
(x) counseling the Company in connection with policy decisions to be made by the Board of Directors;
(xi) evaluating and recommending to the Board of Directors modifications to the hedging strategies in effect on the date hereof and engaging in hedging activities on behalf of the Company;
(xii) counseling the Company regarding the maintenance of its exemption from the Investment Company Act and monitoring compliance with the requirements for maintaining an exemption from that Act;
(xiii) assisting the Company in developing criteria that are specifically tailored to the Companys investment objectives and making available to the Company its knowledge and experience with respect to its target assets;
(xiv) representing and making recommendations to the Company in connection with the purchase and finance, and commitment to purchase and finance, of its target assets, and in connection with the sale and commitment to sell such assets;
(xv) monitoring the operating performance of the Investments and providing periodic reports with respect thereto to the Board of Directors, including comparative information with respect to such operating performance, valuation and budgeted or projected operating results;
(xvi) investing and re-investing any moneys and securities of the Company (including investing in short-term Investments pending investment in Investments, payment of fees, costs and expenses, or payments of dividends or distributions to stockholders and partners of the Company) and advising the Company as to its capital structure and capital raising;
(xvii) causing the Company to retain qualified accountants and legal counsel, as applicable, to assist in developing appropriate accounting procedures, compliance procedures and testing systems with respect to financial reporting obligations and to conduct quarterly compliance reviews with respect thereto;
(xviii) causing the Company to qualify to do business in all applicable jurisdictions and to obtain and maintain all appropriate licenses;
(xix) assisting the Company in complying with all regulatory requirements applicable to the Company in respect of its business activities, including preparing or causing to be prepared all financial statements required under applicable regulations and contractual undertakings and all reports and documents required under the Exchange Act;
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(xx) taking all necessary actions to enable the Company to make required tax filings and reports, including soliciting stockholders for required information to the extent provided by the provisions of the Code;
(xxi) handling and resolving all claims, disputes or controversies (including all litigation, arbitration, settlement or other proceedings or negotiations) in which the Company may be involved or to which the Company may be subject arising out of the Companys day-to-day operations, subject to such limitations or parameters as may be imposed from time to time by the Board of Directors;
(xxii) using commercially reasonable efforts to cause expenses incurred by or on behalf of the Company to be reasonable or customary and within any budgeted parameters or expense guidelines set by the Board of Directors from time to time;
(xxiii) performing such other services as may be required from time to time for management and other activities relating to the assets of the Company as the Board of Directors shall reasonably request or the Manager shall deem appropriate under the particular circumstances; and
(xxiv) using commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Company to comply with all applicable laws.
Without limiting the foregoing, the Manager will perform portfolio management services (the Portfolio Management Services) on behalf of the Company with respect to the Investments. Such services will include, but not be limited to, consulting with the Company on the purchase and sale of, and other investment opportunities in connection with, the Companys portfolio of assets; the collection of information and the submission of reports pertaining to the Companys assets, general economic conditions; periodic review and evaluation of the performance of the Companys portfolio of assets; acting as liaison between the Company and banking, investment banking and other parties with respect to the purchase, financing and disposition of assets; and other customary functions related to portfolio management. Additionally, the Manager will perform monitoring services (the Monitoring Services) on behalf of the Company with respect to any services provided by third parties, which the Manager determines are material to the performance of the business.
(c) The Manager may enter into agreements with other parties, including its affiliates (subject to Section 2(d) below), for the purpose of engaging one or more asset managers for and on behalf, and at the sole cost and expense, of the Company to provide operations management, asset management, personnel management, development and/or similar services to the Company (including, without limitation, Portfolio Management Services and Monitoring Services) with respect to the Investments, pursuant to management agreement(s) with terms which are then customary for agreements regarding the management or servicing of assets similar in type, quality and value to the assets of the Company; provided, that (i) with respect to Portfolio Management Services, (A) any such agreements shall be subject to the Companys prior written approval and (B) the Manager shall remain liable for the performance of such Portfolio Management Services, and (ii) with respect to Monitoring Services, any such agreements shall be subject to the Companys prior written approval.
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(d) Transactions between the Manager and any affiliate (including, but not limited to, any amendments to this Agreement or any issuance by the Company of equity to existing shareholders as of the date of this Agreement that would change the relative equity ownership percentages among such existing shareholders) must be approved in advance by the majority of the Independent Directors and be determined by such Independent Directors to be in the best interests of the Company. If any affiliate transaction involving the acquisition of an asset from the Manager or an affiliate of the Manager is not approved in advance by a majority of the Independent Directors, then the Manager may be required to repurchase the asset at the purchase price (plus closing costs) to the Company.
(e) The Manager may retain, for and on behalf, and at the sole cost and expense, of the Company, such services of accountants, legal counsel, appraisers, insurers, brokers, transfer agents, registrars, developers, investment banks, financial advisors, banks and other lenders and others as the Manager deems necessary or advisable in connection with the management and operations of the Company. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the Manager shall have the right to cause any such services to be rendered by its employees or affiliates. Commencing from the Listing, the Company shall pay or reimburse the Manager or its affiliates performing such services for the cost thereof; provided , that such costs and reimbursements are no greater than those which would be payable to outside professionals or consultants engaged to perform such services pursuant to agreements negotiated on an arms-length basis.
(f) As frequently as the Manager may deem necessary or advisable, or at the direction of the Board of Directors, the Manager shall, at the sole cost and expense of the Company, prepare, or cause to be prepared, with respect to any Investment (i) reports and information on the Companys operations and asset performance and (ii) other information reasonably requested by the Company.
(g) The Manager shall prepare, or cause to be prepared, at the sole cost and expense of the Company, all reports, financial or otherwise, with respect to the Company reasonably required by the Board of Directors in order for the Company to comply with its Governing Instruments or any other materials required to be filed with any governmental body or agency, and shall prepare, or cause to be prepared, all materials and data necessary to complete such reports and other materials including, without limitation, an annual audit of the Companys books of account by a nationally recognized independent accounting firm.
(h) The Manager shall prepare regular reports for the Board of Directors to enable the Board of Directors to review the Companys acquisitions, portfolio composition and characteristics, performance and compliance with policies approved by the Board of Directors.
(i) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary, except to the extent that the payment of additional monies is proven by the Company to have been required as a direct result of the Managers acts or omissions which result in the right of the Company to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 15 of this
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Agreement, the Manager shall not be required to expend money (Excess Funds) in excess of that contained in any applicable Company Account (as herein defined) or otherwise made available by the Company to be expended by the Manager hereunder. Failure of the Manager to expend Excess Funds out-of-pocket shall not give rise or be a contributing factor to the right of the Company under Section 13(a) of this Agreement to terminate this Agreement due to the Managers unsatisfactory performance.
(j) In performing its duties under this Section 2, the Manager shall be entitled to rely reasonably on qualified experts hired by the Manager.
SECTION 3. DEVOTION OF TIME; ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES.
(a) The Manager will be responsible for the compensation and benefits of the Chief Executive Officer after the Listing, which compensation and benefits shall be subject to the review and approval of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Any increase to the Chief Executive Officers compensation and benefits in effect as of the date of this Agreement shall either be approved by the Manager in its sole and absolute discretion or be paid for by the Company.
(b) Nothing herein shall prevent the Manager or any of its affiliates or any of the officers and employees of any of the foregoing from engaging in other businesses or from rendering services of any kind to any other person or entity, including investment in, or advisory service to others investing in, any type of media or media related investment, including investments which meet the principal investment objectives of the Company.
(c) Managers, members, partners, officers, employees and agents of the Manager or affiliates of the Manager may serve as directors, officers, employees, agents, nominees or signatories for the Company or any Subsidiary, to the extent permitted by their Governing Instruments, as from time to time amended, or by any resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors pursuant to the Companys Governing Instruments. When executing documents or otherwise acting in such capacities for the Company, such persons shall use their respective titles in the Company.
The Manager shall act as agent of the Company in making, acquiring, financing and disposing of Investments, disbursing and collecting the Companys funds, paying the debts and fulfilling the obligations of the Company, supervising the performance of professionals engaged by or on behalf of the Company and handling, prosecuting and settling any claims of or against the Company, the Board of Directors, holders of the Companys securities or the Companys representatives or properties.
At the direction of the Board of Directors, the Manager may establish and maintain one or more bank accounts in the name of the Company or any Subsidiary (any such account, a Company Account), and may collect and deposit funds into any such Company
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Account or Company Accounts, and disburse funds from any such Company Account or Company Accounts, under such terms and conditions as the Board of Directors may approve; and the Manager shall from time to time render appropriate accountings of such collections and payments to the Board of Directors and, upon request, to the auditors of the Company or any Subsidiary.
SECTION 6. RECORDS; CONFIDENTIALITY.
The Manager shall maintain appropriate books of accounts and records relating to services performed under this Agreement, and such books of account and records shall be accessible for inspection by representatives of the Company or any Subsidiary at any time during normal business hours upon ten (10) business days advance written notice. The Manager shall keep confidential any and all information obtained in connection with the services rendered under this Agreement and shall not disclose any such information to nonaffiliated third parties except with the prior written consent of the Board of Directors.
SECTION 7. OBLIGATIONS OF MANAGER; RESTRICTIONS.
(a) The Manager shall require each seller or transferor of Investment assets to the Company to make such representations and warranties regarding such assets as may, in the judgment of the Manager, be necessary and appropriate. In addition, the Manager shall take such other action as it deems necessary or appropriate with regard to the protection of the Investments.
(b) The Manager shall refrain from any action that, in its sole judgment made in good faith, would violate any law, rule or regulation of any governmental body or agency having jurisdiction over the Company or any Subsidiary or that would otherwise not be permitted by such entitys Governing Instruments. If the Manager is ordered to take any such action by the Board of Directors, the Manager shall promptly notify the Board of Directors of the Managers judgment that such action would adversely affect such status or violate any such law, rule or regulation or the Governing Instruments. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Manager, its directors, officers, stockholders and employees shall not be liable to the Company or any Subsidiary, the Board of Directors, or the Companys or any Subsidiarys stockholders or partners for any act or omission by the Manager, its directors, officers, stockholders or employees except as provided in Section 11 of this Agreement.
(c) The Manager shall not (i) consummate any transaction which would involve the acquisition by the Company of property in which the Manager or any affiliate thereof has an ownership interest or the sale by the Company of property to the Manager or any affiliate thereof, or (ii) under circumstances where the Manager is subject to an actual or potential conflict of interest because it manages both the Company and another Person (not an Affiliate of the Company) with which the Company has a contractual relationship, take any action constituting the granting to such Person of a waiver, forbearance or other relief, or the enforcement against such Person of remedies, under or with respect to the applicable contract, unless such transaction or action, as the case may be and in each case, is approved by a majority of the Independent Directors.
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(d) The Manager shall at all times during the term of this Agreement (including the Initial Term and any renewal term) maintain a tangible net worth equal to or greater than $1,000,000. Additionally, during such period the Manager shall maintain errors and omissions insurance coverage and other insurance coverage which is customarily carried by asset and investment managers performing functions similar to those of the Manager under this Agreement with respect to assets similar to the assets of the Company, in an amount which is comparable to that customarily maintained by other managers or servicers of similar assets.
(a) During the term of this Agreement (as the same may be extended from time to time) commencing from the Listing, the Manager will receive an annual management fee (the Management Fee) equal to 1.50% of the Companys Total Equity. The Management Fee shall be calculated and paid monthly in arrears based upon the weighted daily average of the Total Equity of the Company for such month. The term Total Equity for any period means the sum of (i) the equity value as of [] 2 , plus (ii) the total net proceeds to the Company from any equity capital hereafter raised by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company (exclusive, with respect to any Subsidiary, of capital of such Subsidiary consisting of a capital contribution or other form of capital investment made by the Company or another Subsidiary of the Company), including capital effectively raised through the issuance of capital in a transaction, plus (iii) the value of contributions made by partners other than the Company, from time to time, to the capital of any Subsidiary (reduced proportionately in the case of a Subsidiary to the extent that the Company owns, directly or indirectly, less than 100% of the equity interests in such Subsidiary), plus (iv) the equity value of any assets contributed to the Company prior to or after the date of this Agreement (to the extent not previously included) less (iv) any capital dividends or capital distributions made by the Company to its stockholders or, without duplication, by any Subsidiary to its stockholders, partners or other equity holders.
(b) The Manager shall compute each installment of the Management Fee within 15 days after the end of the calendar month with respect to which such installment is payable. A copy of the computations made by the Manager to calculate such installment shall thereafter, for informational purposes only and subject in any event to Section 13(a) of this Agreement, promptly be delivered to the Board of Directors and, upon such delivery, payment of such installment of the Management Fee shown therein shall be due and payable no later than the earlier to occur of (i) the date which is 20 days after the end of the calendar month with respect to which such installment is payable and (ii) the date which is two (2) business days after the date of delivery to the Board of Directors of such computations.
(c) The Management Fee is subject to adjustment pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions of Section 13(a) of this Agreement.
2 | Listing Date |
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(d) The Board of Directors may, by written notice to the Manager delivered ten (10) days prior to the date on which any payment of the Incentive Compensation is payable, request that the Manager accept all or a portion of such payment in the form of issued Common Shares, which notice shall specify the amount of the payment of the Incentive Compensation, the amount thereof which the Company intends to pay in cash, if any, and the amount thereof which the Company intends to pay in the form of such Common Shares in the number of such shares as determined by the Board of Directors. Within five (5) days following receipt of said notice, the Manager shall notify the Company in writing, such election to be made by the Manager in its sole discretion, whether it will accept such portion of such payment in the form of such shares and in such number of such shares.
(e) Commencing from the Listing, in addition to the Management Fee otherwise payable hereunder, the Company shall pay the Manager on a quarterly basis annual incentive compensation on a cumulative, but not compounding, basis, in an amount equal to the product of 25% of the dollar amount by which (a) the Adjusted Net Income (before such payment) of the Company exceeds (b)(i) the weighted daily average Total Equity (plus cash capital raising costs), multiplied by, (ii) a simple interest rate of ten percent (10%) per annum. The obligation of the Company to pay the Incentive Compensation shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, subject to Section 16(b).
(f) Commencing from the Listing, upon the successful completion of an offering of Common Shares or Preferred Shares by the Company, the Company shall pay and issue to the Manager options to purchase Common Shares equal to 10% of the number of Common Shares or Preferred Shares sold in the offering (excluding any Common Shares or Preferred Shares issued to Newcastle Investment Corp. or its affiliates in the DJ Contribution (as defined in the Plan)) with an exercise price equal to the price per Common Share or Preferred Share, as the case may be, paid by the public or other ultimate purchaser in the offering. For the avoidance of doubt, the Listing shall not constitute an offering for purposes of this Section 8(f).
SECTION 9. EXPENSES OF THE COMPANY.
The Company shall pay all of its expenses and shall reimburse the Manager for documented expenses of the Manager incurred on its behalf (collectively, the Expenses). Expenses include all costs and expenses which are expressly designated elsewhere in this Agreement as the Companys, together with the following:
(a) expenses in connection with the issuance and transaction costs incident to the acquisitions, disposition and financing of Investments;
(b) travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred by managers, officers, employees and agents of the Manager in connection with the purchase, financing, refinancing, sale or other disposition, or asset management of an Investment;
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(c) costs of legal, accounting, tax, auditing, administrative and other services rendered for the Company by providers retained by the Manager or, if provided by the Managers employees, in amounts which are no greater than those which would be payable to outside professionals or consultants engaged to perform such services pursuant to agreements negotiated on an arms-length basis;
(d) the compensation and expenses of the Independent Directors and the cost of liability insurance to indemnify the Companys directors and officers;
(e) compensation and expenses of the Companys custodian and transfer agent, if any;
(f) costs associated with the establishment and maintenance of any credit facilities and other indebtedness of the Company (including commitment fees, legal fees, closing and other costs) or any securities offerings of the Company;
(g) costs associated with any computer software or hardware that is used solely for the Company;
(h) all other costs and expenses relating to the Companys business and investment operations, including, without limitation, the costs and expenses of acquiring, owning, protecting, maintaining, developing, operating and disposing of Investments, including appraisal, reporting, audit and legal fees;
(i) all insurance costs incurred in connection with the operation of the Companys business except for the costs attributable to the insurance that the Manager elects to carry for itself and its employees;
(j) expenses relating to any office or office facilities maintained for the Company or Investments separate from the office or offices of the Manager;
(k) expenses connected with the payments of interest, dividends or distributions in cash or any other form made or caused to be made by the Board of Directors to or on account of the holders of securities of the Company or its Subsidiaries, including, without limitation, in connection with any dividend reinvestment plan;
(l) expenses connected with communications to holders of securities of the Company or its Subsidiaries and other bookkeeping and clerical work necessary in maintaining relations with holders of such securities and in complying with the continuous reporting and other requirements of governmental bodies or agencies, including, without limitation, all costs of preparing and filing required reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the costs payable by the Company to any transfer agent and registrar in connection with the listing and/or trading of the Companys stock on any exchange, the fees payable by the Company to any such exchange in connection with its listing, costs of preparing, printing and mailing the Companys annual report to its shareholders and proxy materials with respect to any meeting of the shareholders of the Company;
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(m) all other expenses actually incurred by the Manager which are reasonably necessary for the performance by the Manager of its duties and functions under this Agreement; and
(n) Without regard to the amount of compensation received under this Agreement by the Manager, the Manager shall bear the following expenses, except as expressly set forth otherwise herein: (i) wages and salaries of the Managers officers and employees; (ii) rent attributable to the space occupied by the Manager; and (iii) all other overhead expenses of the Manager.
SECTION 10. CALCULATIONS OF EXPENSES.
The Manager shall prepare a statement documenting the Expenses of the Company and the Expenses incurred by the Manager on behalf of the Company during each calendar month, and shall deliver such statement to the Company within 20 days after the end of each calendar month. Expenses incurred by the Manager on behalf of the Company shall be reimbursed monthly to the Manager on the first business day of the month immediately following the date of delivery of such statement.
SECTION 11. LIMITS OF MANAGER RESPONSIBILITY; INDEMNIFICATION.
(a) The Manager assumes no responsibility under this Agreement other than to render the services called for under this Agreement in good faith and shall not be responsible for any action of the Board of Directors in following or declining to follow any advice or recommendations of the Manager, including as set forth in Section 7(b) of this Agreement. The Manager, its members, managers, officers and employees will not be liable to the Company or any Subsidiary, to the Board of Directors, or the Companys or any Subsidiarys stockholders or partners for any acts or omissions by the Manager, its members, managers, officers or employees, pursuant to or in accordance with this Agreement, except by reason of acts constituting bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the Managers duties under this Agreement. The Company shall, to the full extent lawful, reimburse, indemnify and hold the Manager, its members, managers, officers and employees and each other Person, if any, controlling the Manager (each, an Indemnified Party), harmless of and from any and all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims of any nature whatsoever (including attorneys fees) in respect of or arising from any acts or omissions of such Indemnified Party made in good faith in the performance of the Managers duties under this Agreement and not constituting such Indemnified Partys bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the Managers duties under this Agreement.
(b) The Manager shall, to the full extent lawful, reimburse, indemnify and hold the Company, its shareholders, directors, officers and employees and each other Person, if any, controlling the Company (each, a Company Indemnified Party), harmless of and from any and all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims of any nature whatsoever (including attorneys fees) in respect of or arising from the Managers bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties under this Agreement.
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Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to make the Company and the Manager partners or joint venturers or impose any liability as such on either of them.
SECTION 13. TERM; TERMINATION.
(a) Until this Agreement is terminated in accordance with its terms, this Agreement shall be in effect until the date that is three (3) years after the date hereof, and thereafter on each anniversary of such date be deemed renewed automatically each year for an additional one-year period unless (i) a majority consisting of at least two-thirds of the Independent Directors or a simple majority of the holders of outstanding Common Shares, reasonably agree that there has been unsatisfactory performance that is materially detrimental to the Company or (ii) a simple majority of the Independent Directors agree that the Management Fee payable to the Manager is unfair; provided, that the Company shall not have the right to terminate this Agreement under clause (ii) foregoing if the Manager agrees to continue to provide the services under this Agreement at a fee that the Independent Directors have determined to be fair. If the Company elects not to renew this Agreement at the expiration of the original term or any such one-year extension term as set forth above, the Company shall deliver to the Manager prior written notice (the Termination Notice) of the Companys intention not to renew this Agreement based upon the terms set forth in this Section 13(a) of this Agreement not less than 60 days prior to the expiration of the then existing term. If the Company so elects not to renew this Agreement, the Company shall designate the date (the Effective Termination Date), not less than 60 days from the date of the notice, on which the Manager shall cease to provide services under this Agreement and this Agreement shall terminate on such date; provided, however, that in the event that such Termination Notice is given in connection with a determination that the compensation payable to the Manager is unfair, the Manager shall have the right to renegotiate the Management Fee by delivering to the Company, no fewer than forty-five (45) days prior to the prospective Effective Termination Date, written notice (any such notice, a Notice of Proposal to Negotiate) of its intention to renegotiate its compensation under this Agreement. Thereupon, the Company and the Manager shall endeavor to negotiate in good faith the revised compensation payable to the Manager under this Agreement. Provided that the Manager and the Company agree to a revised Management Fee (or other compensation structure) within 45 days following the receipt of the Notice of Proposal to Negotiate, the Termination Notice shall be deemed of no force and effect and this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect on the terms stated in this Agreement, except that the Management Fee shall be the revised Management Fee (or other compensation structure) then agreed upon by the parties to this Agreement. The Company and the Manager agree to execute and deliver an amendment to this Agreement setting forth such revised Management Fee promptly upon reaching an agreement regarding same. In the event that the Company and the Manager are unable to agree to a revised Management Fee during such 45 day period, this Agreement shall terminate, such termination to be effective on the date which is the later of (A) ten (10) days following the end of such 45 day period and (B) the Effective Termination Date originally set forth in the Termination Notice.
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(b) In the event that this Agreement is terminated in accordance with the provisions of Section 13(a) of this Agreement, the Company shall pay to the Manager, on the date on which such termination is effective, a termination fee (the Termination Fee) equal to the amount of the Management Fee earned by the Manager during the period consisting of the twelve (12) full, consecutive calendar months immediately preceding such termination. The obligation of the Company to pay the Termination Fee shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
(c) No later than sixty (60) days prior to the anniversary date of this Agreement of any year during the Term, the Manager may deliver written notice to the Company informing it of the Managers intention not to renew the Term, whereupon the Term of this Agreement shall not be renewed and extended and this Agreement shall terminate effective on the anniversary of the Closing Date next following the delivery of such notice.
(d) If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 13, such termination shall be without any further liability or obligation of either party to the other, except as provided in Section 13(b) and Section 16 of this Agreement. In addition, Section 11 of this Agreement shall survive termination of this Agreement.
(a) Except as set forth in Section 14(b) of this Agreement, this Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, in whole or in part, by the Manager, unless such assignment is consented to in writing by the Company with the consent of a majority of the Independent Directors; provided, however, that no such consent shall be required in the case of an assignment by the Manager to an entity whose day-to-day business and operations are managed and supervised by Mr. Wesley R. Edens (the Principal), provided, further, that such transaction is determined at the time not to be an assignment for purposes of Section 205 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated under such act and the interpretations thereof issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any such permitted assignment shall bind the assignee under this Agreement in the same manner as the Manager is bound, and the Manager shall be liable to the Company for all errors or omissions of the assignee under any such assignment. In addition, the assignee shall execute and deliver to the Company a counterpart of this Agreement naming such assignee as Manager. This Agreement shall not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of the Manager, except in the case of assignment by the Company to a successor to the Company, in which case such successor organization shall be bound under this Agreement and by the terms of such assignment in the same manner as the Company is bound under this Agreement.
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(b) Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement, the Manager may subcontract and assign any or all of its responsibilities under Sections 2(b), 2(c) and 2(d) of this Agreement to any of its affiliates in accordance with the terms of this Agreement applicable to any such subcontract or assignment, and the Company hereby consents to any such assignment and subcontracting. In addition, provided that the Manager provides prior written notice to the Company for informational purposes only, nothing contained in this Agreement shall preclude any pledge, hypothecation or other transfer of any amounts payable to the Manager under this Agreement.
SECTION 15. TERMINATION FOR CAUSE.
(a) The Company may terminate this Agreement effective upon sixty (60) days prior written notice of termination from the Company to the Manager, without payment of any Termination Fee, if any act of fraud, misappropriation of funds, or embezzlement against the Company or other willful violation of this Agreement by the Manager in its corporate capacity (as distinguished from the acts of any employees of the Manager which are taken without the complicity of the Principal) under this Agreement or in the event of any gross negligence on the part of the Manager in the performance of its duties under this Agreement.
(b) The Manager may terminate this Agreement effective upon sixty (60) days prior written notice of termination to the Company in the event that the Company shall default in the performance or observance of any material term, condition or covenant contained in this Agreement and such default shall continue for a period of 30 days after written notice thereof specifying such default and requesting that the same be remedied in such 30 day period.
SECTION 16. ACTION UPON TERMINATION.
(a) From and after the effective date of termination of this Agreement, pursuant to Sections 13, 14, or 15 of this Agreement, the Manager shall not be entitled to compensation for further services under this Agreement, but shall be paid all compensation accruing to the date of termination and, if terminated pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(b), the applicable Termination Fee. Upon such termination, the Manager shall forthwith:
(i) after deducting any accrued compensation and reimbursement for its expenses to which it is then entitled, pay over to the Company or a Subsidiary all money collected and held for the account of the Company or a Subsidiary pursuant to this Agreement;
(ii) deliver to the Board of Directors a full accounting, including a statement showing all payments collected by it and a statement of all money held by it, covering the period following the date of the last accounting furnished to the Board of Directors with respect to the Company or a Subsidiary; and
(iii) deliver to the Board of Directors all property and documents of the Company or any Subsidiary then in the custody of the Manager.
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(b) In the event that this Agreement is terminated, the Company shall have the option, to be exercised by written notice to the Manager within ten (10) days following such termination, to purchase from the Manager the right of the Manager to receive the Incentive Compensation. In exchange therefor the Company will be obligated to pay the Manager a cash purchase price (the Cash Price) equal to the amount of the Incentive Compensation that would be paid to the Manager if all of the Companys assets were sold for cash at their then current fair market value (taking into account, among other things, expected future performance of the underlying investments, the Fair Market Value). In the event that the Company does not elect to exercise such option to purchase the Incentive Compensation, the Manager shall have the right to require the Company to do so at the Cash Price by delivering to the Company written notice within twenty (20) days following such termination. The Fair Market Value shall be determined by independent appraisal to be conducted by a nationally recognized appraisal firm mutually agreed upon by the Company and the Manager. If the Company and the Manager are unable to agree upon an appraisal firm, then each of the Company and the Manager shall choose an independent appraisal firm to conduct an appraisal. In such event, (i) if the appraisals prepared by the two appraisers so selected are the same or differ by an amount that does not exceed 20% of the higher of the two appraisals, the Fair Market Value will be deemed to be the average of such appraisals, and (ii) if the two appraisals differ by more than 20% of the higher of the two appraisals, the two appraisers together shall select a third nationally recognized appraisal firm to conduct an appraisal. If the two appraisers are unable to agree as to the identity of such third appraiser, either of the Manager and the Company may request that the American Arbitration Association (AAA) select the third appraiser, which shall then be selected by the AAA. The Fair Market Value will then be deemed to be the amount determined by such third appraiser, but in no event less than the lower or more than the higher of the first two appraisals made under this Section 16(b).
SECTION 17. RELEASE OF MONEY OR OTHER PROPERTY UPON WRITTEN REQUEST.
The Manager agrees that any money or other property of the Company or Subsidiary held by the Manager under this Agreement shall be held by the Manager as custodian for the Company or Subsidiary, and the Managers records shall be appropriately marked clearly to reflect the ownership of such money or other property by the Company or such Subsidiary. Upon the receipt by the Manager of a written request signed by a duly authorized officer of the Company requesting the Manager to release to the Company or any Subsidiary any money or other property then held by the Manager for the account of the Company or any Subsidiary under this Agreement, the Manager shall release such money or other property to the Company or any Subsidiary within a reasonable period of time, but in no event later than sixty (60) days following such request. The Manager shall not be liable to the Company, any Subsidiary, the Independent Directors, or the Companys or a Subsidiarys stockholders or partners for any acts performed or omissions to act by the Company or any Subsidiary in connection with the money or other property released to the Company or any Subsidiary in accordance with the first sentence of this Section 17. The Company and any Subsidiary shall indemnify the Manager and its members, managers, officers and employees against any and all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims of any nature whatsoever, which arise in connection with the Managers release of such money or other property to the Company or any Subsidiary in accordance with the terms of this Section 17. Indemnification pursuant to this provision shall be in addition to any right of the Manager to indemnification under Section 11 of this Agreement.
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Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Agreement, all notices, requests, demands and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given, made and received when delivered against receipt or upon actual receipt of (i) personal delivery, (ii) delivery by reputable overnight courier, (iii) delivery by facsimile transmission or email against answerback, (iv) delivery by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed as set forth below:
(a) | If to the Company: |
New Media Investment Group Inc.
c/o FIG LLC
1345 Avenue of the Americas
46th Floor
New York, New York 10105
Attention: Mr. Cameron MacDougall
Attention: Mr. Michael Reed
(b) | If to the Manager: |
FIG LLC 1345
Avenue of the Americas
46th Floor
New York, New York 10105
Attention: Mr. Randal A. Nardone
Either party may alter the address to which communications or copies are to be sent by giving notice of such change of address in conformity with the provisions of this Section 18 for the giving of notice.
SECTION 19. BINDING NATURE OF AGREEMENT; SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS.
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, personal representatives, successors and permitted assigns as provided in this Agreement.
This Agreement contains the entire agreement and understanding among the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement, and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements, understandings, inducements and conditions, express or implied, oral or written, of any nature whatsoever with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement. The express terms of this Agreement control and supersede any course of performance and/or usage of the trade inconsistent with any of the terms of this Agreement. This Agreement may not be modified or amended other than by an agreement in writing.
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This Agreement and all questions relating to its validity, interpretation, performance and enforcement shall be governed by and construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, notwithstanding any New York or other conflict-of-law provisions to the contrary.
SECTION 22. INDULGENCES, NOT WAIVERS.
Neither the failure nor any delay on the part of a party to exercise any right, remedy, power or privilege under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, remedy, power or privilege preclude any other or further exercise of the same or of any other right, remedy, power or privilege, nor shall any waiver of any right, remedy, power or privilege with respect to any occurrence be construed as a waiver of such right, remedy, power or privilege with respect to any other occurrence. No waiver shall be effective unless it is in writing and is signed by the party asserted to have granted such waiver.
SECTION 23. TITLES NOT TO AFFECT INTERPRETATION.
The titles of paragraphs and subparagraphs contained in this Agreement are for convenience only, and they neither form a part of this Agreement nor are they to be used in the construction or interpretation of this Agreement.
SECTION 24. EXECUTION IN COUNTERPARTS.
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original as against any party whose signature appears thereon, and all of which shall together constitute one and the same instrument. This Agreement shall become binding when one or more counterparts of this Agreement, individually or taken together, shall bear the signatures of all of the parties reflected hereon as the signatories.
SECTION 25. PROVISIONS SEPARABLE.
The provisions of this Agreement are independent of and separable from each other, and no provision shall be affected or rendered invalid or unenforceable by virtue of the fact that for any reason any other or others of them may be invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part.
Words used herein regardless of the number and gender specifically used, shall be deemed and construed to include any other number, singular or plural, and any other gender, masculine, feminine or neuter, as the context requires.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.
COMPANY: | ||
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC., a Delaware corporation |
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By: |
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Name: | ||
Title: | ||
MANAGER: |
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FIG LLC, a Delaware limited liability company |
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By: |
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Name: | ||
Title: |
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Exhibit 99.1
, 2013
Dear Newcastle Investment Corp. Stockholder:
We are pleased to inform you that on , 2013 the board of directors of Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) declared the distribution of all of its shares of common stock of New Media Investment Group Inc. (New Media), a majority-owned subsidiary of Newcastle, to Newcastle stockholders. Prior to the distribution, New Media will hold, directly or indirectly, all of Newcastles local media assets, which include over 400 newspapers, approximately 350 websites and a digital marketing services business called Propel Marketing.
Upon the distribution, Newcastle stockholders will own % of the common stock of New Media. Newcastles board of directors has determined upon careful review and consideration in accordance with the applicable standard of review under Maryland law that distributing the shares of New Media is in the best interests of Newcastle.
The distribution of New Media common stock will occur on , 2013 by way of a taxable pro rata special dividend to Newcastle stockholders of record on the record date of the distribution. Each Newcastle stockholder will be entitled to receive shares of New Media common stock for shares of Newcastle common stock held by such stockholder at 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on , 2013, the record date of the distribution. The New Media common stock will be issued in book-entry form only, which means that no physical stock certificates will be issued.
Stockholder approval of the distribution is not required, and you are not required to take any action to receive your New Media common stock.
Following the distribution, you will own shares in both Newcastle and New Media. The number of Newcastle shares you own will not change as a result of this distribution. Newcastles common stock will continue to trade on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NCT. New Media intends to apply to list its common stock on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NEWM.
The information statement, which is being mailed to all holders of Newcastle common stock on the record date for the distribution, describes the distribution in detail and contains important information about New Media, its business, financial condition and operations. We urge you to read the information statement carefully.
We want to thank you for your continued support of Newcastle and we look forward to your future support of New Media.
Sincerely,
Kenneth M. Riis
Chief Executive Officer
New Media Investment Group Inc.
, 2013
Dear Future New Media Investment Group Inc. Stockholder:
It is our pleasure to welcome you as a stockholder of our company, New Media Investment Group Inc. (New Media). Following our separation from Newcastle Investment Corp., we will be a newly listed company primarily focused on investing in a high quality, diversified portfolio of local media assets and on growing our existing online advertising and digital marketing businesses.
We will be externally managed by an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC (Fortress). We intend to create stockholder value through growth in our revenue and cash flow by expanding our digital marketing business, growing our online advertising business and pursuing strategic acquisitions of high quality local media assets. Our strategy will be to acquire and operate traditional local media businesses and transform them from print-centric operations to dynamic multi-media operations, through our existing online advertising and digital marketing businesses. We will also leverage our existing platform to operate these businesses more efficiently. We believe all of these initiatives will lead to revenue and cash flow growth for New Media and will enable us to pay dividends to our stockholders. We expect to distribute a substantial portion of our free cash flow as a dividend to stockholders, subject to approval by our Board of Directors.
New Media intends to apply to list its common stock on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NEWM.
We invite you to learn more about New Media by reviewing the enclosed information statement. We urge you to read the information statement carefully. We look forward to our future and to your support as a holder of New Media common stock.
Sincerely,
Michael E. Reed
Chief Executive Officer
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A registration statement on Form 10 relating to these securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION
PRELIMINARY INFORMATION STATEMENT DATED SEPTEMBER 27, 2013
New Media Investment Group Inc.
Common Stock
(Par Value, $0.01 per share)
This Information Statement is being furnished to you as a stockholder of Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) in connection with the planned distribution (the Distribution or the spin-off) by Newcastle to its stockholders of all the shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of New Media Investment Group Inc. (New Media) (the Common Stock) held by Newcastle immediately prior to the spin-off. Immediately prior to the time of the Distribution, Newcastle will hold % of New Medias outstanding shares of Common Stock.
At the time of the Distribution, Newcastle will distribute all of the outstanding shares of Common Stock held by Newcastle on a pro rata basis to holders of Newcastle common stock. Every shares of Newcastle common stock outstanding as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on , 2013, the record date for the spin-off (the Record Date), will entitle the holder thereof to receive shares of Common Stock. The Distribution will be made in book-entry form. Fractional shares of Common Stock will not be distributed in the spin-off. Holders of Newcastle common stock will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares of New Media Common Stock.
The Distribution will be effective after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the NYSE) on , 2013, which we refer to hereinafter as the Distribution Date. Immediately after the Distribution is completed, we will be a publicly traded company independent from Newcastle.
No action will be required of you to receive shares of Common Stock, which means that:
| no vote of Newcastle stockholders is required in connection with this Distribution and we are not asking you for a proxy and you are requested not to send us a proxy; |
| you will not be required to pay for the shares of our Common Stock that you receive in the Distribution; and |
| you do not need to surrender or exchange any of your shares of Newcastle common stock in order to receive shares of our Common Stock, or take any other action in connection with the spin-off. |
There is currently no trading market for our Common Stock, although we expect that a limited market, commonly known as a when-issued trading market, will develop on or shortly before the Record Date for the Distribution, and we expect regular-way trading of New Media Common Stock on a major U.S. national securities exchange to begin on the first trading day following the completion of the Distribution. New Media intends to apply to list its Common Stock on the NYSE under the symbol NEWM.
In reviewing this Information Statement, you should carefully consider the matters described under Risk Factors beginning on page 27 of this Information Statement.
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THESE SECURITIES OR DETERMINED IF THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT IS TRUTHFUL OR COMPLETE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
This Information Statement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.
The date of this Information Statement is , 2013.
Presentation of Information
Except as otherwise indicated or unless the context otherwise requires, we have presented in this Information Statement the historical consolidated financial information of GateHouse Media Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (GateHouse or our Predecessor). Unless the context otherwise requires, any references in this information statement (Information Statement) to we, our, us and the Company refer to New Media Investment Group Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries as in effect upon the completion of the Distribution. For periods prior to the Restructuring (as defined below) any references in this Information Statement to we, our, us and the Company refer to GateHouse, our Predecessor, and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise. References in this Information Statement to Newcastle generally refer to Newcastle Investment Corp. and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise. All figures included in this Information Statement are as of June 30, 2013, unless stated otherwise.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE SPIN-OFF
The following questions and answers briefly address some commonly asked questions about the spin-off. They may not include all the information that is important to you. We encourage you to read carefully this entire Information Statement and the other documents to which we have referred you. We have included references in certain parts of this section to direct you to a more detailed discussion of each topic presented in this section. Unless the context otherwise requires, any references to we, our, us and the Company refer to New Media Investment Group Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries as in effect upon the completion of the Distribution. For periods prior to the Restructuring, any references in this information statement to we, our, us and the Company refer to GateHouse, our Predecessor and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise. References to Newcastle generally refer to Newcastle Investment Corp. and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise.
What will Newcastle stockholders receive in the spin-off?
To effect the spin-off, Newcastle will make a distribution of all of the outstanding shares of New Media Common Stock held by Newcastle to Newcastle common stockholders as of the Record Date, which will be 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on , 2013. For every shares of Newcastle common stock held on the Record Date for the Distribution, Newcastle will distribute shares of New Media Common Stock. The Distribution will be made in book-entry form. Fractional shares of Common Stock will not be distributed in the spin-off. Instead, as soon as practicable after the spin-off American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, the distribution agent, will aggregate the fractional shares of our Common Stock and sell these shares in the open market at prevailing market prices and distribute the applicable portion of the aggregate net cash proceeds of these sales to each holder who otherwise would have been entitled to receive a fractional share in the spin-off. You will not be entitled to any interest on the amount of the cash payment made in lieu of fractional shares.
Newcastle stockholders will not be required to pay for shares of our Common Stock received in the Distribution, or to surrender or exchange any shares of Newcastle common stock or take any other action to be entitled to receive our Common Stock. The Distribution of our Common Stock will not cancel or affect the number of outstanding shares of Newcastle common stock.
Immediately after the Distribution, holders of Newcastle common stock as of the Record Date will hold % of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock. Based on the number of shares of Newcastle common stock outstanding on , 2013, Newcastle expects to distribute approximately shares of our Common Stock in the spin-off. For a more detailed description, see The Spin-Off and Restructuring in this Information Statement.
Why is Newcastle spinning off New Media?
Newcastles board of directors periodically reviews strategic alternatives. The Newcastle board of directors determined upon careful review and consideration in accordance with the applicable standard of review under Maryland law that the spin-off of New Media is in the best interests of Newcastle. The boards determination was based on a number of factors, including those set forth below.
| Added focus and simplification . We believe the spin-off of New Media will enhance Newcastles focus on its primary strategy of opportunistically investing in, and actively managing, a variety of real-estate related and other investments. The spin-off will simplify Newcastles business by separating an asset class (media assets) that is unrelated to the remainder of Newcastles investment portfolio. As a result, we believe the spin-off will facilitate investor and analyst understanding of Newcastles core businesses. In addition, the spin-off will create a dedicated vehicle to pursue a significant investment opportunity in the media industry. |
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Tailored capital structure and financing options . New Media and Newcastle will have distinct and unrelated businesses, and the spin-off will enable each to create a capital structure tailored to its |
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individual needs. In addition, tailored capital structures will facilitate each companys ability to pursue acquisitions, possibly using common stock as currency, and other strategic alliances. Following the spin-off, each company may be able to attain more favorable financing terms on a stand-alone basis than Newcastle could obtain currently. |
| Newcastles Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) status. As a REIT, Newcastle is not suited to own an operating business indefinitely. Newcastles current investment in New Media originated with a 2007 debt investment in GateHouse. GateHouse became overleveraged in the financial crisis, and Newcastle determined to maximize the value of its investment by pursuing a restructuring that will result in the conversion of its debt into equity. Following the restructuring, a spin-off will facilitate Newcastles compliance with the REIT qualification tests. |
The anticipated benefits of the spin-off are based on a number of assumptions, and there can be no assurance that such benefits will materialize to the extent anticipated or at all. In the event that the spin-off does not result in such benefits, the costs associated with the transaction and the expenses New Media will incur as an independent public company, including management compensation and general and administrative expenses, could have a negative effect on each companys financial condition and ability to make distributions to its stockholders. For more information about the risks associated with the separation, see Risk Factors.
What businesses will Newcastle engage in after the spin-off?
Newcastle will continue to be a real estate investment trust that focuses on opportunistically investing in, and actively managing, a variety of real estate-related and other investments.
Who is entitled to receive shares of our Common Stock in the spin-off?
Holders of Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on , 2013, the Record Date for the spin-off, will be entitled to receive shares of our Common Stock in the spin-off.
When will the Distribution occur?
We expect that Newcastle will distribute the shares of our Common Stock on , 2013 to holders of record of Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on , 2013, subject to certain conditions described under The Spin-Off and RestructuringConditions to the Distribution.
What do I need to do to receive my shares of New Media Common Stock?
Nothing, but we urge you to read this Information Statement carefully. Stockholders who hold Newcastle common stock as of the Record Date will not need to take any action to receive your shares of our Common Stock in the Distribution. No stockholder approval of the Distribution is required or sought. We are not asking you for a proxy, and you are requested not to send us a proxy. You will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange your shares of Newcastle common stock or take any other action to receive your shares of our Common Stock. If you own Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on the Record Date, Newcastle, with the assistance of American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, the distribution agent, will electronically issue shares of our Common Stock to you or to your brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. The distribution agent will mail you a book-entry account statement that reflects your shares of New Media Common Stock, or your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares. If you sell shares of Newcastle common stock in the regular-way market through the Distribution Date, you will also sell your right to receive shares of New Media Common Stock in the Distribution. Following the distribution, stockholders whose shares are held in book-entry form may request that their shares of New Media Common Stock held in book-entry form be transferred to a brokerage or other account at any time, without charge.
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Will I receive physical certificates representing shares of New Media Common Stock following the Distribution?
No. Following the Distribution, neither Newcastle nor New Media will be issuing physical certificates representing shares of New Media Common Stock. Instead, Newcastle, with the assistance of American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, the distribution agent, will electronically issue shares of our Common Stock to you or to your bank or brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. The distribution agent will mail you a book-entry account statement that reflects your shares of New Media Common Stock, or your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares. A benefit of issuing stock electronically in book-entry form is that there will be none of the physical handling and safekeeping responsibilities that are inherent in owning physical stock certificates.
What will govern my rights as a New Media stockholder?
Your rights as a New Media stockholder will be governed by Delaware law, as well as our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and our amended and restated bylaws. A description of these rights is included in this Information Statement under the heading Description of Our Capital Stock.
Who will be the stockholders of New Media Common Stock after the Distribution?
Immediately following the Distribution, Newcastle stockholders as of the Record Date for the Distribution will own % of our Common Stock. The remainder of the outstanding Common Stock will be owned by holders of GateHouse debt who elected to receive Common Stock in the Restructuring (as defined below) of GateHouse. See The Spin-Off and Restructuring, Restructuring Agreements and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations in this Information Statement for more information.
Are there risks associated with the spin-off and our business after the spin-off?
Yes. You should carefully review the risks described in this Information Statement under the heading Risk Factors beginning on page 27.
Is stockholder approval needed in connection with the spin-off?
No vote of Newcastle stockholders is required or will be sought in connection with the spin-off.
Where will I be able to trade shares of New Media Common Stock?
There is not currently a public market for New Media Common Stock. New Media intends to apply to list its Common Stock on the NYSE under the symbol NEWM. We anticipate that trading in shares of our Common Stock will begin on a when-issued basis on or shortly before the Record Date and will continue through the Distribution Date and that regular-way trading in shares of our Common Stock will begin on the first trading day following the Distribution Date. If trading begins on a when-issued basis, you may purchase or sell our Common Stock up to and including through the Distribution Date, but your transaction will not settle until after the Distribution Date. We cannot predict the trading prices for our Common Stock before, on or after the Distribution Date. If the Distribution is cancelled, your transaction will not settle and will have to be disqualified.
What if I want to sell my Newcastle common stock or New Media Common Stock?
You should consult with your financial advisors, such as your stockbroker, bank or tax advisor. Neither Newcastle nor New Media makes any recommendations on the purchase, retention or sale of Newcastle common stock or the shares of New Media Common Stock to be distributed in the spin-off.
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If you decide to sell any shares before the Distribution, you should make sure your stockbroker, bank or other nominee understands whether you want to sell your Newcastle common stock or the shares of Common Stock you will receive in the Distribution. If you sell your Newcastle common stock in the regular-way market up to and including the Distribution Date, you will also sell your right to receive shares of Common Stock in the Distribution. If you own Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on the Record Date and sell those shares on the ex-distribution market up to and including the Distribution Date, you will still receive the shares of Common Stock that you would be entitled to receive in respect of the Newcastle common stock you owned as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on the Record Date. See The Spin-Off and RestructuringTrading Between the Record Date and Distribution Date in this Information Statement for more information.
Will I be taxed on the shares of New Media Common Stock that I receive in the Distribution?
Yes. The Distribution will be in the form of a taxable special dividend to Newcastle stockholders. An amount equal to the fair market value of the shares of our Common Stock received by you will be treated as a taxable dividend to the extent of your ratable share of any current or accumulated earnings and profits of Newcastle, with the excess treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of your tax basis in Newcastle common stock and any remaining excess treated as capital gain. If this special dividend is distributed in the structure and timeframe currently anticipated, the special dividend is expected to satisfy a portion of Newcastles 2013 REIT taxable income distribution requirements. For a more detailed discussion, see Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution.
How will the Distribution affect my tax basis and holding period in Newcastle common stock?
Your tax basis in shares of Newcastle held at the time of the Distribution will be reduced (but not below zero) to the extent the fair market value of the shares of our Common Stock distributed by Newcastle in the Distribution exceeds Newcastles current and accumulated earnings and profits, as adjusted to take account of other distributions made by Newcastle in the taxable year that includes the Distribution. Your holding period for such Newcastle shares will not be affected by the Distribution. See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution. You should consult your own tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences of the Distribution to you, including the applicability of any U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.
What will my tax basis and holding period be for the stock of New Media that I receive in the Distribution?
Your tax basis in the shares of our Common Stock received will equal the fair market value of such shares on the date of the Distribution. Your holding period for such shares will begin the day after the date of the Distribution. See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution.
You should consult your own tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences of the Distribution to you, including the applicability of any U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.
Can Newcastle decide to cancel the Distribution or modify its terms if all conditions to the Distribution have been met?
Yes. Although the Distribution is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions, Newcastle has the right to not to complete the Distribution if at any time prior to the Distribution Date (even if all such conditions are satisfied), its board of directors determines, in its sole discretion, that the Distribution is not in the best interest of Newcastle or that market conditions are such that it is not advisable to separate New Media from Newcastle.
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Does New Media plan to pay dividends?
We currently expect New Media to distribute a substantial portion of free cash flow as a dividend, subject to approval by New Medias board of directors. However, our ability to pay dividends is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance regarding whether we will pay dividends in the future. See, for example, Risk FactorsWe may not be able to pay dividends in accordance with our announced intent or at all.
Will the number of Newcastle shares I own change as a result of the Distribution?
No. The number of shares of Newcastle common stock you own will not change as a result of the Distribution.
What will happen to the listing of Newcastle common stock?
Nothing. It is expected that after the distribution of New Media Common Stock, Newcastle common stock will continue to be traded on the NYSE under the symbol NCT.
Will the Distribution affect the market price of my Newcastle shares?
Yes. As a result of the Distribution, we expect the trading price of shares of Newcastle common stock immediately following the Distribution to be lower than immediately prior to the Distribution because the trading price will no longer reflect the value of New Medias assets. Furthermore, until the market has fully analyzed the value of Newcastle without New Medias assets, the price of Newcastle shares may fluctuate significantly. In addition, although Newcastle believes that over time following the separation, the common stock of the separated companies should have a higher aggregate market value, on a fully distributed basis and assuming the same market conditions, than if Newcastle were to remain under its current configuration, there can be no assurance, and thus the combined trading prices of Newcastle common stock and New Media Common Stock after the Distribution may be equal to or less than the trading price of shares of Newcastle common stock before the Distribution.
Where can Newcastle stockholders get more information?
Before the Distribution, if you have any questions relating to the Distribution, you should contact:
Newcastle Investment Corp.
Investor Relations
1345 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10105
Tel: 212-479-3195
www.newcastleinv.com
After the Distribution, if you have any questions relating to our Common Stock, you should contact:
New Media Investment Group Inc.
Investor Relations
Tel: 212-479-3160
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This summary of certain information contained in this Information Statement may not include all the information that is important to you. To understand fully and for a more complete description of the terms and conditions of the spin-off, you should read this Information Statement in its entirety and the documents to which you are referred. See Where You Can Find More Information.
Our Company
We will be a newly listed company primarily focused on investing in a high quality, diversified portfolio of local media assets and on growing our existing online advertising and digital marketing businesses.
We are one of the largest publishers of locally based print and online media in the United States as measured by number of daily publications. We operate in 338 markets across 24 states. Our portfolio of products, which includes 438 community publications, 365 related websites, and six yellow page directories, serves more than 130,000 business advertising accounts and reaches approximately 12 million people on a weekly basis.
Our print and online products focus on the local community from both a content and advertising standpoint. As a result of our focus on small and midsize markets, we are usually the primary, and sometimes the sole, provider of comprehensive and in-depth local market news and information in the communities we serve. Our content is primarily devoted to topics that we believe are highly relevant and of interest to our audiences such as local news and politics, community and regional events, youth sports, opinion and editorial pages, and local schools.
More than 83% of our daily newspapers have been published for more than 100 years and 99% have been published for more than 50 years. We believe that the longevity of our publications demonstrates the value and relevance of the local information that we provide and has created a strong foundation of reader loyalty as well as a highly recognized media brand name in each community we serve.
We will be externally managed by an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC (Fortress). We intend to create stockholder value through growth in our revenue and cash flow by expanding our digital marketing business, growing our online advertising business and pursuing strategic acquisitions of high quality local media assets. Our strategy will be to acquire and operate traditional local media businesses and transform them from print-centric operations to dynamic multi-media operations, through our existing online advertising and digital marketing businesses. We will also leverage our existing platform to operate these businesses more efficiently. We believe all of these initiatives will lead to revenue and cash flow growth for New Media and will enable us to pay dividends to our stockholders. We expect to distribute a substantial portion of our free cash flow as a dividend to stockholders, subject to approval by our Board of Directors.
We will become the owner of 100% of the equity interests in GateHouse as a result of the consummation of a pre-packaged plan under Chapter 11 of title 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan). In addition, prior to the spin-off, Newcastle is expected to contribute its subsidiary Local Media (as defined below) to us. After giving effect to these transactions, Newcastle will own at least 59% of our Common Stock. See Recent Developments, The Spin-Off and Restructuring, Restructuring Agreements and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
Our Manager
We will be managed by FIG LLC (our Manager), an affiliate of Fortress, pursuant to the terms of a Management and Advisory Agreement (the Management Agreement) dated as of , 2013 between
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us and our Manager . We will draw upon the long-standing expertise and resources of Fortress, a global investment management firm with $54.6 billion in fee paying assets under management as of June 30, 2013.
Pursuant to the terms of the Management Agreement, our Manager, subject to oversight by our Board of Directors, will be responsible for: (1) performing day-to-day functions, (2) determining investment criteria in conjunction with, and subject to the supervision of, our Board of Directors, (3) sourcing, analyzing and executing on investments and sales, (4) performing investment and liability management duties, including financing and hedging, and (5) performing financial and accounting management. For its services, our Manager will be entitled to an annual management fee and eligible to receive incentive compensation that is based on our performance.
Our Manager also manages Newcastle, a publicly traded REIT that pursues a broad range of real estate related investments. Our management team will not be required to exclusively dedicate their services to us and will provide services for other entities affiliated with our Manager, including, but not limited to, Newcastle.
Reasons for Distribution
Newcastles board of directors periodically reviews strategic alternatives. The Newcastle board determined upon careful review and consideration in accordance with the applicable standard of review under Maryland law that the spin-off of New Media is in the best interests of Newcastle. The Newcastle boards determination was based on a number of factors, including those set forth below.
| Added focus and simplification . We believe the spin-off of New Media will enhance Newcastles focus on its primary strategy of opportunistically investing in, and actively managing, a variety of real-estate related and other investments. The spin-off will simplify Newcastles business by separating an asset class (media assets) that is unrelated to the remainder of Newcastles investment portfolio. As a result, we believe the spin-off will facilitate investor and analyst understanding of Newcastles core businesses. In addition, the spin-off will create a dedicated vehicle to pursue a significant investment opportunity in the media industry. |
| Tailored capital structure and financing options . New Media and Newcastle will have distinct and unrelated businesses, and the spin-off will enable each to create a capital structure tailored to its individual needs. In addition, tailored capital structures will facilitate each companys ability to pursue acquisitions, possibly using common stock as currency, and other strategic alliances. Following the spin-off, each company may be able to attain more favorable financing terms on a stand-alone basis than Newcastle could obtain currently. |
| Newcastles Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) status. As a REIT, Newcastle is not suited to own an operating business indefinitely. Newcastles current investment in New Media originated with a 2007 debt investment in GateHouse. GateHouse became overleveraged in the financial crisis, and Newcastle determined to maximize the value of its investment by pursuing a restructuring that will result in the conversion of its debt into equity. Following the restructuring, a spin-off will facilitate Newcastles compliance with the REIT qualification tests. |
Our Strengths
High Quality Assets with Leading Local Franchises . Our publications benefit from a long history in the communities we serve as the leading, and often sole, provider of comprehensive and in-depth local content. This has resulted in strong reader loyalty and high local audience penetration rates, which are highly valued by local advertisers. We continue to build on long-standing relationships with local advertisers and our in-depth knowledge of the consumers in our local markets.
Superior Value Proposition for Our Advertisers . The concentrated smaller market local focus of our portfolio provides advertisers with large reach to a targeted audience with whom they can communicate directly,
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thereby maximizing the efficiency of their advertising spending. We offer advertisers several alternatives (daily, weekly, shopper, and niche print publications as well as an array of web, mobile and tablet products) to reach consumers and to tailor the nature and frequency of their marketing messages. We also offer advertisers the ability to target consumers based on their behavior online which is an effective and efficient way for businesses to market to the right customers.
Strong Revenue Characteristics . We have strong diversification in our revenues in terms of type of revenue, product source for revenue, geographic distribution of revenues and numbers of customers. We also benefit from our strong local franchises who serve local consumers and businesses in small to mid-size markets. All of these characteristics we believe give us long term stability and viability. During the twelve months ended June 30, 2013, we generated revenue in 328 markets across 21 states, serving a fragmented and diversified local customer base. For full year 2012, we served over 128,000 business advertising accounts in our publications, and our top 20 advertisers contributed less than 5% of our total revenues. Over 3.8 million classified advertisements were placed in our publications in 2012. Additionally, for the full year 2012 we generated 60% of revenue from print product advertising, 27% from subscription income from customers, 6% from digital advertising and 7% from commercial printing work for external customers and affiliated parties.
Scale Yields Stronger Operating Profit Margins and Allows Us to Realize Operating Synergies . We believe we generate higher operating profit margins than our publications could achieve on a stand-alone basis by leveraging our operations and implementing revenue initiatives, especially digital initiatives, across a broader local footprint in a geographic cluster and by centralizing certain back office production, accounting, administrative and corporate operations. We also benefit from economies of scale in the purchase of insurance, newsprint and other large strategic supplies and equipment. Finally, we have the ability to further leverage our centralized services and buying power to reduce operating costs when making future strategic accretive acquisitions.
Strong Local Business Profile Generates Significant Cash Flow . Our strong local business franchises generate significant recurring cash flow due to our diversified revenue base, healthy operating profit margins, and our low capital expenditure and working capital requirements. With the companys low leverage capital structure after the restructuring it will have significant available cash flow to create stockholder value, including investing in organic growth, investing in accretive acquisitions and returning cash to stockholders in the form of dividends, subject to approval by our Board of Directors. We further believe the strong cash flows generated and available to be invested will lead to consistent future dividend growth.
Large Locally Focused Sales Force . We have large and well known feet on the street local sales forces in the markets we serve. They are generally the largest locally oriented media sales force. Our sales forces and their respective local media brands tend to have strong credibility and trust within the local business communities. We have long-standing relationships with many local businesses and have the ability to get in the door with most local businesses due to these unique characteristics we enjoy. These qualities also provide leverage for our sales force to grow additional future revenue streams in our markets.
Strong Track Record of Acquiring and Integrating New Assets . We have created a national platform for consolidating local media businesses and have demonstrated an ability to successfully identify, acquire and integrate local media asset acquisitions. We have acquired over $1.6 billion of assets since 2006. We have acquired both traditional newspaper and directory businesses. We have a very scalable infrastructure and platform to leverage with future acquisitions.
Experienced Management Team . Our senior management team is made up of executives who have an average of over 20 years of experience in the media industry, including strong traditional and digital media expertise. Our executive officers have broad industry experience and a successful track record with regard to both
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business performance among its industry peer group, growing new digital business lines, and identifying and integrating strategic acquisitions. Our management team also has key strengths in managing wide geographically disbursed teams, including the sales force, and identifying and centralizing duplicate functions across businesses leading to reduced core infrastructure costs.
Our Strategy
We intend to create stockholder value through growth in our revenue and cash flow by expanding our digital marketing business, growing our online advertising business and pursuing strategic acquisitions of high quality local media assets. Our strategy will be to acquire and operate traditional local media businesses and transform them from print-centric operations to dynamic multi-media operations, through our existing online advertising and digital marketing businesses. We will also leverage our existing platform to operate these businesses more efficiently. We believe all of these initiatives will lead to revenue and cash flow growth for New Media and will enable us to pay dividends to our stockholders, subject to approval by our Board of Directors. The key elements of our strategy include:
Maintain Our Leading Position in the Delivery of Proprietary Content in Our Communities. We seek to maintain our position as a leading provider of local content in the markets we serve and to leverage this position to strengthen our relationships with both readers and advertisers, thereby increasing penetration rates and market share. A critical aspect of this approach is to continue to provide local content that is not readily obtainable elsewhere and to be able to deliver that content to our customers across multiple print and digital platforms. We believe it is very important for us to protect the content from unauthorized users who use it for their own commercial purposes. We also believe it is important for us to develop subscription revenue streams from our digitally distributed content.
Stabilize Our Core Business Operations. We have four primary drivers in our strategic plans to stabilize our core business operations, including: (i) identifying permanent structural expense reductions in our traditional business cost infrastructure and re-deploying a portion of those costs toward future growth opportunities, primarily on the digital side of our business; (ii) accelerating the growth of both our digital audiences and revenues through improvements to current products, new product development, training, opportunistic changes in hiring to create an employee base with a more diversified skill set and sharing of best practices; (iii) accelerating our consumer revenue growth through subscription pricing increases and growth in our subscriber base, which we aim to improve by employing additional strategic customer acquisition techniques, driving digital only subscriber growth through our pay meter strategy and improving our customer retention programs; and (iv) stabilizing our core print advertising revenues through improvements to pricing (understanding and selling the unique value of our local audience reach and level of engagement, at the sales rep level), packaging of products for customers that will produce the best results for them (needs based selling), more technology and training for sales management and sales representatives and increased accountability through consistent setting of expectations and measuring against those expectations on a regular basis.
Grow New Digital Business and Revenue Streams Leveraging Key Strengths. We plan to scale and expand our two new recently created digital businesses, Propel Marketing and adhance media. Propel Marketing will allow us to sell digital marketing services to small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) both in and outside existing markets. The SMB demand for digital service solutions is great and represents a rapidly expanding opportunity. adhance media, our private advertising exchange, allows us to more fully monetize our (and third parties) valuable unsold digital advertising space. Advertising bought programmatically through private exchanges is expected to grow rapidly over the next five years, especially in private exchanges where advertisers get priority access to the advertising space. We also aim to leverage our large local sales forces and strong local media brands to create new business opportunities at the local market level.
Pursue Strategic Accretive Acquisitions. We intend to capitalize on the highly fragmented and distressed newspaper and directory industries. We initially expect to focus our investments in the local newspaper and
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yellow page directory sectors, primarily in the United States. We believe we have a strong operational platform, which currently owns local newspaper and directory businesses, as well as a scalable digital services business, Propel Marketing. This platform, along with deep industry specific knowledge and experience that our management team has can be leveraged to reduce costs, stabilize the core business and grow digital revenues at acquired properties. The size and fragmentation of the addressable newspaper and yellow page directory market place in the United States, the greatly reduced valuation levels that exist in these industries, and our deep experience, make this an attractive place for our initial consolidation focus and capital allocation. Over the longer term we also believe there may be opportunity to diversify and acquire these types of assets internationally, as well other traditional local media assets such as broadcast TV, out of home advertising (billboards) and radio, in the United States and internationally.
Increase Sales Force Productivity. We aim to increase the effectiveness and productivity of our sales force and, in turn, help maximize advertising revenues. We also aim to shift the culture of our sales force from that of print-centric to multi-media and feel that is critical to our long term success. Our approach includes changes to sales force compensation to be more aligned with long term strategic goals, ongoing company-wide training of sales representatives and sales managers that focuses on strengthening their ability to perform needs based assessments and selling. We set expectations by sales representatives, manager and team and regularly evaluate the performance of our sales representatives and sales management against those expectations. We believe stronger accountability and measurement of our sales force, when combined with enhanced training and access to better technologies, demographic and marketing information, will lead to greater productivity and revenue from our sales force.
Introduce New Products or Modify Our Products to Enhance our Value Proposition to Local Businesses. We believe that our established positions in local markets, combined with our publishing and distribution capabilities, allow us to develop and customize new products to address the evolving interests and needs of our readers and local businesses. A primary source for product enhancement and growth we believe exists in the digital space. Product improvement and new product development across the web, mobile and tablets will be a key component to long term success. We are actively scaling web and mobile products, including deal platforms, digital service offerings, including Propel Marketing, mobile websites and applications, and we continue to expand on our offering of behavioral targeted and audience extension advertising options.
Pursue a Content-Driven Digital Strategy. As consumers continue to spend more time online especially with regard to consumption of news, we believe that we are well-positioned to increase our digital penetration and generate additional online audience and revenues due to both our ability to deliver unique local content online, and the relationship our local brand names have with readers and advertisers. We believe this presents an opportunity to increase our overall audience penetration rates and drive additional subscription revenues in each of the communities we serve. We have developed pay meters at most all of our daily newspaper websites and several of our largest weeklies, which we use to charge customers fees for access to our content. These meters will enable us to grow our digital subscription income and capture revenues that shift to the web as consumers shift to the web. Finally, we intend to share resources across our organization in order to give each of our publications access to technology, digital management expertise, content and advertisers that they may not have been able to obtain or afford if they were operating independently.
Management Agreement
Prior to the completion of the Distribution, we will enter into a Management Agreement with our Manager. Our Management Agreement will require our Manager to manage our business affairs subject to the supervision of our Board of Directors.
Our Management Agreement has an initial three-year term and will be automatically renewed for one-year terms thereafter unless terminated either by us or our Manager. From the commencement date of our Common
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Stock trading on the regular way market on a major U.S. national securities exchange, our Manager is (a) entitled to receive from us a management fee, (b) eligible to receive incentive compensation that is based on our performance and (c) eligible to receive options to purchase New Media Common Stock upon the successful completion of an offering of shares of our Common Stock or any shares of preferred stock with an exercise price equal to the price per share paid by the public or other ultimate purchaser in the offering. In addition, we are obligated to reimburse certain expenses incurred by our Manager. Our Manager is also entitled to receive a termination fee from us under certain circumstances.
The terms of our Management Agreement are summarized below and described in more detail under Our Manager and Management Agreement elsewhere in this Information Statement.
Type |
Description |
|
Management Fee |
1.5% per annum of our total equity calculated and payable monthly in arrears in cash. Total equity is generally the equity transferred by Newcastle on the date on which our Common Stock trades in the regular way market on a major U.S. national securities exchange, plus total net proceeds from any equity capital raised (including through stock offerings), plus certain capital contributions to subsidiaries, plus the equity value of assets contributed to the Company prior to or after the date of the Management Agreement, less capital distributions and repurchases of common stock. | |
Incentive Compensation |
Our Manager is eligible to receive on a quarterly basis annual incentive compensation in an amount equal to the product of 25% of the dollar amount by which (a) the adjusted net income of the Company exceeds (b)(i) the weighted daily average total equity (plus cash capital raising costs), multiplied by (ii) a simple interest rate of 10% per annum. Adjusted net income means net income (computed in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, (GAAP)), plus depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships, joint ventures and permanent cash tax savings. Adjusted net income will be computed on an unconsolidated basis. The computation of adjusted net income may be adjusted at the direction of the independent directors based on changes in, or certain applications, of GAAP. |
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Reimbursement of Expenses |
After the commencement date of our Common Stock trading on the regular way market on a major U.S. national securities exchange, we will pay, or reimburse our Managers employees for performing certain legal, accounting, due diligence tasks and other services that outside professionals or outside consultants otherwise would perform, provided that such costs and reimbursements are no greater than those which would be paid to outside professionals or consultants on an arms-length basis. We also pay all operating expenses, except those specifically required to be borne by our Manager under our Management Agreement.
Our Manager is responsible for all costs incident to the performance of its duties under the Management Agreement, including compensation of our Managers employees, rent for facilities and other overhead expenses. The expenses required to be paid by us include, but are not limited to, issuance and transaction costs incident to the acquisition, disposition, operation and financing of our investments, legal and auditing fees and expenses, the compensation and expenses of our independent directors, the costs associated with the establishment and maintenance of any credit facilities and other indebtedness of ours (including commitment fees, legal fees, closing costs, etc.), expenses associated with other securities offerings of ours, the costs of printing and mailing proxies and reports to our stockholders, costs incurred by employees of our Manager for travel on our behalf, costs associated with any computer software or hardware that is used solely for us, costs to obtain liability insurance to indemnify our directors and officers and the compensation and expenses of our transfer agent. |
|
Termination Fee |
The termination fee is payable to the Manager under the circumstances described in the section entitled Our Manager and Management AgreementTerm; Termination. The termination fee is equal to the sum of (1) the amount of the management fee during the 12 months immediately preceding the date of termination, and (2) the Incentive Compensation Fair Value Amount, if such option is exercised by the Company or the Manager. The Incentive Compensation Fair Value Amount is an amount equal to the Incentive Compensation that would be paid to the Manager if our assets were sold for cash at their then current fair market value (as determined by an appraisal, taking into account, among other things, the expected future value of the underlying investments). |
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Grant of Options to Our Manager |
Upon the successful completion of an offering of shares of our Common Stock or any shares of preferred stock, we will grant our Manager options equal to 10% of the number of shares being sold in the offering (excluding the shares issued to Newcastle or its affiliates in the Local Media Contribution (as defined below)), with an exercise price equal to the offering price per share paid by the public or other ultimate purchaser. For the avoidance of doubt, the listing of our Common Stock does not constitute an offering for purposes of this provision. |
Conflicts of Interest
Although we have established certain policies and procedures designed to mitigate conflicts of interest, there can be no assurance that these policies and procedures will be effective in doing so. It is possible that actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest could give rise to investor dissatisfaction, litigation or regulatory enforcement actions.
One or more of our directors have responsibilities and commitments to entities other than us, including, but not limited to, Newcastle. For example, one of our directors is also a director of Newcastle. In addition, we do not have a policy that expressly prohibits our directors, officers, security holders or affiliates from engaging for their own account in business activities of the types conducted by us. Newcastle and other Fortress affiliates will not be restricted from pursuing other opportunities that may create conflicts or competition for us. However, our code of business conduct and ethics prohibits, subject to the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the directors, officers and employees of our Manager from engaging in any transaction that involves an actual conflict of interest with us. See Risk FactorsRisks Relating to Our ManagerThere may be conflicts of interest in our relationship with our Manager, including with respect to corporate opportunities.
Transactions between the Manager and any affiliate must be approved in advance by the majority of the independent directors and be determined by such independent directors to be in the best interests of the Company. If any affiliate transaction involving the acquisition of an asset from the Manager or an affiliate of the Manager is not approved in advance by a majority of the independent directors, then the Manager may be required to repurchase the asset at the purchase price (plus closing costs) to the Company.
The structure of the Managers compensation arrangement may have unintended consequences for us. We have agreed to pay our Manager a management fee that is not tied to our performance and incentive compensation that is based entirely on our performance. The management fee may not sufficiently incentivize our Manager to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for us, while the performance-based incentive compensation component may cause our Manager to place undue emphasis on the maximization of earnings, including through the use of leverage, at the expense of other objectives, such as preservation of capital, to achieve higher incentive distributions. Investments with higher yield potential are generally riskier or more speculative than investments with lower yield potential. This could result in increased risk to the value of our portfolio of assets and your investment in us.
We have entered into a Management Agreement with an affiliate of Fortress pursuant to which our management team will not be required to exclusively dedicate their services to us and will provide services for other entities affiliated with our Manager, including, but not limited to, Newcastle.
The ability of our Manager and its officers and employees to engage in other business activities, subject to the terms of our Management Agreement with our Manager, may reduce the amount of time our Manager, its
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officers or other employees spend managing us. In addition, we may engage in material transactions with our Manager or another entity managed by our Manager or one of its affiliates, including Newcastle, that present an actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest. It is possible that actual, potential or perceived conflicts could give rise to investor dissatisfaction, litigation or regulatory enforcement actions. Appropriately dealing with conflicts of interest is complex and difficult, and our reputation could be damaged if we fail, or appear to fail, to deal appropriately with one or more potential, actual or perceived conflicts of interest. Regulatory scrutiny of, or litigation in connection with, conflicts of interest could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, which could materially adversely affect our business in a number of ways, including causing an inability to raise additional funds, a reluctance of counterparties to do business with us, a decrease in the prices of our equity securities and a resulting increased risk of litigation and regulatory enforcement actions.
Recent Developments
Support Agreement
On September 4, 2013, GateHouse and its affiliated debtors (the Debtors) announced that GateHouse, the Administrative Agent (as defined below), Newcastle and other lenders (the Participating Lenders) under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among certain affiliates of GateHouse, the Lenders from time to time party thereto and Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent (the Administrative Agent), dated February 27, 2007 (as amended, the 2007 Credit Facility) entered into the Restructuring Support Agreement (the Support Agreement), effective September 3, 2013, as may be amended, supplemented or modified from time to time, in which the parties agreed to support, subject to the terms and conditions of the Support Agreement, the restructuring of GateHouse (the Restructuring) pursuant to the Plan.
In the Support Agreement, the parties agreed to support the Restructuring of GateHouses obligations under the 2007 Credit Facility and certain interest rate swaps secured thereunder (collectively, the Outstanding Debt) and GateHouses equity pursuant to the Plan. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the disclosure statement for the Plan (the Disclosure Statement) and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan.
Pursuant to the Restructuring, Newcastle would offer to purchase the Outstanding Debt claims in cash and at 40% of (i) $1,167,449,812.96 of principal of claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (ii) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (iii) all amounts, excluding any default interest, arising from transactions in connection with interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (the Cash-Out Offer) on the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date). The holders of the Outstanding Debt would have the option of receiving, in satisfaction of their Outstanding Debt, their pro rata share of the (i) Cash-Out Offer and/or (ii) New Media Common Stock and the net proceeds, if any, of a potential new debt facility (the New Credit Facility). We intend to pay all pensions, trade and all other unsecured claims in full.
As of September 19, 2013, Newcastle and its affiliates held approximately 52.2% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility and the other Participating Lenders held approximately 28.7% of such principal amount (in each case, including certain amounts still pending trade settlement). Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced a pre-packaged solicitation of the Plan (the Solicitation). Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if holders of Outstanding Debt sufficient to meet the requisite
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threshold of 67% in amount and majority in number (calculated without including any insider) necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code (Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors) vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, Debtors intend to commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan therein.
On the Effective Date, the claims and interests against GateHouse will be discharged primarily through the (a) issuance of shares of Common Stock of New Media and/or payment of cash to holders of claims in connection with the 2007 Credit Facility and related interest rate swaps, as described above; (b) reinstatement of certain claims; (c) entry into the Management Agreement; (d) issuance of warrants by us to existing equity holders in GateHouse, including holders of warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests (Existing Equity Holders); and (e) entry into the New Credit Facility, if any, the net proceeds of which go to holders that elect to receive New Media Common Stock. In addition, 100% of the new equity interests in GateHouse will be issued to New Media. On or after the Effective Date, GateHouse may merge into us or convert into a limited liability company. The occurrence of such merger or conversion will not be a condition to the Effective Date.
Upon emergence from the Plan, we plan to adopt fresh-start reporting in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 852, Reorganizations. Under fresh-start accounting, a new entity is deemed to have been created on the Effective Date of the Plan for financial reporting purposes and GateHouses recorded amounts of assets and liabilities will be adjusted to reflect their estimated fair values. As a result of the adoption of fresh-start accounting, our reorganized company post-emergence financial statements will generally not be comparable with the financial statements of our predecessor company prior to emergence, including the historical financial information in this Information Statement. See Restructuring Agreements, The Spin-Off and Restructuring and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
Investment Commitment Letter
On September 4, 2013, Newcastle and GateHouse entered into an Investment Commitment Letter (the Investment Commitment Letter) in connection with the Restructuring, effective September 3, 2013.
Pursuant to the Investment Commitment Letter and the Plan, Newcastle agreed to offer to purchase the Cash-Out Offer claims.
The Investment Commitment Letter provides that, on account of the claims purchased in the Cash-Out Offer, on the Effective Date of the Plan, Newcastle will receive its pro rata share of (a) New Media Common Stock and (b) Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility, if any, net of transaction expenses associated with transactions under the Plan.
Newcastle may assign the Investment Commitment Letter to any of its affiliates, successors or designees as may be reasonably acceptable to GateHouse. The Investment Commitment Letter will terminate automatically and immediately if the Support Agreement has terminated or ceased to be in full force and effect. In addition, the Investment Commitment Letter may be terminated with notice upon certain events, as detailed in the Investment Commitment Letter.
Contribution of Local Media Group Holdings LLC
Newcastle acquired Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. (renamed Local Media Group, Inc. or Local Media) on September 3, 2013 from News Corp. (the Local Media Acquisition) for approximately $82.6 million plus associated estimated transaction costs of $4.2 million. Newcastle made a total equity investment of
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$53.8 million and financed the remainder of the purchase price with $33.0 million of term loan debt. The term loan debt was provided under a Credit Agreement dated September 3, 2013, by and among Local Media Group Holdings LLC (Local Media Parent), the borrowers party thereto, the lenders party thereto, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent and collateral agent and Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC, as lead arranger (the Local Media Credit Facility). Newcastle contributed $2.5 million to Local Media on the closing of the Local Media Acquisition for working capital purposes, and Local Media can repay that amount when the senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility of up to $10 million under the Local Media Credit Facility becomes available.
Local Media operates print and online community media franchises in seven states including daily, Sunday and weekly newspapers, Internet sites, magazines, other news and advertising niche publications and commercial print and household distribution services and had $33 million of real estate value as determined by third-party appraisals completed in the second quarter of 2012. Local Media publishes 8 daily community newspapers and 15 weeklies in the New England, Mid-Atlantic and Pacific Coast regions of the United States. Many of these publications have been providing local content to their respective communities for over 75 years.
Under the Plan, Newcastle agreed to contribute 100% of the stock of Local Media Parent and to assign its rights under the stock purchase agreement pursuant to which it acquired Local Media (the Local Media SPA) to New Media, each on the Effective Date (the Local Media Contribution). Local Media is wholly owned by Local Media Parent. In exchange, Newcastle will receive New Media Common Stock and, at its election, $50,000 of cash, collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition, subject to certain adjustments ((the Local Media Contribution Value).
The Local Media Contribution Value will be adjusted (a) to include (i) Newcastles out-of-pocket transaction expenses for the Local Media Acquisition not to exceed $4.5 million and (ii) any additional cash equity contributions made in Local Media or Local Media Parent after the Local Media Acquisition but, prior to the occurrence of the Local Media Contribution, not to exceed $2.5 million, and (iii) the net amount owing to Newcastle under the Local Media SPA and (b) to deduct the amount of (i) any dividends paid out by Local Media or Local Media Parent on or following the closing of the Local Media Acquisition and on or prior to the occurrence of the Local Media Contribution (other than in respect of the $2.5 million contributed by Newcastle on the closing date of the Local Media Acquisition for working capital purposes, which amount Local Media can repay by dividend or otherwise prior to the Effective Date) and (ii) any funded debt obligations of Local Media or Local Media Parent (other than amounts drawn under the revolver under the Local Media Credit Facility), each as determined by the Local Media Contribution agreements and Local Media SPA assignment agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, the distribution of New Media Common Stock in exchange for the Local Media Contribution will not occur prior to the distribution of the Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility (if any) to the holders of New Media Common Stock.
Assuming a contribution date of October 31, 2013, the expected Local Media Contribution Value is $54.1 million, consisting of approximately $82.6 million as the estimated cost of the Local Media Acquisition, plus (a) (i) $4.2 million in estimated out-of-pocket transaction expenses of Newcastle and (ii) no additional net cash equity contributions and (iii) $0.3 million owing to Newcastle under the Local Media SPA, less (b) (i) no dividends paid out by Local Media or Local Media Parent (other than in respect of amounts contributed by Newcastle on the closing date for working capital purposes) and (ii) $33.0 million in anticipated term loan debt at Local Media Parent under the Local Media Credit Facility.
GateHouse manages the assets of Local Media pursuant to a management and advisory agreement that will terminate on the Effective Date. While the agreement is in effect, GateHouse receives an annual management fee of $1.1 million, subject to adjustments (up to a maximum annual management fee of $1.2 million), and an annual incentive compensation fee based on exceeding EBITDA targets of Local Media.
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New Media Warrants
On the Effective Date, or as soon as practicable thereafter, New Media will issue and distribute 10-year warrants to Existing Equity Holders to extent required under the Plan (the New Media Warrants). The New Media Warrants will collectively represent the right to acquire New Media Common Stock, which in the aggregate will be equal to 5% of New Media Common Stock as of the Effective Date (calculated prior to dilution from shares of New Media Common Stock issued pursuant to the Local Media Contribution) at a strike price per share calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution of $1.2 billion as of the Effective Date. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan. New Media Warrants will not have the benefit of antidilution protections, other than customary protections including for stock splits and stock dividends.
New Credit Facility
GateHouse will use commercially reasonable efforts, in light of market conditions and other relevant factors, to enter into a New Credit Facility in the aggregate amount of up to approximately $150 million on the same or better terms for GateHouse than those set forth in the new debt facility term sheet attached as an exhibit to the Disclosure Statement on the Effective Date. In the event that GateHouse enters into and receives proceeds of the New Credit Facility, we will distribute to each holder of New Media Common Stock, including Newcastle on account of the Cash-Out Offer, its pro rata share of the net proceeds of the New Credit Facility net of transaction costs and expenses of GateHouse and Newcastle associated with transactions under the Plan (the Net Proceeds), if any. The Net Proceeds will be distributed prior to the Local Media Contribution and no amount of the Net Proceeds will be distributed to Newcastle on account of the Local Media Contribution. GateHouses entry into a credit facility will not be a condition to the effectiveness of the Plan.
Registration Rights
New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with Omega Advisors, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, Omega) and any other holder of Outstanding Debt that receives at least as many shares of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date as Omega receives, provided that Omega, directly or indirectly, receives 10% or more of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date. Under the terms of the registration rights agreement, subject to customary exceptions and limitations, New Media will be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to file a registration statement as soon as reasonably practicable, but no later than the later of (i) 120 days following the Effective Date and (ii) 14 days after the required financials are completed in the ordinary course of business, providing for the registration and sale by Omega of its New Media Common Stock (the Initial Shelf Registration Statement). During the first 12 months following the trading of New Media Common Stock on a major U.S. national securities exchange, subject to customary exceptions and limitations, Omega may request one underwritten demand right with respect to some or all of the New Media Common Stock held by Omega under the Initial Shelf Registration Statement (the Initial Demand Registration).
Once New Media is eligible to use Form S-3, New Media will be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to file a resale shelf registration statement providing for the registration and sale on a continuous or delayed basis by Omega of its New Media Common Stock (the Resale Shelf Registration), subject to customary exceptions and limitations.
Omega may only exercise its right to request the Initial Demand Registration and any Resale Shelf Registrations if it holds at least 3% of the then-outstanding New Media Common Stock.
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Credit Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On September 4, 2013, GateHouse entered into an Amendment Agreement to the 2007 Credit Facility (Credit Amendment) with Newcastle and certain lenders under GateHouses 2007 Credit Facility, effective September 3, 2013, which improved certain terms of the 2007 Credit Facility, including: a clarified and expanded definition of Eligible Assignee (as defined therein); an increase in the base amount in the formula used to calculate the Permitted Investments (as defined therein) basket from $35 million to a base of $50 million; the removal of the requirement that GateHouses annual financial statements not have a going concern or like qualification to the audit; the removal of a cross default from any Secured Hedging Agreement (as defined therein) to the 2007 Credit Facility; the removal of a Bankruptcy Default (as defined therein), arising from actions in furtherance of or indicating consent to the specified actions; and a waiver of any prior Default or Event of Default, as defined therein, including without limitation from the negotiation, entry into, or performance of the Support Agreement or the Investment Commitment Letter.
In consideration of the changes described above, GateHouse agreed to pay each of the lenders party to the Credit Amendment that timely executed the Credit Amendment and the Support Agreement an amendment fee equal to 3.5% multiplied by the aggregate Outstanding Debt held (including through trades pending settlement) by such lender (the Amendment Fee), unless waived in writing. Newcastle and certain other lenders elected to waive their Amendment Fee.
Risk Factors
Our business is subject to various risks. For a description of these risks, see the section entitled Risk Factors beginning on page 27 and the other information included elsewhere in this Information Statement.
Corporate Information
Our principal executive offices are located at . Our telephone number is .
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Summary of the Spin-Off
The following is a summary of the terms of the spin-off. See The Spin-Off and Restructuring in this Information Statement for a more detailed description of the matters described below.
Distributing company |
Newcastle is the distributing company in the spin-off. Immediately following the Distribution, Newcastle will not own any capital stock of New Media. |
Distributed company |
New Media is the distributed company in the spin-off. |
Primary purposes of the spin-off |
For the reasons more fully discussed in Questions and Answers About the Spin-offWhat are the reasons for the spin-off?, Newcastle believes that separating New Media from Newcastle is in the best interests of both Newcastle and New Media. |
Distribution ratio |
Each holder of Newcastle common stock will receive shares of New Medias Common Stock for every shares of Newcastle common stock held on , 2013, the Record Date for the Distribution. Fractional shares of New Medias Common Stock will not be distributed in the spin-off. Holders of Newcastle common stock will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares of New Media Common Stock. |
Securities to be distributed |
All of the shares of New Media Common Stock owned by Newcastle, which will be % of our Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Distribution. |
Based on the shares of Newcastle common stock outstanding on , 2013, and the distribution ratio of share of New Media Common Stock for every shares of Newcastle common stock, shares of our Common Stock will be distributed to Newcastle stockholders. The number of shares of Common Stock that Newcastle will distribute to its stockholders will be reduced to the extent that cash payments are made or will be made in lieu of the issuance of fractional New Media Common Stock. |
Record Date |
The Record Date for the Distribution is 5:00 P.M., Eastern Time, on , 2013. |
Distribution date |
The Distribution Date will be , 2013. |
The Distribution |
On the Distribution Date, Newcastle, with the assistance of American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, the distribution agent, will electronically issue shares of our Common Stock to you or to your bank or brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. You will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange your shares of Newcastle common stock or take any other action to receive your shares of our Common Stock. If |
19
you sell shares of Newcastle common stock in the regular-way market through the Distribution Date, you will also sell your right to receive shares of New Media Common Stock in the Distribution. Registered stockholders will receive additional information from the distribution agent shortly after the Distribution Date. Following the Distribution, stockholders whose shares are held in book-entry form may request that their shares of New Media Common Stock be transferred to a brokerage or other account at any time, without charge. Beneficial stockholders that hold shares through brokerage firms will receive additional information from their brokerage firms shortly after the Distribution Date. |
Fractional shares of Common Stock will not be distributed in the spin-off. Holders of Newcastle common stock will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares of New Media Common Stock. American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, the distribution agent, will aggregate all fractional shares of Newcastle common stock into whole shares, sell the whole shares in the open market at prevailing market prices on behalf of holders entitled to receive a fractional share, and distribute the aggregate net cash proceeds of the sales pro rata to these holders. |
Conditions to Distribution |
The Distribution of our Common Stock is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions: |
| the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) shall have declared effective our registration statement on Form 10, of which this Information Statement is a part, under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), and no stop order relating to the registration statement shall be in effect; |
| the listing of our Common Stock on the NYSE shall have been approved, subject to official notice of issuance; |
| the Plan is approved by the Bankruptcy Court without any appeals by any parties; and |
| no order, injunction or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing consummation of the Distribution or any of the transactions related thereto, shall be in effect. |
Newcastle has the right not to complete the Distribution if, at any time prior to the Distribution Date (even if all such conditions are satisfied), its board of directors determines, in its sole discretion, that the Distribution is not in the best interest of Newcastle or that market conditions are such that it is not advisable to separate New Media from Newcastle. |
Stock exchange listing |
We intend to apply to list our shares of Common Stock on the NYSE under the ticker symbol NEWM. We anticipate that on or prior to the Record Date for the Distribution, trading of shares of our Common Stock will begin on a when-issued basis and will continue |
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up to and including the Distribution Date. See The Spin-Off and RestructuringMarket for Common StockTrading Between the Record Date and Distribution Date, included elsewhere in this Information Statement. |
It is expected that after the distribution of New Media Common Stock, Newcastle common stock will continue to be traded on the NYSE under the symbol NCT. |
Distribution agent |
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC. |
Tax considerations |
The Distribution of our Common Stock will not qualify for tax-free treatment, and an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares of our Common Stock received by you on the date of Distribution will be treated as a taxable dividend to the extent of your ratable share of any current or accumulated earnings and profits of Newcastle. The excess will be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of your tax basis in the shares of Newcastle common stock and any remaining excess will be treated as capital gain. Your tax basis in the shares of Newcastle common stock held at the time of the Distribution will be reduced (but not below zero) to the extent the fair market value of the shares of our Common Stock distributed by Newcastle in the Distribution exceeds Newcastles current and accumulated earnings and profits, as adjusted to take account of other distributions made by Newcastle in the taxable year that includes the Distribution. Your holding period for such Newcastle shares will not be affected by the Distribution. Newcastle will not be able to advise stockholders of the amount of earnings and profits of Newcastle until after the end of the 2013 calendar year. |
21
Summary Historical Consolidated and Pro Forma Financial Data
The following selected financial data for the three years ended December 30, 2012 are derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm. Ernst & Young LLPs report on the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 30, 2012, which appears elsewhere herein, includes an explanatory paragraph which describes an uncertainty about GateHouses ability to continue as a going concern. The financial data for the six month periods ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 are derived from the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, which GateHouse considers necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and the results of operations for these periods. The selected financial data as of and for the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, and the selected financial data as of and for the six months ended July 1, 2012 have been revised to reflect one of GateHouses publications as a discontinued operation for comparability.
Operating results for the six months ended June 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year ending December 29, 2013. Our core business performance, as presented in our revenue and our operating and selling, general and administrative expense amounts, is not anticipated to be materially impacted by the spin-off. However, as a result of the execution of the Support Agreement, all debt, including derivative liabilities and deferred financing assets, is expected to be eliminated on the Effective Date of the Plan. This will result in a significant reduction in our interest expense and the elimination of the gain (loss) on derivative instruments and deferred financing amortization. Upon the emergence from bankruptcy, fresh start accounting will lead to changes in the basis of our property, plant and equipment and intangible assets that will impact future depreciation and amortization expense levels. Other significant changes to our financial information include that we expect to become subject to federal and state income taxation and to pay fees to our Manager. In addition, the Local Media Contribution and the expected consolidation of Local Media by GateHouse as a result of the management agreement between GateHouse and Local Media Parent, which was assigned to Local Media, will impact the financial position and the result of operations. The impact of these changes is discussed in greater detail within the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information section of this Information Statement. The data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes and other financial information included herein.
The following selected pro forma financial information as of June 30, 2013, for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and for the year ended December 30, 2012 are based on the audited financial statements of New Media which was formed on June 18, 2013, and subsequently capitalized, the audited consolidated financial statements of GateHouse for the year ended December 30, 2012 and the unaudited consolidated financial statements of GateHouse as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2013, and the audited combined financial statements of Local Media as of and for the year ended June 30, 2013, each included in this Information Statement.
The selected pro forma financial information is provided for informational and illustrative purposes only. These tables should be read in conjunction with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, New Medias historical financial statement and related notes thereto, GateHouses historical consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and Local Medias historical combined financial statements and notes thereto, included elsewhere in this Information Statement. In addition, the historical financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor, will not be comparable following its emergence from Chapter 11 due to the effects of the consummation of the Plan, as well as adjustments for fresh-start accounting.
The pro forma financial information gives effect to the following categories of adjustments as if such transactions had occurred on January 2, 2012 for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of
22
operations and on June 30, 2013 for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet. Each of these adjustments is described within the notes of the pro forma financial information included in this Information Statement:
| the exchange of $625.6 million Outstanding Debt that Newcastle (and its affiliates) hold and additional Outstanding Debt that Newcastle (and its affiliates) purchase in the Cash-Out Offer for New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date; |
| the implementation of the other transactions contemplated by the Plan on the Effective Date; |
| the adoption by GateHouse of fresh-start accounting, in accordance with Topic 852Reorganizations of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) (ASC 852); and |
| the impact of Local Media purchase accounting adjustments, in accordance with Topic 805 Business Combinations of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC 805). |
23
Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year
Ended December 30, 2012 |
Year
Ended December 30, 2012 |
Year
Ended January 1, 2012 (4) |
Year
Ended December 31, 2010 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Pro Forma | Historical | Historical | Pro Forma | Historical | Historical | Historical | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Operations Data: |
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Revenues: |
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Advertising |
$ | 189,069 | $ | 150,559 | $ | 165,870 | $ | 419,210 | $ | 330,881 | $ | 357,134 | $ | 385,579 | ||||||||||||||
Circulation |
90,198 | 65,513 | 65,114 | 183,779 | 131,576 | 131,879 | 133,192 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
26,126 | 14,107 | 12,197 | 50,114 | 26,097 | 25,657 | 25,967 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Total revenues |
305,393 | 230,179 | 243,181 | 653,103 | 488,554 | 514,670 | 544,738 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
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Operating costs |
171,527 | 129,998 | 136,328 | 351,344 | 268,222 | 281,884 | 296,974 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
101,937 | 78,722 | 72,054 | 200,906 | 145,020 | 146,295 | 154,516 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
18,454 | 19,636 | 20,204 | 36,909 | 39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs and management fees paid to prior owner |
958 | 958 | 1,860 | 4,393 | 4,393 | 5,884 | 2,324 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
21,346 | | | 692 | | 1,733 | 430 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of assets |
| 1,043 | 155 | 1,238 | 1,238 | 455 | 1,551 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill and mastheads impairment |
21,965 | | | 197,177 | | 385 | | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Operating income (loss) |
(30,794 | ) | (178 | ) | 12,580 | (139,556 | ) | 29,793 | 35,608 | 43,863 | ||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, amortization of deferred financing costs, gain on early extinguishment of debt, (gain) loss on derivative instruments and other |
2,439 | 30,425 | 27,993 | 2,750 | 57,463 | 58,361 | 69,520 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Loss from continuing operations before income taxes |
(33,233 | ) | (30,603 | ) | (15,413 | ) | (142,306 | ) | (27,670 | ) | (22,753 | ) | (25,657 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
(13,011 | ) | | 43 | (55,712 | ) | (207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
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(Loss) income from continuing operations |
(20,222 | ) | (30,603 | ) | (15,456 | ) | (86,594 | ) | (27,463 | ) | (20,950 | ) | (25,502 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes |
N/A | (1,034 | ) | (475 | ) | N/A | (2,340 | ) | (699 | ) | (542 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
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Net (loss) |
N/A | (31,637 | ) | (15,931 | ) | N/A | (29,803 | ) | (21,649 | ) | (26,044 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Basic net (loss) income from continuing operations per share |
(1) | $ | (0.53 | ) (2) | $ | (0.27 | ) (2) | (1) | $ | (0.47 | ) (2) | $ | (0.36 | ) (2) | $ | (0.44 | ) (2) | |||||||||||
Diluted (loss) income from continuing operations per share |
(1) | $ | (0.53 | ) (2) | $ | (0.27 | ) (2) | (1) | $ | (0.47 | ) (2) | $ | (0.36 | ) (2) | $ | (0.44 | ) (2) | |||||||||||
Basic net (loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, per share |
(1) | $ | (0.01 | ) | | (1) | (0.04 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Diluted (loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, per share |
(1) | $ | (0.01 | ) | | (1) | (0.04 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
(1) | 58,063,901 | (2) | 58,032,205 | (2) | (1) | 58,041,907 | (2) | 57,949,815 | (2) | 57,723,353 | (2) | ||||||||||||||||
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
(1) | 58,063,901 | (2) | 58,032,205 | (2) | (1) | 58,041,907 | (2) | 57,949,815 | (2) | 57,723,353 | (2) |
24
Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year
Ended December 30, 2012 |
Year
Ended December 30, 2012 |
Year
Ended January 1, 2012 (4) |
Year
Ended December 31, 2010 |
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Pro Forma | Historical | Historical | Pro Forma | Historical | Historical | Historical | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Cash Flow Data: |
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Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities |
N/A | $ | (1,089 | ) | $ | 18,226 | N/A | $ | 23,499 | $ | 22,439 | $ | 26,453 | |||||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
N/A | (1,278 | ) | (1,295 | ) | N/A | (1,044 | ) | (731 | ) | (624 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Net cash used in financing activities |
N/A | (6,648 | ) | (4,600 | ) | N/A | (7,140 | ) | (11,249 | ) | (22,010 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Other Data: |
N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA (3) |
N/A | $ | 18,450 | $ | 32,824 | N/A | $ | 69,766 | $ | 80,547 | $ | 89,511 | ||||||||||||||||
Cash interest paid |
N/A | 28,750 | 29,005 | N/A | $ | 55,976 | $ | 58,225 | $ | 59,317 |
(1) | Attributable to New Media during the applicable period. |
(2) | Attributable to GateHouse during the applicable period. |
(3) | We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit), interest/financing expense, depreciation and amortization and non-cash impairments. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to income from operations, net income (loss), cash flow from continuing operating activities or any other measure of performance or liquidity derived in accordance with GAAP. We believe this non-GAAP measure, as we have defined it, is helpful in identifying trends in our day-to-day performance because the items excluded have little or no significance in our day-to-day operations. This measure provides an assessment of controllable expenses and affords management the ability to make decisions which are expected to facilitate meeting current financial goals as well as achieve optimal financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA provides an indicator for management to determine if adjustments to current spending decisions are needed. |
Adjusted EBITDA provides us with a measure of financial performance, independent of items that are beyond the control of management in the short-term, such as depreciation and amortization, taxation and interest expense associated with our capital structure. This metric measures our financial performance based on operational factors that management can impact in the short-term, namely our cost structure or expenses of the organization. Adjusted EBITDA is one of the metrics used by senior management and the Board to review the financial performance of our business on a monthly basis.
Not all companies calculate Adjusted EBITDA using the same methods; therefore, the Adjusted EBITDA figures set forth herein may not be comparable to Adjusted EBITDA reported by other companies. A substantial portion of our Adjusted EBITDA was dedicated to the payment of interest on our outstanding indebtedness and to service other commitments, thereby reducing the funds available to us for other purposes. Adjusted EBITDA does not represent an amount of funds that is available for managements discretionary use. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Information Statement.
(4) | The year ended January 1, 2012 included a 53 rd week of operations for approximately 60% of the business. |
The table below shows the reconciliation of loss from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented:
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2013 |
Six Months Ended
July 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 (g) |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
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(In Thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (30,603 | ) | $ | (15,456 | ) | $ | (27,463 | ) | $ | (20,950 | ) | $ | (25,502 | ) | |||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| 43 | (207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | ||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments (f) |
9 | (1,644 | ) | (1,635 | ) | (913 | ) | 8,277 | ||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
522 | 680 | 1,255 | 1,360 | 1,360 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
28,886 | 28,997 | 57,928 | 58,309 | 60,021 | |||||||||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| | | 1,733 | 430 | |||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
19,636 | 20,204 | 39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | |||||||||||||||
Goodwill and mastheads impairment |
| | | 385 | | |||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations |
$ | 18,450 | (a) | $ | 32,824 | (b) | $ | 69,766 | (c) | $ | 80,547 | (d) | $ | 89,511 | (e) | |||||
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(a) | Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2013 included net expenses of $7,521, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $7,521 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $5,948, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(428), integration and reorganization costs of $958 and a $1,043 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $123 from our discontinued operations.
(b) | Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended July 1, 2012 included net expenses of $4,478, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $4,478 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $2,707, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(244), integration and reorganization costs of $1,860 and a $155 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $165 from our discontinued operations.
(c) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 30, 2012 included net expenses of $11,009, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $11,009 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $6,274, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(896), integration and reorganization costs of $4,393 and a $1,238 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $255 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(d) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended January 1, 2012 included net expenses of $9,461, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $9,461 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $4,226, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(1,104), integration and reorganization costs of $5,884 and an $455 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $432 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(e) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2010 included net expenses of $8,231, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $8,231 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $5,005, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(649), integration and reorganization costs of $2,324 and a $1,551 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $463 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(f) | Non-cash (gain) loss on derivative instruments is related to interest rate swap agreements which are financing related and are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. |
(g) | The year ended January 1, 2012 included a 53rd week of operations for approximately 60% of the business. |
As of | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
June 30,
2013 |
June 30,
2013 |
July 1,
2012 |
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
December 31,
2010 |
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Pro Forma | Historical | Historical | Historical | Historical | Historical | |||||||||||||||||||
(In Thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data: |
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Total assets |
$ | 671,080 | $ | 433,704 | $ | 487,406 | $ | 469,766 | $ | 510,802 | $ | 546,327 | ||||||||||||
Total long-term obligations, including current maturities |
35,901 | 1,170,200 | 1,180,151 | 1,177,298 | 1,185,212 | 1,197,347 | ||||||||||||||||||
Stockholders equity (deficit) |
539,552 | (848,855 | ) | (823,093 | ) | (834,159 | ) | (805,632 | ) | (792,121 | ) |
26
You should carefully consider the following risks and other information in this Information Statement in evaluating us and our Common Stock. Any of the following risks, as well as additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial, could materially and adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition. The risk factors generally have been separated into the following groups: risks related to our business, risks related to our Manager, risks related to the Distribution and risks related to our Common Stock.
Risks Related to Our Business
We depend to a great extent on the economies and the demographics of the local communities that we serve, and we are also susceptible to general economic downturns, which have had, and could continue to have, a material and adverse impact on our advertising and circulation revenues and on our profitability.
Our advertising revenues and, to a lesser extent, circulation revenues, depend upon a variety of factors specific to the communities that our publications serve. These factors include, among others, the size and demographic characteristics of the local population, local economic conditions in general and the economic condition of the retail segments of the communities that our publications serve. If the local economy, population or prevailing retail environment of a community we serve experiences a downturn, our publications, revenues and profitability in that market could be adversely affected. Our advertising revenues are also susceptible to negative trends in the general economy, like the economic downturn recently experienced, that affect consumer spending. The advertisers in our newspapers and other publications and related websites are primarily retail businesses that can be significantly affected by regional or national economic downturns and other developments. Continuing or deepening softness in the U.S. economy could also significantly affect key advertising revenue categories, such as help wanted, real estate and automotive.
Uncertainty and adverse changes in the general economic conditions of markets in which we participate may negatively affect our business.
Current and future conditions in the economy have an inherent degree of uncertainty. As a result, it is difficult to estimate the level of growth or contraction for the economy as a whole. It is even more difficult to estimate growth or contraction in various parts, sectors and regions of the economy, including the markets in which we participate. Adverse changes may occur as a result of weak global economic conditions, rising oil prices, wavering consumer confidence, unemployment, declines in stock markets, contraction of credit availability, declines in real estate values, or other factors affecting economic conditions in general. These changes may negatively affect the sales of our products, increase exposure to losses from bad debts, increase the cost and decrease the availability of financing, or increase costs associated with publishing and distributing our publications.
Our indebtedness and any future indebtedness may limit our financial and operating activities and our ability to incur additional debt to fund future needs or dividends.
Pursuant to the Plan, GateHouse may enter into the New Credit Facility on the Effective Date. Additionally, in connection with the Local Media Acquisition, Local Media Parent entered into the Local Media Credit Facility. This indebtedness and any future indebtedness we incur could:
| require us to dedicate a portion of cash flow from operations to the payment of principal and interest on indebtedness, including indebtedness we may incur in the future, thereby reducing the funds available for other purposes, including dividends or other distributions; |
| subject us to increased sensitivity to increases in prevailing interest rates; |
| place us at a competitive disadvantage to competitors with relatively less debt in economic downturns, adverse industry conditions or catastrophic external events; or |
27
| reduce our flexibility in planning for or responding to changing business, industry and economic conditions. |
In addition, our indebtedness could limit our ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms or at all to fund future acquisitions, working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, general corporate and other purposes, which would have a material effect on our business and financial condition. Our liquidity needs could vary significantly and may be affected by general economic conditions, industry trends, performance and many other factors not within our control.
We may not generate a sufficient amount of cash or generate sufficient funds from operations to fund our operations, pay dividends or repay our indebtedness.
Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness as required depends on our ability to generate cash flow from operations in the future. This ability, to a certain extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control.
If we do not generate sufficient cash flow from operations to satisfy our debt obligations, including interest payments and the payment of principal at maturity, we may have to undertake alternative financing plans, such as refinancing or restructuring our debt, selling assets, reducing or delaying capital investments or seeking to raise additional capital. We cannot provide assurance that any refinancing would be possible, that any assets could be sold, or, if sold, of the timeliness and amount of proceeds realized from those sales, that additional financing could be obtained on acceptable terms, if at all, or that additional financing would be permitted under the terms of our various debt instruments then in effect. Furthermore, our ability to refinance would depend upon the condition of the finance and credit markets. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flow to satisfy our debt obligations, or to refinance our obligations on commercially reasonable terms or on a timely basis, would materially affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
We may not be able to pay dividends in accordance with our announced intent or at all.
We have announced our intent to pay a substantial portion of our free cash flow as a dividend to our stockholders, subject to approval by our Board of Directors. Our ability to declare future dividends will depend on our future financial performance, which in turn depends on the successful implementation of our strategy and on financial, competitive, regulatory, technical and other factors, general economic conditions, demand and selling prices for our products and other factors specific to our industry or specific projects, many of which are beyond our control. Therefore, our ability to generate free cash flow depends on the performance of our operations and could be limited by decreases in our profitability or increases in costs, capital expenditures or debt servicing requirements.
Our Predecessor suspended the payments of dividends commencing with the second quarter of 2008. We will own substantially all of our Predecessors assets, and our Predecessor experienced revenue and cash flow declines in the years since 2008. In addition, we may acquire additional companies with declining cash flow as part of a strategy aimed at stabilizing cash flow through expense reduction and digital expansion. If our strategy is not successful, we may not be able to pay dividends.
As a holding company, we are also dependent on our subsidiaries being able to pay dividends to us. If our subsidiaries incur debt or losses, such indebtedness or loss may impair their ability to pay dividends or make other distributions to us. In addition, our ability to pay dividends will be substantially affected by the ability of our subsidiaries to provide cash to us. The ability of our subsidiaries to declare and pay dividends to us will be dependent on their cash income and cash available and may be restricted under applicable law or regulation. Under Delaware law, approval of the Board of Directors is required to approve any dividend, which may only be paid out of surplus or net profit for the applicable fiscal year. In addition, we or our subsidiaries may be subject to restrictions on the ability to pay dividends under instruments governing indebtedness. We may not be able to pay dividends in accordance with our announced intent or at all.
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The collectability of accounts receivable under adverse economic conditions could deteriorate to a greater extent than provided for in our financial statements and in our projections of future results.
Adverse economic conditions in the United States have increased our exposure to losses resulting from financial distress, insolvency and the potential bankruptcy of our advertising customers. Our accounts receivable are stated at net estimated realizable value and our allowance for doubtful accounts has been determined based on several factors, including receivable agings, significant individual credit risk accounts and historical experience. If such collectability estimates prove inaccurate, adjustments to future operating results could occur.
If there is a significant increase in the price of newsprint or a reduction in the availability of newsprint, our results of operations and financial condition may suffer.
The basic raw material for our publications is newsprint. We generally maintain only a 45 to 55-day inventory of newsprint, although our participation in a newsprint-buying consortium has helped ensure adequate supply. An inability to obtain an adequate supply of newsprint at a favorable price or at all in the future could have a material adverse effect on our ability to produce our publications. Historically, the price of newsprint has been volatile, reaching a high of approximately $823 per metric ton in 2008 and experiencing a low of almost $410 per metric ton in 2002. The average price of newsprint for 2012 was approximately $667 per metric ton. Recent and future consolidation of major newsprint suppliers may adversely affect price competition among suppliers. Significant increases in newsprint costs for properties and periods not covered by our newsprint vendor agreement could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
We compete with a large number of companies in the local media industry; if we are unable to compete effectively, our advertising and circulation revenues may decline.
Our business is concentrated in newspapers and other print publications located primarily in small and midsize markets in the United States. Our revenues primarily consist of advertising and paid circulation. Competition for advertising revenues and paid circulation comes from direct mail, directories, radio, television, outdoor advertising, other newspaper publications, the internet and other media. For example, as the use of the internet and mobile devices has increased, we have lost some classified advertising and subscribers to online advertising businesses and our free internet sites that contain abbreviated versions of our publications. Competition for advertising revenues is based largely upon advertiser results, advertising rates, readership, demographics and circulation levels. Competition for circulation is based largely upon the content of the publication and its price and editorial quality. Our local and regional competitors vary from market to market and many of our competitors for advertising revenues are larger and have greater financial and distribution resources than us. We may incur increased costs competing for advertising expenditures and paid circulation. We may also experience a decline of circulation or print advertising revenue due to alternative media, such as the internet. If we are not able to compete effectively for advertising expenditures and paid circulation, our revenues may decline.
We are undertaking a strategic re-alignment of our business that could have a material adverse financial impact if unsuccessful.
We are undertaking a strategic re-alignment of our business. Among other things we are implementing the standardization and centralization of systems and process, the outsourcing of certain financial processes and the use of new software for our circulation, advertising and editorial systems. As a result of ongoing strategic evaluation and analysis, we have made and will continue to make changes that, if unsuccessful, could have a material adverse financial impact.
We have invested in growing our digital business, but such investments may not be successful, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
We continue to evaluate our business and how we intend to grow our digital business. Internal resources and effort are put towards this business and key partnerships have been entered into to assist with our digital business. We continue to believe that our digital businesses offer opportunities for revenue growth to support
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and, in some cases, offset the revenue trends we have seen in our print business. There can be no assurances that the partnerships we have entered into or the internal strategy being employed will result in generating or increasing digital revenues in amounts necessary to stabilize or offset trends in print revenues. In addition, we have a limited history of operations in this area and there can be no assurances that past performance will be indicative of future performance or future trends. If our digital strategy is not as successful as we anticipate, our financial condition, results of operations and ability to pay dividends could be adversely affected.
If we are unable to retain and grow our digital audience and advertiser base, our digital businesses will be adversely affected.
Given the ever-growing and rapidly changing number of digital media options available on the internet, we may not be able to increase our online traffic sufficiently and retain or grow a base of frequent visitors to our websites and applications on mobile devices.
Accordingly, we may not be able to create sufficient advertiser interest in our digital businesses and to maintain or increase the advertising rates of the inventory on our websites.
In addition, the ever-growing and rapidly changing number of digital media options available on the internet may lead to technologies and alternatives that we are not able to offer or about which we are not able to advise. Such circumstances could directly and adversely affect the availability, applicability, marketability and profitablity of the suite of SMB services and the private ad exchange we offer as a significant part of our digital business.
Technological developments and any changes we make to our business model may require significant capital investments. Such investments may be restricted by our current or future credit facilities.
Our business is subject to seasonal and other fluctuations, which affects our revenues and operating results.
Our business is subject to seasonal fluctuations that we expect to continue to be reflected in our operating results in future periods. Our first fiscal quarter of the year tends to be our weakest quarter because advertising volume is at its lowest levels following the December holiday season. Correspondingly, our second and fourth fiscal quarters tend to be our strongest because they include heavy holiday and seasonal advertising. Other factors that affect our quarterly revenues and operating results may be beyond our control, including changes in the pricing policies of our competitors, the hiring and retention of key personnel, wage and cost pressures, distribution costs, changes in newsprint prices and general economic factors.
We could be adversely affected by continued declining circulation.
Overall daily newspaper circulation, including national and urban newspapers, has declined in recent years. There can be no assurance that our circulation will not continue to decline in the future. We have been able to maintain our annual circulation revenue from existing operations in recent years through, among other things, increases in our per copy prices. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to continue to increase prices to offset any declines in circulation. Further declines in circulation could impair our ability to maintain or increase our advertising prices, cause purchasers of advertising in our publications to reduce or discontinue those purchases and discourage potential new advertising customers, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and ability to pay a dividend.
The increasing popularity of digital media could also adversely affect circulation of our newspapers, which may decrease circulation revenue and cause more marked declines in print advertising. If we are not successful in offsetting such declines in revenues from our print products, our business, financial condition and prospects will be adversely affected.
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We have a history of losses and may not be able to achieve or maintain profitable operations in the future.
We experienced losses from continuing operations of approximately $27.5 million, $21.0 million and $25.5 million in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Our results of operations in the future will depend on many factors, including our ability to execute our business strategy and realize efficiencies through our clustering strategy. Our failure to achieve profitability in the future could adversely affect the trading price of our Common Stock and our ability to pay dividends and raise additional capital for growth.
The value of our intangible assets may become impaired, depending upon future operating results.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of June 30, 2013, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units and no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the market price of the Companys common stock and fair value of the Companys debt) plus an estimated control premium.
The newspaper industry and the Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, the Company may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
We are subject to environmental and employee safety and health laws and regulations that could cause us to incur significant compliance expenditures and liabilities.
Our operations are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations pertaining to the environment, storage tanks and the management and disposal of wastes at our facilities. Under various environmental laws, a current or previous owner or operator of real property may be liable for contamination resulting from the release or threatened release of hazardous or toxic substances or petroleum at that property. Such laws often impose liability on the owner or operator without regard to fault and the costs of any required investigation or cleanup can be substantial. Although in connection with certain of our acquisitions we have rights to indemnification for certain environmental liabilities, these rights may not be sufficient to reimburse us for all losses that we might incur if a property acquired by us has environmental contamination.
Our operations are also subject to various employee safety and health laws and regulations, including those pertaining to occupational injury and illness, employee exposure to hazardous materials and employee complaints. Environmental and employee safety and health laws tend to be complex, comprehensive and frequently changing. As a result, we may be involved from time to time in administrative and judicial proceedings and investigations related to environmental and employee safety and health issues. These proceedings and investigations could result in substantial costs to us, divert our managements attention and adversely affect our ability to sell, lease or develop our real property. Furthermore, if it is determined that we are not in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, or if our properties are contaminated, it could result in significant liabilities, fines or the suspension or interruption of the operations of specific printing facilities.
Future events, such as changes in existing laws and regulations, new laws or regulations or the discovery of conditions not currently known to us, may give rise to additional compliance or remedial costs that could be material.
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Sustained increases in costs of employee health and welfare benefits may reduce our profitability. Moreover, our pension plan obligations are currently unfunded, and we may have to make significant cash contributions to our plans, which could reduce the cash available for our business.
In recent years, we have experienced significant increases in the cost of employee medical benefits because of economic factors beyond our control, including increases in health care costs. At least some of these factors may continue to put upward pressure on the cost of providing medical benefits. Although we have actively sought to control increases in these costs, there can be no assurance that we will succeed in limiting cost increases, and continued upward pressure could reduce the profitability of our businesses.
Our pension and post retirement plans were underfunded (accumulated benefit obligation) by $15.5 million at December 30, 2012. Our pension plan invests in a variety of equity and debt securities, many of which were affected by the recent disruptions in the credit and capital markets in 2009 and 2010. Future volatility and disruption in the stock markets could cause further declines in the asset values of our pension plans. In addition, a decrease in the discount rate used to determine minimum funding requirements could result in increased future contributions. If either occurs, we may need to make additional pension contributions above what is currently estimated, which could reduce the cash available for our businesses.
We may not be able to protect intellectual property rights upon which our business relies and, if we lose intellectual property protection, our assets may lose value.
Our business depends on our intellectual property, including, but not limited to, our titles, mastheads, content and services, which we attempt to protect through patents, copyrights, trade laws and contractual restrictions, such as confidentiality agreements. We believe our proprietary and other intellectual property rights are important to our continued success and our competitive position.
Despite our efforts to protect our proprietary rights, unauthorized third parties may attempt to copy or otherwise obtain and use our content, services and other intellectual property, and we cannot be certain that the steps we have taken will prevent any misappropriation or confusion among consumers and merchants, or unauthorized use of these rights. If we are unable to procure, protect and enforce our intellectual property rights, we may not realize the full value of these assets, and our business may suffer. If we must litigate to enforce our intellectual property rights or determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of third parties, such litigation may be costly and divert the attention of our management from day-to-day operations.
We depend on key personnel and we may not be able to operate or grow our business effectively if we lose the services of any of our key personnel or are unable to attract qualified personnel in the future.
The success of our business is heavily dependent on our ability to retain our management and other key personnel and to attract and retain qualified personnel in the future. Competition for senior management personnel is intense and we may not be able to retain our personnel. Although we have entered into employment agreements with certain of our key personnel, these agreements do not ensure that our key personnel will continue in their present capacity with us for any particular period of time. We do not have key man insurance for any of our current management or other key personnel. The loss of any key personnel would require our remaining key personnel to divert immediate and substantial attention to seeking a replacement. An inability to find a suitable replacement for any departing executive officer on a timely basis could adversely affect our ability to operate or grow our business.
A shortage of skilled or experienced employees in the media industry, or our inability to retain such employees, could pose a risk to achieving improved productivity and reducing costs, which could adversely affect our profitability.
Production and distribution of our various publications requires skilled and experienced employees. A shortage of such employees, or our inability to retain such employees, could have an adverse impact on our
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productivity and costs, our ability to expand, develop and distribute new products and our entry into new markets. The cost of retaining or hiring such employees could exceed our expectations which could adversely affect our results of operations.
A number of our employees are unionized, and our business and results of operations could be adversely affected if current or additional labor negotiations or contracts were to further restrict our ability to maximize the efficiency of our operations.
As of December 30, 2012, we employed approximately 4,565 employees, of whom approximately 691 (or approximately 15%) were represented by 23 unions. 95% of the unionized employees are in three states: Massachusetts, Illinois and Ohio and represent 27%, 38% and 30% of all our union employees, respectively. Most of our unionized employees work under collective bargaining agreements that expire in 2014.
Although our newspapers have not experienced a union strike in the recent past nor do we anticipate a union strike occurring, we cannot preclude the possibility that a strike may occur at one or more of our newspapers at some point in the future. We believe that, in the event of a newspaper strike, we would be able to continue to publish and deliver to subscribers, which is critical to retaining advertising and circulation revenues, although there can be no assurance of this.
Our potential inability to successfully execute cost control measures could result in greater than expected total operating costs.
We have implemented general cost control measures, and expect to continue such cost control efforts in the future. If we do not achieve expected savings as a result of such measures or if our operating costs increase as a result of our growth strategy, our total operating costs may be greater than expected. In addition, reductions in staff and employee benefits could affect our ability to attract and retain key employees.
We may not realize all of the anticipated benefits of the Local Media Acquisition or potential future acquisitions, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Local Media Acquisition or potential future acquisitions of assets or companies will depend, in part, on our ability to scale-up to appropriately integrate the businesses of Local Media and other such acquired companies with our business. The process of acquiring assets or companies may disrupt our business and may not result in the full benefits expected. Additionally, we may not be successful in identifying acquisition opportunities, assessing the value, strengths and weaknesses of these opportunities and consummating acquisitions on acceptable terms. Furthermore, suitable acquisition opportunities may not even be made available or known to us. In addition, valuations of potential acquisitions may rise materially, making it economically unfeasible to complete identified acquisitions. The risks associated with the recent Local Media Acquisition and potential future acquisitions include, among others:
| uncoordinated market functions; |
| unanticipated issues in integrating the operations and personnel of the acquired businesses; |
| the incurrence of indebtedness and the assumption of liabilities; |
| the incurrence of significant additional capital expenditures, transaction and operating expenses and non-recurring acquisition-related charges; |
| unanticipated adverse impact on our earnings from the amortization or write-off of acquired goodwill and other intangible assets; |
| not retaining key employees, vendors, service providers, readers and customers of the acquired businesses; and |
| the diversion of managements attention from ongoing business concerns. |
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If we are unable to successfully implement our acquisition strategy or address the risks associated with the Local Media Acquisition or potential future acquisitions, or if we encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications or delays frequently encountered in connection with the integration of acquired entities and the expansion of operations, our growth and ability to compete may be impaired, we may fail to achieve acquisition synergies and we may be required to focus resources on integration of operations rather than other profitable areas. Moreover, the success of any acquisition will depend upon our ability to effectively integrate the acquired assets or businesses. The acquired assets or businesses may not contribute to our revenues or earnings to any material extent, and cost savings and synergies we expect at the time of an acquisition may not be realized once the acquisition has been completed. Furthermore, if we incur indebtedness to finance an acquisition, the acquired business may not be able to generate sufficient cash flow to service that indebtedness. Unsuitable or unsuccessful acquisitions could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flow and ability to pay dividends.
Our future financial results will be affected by the adoption of fresh start reporting and may not reflect historical trends.
We will be formed pursuant to the Plan to acquire substantially all of the assets of our predecessor GateHouse. The Restructuring will result in us becoming a new reporting entity and adopting fresh-start accounting. As required by fresh-start accounting, we will cause our Predecessors assets and liabilities to be adjusted to measured value, and we will recognize certain assets and liabilities not previously recognized in our Predecessors financial statements. Accordingly, our financial condition and results of operations from and after the Effective Date may not be comparable to the financial condition and results of operations reflected in our Predecessors historical consolidated financial statements, including those presented herein.
The bankruptcy filing may have a negative impact on our Predecessors image which may negatively impact our business going forward.
As a result of the Restructuring, our Predecessor may be the subject of negative publicity which may have an impact on its image and the image of its operations and its reputation, stature and relationship within the community. This negative publicity may have an effect on the terms under which some customers, advertisers and suppliers are willing to continue to do business with us and could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The Restructuring could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations .
The Restructuring could adversely affect our operations, including relationships with our advertisers, employees and others. There is a risk, due to uncertainty about our future, that, among other things:
| advertisers could move to other forms of media, including our competitors that have comparatively greater financial resources and that are in comparatively less financial distress; |
| employees could be distracted from performance of their duties or more easily attracted to other career opportunities; and |
| business partners could terminate their relationship with us or demand financial assurances or enhanced performance, any of which could impair our prospects. |
Any of these factors could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We cannot be certain that the Restructuring will not adversely affect our operations going forward.
We cannot provide assurance that the Restructuring will not adversely affect our future operations. Our suppliers and vendors could stop providing supplies or services to us or provide such supplies or services only on
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unfavorable terms such as cash on delivery, cash on order or other terms that could have an adverse impact on our short-term cash flows. In addition, the Restructuring may adversely affect our ability to retain existing readers and advertisers, attract new readers and advertisers and maintain contracts that are critical to our operations.
Risks Related to Our Manager
We are dependent on our Manager and may not find a suitable replacement if our Manager terminates the Management Agreement.
We are externally managed by our Manager. We are completely reliant on our Manager, which has significant discretion as to the implementation of our operating policies and strategies, to conduct our business. We are subject to the risk that our Manager will terminate the Management Agreement and that we will not be able to find a suitable replacement for our Manager in a timely manner, at a reasonable cost or at all. Furthermore, we are dependent on the services of certain key employees of our Manager whose compensation is partially or entirely dependent upon the amount of incentive or management compensation earned by our Manager and whose continued service is not guaranteed, and the loss of such services could adversely affect our operations.
There may be conflicts of interest in our relationship with our Manager, including with respect to corporate opportunities.
We have entered into a Management Agreement with an affiliate of Fortress pursuant to which our management team will not be required to exclusively dedicate their services to us and will provide services for other entities affiliated with our Manager, including, but not limited to, Newcastle.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws provide that if Newcastle or Fortress or any of their officers, directors or employees acquire knowledge of a potential transaction that could be a corporate opportunity, they have no duty, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to offer such corporate opportunity to us, our stockholders or our affiliates. In the event that any of our directors and officers who is also a director, officer or employee of Newcastle or Fortress acquires knowledge of a corporate opportunity or is offered a corporate opportunity, provided that this knowledge was not acquired solely in such persons capacity as a director or officer of New Media and such person acts in good faith, then to the fullest extent permitted by law such person is deemed to have fully satisfied such persons fiduciary duties owed to us and is not liable to us if Newcastle or Fortress, or their affiliates, pursues or acquires the corporate opportunity or if such person did not present the corporate opportunity to us.
The ability of our Manager and its officers and employees to engage in other business activities, subject to the terms of our Management Agreement with our Manager, may reduce the amount of time our Manager, its officers or other employees spend managing us. In addition, we may engage in material transactions with our Manager or another entity managed by our Manager or one of its affiliates, including Newcastle, that present an actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest. It is possible that actual, potential or perceived conflicts could give rise to investor dissatisfaction, litigation or regulatory enforcement actions. Appropriately dealing with conflicts of interest is complex and difficult, and our reputation could be damaged if we fail, or appear to fail, to deal appropriately with one or more potential, actual or perceived conflicts of interest. Regulatory scrutiny of, or litigation in connection with, conflicts of interest could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, which could materially adversely affect our business in a number of ways, including causing an inability to raise additional funds, a reluctance of counterparties to do business with us, a decrease in the prices of our equity securities and a resulting increased risk of litigation and regulatory enforcement actions.
The management compensation structure that we have agreed to with our Manager, as well as compensation arrangements that we may enter into with our Manager in the future (in connection with new lines of business or other activities), may have unintended consequences for us. We have agreed to pay our Manager a management
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fee that is not tied to our performance. The management fee may not sufficiently incentivize our Manager to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for us. In addition, our Manager may be eligible to receive incentive compensation, which may incentivize our Manager to invest in high risk investments. In evaluating investments and other management strategies, the opportunity to earn incentive compensation may lead our Manager to place undue emphasis on the maximization of such measures at the expense of other criteria, such as preservation of capital, in order to achieve higher incentive compensation. Investments with higher yield potential are generally riskier or more speculative than lower-yielding investments. Moreover, because our Manager receives compensation in the form of options in connection with the completion of our common equity offerings, our Manager may be incentivized to cause us to issue additional common stock, which could be dilutive to existing stockholders. See Description of Our Capital StockCorporate Opportunity.
We may compete with affiliates of our Manager, including Newcastle, which could adversely affect our and their results of operations.
Affiliates of our Manager, including Newcastle, are not restricted in any manner from competing with us. After the Distribution, affiliates of our Manager, including Newcastle, may decide to invest in the same types of assets that we invest in. Furthermore, after the Distribution, we will have the same Manager as Newcastle and one of our directors will also be a director of Newcastle. See Risks Related to Our ManagerThere may be conflicts of interest in our relationship with our Manager, including with respect to corporate opportunities.
It would be difficult and costly to terminate our Management Agreement with our Manager.
It would be difficult and costly for us to terminate our Management Agreement with our Manager. The Management Agreement may only be terminated annually upon (i) the reasonable affirmative vote of a majority of at least two-thirds of our independent directors, or by a vote of the holders of a simple majority of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock, that there has been unsatisfactory performance by our Manager that is materially detrimental to us or (ii) a determination by a simple majority of our independent directors that the management fee payable to our Manager is not fair, subject to our Managers right to prevent such a termination by accepting a mutually acceptable reduction of fees. Our Manager will be provided 60 days prior notice of any termination and will be paid a termination fee equal to the amount of the management fee earned by the Manager during the twelve month period preceding such termination. In addition, following any termination of the Management Agreement, our Manager may require us to purchase its right to receive incentive compensation at a price determined as if our assets were sold for their fair market value (as determined by an appraisal, taking into account, among other things, the expected future value of the underlying investments) or otherwise we may continue to pay the incentive compensation to our Manager. These provisions may increase the effective cost to us of terminating the Management Agreement, thereby adversely affecting our ability to terminate our Manager without cause. In addition, our independent directors may not vigorously enforce the provisions of our Management Agreement against our Manager. For example, our independent directors may refrain from terminating our Manager because doing so could result in the loss of key personnel. Furthermore, we are dependent on our Manager and may not find a suitable replacement if our Manager terminates the Management Agreement.
Our Manager will not be liable to us for any acts or omissions performed in accordance with the Management Agreement, including with respect to the performance of our investments.
Pursuant to our Management Agreement, our Manager will not assume any responsibility other than to render the services called for thereunder in good faith and will not be responsible for any action of our Board in following or declining to follow its advice or recommendations. Our Manager, its members, managers, officers and employees will not be liable to us or any of our subsidiaries, to our Board, or our or any subsidiarys stockholders or partners for any acts or omissions by our Manager, its members, managers, officers or employees, except by reason of acts constituting bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of our Managers duties under our Management Agreement. We shall, to the full extent lawful, reimburse, indemnify and hold our Manager, its members, managers, officers and employees and each other
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person, if any, controlling our Manager harmless of and from any and all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims of any nature whatsoever (including attorneys fees) in respect of or arising from any acts or omissions of an indemnified party made in good faith in the performance of our Managers duties under our Management Agreement and not constituting such indemnified partys bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of our Managers duties under our Management Agreement.
Our Managers due diligence of business opportunities or other transactions may not identify all pertinent risks, which could materially affect our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
Our Manager intends to conduct due diligence with respect to each business opportunity or other transaction it pursues. It is possible, however, that our Managers due diligence processes will not uncover all relevant facts, particularly with respect to any assets we acquire from third parties. In these cases, our Manager may be given limited access to information about the business opportunity and will rely on information provided by the target of the business opportunity. In addition, if business opportunities are scarce, the process for selecting bidders is competitive, or the timeframe in which we are required to complete diligence is short, our ability to conduct a due diligence investigation may be limited, and we would be required to make business decisions based upon a less thorough diligence process than would otherwise be the case. Accordingly, business opportunities and other transactions that initially appear to be viable may prove not to be over time, due to the limitations of the due diligence process or other factors.
Risks Related to the Distribution
The ownership by our executive officers and some of our directors of shares of common stock, options, or other equity awards of Newcastle may create, or may create the appearance of, conflicts of interest.
Because some of our directors, officers and other employees of our Manager also currently hold positions with Newcastle, they own Newcastle common stock, options to purchase Newcastle common stock or other equity awards. Ownership by some of our directors and officers, after our distribution, of common stock or options to purchase common stock of Newcastle, or any other equity awards, creates, or, may create the appearance of, conflicts of interest when these directors and officers are faced with decisions that could have different implications for Newcastle than they do for us.
The Distribution will not qualify for tax-free treatment and may be taxable to you as a dividend.
The Distribution will not qualify for tax-free treatment. An amount equal to the fair market value of the shares of our Common Stock received by you on the date of the Distribution will be treated as a taxable dividend to the extent of your ratable share of any current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under federal income tax principles, of Newcastle, with the excess treated first as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of your tax basis in your shares of Newcastle common stock and then as capital gain. In addition, Newcastle or other applicable withholding agents may be required or permitted to withhold at the applicable rate on all or a portion of the distribution payable to non-U.S. stockholders, and Newcastle or any such agent would satisfy any such withholding obligation by withholding and selling a portion of the New Media stock otherwise distributable to non-U.S. stockholders or by withholding from other property held in the non-U.S. stockholders account with the withholding agent. Your tax basis in shares of Newcastle stock held at the time of the Distribution will be reduced (but not below zero) to the extent the fair market value of the shares of our Common Stock distributed to you in the Distribution exceeds your ratable share of Newcastles current and accumulated earnings and profits. Your holding period for such shares of Newcastle stock will not be affected by the Distribution. Newcastle will not be able to advise stockholders of the amount of current or accumulated earnings and profits of Newcastle until after the end of the 2013 calendar year.
Although Newcastle will be ascribing a value to the shares of our Common Stock distributed in the Distribution for tax purposes, this valuation is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service (the IRS) or any other tax authority. These taxing authorities could ascribe a higher valuation to the shares of our Common Stock,
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particularly if our Common Stock trades at prices significantly above the value ascribed to our Common Stock by Newcastle in the period following the Distribution. Such a higher valuation may cause a larger reduction in the tax basis of your Newcastle stock or may cause you to recognize additional dividend or capital gain income. You should consult your own tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences of the Distribution to you.
Risks Related to our Common Stock
There is no existing market for our Common Stock and a trading market that will provide you with adequate liquidity may not develop for our Common Stock. In addition, once our Common Stock begins trading, the market price of our shares may fluctuate widely.
There is currently no public market for our Common Stock. It is anticipated that on or prior to the Record Date for the Distribution, trading of shares of our Common Stock will begin on a when-issued basis and will continue up to and including through the Distribution Date. However, there can be no assurance that an active trading market for our Common Stock will develop as a result of the Distribution or be sustained in the future.
We cannot predict the prices at which our Common Stock may trade after the Distribution. The market price of our Common Stock may fluctuate widely, depending upon many factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including:
| our business profile and market capitalization may not fit the investment objectives of Newcastle stockholders; |
| a shift in our investor base; |
| our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other comparable companies; |
| actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results; |
| changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles; |
| announcements by us or our competitors of significant investments, acquisitions or dispositions; |
| the failure of securities analysts to cover our Common Stock after the Distribution; |
| changes in earnings estimates by securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates; |
| the operating and stock price performance of other comparable companies; |
| overall market fluctuations; and |
| general economic conditions. |
Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the trading price of our Common Stock.
Substantial sales of Common Stock may occur in connection with the Distribution, which could cause our stock price to decline.
The shares of our Common Stock that Newcastle intends to distribute to its stockholders generally may be sold immediately in the public market. Pursuant to the registration rights granted to Omega and any other holder of Outstanding Debt that receives at least as many shares of New Media Common Stock as Omega receives (provided that Omega, directly or indirectly, receives 10% or more of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date), any sales by Omega or such other holders may lower the market prices of our Common Stock. In addition, Newcastle stockholders may sell our stock because our business profile or market capitalization as an independent company does not fit their investment objectives or because our Common Stock is not included in certain indices after the Distribution. The sales of significant amounts of our Common Stock or the perception in the market that this will occur may result in the lowering of the market price of our Common Stock.
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Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act could have a material adverse effect on our business and stock price.
As a public company, we will be required to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Internal control over financial reporting is complex and may be revised over time to adapt to changes in our business, or changes in applicable accounting rules. We cannot assure you that our internal control over financial reporting will be effective in the future or that a material weakness will not be discovered with respect to a prior period for which we had previously believed that internal controls were effective. If we are not able to maintain or document effective internal control over financial reporting, our independent registered public accounting firm will not be able to certify as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Matters impacting our internal controls may cause us to be unable to report our financial information on a timely basis, or may cause us to restate previously issued financial information, and thereby subject us to adverse regulatory consequences, including sanctions or investigations by the SEC, or violations of applicable stock exchange listing rules. There could also be a negative reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of investor confidence in us and the reliability of our financial statements. Confidence in the reliability of our financial statements is also likely to suffer if we or our independent registered public accounting firm reports a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting. This could materially adversely affect us by, for example, leading to a decline in our share price and impairing our ability to raise capital.
Your percentage ownership in New Media may be diluted in the future.
We may issue equity in order to raise capital or in connection with future acquisitions and strategic investments, which would dilute investors percentage ownership in New Media. In addition, your percentage ownership may be diluted if we issue equity instruments such as debt and equity financing.
Your percentage ownership in New Media may also be diluted in the future as result of the issuance of ordinary shares in New Media upon the exercise of the New Media Warrants. The New Media Warrants will collectively represent the right to acquire New Media Common Stock, which in the aggregate will be equal to 5% of New Media Common Stock as of the Effective Date (calculated prior to dilution from shares of New Media Common Stock issued pursuant to the Local Media Contribution) at a strike price calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution of $1.2 billion as of the Effective Date. As a result, New Media Common Stock may be subject to dilution upon the exercise of such New Media Warrants.
Furthermore, your percentage ownership in New Media may be diluted in the future because of equity awards that we expect will be granted to our Manager pursuant to our Management Agreement. Upon the successful completion of an offering of shares of our Common Stock or any shares of preferred stock, we will grant our Manager options equal to 10% of the number of shares being sold in the offering (excluding the shares issued to Newcastle or its affiliates in the Local Media Contribution), with an exercise price equal to the offering price per share paid by the public or other ultimate purchaser. For the avoidance of doubt, the listing of our Common Stock does not constitute an offering for purposes of this provision. If our Board of Directors adopts an equity compensation plan and makes grants of equity awards to our directors, officers and employees pursuant to any such plan, any such grants would cause further dilution.
Provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws and of Delaware law may prevent or delay an acquisition of our company, which could decrease the trading price of our Common Stock.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, amended and restated bylaws and Delaware law contain provisions that are intended to deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids by making such practices or bids unacceptably expensive to the raider and to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with our Board rather than to attempt a hostile takeover. These provisions provide for:
| a classified board of directors with staggered three-year terms; |
|
amendment of provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws regarding the election of directors, classes of directors, the term of office of directors, |
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the filling of director vacancies and the resignation and removal of directors only upon the affirmative vote of at least 80% of the then issued and outstanding shares of our capital stock entitled to vote thereon; |
| amendment of provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation regarding corporate opportunity only upon the affirmative vote of at least 80% of the then issued and outstanding shares of our capital stock entitled to vote thereon; |
| removal of directors only for cause and only with the affirmative vote of at least 80% of the voting interest of stockholders entitled to vote in the election of directors; |
| our Board to determine the powers, preferences and rights of our preferred stock and to issue such preferred stock without stockholder approval; |
| provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws prevent stockholders from calling special meetings of our stockholders; |
| advance notice requirements applicable to stockholders for director nominations and actions to be taken at annual meetings; |
| a prohibition, in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, stating that no holder of shares of our Common Stock will have cumulative voting rights in the election of directors, which means that the holders of majority of the issued and outstanding shares of our Common Stock can elect all the directors standing for election; and |
| a requirement in our amended and restated bylaws specifically denying the ability of our stockholders to consent in writing to take any action in lieu of taking such action at a duly called annual or special meeting of our stockholders. |
Public stockholders who might desire to participate in these types of transactions may not have an opportunity to do so, even if the transaction is considered favorable to stockholders. These anti-takeover provisions could substantially impede the ability of public stockholders to benefit from a change in control or a change in our management and Board and, as a result, may adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock and your ability to realize any potential change of control premium. See Description of Our Capital StockAnti-Takeover Effects of Delaware Law, Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Amended and Restated Bylaws.
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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION
Certain statements in this Information Statement may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that reflect our current views regarding, among other things, our future growth, results of operations, performance and business prospects and opportunities, as well as other statements that are other than historical fact. Words such as anticipate(s), expect(s), intend(s), plan(s), target(s), project(s), believe(s), will, aim, would, seek(s), estimate(s) and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could lead to actual results materially different from those described in the forward-looking statements. We can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained. Our actual results, liquidity and financial condition may differ from the anticipated results, liquidity and financial condition indicated in these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and there are certain important factors that could cause our actual results to differ, possibly materially from expectations or estimates reflected in such forward-looking statements, including, among others:
| general economic, market and political conditions; |
| the potential adverse effects of the Restructuring; |
| the risk that we may not realize the anticipated benefits of the Local Media Acquisition or potential future acquisitions; |
| the availability and cost of capital for future investments; |
| our ability to pay dividends; |
| our ability to realize the benefits of the Management Agreement; |
| the competitive environment in which we operate; |
| our ability to grow our digital business and digital audience and advertiser base; |
| our ability to recruit and retain key personnel. |
Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include, but are not limited, to the risks identified by us under the heading Risk Factors and elsewhere in this Information Statement. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Except to the extent required by law, we expressly disclaim any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.
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THE SPIN-OFF AND RESTRUCTURING
General
The board of directors of Newcastle has determined upon careful review and consideration in accordance with the applicable standard of review under Maryland law that the separation of New Medias assets from the rest of Newcastle and the establishment of New Media as a separate, publicly traded company is in Newcastles best interests.
In furtherance of this plan, Newcastle will distribute all of the shares of our Common Stock held by Newcastle to holders of Newcastle common stock, subject to certain conditions. The distribution of the shares of our Common Stock will take place on , 2013. On the Distribution Date, each holder of Newcastle common stock will receive shares of our Common Stock for every shares of Newcastle common stock held as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on the Record Date, as described below. Immediately following the Distribution, Newcastles stockholders will own % of our Common Stock. You will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange your shares of Newcastle common stock or take any other action to receive your shares of our Common Stock.
The Distribution of our Common Stock as described in this Information Statement is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions. We cannot provide any assurances that the Distribution will be completed. For a more detailed description of these conditions, see the section entitled Conditions to the Distribution included elsewhere in this Information Statement.
The Number of Shares You Will Receive
For every shares of Newcastle common stock that you owned as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on , 2013, the Record Date, you will receive shares of our Common Stock on the Distribution Date. Fractional shares of New Medias Common Stock will not be distributed in the spin-off. Holders of Newcastle common stock will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares of New Media Common Stock.
Transferability of Shares You Receive
The shares of New Media Common Stock distributed to Newcastle stockholders will be freely transferable, except for shares received by persons who may be deemed to be New Media affiliates under the Securities Act. Persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of New Media after the Distribution generally include individuals or entities that control, are controlled by or are under common control with New Media and may include directors and certain officers or principal stockholders of New Media. New Media affiliates will be permitted to sell their shares of New Media Common Stock only pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, such as the exemptions afforded by Rule 144.
When and How You Will Receive the Distributed Shares
Newcastle will distribute the shares of our Common Stock on , 2013, the Distribution Date. American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC will serve as distribution agent and registrar for our Common Stock and as distribution agent in connection with the Distribution.
If you own Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on the Record Date, the shares of New Media Common Stock that you are entitled to receive in the Distribution will be issued electronically, as of the Distribution Date, to you or to your bank or brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. Registration in book-entry form refers to a method of recording stock ownership when no physical share certificates are issued to stockholders, as is the case in the Distribution.
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If you sell shares of Newcastle common stock in the regular-way market prior to the Distribution Date, you will also sell your right to receive shares of our Common Stock in the Distribution.
For more information see the section entitled Market for Common StockTrading Between the Record Date and Distribution Date included elsewhere in this Information Statement.
Commencing on or shortly after the Distribution Date, if you hold physical stock certificates that represent your shares of Newcastle common stock, or if you hold your shares in book-entry form, and you are the registered holder of such shares, the distribution agent will mail to you an account statement that indicates the number of shares of our Common Stock that have been registered in book-entry form in your name.
Most Newcastle stockholders hold their shares of Newcastle common stock through a bank or brokerage firm. In such cases, the bank or brokerage firm would be said to hold the stock in street name and ownership would be recorded on the banks or brokerage firms books. If you hold your Newcastle common stock through a bank or brokerage firm, your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares of our Common Stock that you are entitled to receive in the Distribution. If you have any questions concerning the mechanics of having shares of our Common Stock held in street name, we encourage you to contact your bank or brokerage firm.
Results of the Distribution
After the Distribution, we will be a separate, publicly-traded company. Immediately following the Distribution, we expect to have approximately stockholders of record, based on the number of registered stockholders of Newcastle common stock on , 2013, and holders who received our Common Stock pursuant to the Restructuring. Immediately following the Distribution, we expect to have shares of our Common Stock outstanding. The actual number of shares to be distributed will be determined on the Record Date and will reflect any changes in the number of shares of Newcastle common stock between , 2013 and the Record Date for the Distribution. See Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
The number of shares of Common Stock that Newcastle will distribute to its stockholders will be reduced to the extent that cash payments are made in lieu of the issuance of fractional New Media Common Stock.
The Distribution will not affect the number of outstanding shares of Newcastle common stock or any rights of Newcastle stockholders.
Ownership of New Media
Immediately following the Distribution, Newcastle stockholders as of the Record Date for the Distribution will own % of our Common Stock. The remainder of the outstanding Common Stock will be owned by holders of the Outstanding Debt who elected to receive Common Stock in the Restructuring. For a description of the Restructuring, see The Spin-Off and Restructuring, Restructuring Agreements, and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations in this Information Statement. For further information about the ownership of New Media, see Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
Market for Common Stock
There is currently no public market for our Common Stock. A condition to the Distribution is the listing on the NYSE of our Common Stock. We intend to apply to list our Common Stock on the NYSE under the symbol NEWM.
Trading Between the Record Date and Distribution Date
Beginning shortly before the Record Date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date, we expect that there will be two markets in Newcastle common stock: a regular-way market and an ex-distribution
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market. Shares of Newcastle common stock that trade on the regular way market will trade with an entitlement to shares of our Common Stock distributed pursuant to the Distribution. Shares that trade on the ex-distribution market will trade without an entitlement to shares of our Common Stock distributed pursuant to the Distribution. Therefore, if you sell shares of Newcastle common stock in the regular-way market through the Distribution Date, you will also sell your right to receive shares of New Media Common Stock in the Distribution. If you own shares of Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 PM, Eastern Time, on the Record Date and sell those shares on the ex-distribution market through the Distribution Date, you will still receive the shares of our Common Stock that you would be entitled to receive pursuant to your ownership of the shares of Newcastle common stock on the Record Date.
Furthermore, beginning on or shortly before the Record Date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date, we expect that there will be a when-issued market in our Common Stock. When-issued trading refers to a sale or purchase made conditionally because the security has been authorized but not yet issued. The when-issued trading market will be a market for shares of our Common Stock that will be distributed to Newcastle stockholders on the Distribution Date. If you owned shares of Newcastle common stock as of 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on the Record Date, you would be entitled to shares of our Common Stock distributed pursuant to the Distribution. You may trade this entitlement to shares of our Common Stock, without trading the shares of Newcastle common stock you own, on the when-issued market. On the first trading day following the Distribution Date, when-issued trading with respect to our Common Stock will end and regular-way trading will begin.
Conditions to the Distribution
We expect that the Distribution will occur on , 2013, the Distribution Date, provided that, among other conditions described in this Information Statement, the following conditions shall have been satisfied:
| the SEC shall have declared effective our registration statement on Form 10, of which this Information Statement is a part, under the Securities Act, and no stop order relating to the registration statement is in effect; |
| the listing of our Common Stock on the NYSE shall have been approved, subject to official notice of issuance; |
| the Plan is approved by the Bankruptcy Court without any appeals by any parties; and |
| no order, injunction or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing consummation of the Distribution or any of the transactions related thereto, shall be in effect. |
Newcastle has the right not to complete the Distribution if, at any time, the board of directors of Newcastle determines, in its sole discretion, that the Distribution is not in the best interests of Newcastle or that market conditions are such that it is not advisable to separate New Media from Newcastle.
Reasons for the Distribution
Newcastles board of directors periodically reviews strategic alternatives. The Newcastle board determined upon careful review and consideration in accordance with the applicable standard of review under Maryland law that the spin-off of New Media is in the best interests of Newcastle. The Newcastle boards determination was based on a number of factors, including those set forth below.
|
Added focus and simplification . We believe the spin-off of New Media will enhance Newcastles focus on its primary strategy of opportunistically investing in, and actively managing, a variety of real-estate related and other investments. The spin-off will simplify Newcastles business by separating an |
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asset class (media assets) that is unrelated to the remainder of Newcastles investment portfolio. As a result, we believe the spin-off will facilitate investor and analyst understanding of Newcastles core businesses. In addition, the spin-off will create a dedicated vehicle to pursue a significant investment opportunity in the media industry. |
| Tailored capital structure and financing options . New Media and Newcastle will have distinct and unrelated businesses, and the spin-off will enable each to create a capital structure tailored to its individual needs. In addition, tailored capital structures will facilitate each companys ability to pursue acquisitions, possibly using common stock as currency, and other strategic alliances. Following the spin-off, each company may be able to attain more favorable financing terms on a stand-alone basis than Newcastle could obtain currently. |
| Newcastles REIT status. As a REIT, Newcastle is not suited to own an operating business indefinitely. Newcastles current investment in New Media originated with a 2007 debt investment in GateHouse. GateHouse became overleveraged in the financial crisis, and Newcastle determined to maximize the value of its investment by pursuing a restructuring that will result in the conversion of its debt into equity. Following the restructuring, a spin-off will facilitate Newcastles compliance with the REIT qualification tests. |
The anticipated benefits of the spin-off are based on a number of assumptions, and there can be no assurance that such benefits will materialize to the extent anticipated or at all. In the event that the spin-off does not result in such benefits, the costs associated with the transaction and the expenses New Media will incur as an independent public company, including management compensation and general and administrative expenses, could have a negative effect on each companys financial condition and ability to make distributions to its stockholders. For more information about the risks associated with the separation, see Risk Factors.
The Restructuring
On September 4, 2013, GateHouse announced that GateHouse, Newcastle (and certain of its affiliates), the Administrative Agent, and Participating Lenders entered into the Support Agreement in which the parties agreed to support, subject to the terms and conditions of the Support Agreement, the Restructuring pursuant to the consummation of the Plan.
Pursuant to the Support Agreement and Investment Commitment Letter:
| Newcastle (or its designated affiliates) would make the Cash-Out Offer; |
| The holders of the Outstanding Debt would have the option of receiving, in satisfaction of their Outstanding Debt (i) the Cash-Out Offer and/or (ii) (A) New Media Common Stock and (B) the Net Proceeds, if any, of the New Credit Facility; |
| Newcastle would contribute its interests in Local Media to New Media in exchange for issuance of New Media Common Stock and, at Newcastles election, $50,000 of cash, collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition (as adjusted pursuant to the Plan); |
| On account of any purchases of the Outstanding Debt in connection with the Cash-Out Offer, Newcastle would receive a pro rata share of (a) New Media Common Stock and (b) the Net Proceeds, if any, of the New Credit Facility; |
| GateHouse would use commercially reasonable efforts, in light of market conditions and other relevant factors, to raise a New Credit Facility in aggregate amount of up to approximately $150 million on the same or better terms for GateHouse than those set forth in the new debt facility term sheet attached as an exhibit to the Disclosure Statement. Entry into the New Credit Facility will not be a condition to the effectiveness of the Restructuring; |
| Pension, trade and all other unsecured claims against GateHouse will be unimpaired by the Restructuring; and |
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| The Existing Equity Interests would be cancelled, and the holders of Existing Equity Interests would receive 10-year warrants, collectively representing the right to acquire, in the aggregate, 5% of the common stock of New Media Common Stock (subject to dilution) as of the Effective Date, with the strike price per share for such warrants calculated based on a total equity value of New Media, prior to contribution of Local Media, of $1.2 billion as of the Effective Date. |
As of September 19, 2013, Newcastle and its affiliates held approximately 52.2% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility and the other Participating Lenders held approximately 28.7% of such principal amount (in each case, including certain amounts still pending trade settlement). Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Restructuring Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced the Solicitation. Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if holders of Outstanding Debt sufficient to meet the requisite threshold of 67% in amount and majority in number (calculated without including any insider) necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code (Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors) vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, Debtors intend to commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan therein. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan.
Upon emergence from the Plan, we plan to adopt fresh-start reporting in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 852, Reorganizations. Under fresh-start accounting, a new entity is deemed to have been created on the Effective Date of the Plan for financial reporting purposes and GateHouses recorded amounts of assets and liabilities will be adjusted to reflect their estimated fair values. As a result of the adoption of fresh-start accounting, our reorganized company post-emergence financial statements will generally not be comparable with the financial statements of our predecessor company prior to emergence, including the historical financial information in this Information Statement.
The Support Agreement could terminate prior to the Effective Date. The Support Agreement will terminate automatically upon certain events, including the following: (i) GateHouse has commenced Chapter 11 cases that are subsequently dismissed or converted to Chapter 7, or a Chapter 11 trustee, responsible officer or examiner with enlarged powers is appointed; (ii) GateHouse has elected to terminate the Support Agreement in accordance with the exercise of its fiduciary duties; or (iii) the occurrence of the earlier of (a) December 16, 2013 and (b) the Effective Date.
In the event of a material breach, the Support Agreement may be terminated by GateHouse, Newcastle, or Participating Lenders holding a majority in amount of the Outstanding Debt held by Participating Lenders other than Newcastle, Fortress Investment Group LLC, and their respective affiliates (the Majority Unaffiliated Participating Creditors), respectively, upon delivery of notice and the expiration of a ten business day cure period.
In addition, the Support Agreement may be terminated by Newcastle or by the Majority Unaffiliated Participating Creditors ten business days after GateHouse receives written notice that any of the following events has occurred and is continuing and such events have not been cured or waived within such ten business day period: (i) GateHouse has commenced Chapter 11 cases prior to commencing the Solicitation; (ii) fifteen business days have elapsed since the Participating Lenders became party to the Support Agreement, and the Solicitation has not been commenced; (iii) five business days have elapsed since the completion of a Solicitation in which the Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors have accepted the Plan, and GateHouse has not commenced the
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Chapter 11 cases; (iv) the Investment Commitment Letter has terminated or ceased to be in full force and effect; (v) a court of competent jurisdiction or other governmental or regulatory authority has issued a ruling or order restricting a material aspect of the transaction in a manner materially adverse to Newcastle or the Participating Lenders; or (vi) GateHouse has commenced the Chapter 11 cases and (a) an order is entered terminating GateHouses exclusive right to file a plan of reorganization, (b) GateHouse fails to file the Plan and Disclosure Statement with the bankruptcy court on the commencement date of the Chapter 11 cases, (c) the bankruptcy court has not, within specified time periods, entered interim and final orders (I) authorizing GateHouse to use cash collateral, (II) granting adequate protection to creditors holding the Outstanding Debt, and (III) approving cash managements systems, (d) GateHouses consensual use of cash collateral is terminated in accordance with an interim or final cash collateral order entered by the bankruptcy court, (e) the bankruptcy court has not entered an order confirming the Plan within 60 business days after the bankruptcy filing date, (f) GateHouse withdraws the Plan or publicly announces an intention not to proceed with the Plan; GateHouse files any motion, pleading, plan of reorganization and/or disclosure statement, or the bankruptcy courts enters any order, in each case, that is materially inconsistent with the term sheet attached to the Support Agreement or materially adversely affects the rights of the party seeking to terminate the Support Agreement, or (g) GateHouse challenges or supports a challenge to, or the bankruptcy court enters an order granting a challenge to, GateHouses obligations under or the liens securing the Outstanding Debt, or against the Administrative Agent, or Participating Lenders. On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced the Solicitation. See Restructuring Agreements and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
On the Effective Date, 100% of the new equity interests in GateHouse will be issued to New Media. On or after the Effective Date, GateHouse may merge into us or convert into a limited liability company. The occurrence of such merger or conversion will not be a condition to the Effective Date.
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CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE DISTRIBUTION
The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution that may be relevant to beneficial holders of Newcastle stock.
For purposes of this section under the heading Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution, references to New Media, we, our and us mean only New Media Investment Group Inc. and not its subsidiaries or other lower-tier entities, except as otherwise indicated. This summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), U.S. Treasury regulations, published administrative interpretations of the IRS, and judicial decisions, all of which are subject to differing interpretations or to change, possibly with retroactive effect. We have not sought any ruling from the IRS with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in this summary, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will agree with such statements and conclusions. In addition, the discussion does not describe any tax consequences arising out of the laws of any state or local or foreign jurisdiction.
This summary is for general information only and is not tax advice. The Code provisions governing the federal income tax treatment of REITs (such as Newcastle) and their stockholders are highly technical and complex, and this summary is qualified in its entirety by the express language of applicable Code provisions, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof. This summary does not address all possible tax considerations that may be material to an investor and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Moreover, this summary does not purport to discuss all aspects of federal income taxation that may be important to a particular investor in light of its investment or tax circumstances, or to investors subject to special tax rules, such as:
| financial institutions; |
| insurance companies; |
| dealers in securities; |
| regulated investment companies; |
| entities taxed as partnerships and partners therein; |
| trusts; |
| persons subject to the alternative minimum tax; |
| persons who hold Newcastle stock on behalf of another person as a nominee; |
| persons who have a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar |
| persons who received Newcastle stock through the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation; |
| persons holding Newcastle stock as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion transaction, synthetic security or other integrated investment; and |
| except to the extent discussed below, tax-exempt entities. |
This summary assumes that investors will hold their Common Stock as a capital asset, which generally means as property held for investment.
For purposes of this discussion under the heading Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution, a U.S. holder is a beneficial holder of Newcastle stock that is a citizen or resident of the United States, a domestic corporation or otherwise subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of its Newcastle stock. A Non-U.S. holder is a beneficial holder of Newcastle stock that is not a U.S. holder.
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THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX TREATMENT OF THE DISTRIBUTION TO BENEFICIAL OWNERS OF NEWCASTLE STOCK DEPENDS IN SOME INSTANCES ON DETERMINATIONS OF FACT AND INTERPRETATIONS OF COMPLEX PROVISIONS OF FEDERAL INCOME TAX LAW FOR WHICH NO CLEAR PRECEDENT OR AUTHORITY MAY BE AVAILABLE. IN ADDITION, THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE DISTRIBUTION TO ANY PARTICULAR BENEFICIAL OWNER OF NEWCASTLE STOCK WILL DEPEND ON THE BENEFICIAL OWNERS PARTICULAR TAX CIRCUMSTANCES. YOU ARE URGED TO CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, AND FOREIGN INCOME AND OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES TO YOU OF THE DISTRIBUTION IN LIGHT OF YOUR PARTICULAR INVESTMENT OR TAX CIRCUMSTANCES.
Tax Classification of the Distribution in General
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Distribution will not be eligible for treatment as a tax-free distribution by Newcastle with respect to its stock. Accordingly, the Distribution will be treated as if Newcastle had distributed to each Newcastle stockholder an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares of New Media Common Stock received by such stockholder, determined as of the date of the Distribution (such amount, the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution). The tax consequences of the Distribution for beneficial owners of Newcastles stock are thus generally the same as the tax consequences of a distribution of cash by Newcastle.
Although Newcastle will ascribe a value to the shares of New Media Common Stock distributed in the Distribution, this valuation is not binding on the IRS or any other tax authority. These taxing authorities could ascribe a higher valuation to the distributed shares of New Media Common Stock, particularly if, following the Distribution, those shares trade at prices significantly above the value ascribed to those shares by Newcastle. Such a higher valuation may affect the distribution amount and thus the tax consequences of the Distribution to beneficial owners of Newcastles stock.
Newcastle will be required to recognize any taxable gain, but will not be permitted to recognize any taxable loss, with respect to the New Media Common Stock that it distributes in the Distribution.
Tax Basis and Holding Period of New Media Stock Received by Holders of Newcastle Stock
A beneficial owner of shares of New Media Common Stock will generally have a tax basis in the shares received in the Distribution that equals the fair market value of such shares on the date of the Distribution, and the holding period for such shares will begin the day after the date of the Distribution.
Tax Treatment of the Distribution to U.S. Holders
Ordinary Dividends. The portion of the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution that is payable out of Newcastles current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under federal income tax principles, and not designated by Newcastle as a capital gain dividend (as discussed below) will generally be taken into account by a U.S. holder as ordinary income and will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction for corporations. The Distribution will not be eligible for taxation at the preferential income tax rates for qualified dividends received by U.S. holders that are individuals, trusts and estates from taxable C corporations.
If any excess inclusion income (as defined for U.S. federal income tax purposes) from a taxable mortgage pool or REMIC residual interest is allocated by Newcastle to any U.S. holder, that income will be taxable in the hands of the U.S. holder and would not be offset by any net operating losses of the U.S. holder that would otherwise be available. As required by IRS guidance, Newcastle intends to notify its stockholders if any portion of the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution is attributable to excess inclusion income.
Non-Dividend Distribution. If and to the extent that the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution is in excess of Newcastles current and accumulated earnings and profits, it will generally represent a return of capital and will generally not be taxable to a U.S. holder. Rather, the Distribution will reduce the adjusted basis of the
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holders shares of Newcastle stock (but not below zero) by the extent to which the value of the amount distributed exceeds Newcastles current and accumulated earnings and profits. A U.S. holder will however recognize gain to the extent that this excess exceeds the adjusted basis of its shares of Newcastle stock. Any such gain will generally be long-term capital gain if the holder has held its Newcastle shares for more than one year at the time of the Distribution.
Capital Gain Dividends. Any portion of the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution that Newcastle designates as a capital gain dividend will generally be taxable to U.S. holders as long-term capital gain, except to the extent that such distribution exceeds Newcastles actual net capital gain for the taxable year, without regard to the period for which the holder that receives such distribution has held its Newcastle stock. Certain U.S. Holders that are not corporations are eligible for preferential rates of U.S. federal income tax in respect of long-term capital gains.
Tax Treatment of the Distribution to Non-U.S. Holders
Ordinary Dividends. The amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution generally will constitute a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent of Newcastles current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under federal income tax principles, and not designated as a capital gain dividend by Newcastle. The amount treated as a dividend will be subject to U.S. withholding tax at the rate of 30%, unless reduced or eliminated by treaty. Income attributable to excess inclusion income allocable to the non-U.S. holder is not eligible for any exemption or reduction in the rates of applicable withholding taxes. Accordingly, Newcastle will withhold at a rate of 30% on any portion of a dividend that is paid to a non-U.S. holder and is or may be treated as attributable to that non-U.S. holders share of Newcastles excess inclusion income. As required by IRS guidance, Newcastle intends to notify its stockholders if a portion of a dividend paid by it is attributable to excess inclusion income.
Non-Dividend Distributions. The amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution, to the extent not made out of Newcastles current or accumulated earnings and profits, will not be subject to U.S. income tax. If Newcastle cannot determine at the time of the Distribution whether or not the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution will exceed current and accumulated earnings and profits, the aggregate amount distributed will be subject to withholding at the rate applicable to ordinary dividends, as described above.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Newcastles stock constitutes a USRPI, if and to the extent that the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution exceeds the sum of (a) the Non-U.S. holders proportionate share of Newcastles current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under federal income tax principles, and (b) the Non-U.S. holders basis in its Newcastle stock, it will be taxed under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980 (FIRPTA) in the same manner as if the Newcastle stock had been sold. In such situations, the non-U.S. holder would be required to file a U.S. federal income tax return and would be subject to the same treatment and same tax rates as a U.S. holder with respect to such excess, subject to applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative minimum tax in the case of non-resident alien individuals. It is not currently anticipated that Newcastles stock will constitute a USRPI and therefore the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution is not likely to be subject to tax under FIRPTA. However, no assurance can be given that Newcastles stock will not become a USRPI.
Gain in respect of any non-dividend portion of the Distribution will nonetheless be taxable to a non-U.S. holder if the non-U.S. holder is a nonresident alien individual who was present in the U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year, and certain other conditions are met, or if the non-U.S. holders investment in Newcastle common stock is effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business conducted by such non-U.S. holder.
Capital Gain Dividends. Under FIRPTA, a dividend distribution by Newcastle to a non-U.S. holder, to the extent attributable to gains from dispositions of USRPIs that Newcastle held directly or indirectly through pass-through subsidiaries (such gains, USRPI capital gains), will, except as described below, be considered
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effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of the non-U.S. holder and will be subject to U.S. income tax at the rates applicable to U.S. individuals or corporations. Newcastle will be required to withhold tax equal to 35% of the maximum amount that could have been designated as a USRPI capital gain dividend. In addition, such amount may also be subject to a 30% branch profits tax in the hands of a non-U.S. holder that is a corporation. A distribution is not a USRPI capital gain dividend if Newcastle held an interest in the USRPI solely as a creditor. It is not anticipated that any portion of the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution will be attributable to USRPI capital gains. However, no assurance can be given in this regard.
Capital gain dividends received by a non-U.S. holder that are attributable to dispositions of Newcastles assets other than USRPIs are not subject to U.S. federal income tax, unless the non-U.S. holder is a nonresident alien individual who was present in the U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year and certain other conditions are met, in which case the non-U.S. holder will be subject to tax on his capital gains.
Withholding of Amounts Distributable to Non-U.S. Holders in the Distribution. If Newcastle is required to withhold any amounts otherwise distributable to a non-U.S. holder in the Distribution, Newcastle or other applicable withholding agents will collect the amount required to be withheld by reducing to cash for remittance to the IRS a sufficient portion of New Media Common Stock that such non-U.S. holder would otherwise receive or by withholding from other property held in the non-U.S. stockholders account with the withholding agent. Such holder may bear brokerage or other costs for this withholding procedure. A non-U.S. holder may seek a refund from the IRS of any amounts withheld if it is subsequently determined that the amounts withheld exceeded the holders U.S. tax liability for the year in which the Distribution occurred.
Tax Treatment of the Distribution to Tax-Exempt Holders
Tax-exempt entities, including qualified employee pension and profit sharing trusts and individual retirement accounts, generally are exempt from federal income taxation. Such entities, however, may be subject to taxation on their unrelated business taxable income (UBTI). While some investments in real estate may generate UBTI, the IRS has ruled that dividend distributions from a REIT to a tax-exempt entity do not constitute UBTI. Based on that ruling, and provided that (1) a beneficial owner of Newcastle stock that is a tax-exempt entity (such entity, a tax-exempt holder) has not held Newcastle stock as debt financed property within the meaning of the Code (i.e., where the acquisition or holding of the property is financed through a borrowing by the tax-exempt holder), and (2) such Newcastle stock is not otherwise used in an unrelated trade or business, the Distribution generally should not give rise to UBTI to a tax-exempt holder. To the extent that Newcastle (or a part of Newcastle, or a disregarded subsidiary of Newcastle) is a taxable mortgage pool for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or if Newcastle holds residual interests in a REMIC, a portion of the dividends paid to a tax-exempt holder that is allocable to excess inclusion income may be treated as UBTI. If, however, excess inclusion income is allocable to some categories of tax-exempt holders that are not subject to UBTI, Newcastle might be subject to corporate level tax on such income, and, in that case, may reduce the amount of distributions to those holders whose ownership gave rise to the tax. As required by IRS guidance, Newcastle intends to notify its stockholders if a portion of a dividend paid by it is attributable to excess inclusion income.
Tax-exempt holders that are social clubs, voluntary employee benefit associations, supplemental unemployment benefit trusts, and qualified group legal services plans exempt from federal income taxation under sections 501(c)(7), (c)(9), (c)(17) and (c)(20) of the Code are subject to different UBTI rules, which generally require such holders to characterize distributions that Newcastle makes as UBTI.
In certain circumstances, a pension trust that owns more than 10% of Newcastles stock could be required to treat a percentage of the dividends as UBTI, if Newcastle is a pension-held REIT. Newcastle will not be a pension held REIT unless (1) it is required to look through one or more of its pension stockholders in order to satisfy certain REIT requirements and (2) either (i) one pension trust owns more than 25% of the value of Newcastles stock, or (ii) a group of pension trusts, each individually holding more than 10% of the value of
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Newcastles stock, collectively owns more than 50% of Newcastles stock. Certain restrictions on ownership and transfer of Newcastles stock should generally prevent a tax-exempt entity from owning more than 10% of the value of Newcastles stock, and should generally prevent Newcastle from becoming a pension-held REIT.
Time for Determination of the Tax Impact of the Distribution
The actual tax impact of the Distribution will be affected by a number of factors that are unknown at this time, including Newcastles final current and accumulated earnings and profits for 2013 (including as a result of the gain, if any, Newcastle recognizes in the Distribution), the fair market value of New Medias Common Stock on the date of the Distribution, the extent to which Newcastle recognizes excess inclusion income during the year of the Distribution and sales of FIRPTA or other capital assets. Thus, a definitive calculation of the U.S. federal income tax impact of the Distribution will not be possible until after the end of the 2013 calendar year. Newcastle will notify its stockholders of the tax attributes of the Distribution (including the amount distributed pursuant to the Distribution) on an IRS Form 1099-DIV.
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CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME AND ESTATE TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR
NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF OUR COMMON STOCK
The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income and estate tax considerations generally applicable to the ownership and disposition of our Common Stock by Non-U.S. Holders. For purposes of this section under the heading Certain U.S. Federal Income and Estate Tax Considerations for Non-U.S. Holders of our Common Stock, a Non-U.S. Holder means a beneficial owner of our Common Stock that is a nonresident alien individual, a foreign corporation, or any other person that is not subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of such Common Stock.
This discussion deals only with Common Stock held as capital assets by Non-U.S. Holders who received Common Stock pursuant to the Distribution. This discussion does not cover all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to the purchase, ownership or disposition of our Common Stock by investors in light of their specific facts and circumstances. In particular, this discussion does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to persons in special tax situations, including persons that will hold our Common Stock in connection with a U.S. trade or business or a U.S. permanent establishment, certain former citizens or residents of the United States, and persons that are a controlled foreign corporation, a passive foreign investment company or a partnership or other pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or are otherwise subject to special treatment under the Code. This section does not address any other U.S. federal tax considerations (such as gift tax) or any state, local or non-U.S. tax considerations. You should consult your own tax advisors about the tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our Common Stock in light of your own particular circumstances, including the tax consequences under state, local, foreign and other tax laws and the possible effects of any changes in applicable tax laws.
Furthermore, this summary is based upon on the Code, U.S. Treasury regulations, published administrative interpretations of the IRS, and judicial decisions, all of which are subject to differing interpretations or to change, possibly with retroactive effect. We have not sought any ruling from the IRS with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in this summary, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will agree with such statements and conclusions.
Dividends
In the event that we make a distribution of cash or property with respect to our Common Stock, any such distributions generally will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. If a distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, the excess will be treated as a tax-free return of a Non-U.S. Holders investment, up to such Non-U.S. Holders tax basis in our Common Stock. Any remaining excess will be treated as capital gain, subject to the tax treatment described below in Sale, Exchange or Other Taxable Disposition of our Common Stock.
Dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Holder generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at a 30% rate, or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable tax treaty. Even if a Non-U.S. Holder is eligible for a lower treaty rate, we and other payors will generally be required to withhold at a 30% rate (rather than the lower treaty rate) on dividend payments to such Non-U.S. Holder, unless:
| such Non-U.S. Holder has furnished to us or such other payor a valid IRS Form W-8BEN or other documentary evidence establishing its entitlement to the lower treaty rate with respect to such payments and neither we nor our paying agent (or other payor) have actual knowledge or reason to know to the contrary, and |
|
in the case of actual or constructive dividends paid on or after July 1, 2014, if required by the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act or any intergovernmental agreement enacted pursuant to that law, such Non-U.S. Holder or any entity through which it receives such dividends have provided the withholding |
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agent with certain information with respect to its or the entitys direct and indirect U.S. owners, and if such Non-U.S. Holder holds our Common Stock through a foreign financial institution, such institution has entered into an agreement with the U.S. government to collect and provide to the U.S. tax authorities information about its accountholders (including certain investors in such institution or entity) and such Non-U.S. Holder has provided any required information to such institution. |
If a Non-U.S. Holder is eligible for a reduced rate of U.S. federal withholding tax pursuant to an applicable income tax treaty or otherwise, it may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by timely filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS. Investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the possible implications of these withholding requirements on their investment in our Common Stock.
Sale, Exchange or Other Taxable Disposition of our Common Stock
A Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax with respect to gain recognized on a sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of our Common Stock unless:
| in the case of an individual, such holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition, and certain other conditions are met, or |
| we are or have been a United States real property holding corporation for federal income tax purposes and a Non-U.S. Holder held, directly or indirectly, at any time during the five-year period ending on the date of the disposition, more than 5% of our Common Stock. |
In the case of the sale or disposition of our Common Stock on or after January 1, 2017, a Non-U.S. Holder may be subject to a 30% withholding tax on the gross proceeds of the sale or disposition unless the requirements described in the last bullet point under Dividends above are satisfied. Investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the possible implications of these withholding requirements on their investment in our Common Stock and the potential for a refund or credit in the case of any withholding tax.
We have not been, are not and do not anticipate becoming a United States real property holding corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
We must report annually to the IRS and to each Non-U.S. Holder the amount of dividends paid to such holder and the tax withheld with respect to such dividends, regardless of whether withholding was required. Copies of the information returns reporting such dividends and withholding may also be made available to the tax authorities in the country in which Non-U.S. Holders reside under the provisions of an applicable income tax treaty.
A Non-U.S. Holder may be subject to backup withholding for dividends paid to it unless it certifies under penalty of perjury that it is a Non-U.S. Holder or otherwise establish an exemption. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a refund or a credit against such Non-U.S. Holders U.S. federal income tax liability provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.
U.S. Federal Estate Tax
Any Common Stock held (or deemed held) by an individual Non-U.S. Holder at the time of his or her death will be included in such Non-U.S. Holders gross estate for U.S. federal estate tax purposes, unless an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise.
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New Media will not receive any proceeds from the Distribution of our Common Stock in the spin-off.
DETERMINATION OF OFFERING PRICE
No consideration will be paid for the shares of New Media Common Stock distributed in the spin-off.
MARKET PRICE INFORMATION AND DIVIDENDS
Market Price Data
There is no established trading market for shares of New Media Common Stock. At , 2013, there were shares of our Common Stock outstanding, % of which immediately prior to the spin-off were owned by Newcastle. The remainder of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock are owned by holders of GateHouse debt who elected to receive Common Stock in the Restructuring.
In connection with the spin-off, Newcastle will distribute shares of our Common Stock on a pro rata basis to holders of Newcastle common stock as of the Record Date for the spin-off. We intend to apply to list our Common Stock on the NYSE under the symbol NEWM.
Dividends
New Media expects to distribute a substantial portion of free cash flow as a dividend, subject to Board approval.
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SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected financial data for the five years ended December 30, 2012 are derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm. Ernst & Young LLPs report on the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 30, 2012, which appears elsewhere herein, includes an explanatory paragraph which describes an uncertainty about GateHouses ability to continue as a going concern. The financial data for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 are derived from the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, which GateHouse considers necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and the results of operations for these periods. The selected financial data as of and for the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012, December 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, and the selected financial data as of and for the six months ended July 1, 2012 have been revised to reflect one of GateHouses publications as a discontinued operation for comparability.
Operating results for the six months ended June 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year ending December 29, 2013. The historical financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor, will not be comparable following its emergence from Chapter 11 due to the effects of the consummation of the Plan, as well as adjustments for fresh-start accounting. The data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes and other financial information included in this Information Statement.
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Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 (2) |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2009 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2008 |
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(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Operations Data: |
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Revenues: |
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Advertising |
$ | 150,559 | $ | 165,870 | $ | 330,881 | $ | 357,134 | $ | 385,579 | $ | 398,927 | $ | 477,993 | ||||||||||||||
Circulation |
65,513 | 65,114 | 131,576 | 131,879 | 133,192 | 138,233 | 141,803 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
14,107 | 12,197 | 26,097 | 25,657 | 25,967 | 30,960 | 37,700 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Total revenues |
230,179 | 243,181 | 488,554 | 514,670 | 544,738 | 568,120 | 657,496 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
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Operating costs |
129,998 | 136,328 | 268,222 | 281,884 | 296,974 | 324,263 | 368,345 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
78,722 | 72,054 | 145,020 | 146,295 | 154,516 | 159,197 | 179,198 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
19,636 | 20,204 | 39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | 54,237 | 69,897 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs and management fees paid to prior owner |
958 | 1,860 | 4,393 | 5,884 | 2,324 | 1,857 | 7,011 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| | | 1,733 | 430 | 193,041 | 123,717 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of assets |
1,043 | 155 | 1,238 | 455 | 1,551 | (418 | ) | 337 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill and mastheads impairment |
| | | 385 | | 273,914 | 487,744 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Operating income (loss) |
(178 | ) | 12,580 | 29,793 | 35,608 | 43,863 | (437,971 | ) | (578,753 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, amortization of deferred financing costs, gain on early extinguishment of debt, (gain) loss on derivative instruments and other |
30,425 | 27,993 | 57,463 | 58,361 | 69,520 | 72,502 | 100,530 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Loss from continuing operations before income taxes |
(30,603 | ) | (15,413 | ) | (27,670 | ) | (22,753 | ) | (25,657 | ) | (510,473 | ) | (679,283 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| 43 | (207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | 342 | (21,139 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
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Loss from continuing operations |
(30,603 | ) | (15,456 | ) | (27,463 | ) | (20,950 | ) | (25,502 | ) | (510,815 | ) | (658,144 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes |
(1,034 | ) | (475 | ) | (2,340 | ) | (699 | ) | (542 | ) | (19,287 | ) | (15,162 | ) | ||||||||||||||
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Net loss |
$ | 31,637 | $ | 15,931 | $ | (29,803 | ) | $ | (21,649 | ) | $ | (26,044 | ) | $ | (530,102 | ) | $ | (673,306 | ) | |||||||||
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Basic net loss from continuing operations available to common stockholders per share |
$ | (0.53 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.47 | ) | $ | (0.36 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | (8.90 | ) | $ | (11.53 | ) | |||||||
Diluted loss from continuing operations available to common stockholders per share |
$ | (0.53 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.47 | ) | $ | (0.36 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | (8.90 | ) | $ | (11.53 | ) | |||||||
Basic net (loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, available to common stockholders per share |
$ | (0.01 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.04 | ) | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.33 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | ||||||||
Diluted (loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, available to common stockholders per share |
$ | (0.01 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.04 | ) | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.33 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | ||||||||
Basic net loss available to common stockholders per share |
$ | (0.54 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.51 | ) | $ | (0.37 | ) | $ | (0.45 | ) | $ | (9.23 | ) | $ | (11.80 | ) | |||||||
Diluted net loss available to common stockholders per share |
$ | (0.54 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.51 | ) | $ | (0.37 | ) | $ | (0.45 | ) | $ | (9.23 | ) | $ | (11.80 | ) | |||||||
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
58,063,901 | 58,032,205 | 58,041,907 | 57,949,815 | 57,723,353 | 57,412,401 | 57,058,454 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
58,063,901 | 58,032,205 | 58,041,907 | 57,949,815 | 57,723,353 | 57,412,401 | 57,058,454 |
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Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 (2) |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2009 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2008 |
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(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Cash Flow Data: |
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Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities |
$ | (1,089 | ) | $ | 18,226 | $ | 23,499 | $ | 22,439 | $ | 26,453 | $ | 2,990 | $ | 20,309 | |||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
(1,278 | ) | (1,295 | ) | (1,044 | ) | (731 | ) | (624 | ) | 8,400 | 11,675 | ||||||||||||||||
Net cash used in financing activities |
(6,648 | ) | (4,600 | ) | (7,140 | ) | (11,249 | ) | (22,010 | ) | (13,003 | ) | (37,533 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Other Data: |
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Adjusted EBITDA (1) |
$ | 18,450 | $ | 32,824 | $ | 69,766 | $ | 80,547 | $ | 89,511 | $ | 82,571 | $ | 102,664 | ||||||||||||||
Cash interest paid |
28,750 | 29,005 | $ | 55,976 | $ | 58,225 | $ | 59,317 | $ | 67,950 | $ | 89,677 |
(1) | We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit), interest/financing expense, depreciation and amortization and non-cash impairments. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to income from operations, net income (loss), cash flow from continuing operating activities or any other measure of performance or liquidity derived in accordance with GAAP. We believe this non-GAAP measure, as we have defined it, is helpful in identifying trends in our day-to-day performance because the items excluded have little or no significance in our day-to-day operations. This measure provides an assessment of controllable expenses and affords management the ability to make decisions which are expected to facilitate meeting current financial goals as well as achieve optimal financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA provides an indicator for management to determine if adjustments to current spending decisions are needed. |
Adjusted EBITDA provides us with a measure of financial performance, independent of items that are beyond the control of management in the short-term, such as depreciation and amortization, taxation and interest expense associated with our capital structure. This metric measures our financial performance based on operational factors that management can impact in the short-term, namely our cost structure or expenses of the organization. Adjusted EBITDA is one of the metrics used by senior management and the Board to review the financial performance of our business on a monthly basis.
Not all companies calculate Adjusted EBITDA using the same methods; therefore, the Adjusted EBITDA figures set forth herein may not be comparable to Adjusted EBITDA reported by other companies. A substantial portion of our Adjusted EBITDA was dedicated to the payment of interest on our outstanding indebtedness and to service other commitments, thereby reducing the funds available to us for other purposes. Adjusted EBITDA does not represent an amount of funds that is available for managements discretionary use. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Information Statement.
(2) | The year ended January 1, 2012 included a 53 rd week of operations for approximately 60% of the business. |
The table below shows the reconciliation of loss from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented:
Six Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months
Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 (j) |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2009 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2008 |
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(In Thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (30,603 | ) | $ | (15,456 | ) | $ | (27,463 | ) | $ | (20,950 | ) | $ | (25,502 | ) | $ | (510,815 | ) | $ | (658,144 | ) | |||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| 43 | (207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | 342 | (21,139 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments (h) |
9 | (1,644 | ) | (1,635 | ) | (913 | ) | 8,277 | 12,672 | 10,119 | ||||||||||||||||||
Gain on early extinguishment of debt (i) |
| | | | | (7,538 | ) | | ||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
522 | 680 | 1,255 | 1,360 | 1,360 | 1,360 | 1,845 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Write-off of financing costs |
| | | | | 743 | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
28,886 | 28,997 | 57,928 | 58,309 | 60,021 | 64,615 | 88,625 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| | | 1,733 | 430 | 193,041 | 123,717 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
19,636 | 20,204 | 39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | 54,237 | 69,897 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill and mastheads impairment |
| | | 385 | | 273,914 | 487,744 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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|||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations |
$ | 18,450 | (a) | $ | 32,824 | (b) | $ | 69,766 | (c) | $ | 80,547 | (d) | $ | 89,511 | (e) | $ | 82,571 | (f) | $ | 102,664 | (g) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58
(a) | Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2013 included net expenses of $7,521, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $7,521 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $5,948, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(428), integration and reorganization costs of $958 and a $1,043 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $123 from our discontinued operations.
(b) | Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended July 1, 2012 included net expenses of $4,478, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $4,478 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $2,707, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(244), integration and reorganization costs of $1,860 and a $155 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $165 from our discontinued operations.
(c) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 30, 2012 included net expenses of $11,009, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $11,009 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $6,274, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(896), integration and reorganization costs of $4,393 and a $1,238 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $255 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(d) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended January 1, 2012 included net expenses of $9,461, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $9,461 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $4,226, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(1,104), integration and reorganization costs of $5,884 and an $455 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $432 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(e) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2010 included net expenses of $8,231, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $8,231 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $5,005, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(649), integration and reorganization costs of $2,324 and a $1,551 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $463 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(f) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 included net expenses of $9,289, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $9,289 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $8,632, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(782), integration and reorganization costs of $1,857 and a $418 gain on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $(855) of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(g) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2008 included net expenses of $24,487, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $24,487 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $18,638, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(1,499), integration and reorganization costs of $7,011 and $337 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $4,663 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations.
(h) | Non-cash (gain) loss on derivative instruments is related to interest rate swap agreements which are financing related and are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. |
(i) | Non-cash write-off of deferred financing costs are similar to interest expense and amortization of financing fees and are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. |
(j) | The year ended January 1, 2012 included a 53rd week of operations for approximately 60% of the business. |
As of | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
June 30,
2013 |
July 1,
2012 |
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
December 31,
2010 |
December 31,
2009 |
December 31,
2008 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
(In Thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 433,704 | $ | 487,406 | $ | 469,766 | $ | 510,802 | $ | 546,327 | $ | 591,929 | $ | 1,149,621 | ||||||||||||||
Total long-term obligations, including current maturities |
1,170,220 | 1,180,151 | 1,177,298 | 1,185,212 | 1,197,347 | 1,222,102 | 1,242,075 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Stockholders equity (deficit) |
(848,855 | ) | (823,093 | ) | (834,159 | ) | (805,632 | ) | (792,121 | ) | (753,576 | ) | (229,078 | ) |
59
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2013 and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and for the year ended December 30, 2012 are based on the financial statements of New Media which was formed on June 18, 2013, and subsequently capitalized, the audited consolidated financial statements of GateHouse for the year ended December 30, 2012 and the unaudited consolidated financial statements of GateHouse as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2013, and the audited combined financial statements of Local Media as of and for the year ended June 30, 2013 each included in this Information Statement. New Media, GateHouse and Local Media will collectively be referred to in this section herein as the Companies. The Companies, subsequent to the restructuring, are referred to in this section as the Combined Company.
The pro forma financial information is provided for informational and illustrative purposes only. These tables should be read in conjunction with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, New Medias historical financial statement and related notes thereto, GateHouses historical consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and Local Medias historical combined financial statements and notes thereto, included elsewhere in this Information Statement. In addition, the historical financial statements of GateHouse, our Predecessor, will not be comparable following its emergence from Chapter 11 due to the effects of the consummation of the Plan, as well as adjustments for fresh-start accounting.
The pro forma financial information gives effect to the following categories of adjustments as if such transactions had occurred on January 2, 2012 for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations and on June 30, 2013 for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet. Each of these adjustments is described more fully below and within the notes of the pro forma financial information:
| the exchange of $625.6 million Outstanding Debt that Newcastle (and its affiliates) hold and additional Outstanding Debt that Newcastle (and its affiliates) purchase in the Cash-Out Offer for New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date and the implementation of the other transactions contemplated by the Plan on the Effective Date; |
| the adoption by GateHouse of fresh-start accounting, in accordance with ASC 852; and |
| the impact of Local Media purchase accounting adjustments, in accordance with ASC 805. |
The pro forma financial information does not purport to represent what the Combined Companys actual results of operations or financial position would have been had the Plan become effective or had the other transactions described above occurred on January 2, 2012 or June 30, 2013, respectively. In addition, the dollar amount of new equity and stockholders equity on the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet is not an estimate of the market value of the New Media Common Stock as of the Effective Date or at any other time. We make no representations as to the market value, if any, of the New Media Common Stock following GateHouses emergence from Chapter 11 on the Effective Date.
Reorganization Adjustments
The GateHouse Effects of the Plan Adjustments column in the pro forma financial information gives effect to the consummation of the Plan and the implementation of the transactions contemplated by the Plan and our recapitalization upon emergence from Chapter 11 on the Effective Date.
For additional information regarding the GateHouse Effects of the Plan Adjustments, see the notes to the pro forma financial information.
GateHouse Fresh-Start and Other Adjustments
The GateHouse Fresh-Start and Other Adjustments column of the pro forma financial information gives effect to preliminary fresh-start accounting adjustments in accordance with ASC 852 and other pro forma
60
adjustments as described in more detail below. The reorganization value of GateHouse will be allocated to the fair value of net assets in conformity with ASC 805. The fresh-start adjustments are based on an assumed enterprise value of $478.8 million, as presented to the Bankruptcy Court and prior to giving effect to the Plan. Under ASC 805, reorganization value is generally allocated first to tangible assets and identifiable intangible assets, and lastly to excess reorganization value (i.e., goodwill).
The valuations used in this Information Statement represent current estimates based on data available. However, updates to these valuations will be completed as of the fresh-start adoption date based on the results of asset and liability valuations, as well as the related calculation of deferred income taxes. The differences between the actual valuations and the current estimated valuations used in preparing the pro forma financial information may be material and will be reflected in our future balance sheets and may affect amounts, including depreciation and amortization expense, which we will recognize in our statement of operations post-emergence. In addition, the Combined Company may recognize certain non-recurring expenses subsequent to the Effective Date related to its Chapter 11 reorganization. As such, the pro forma financial information may not accurately represent our post-emergence financial condition or results from operations and any differences may be material.
For additional information regarding the GateHouse Fresh-Start and Other Adjustments, see the notes to the pro forma financial information. GateHouse anticipates that it will continue to have a full valuation allowance against its deferred tax asset upon emergence from Chapter 11 and no deferred tax asset is included on the pro forma balance sheet. In this regard, GateHouse will be required to reduce its tax attributes by the excess of the adjusted issue price of indebtedness satisfied pursuant to the Restructuring over the sum of (x) the amount of cash paid and (y) the fair market value of stock delivered to holders of such indebtedness (COD Income). As a result, New Media will not have any net operating loss carryovers (NOLs) from GateHouse after the taxable year which includes the Effective Date. In addition, because GateHouse expects that the amount of COD Income will be in excess of the NOLs that GateHouse had before the Effective Date, GateHouse will be required to reduce the tax basis in its assets by the excess of the amount of COD income over the amount of NOLs that GateHouse had prior to the Effective Date, so that New Media will have a lower tax basis in its assets than GateHouse had in those assets prior to the Effective Date.
We will pay our Manager a management fee equal to 1.5% per annum of our total equity calculated and payable monthly in arrears in cash. Total equity is generally the equity transferred by Newcastle on the date on which our Common Stock trades in the regular way on a major U.S. national securities exchange, plus total net proceeds from any equity capital raised (including through stock offerings), plus certain capital contributions to subsidiaries, plus the equity value of certain assets contributed to the Company prior to or after the date of the Management Agreement, less capital distributions and repurchases of Common Stock. This fee is not a probable expense of New Media until the registration of the New Media Common Stock occurs, therefore, it is not reflected in the pro forma financial information.
Local Media Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments
As part of the Plan, Newcastle has agreed to contribute Local Media to New Media in exchange for shares of common stock in New Media and, at Newcastles election, $50,000 of cash, collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition (as adjusted pursuant to the Plan), upon the emergence from Chapter 11 on the Effective Date.
The Local Media Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments column of the pro forma financial information gives effect to preliminary purchase accounting adjustments in accordance with ASC 805. The purchase price will be allocated to the fair value of the net assets acquired in accordance with ASC 805. The purchase price is estimated to be approximately $82.6 million with the associated estimated transaction costs of $4.2 million.
The valuations used in this Information Statement represent current estimates based on data available. However, updates to these valuations will be completed as of the acquisition date based on the results of asset
61
and liability valuations, as well as the related calculation of deferred income taxes. The differences between the actual valuations and the current estimated valuations used in preparing the pro forma financial information may be material and will be reflected in our future balance sheets and may affect amounts, including depreciation and amortization expense, which we will recognize in our statement of operations post acquisition. As such, the pro forma financial information may not accurately represent our post acquisition financial condition or results from operations and any differences may be material.
On September 3, 2013, Newcastle acquired Local Media. GateHouse entered into a management and advisory agreement with Local Media Parent, which was assigned to Local Media, to manage the operations of Local Media. In return, GateHouse will receive compensation including an annual fee and will be eligible to earn an annual incentive pay out equal to 12.5% of the EBITDA of Local Media in excess of budget. Although Newcastle currently owns 100% of the equity of Local Media, GateHouse manages the daily operations of Local Media. GateHouse has determined that the management and advisory agreement results in Local Media being a variable interest entity as GateHouse has the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the entity. As a result, GateHouse expects that it will be the primary beneficiary and therefore expects to consolidate Local Medias financial position and results of operations.
Local Medias fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in June. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations were created with a year end on the last Sunday in December, which is consistent with historical GateHouse consolidated financial statements. The historical results of Local Media for the six months ended June 30, 2013 were derived by taking the historical results of operations of Local Media for the year ended June 30, 2013, and subtracting Local Medias historical results of operations for the six months ended December 30, 2013. The historical results of Local Media for the twelve months ended December 30, 2012, were derived by taking the historical results of operations of Local Media for the twelve months ended June 30, 2013, and July 1, 2012, and subtracting Local Medias historical results of operations for the six month periods from December 31, 2012 to June 30, 2013, and July 4, 2011 to January 1, 2012.
To conform the fiscal periods of Local Medias historical financial statements to that of New Media, the following amounts were excluded from the pro forma financial information. No amounts were included more than once in the preparation of the pro forma financial information.
Local Medias Fiscal Year Ended
June 30, 2013 |
Local Medias
Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2012 |
|||||||||||
Excluded from the
Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 |
Excluded from the
Year Ended December 30, 2012 |
Excluded from the
Year Ended December 30, 2012 |
||||||||||
(In Thousands) | ||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 83,345 | $ | 75,214 | $ | 88,066 | ||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
$ | 11,913 | $ | (39,820 | ) | $ | 13,048 |
62
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Year Ended December 30, 2012
New Media
December 30, 2012 |
GateHouse
Historical December 30, 2012 |
GateHouse
Effects of The Plan Adjustments |
GateHouse
Fresh Start and Other Adjustments |
Local Media
Historical December 30, 2012 |
Local Media
Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments |
Pro Forma
December 30, 2012 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Advertising |
$ | | $ | 330,881 | $ | 88,329 | $ | 419,210 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Circulation |
| 131,576 | 52,203 | 183,779 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
| 26,097 | 24,017 | 50,114 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total revenues |
488,554 | | | 164,549 | | 653,103 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs |
| 268,222 | (212 | ) (f) | 139,220 | (55,886 | ) (j) | 351,344 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative |
| 145,020 | 55,886 | (j) | 200,906 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 39,888 | (14,713 | ) (g) | 7,975 | 3,759 | (k) | 36,909 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs |
| 4,393 | 4,393 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of longlived and intangible assets |
197,869 | 197,869 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of assets |
| 1,238 | 1,238 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
| 29,793 | | 14,925 | (180,515 | ) | (3,759 | ) | (139,556 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
| 57,928 | (57,903 | ) (a) | 2,445 | (l) | 2,470 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
| 1,255 | (1,255 | ) (b) | 365 | (l) | 365 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
| (1,635 | ) | 1,635 | (c) | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other (income) expense |
| (85 | ) | (85 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes |
| (27,670 | ) | 57,523 | 14,925 | (180,515 | ) | (6,569 | ) | (142,306 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| (207 | ) | 11,895 | (d) | 5,843 | (h) | (32,767 | ) | (40,476 | ) (m) | (55,712 | ) | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
$ | | $ | (27,463 | ) | $ | 45,628 | $ | 9,082 | $ | (147,748 | ) | $ | 33,907 | $ | (86,594 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Loss per share: |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
| (0.47 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
| 58,041,907 | (i | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
| 58,041,907 | (i | ) |
63
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Six Months Ended June 30, 2013
New Media
June 30, 2013 |
GateHouse
Historical June 30, 2013 |
GateHouse
Effects of The Plan Adjustments |
GateHouse
Fresh Start and Other Adjustments |
Local Media
Historical June 30, 2013 |
Local Media
Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments |
Pro Forma
June 30, 2013 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Advertising |
$ | | $ | 150,559 | $ | 38,510 | $ | 189,069 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Circulation |
| 65,513 | 24,685 | 90,198 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
| 14,107 | 12,019 | 26,126 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total revenues |
230,179 | | | 75,214 | | 305,393 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs |
| 129,998 | (106 | ) (f) | 68,704 | (27,069 | ) (j) | 171,527 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative |
| 78,722 | (3,854 | ) (e) | 27,069 | (j) | 101,937 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 19,636 | (7,049 | ) (g) | 4,062 | 1,805 | (k) | 18,454 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs |
| 958 | 958 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of longlived and intangible assets |
1,043 | 42,268 | 43,311 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
| (178 | ) | 3,854 | 7,155 | (39,820 | ) | (1,805 | ) | (30,794 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
| 28,886 | (28,859 | ) (a) | 1,222 | (l) | 1,249 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
| 522 | (522 | ) (b) | 182 | (l) | 182 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
| 9 | (9 | ) (c) | | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Other (income) expense |
| 1,008 | 1,008 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes |
| (30,603 | ) | 33,244 | 7,155 | (39,820 | ) | (3,209 | ) | (33,233 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| | 3,156 | (d) | 679 | (h) | (14,614 | ) | (2,232 | ) (m) | (13,011 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations |
$ | | $ | (30,603 | ) | $ | 30,088 | $ | 6,476 | $ | (25,206 | ) | $ | (977 | ) | $ | (20,222 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Loss per share: |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
| (0.53 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
| 58,063,901 | (i | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
| 58,063,901 | (i | ) |
GateHouse Effects of the Plan Adjustments
(a) | The terms of the Plan will result in the elimination of long term debt and derivative instruments, refer to (q) below for additional discussion. This adjustment reflects the elimination of interest expense related to these instruments. |
(b) | This adjustment reflects the elimination of the Predecessor companys deferred financing costs and the amortization expense as the related debt will be extinguished as part of the GateHouse Plan. |
(c) | The Plan will discharge all derivative instruments that are secured pursuant to the 2007 Credit Facility. As a result, this adjustment eliminates any gain or loss on these instruments. |
(d) | This adjustment provides the estimated impact of income tax expense based on the Combined Companys estimated effective tax rate of 39.15%. |
(e) | During the six months ended June 30, 2013, GateHouse incurred $3.9 million of expenses related to the Restructuring. This adjustment removes the impact of these expenses. |
GateHouse Fresh-Start and Other Adjustments
(f) | This adjustment modifies historical rent expense to the amounts computed based on recording leases at their fair value. |
(g) |
In accordance with ASC 852, the reorganization value of GateHouse is allocated to the fair value of its assets and liabilities. For purposes of the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations, the fair value of its |
64
property, plant and equipment exceeds its carrying value by approximately $94.9 million and its intangible assets carrying value exceeds its fair value by approximately $55.2 million based on the current estimate. This adjustment modifies historical depreciation and amortization expense based on the estimated fair value of property, plant and equipment and definite-lived intangible assets. The amount of the reorganization value assigned to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets and the related pro forma calculation of depreciation and amortization expense are preliminary and subject to the completion of valuations to determine the fair market value of the tangible and intangible assets. |
(h) | This adjustment provides the estimated impact of income tax expense, related to fresh-start accounting adjustments, at an estimated effective tax rate of 39.15% for the Combined Company. |
(i) | Pursuant to the Plan, shares of New Media Common Stock (par value of $0.01 per share and shares authorized) will be issued and outstanding on the Effective Date. |
In addition, on the Effective Date, former holders of GateHouse common stock will receive New Media Warrants exercisable for shares of New Media Common Stock at an exercise price of per share. The New Media Warrants expire ten years from the Effective Date. For further information about the New Media Warrants, refer to note (r) to the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet.
Local Media Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments
(j) | Historical results for Local Media reported operating expenses which includes both operating and selling, general and administrative expenses. This adjustment allocates expense to both categories to conform to the Predecessor companys Statement of Operations classifications. |
(k) | In accordance with ASC 805, the purchase price of Local Media is allocated to the fair value of its assets and liabilities. For purposes of the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations, the fair value of its property, plant and equipment exceeds its carrying value by approximately $11.9 million and the carrying value of its intangible assets exceeds its fair value by approximately $3.0 million based on the current estimate. This adjustment modifies historical depreciation and amortization expense based on the estimated fair value of property, plant and equipment and definite-lived intangible assets. The amount of the purchase price allocated to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets and the related pro forma calculation of depreciation and amortization expense are preliminary and subject to the completion of appraisals to determine the fair market value of the tangible and intangible assets. |
(l) | The financing of the Local Media Acquisition included $33.0 million of debt which matures in September 2018 and has an interest rate of LIBOR, or minimum of 1%, plus 6.5%. Financing costs of $1.8 million were incurred related to this financing and will be amortized over the five year term. This adjustment estimates the impact of interest expense and the amortization of deferred financing costs for Local Media. Every 1 ⁄ 8 of a percent change in LIBOR, after the 1% minimum is exceeded, would result in a $41,000 change in interest expense. |
(m) | This adjustment provides the estimated impact of income tax expense for Local Media at the Combined Companys estimated effective tax rate of 39.15%. |
65
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
As of June 30, 2013
New Media
Historical June 30, 2013 |
GateHouse
Historical June 30, 2013 |
GateHouse
Effects of the Plan Adjustments |
GateHouse
Fresh Start and Other Adjustments |
Local Media
Historical June 30, 2013 |
Local Media
Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments |
Pro Forma
June 30, 2013 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | | $ | 25,512 | $ | (17,846 | ) (n) | $ | 567 | $ | 3,803 | (x) | $ | 12,036 | ||||||||||||||
Restricted cash |
| 6,467 | | 6,467 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
| 49,409 | 13,984 | 63,393 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Inventory |
| 5,309 | 1,657 | 6,966 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prepaid expenses |
| 5,243 | | 5,243 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other current assets |
| 8,533 | 4,095 | (849 | ) (y) | 11,779 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total current assets |
| 100,473 | (17,846 | ) | | 20,303 | 2,954 | 105,884 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Property, plant, and equipment, net |
| 108,679 | 94,863 | (t) | 64,299 | 11,914 | (z) | 279,755 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill |
| 13,742 | 108,001 | (t) | | 5,502 | (z) | 127,245 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Intangible assets, net |
| 207,208 | (55,158 | ) (t) | 4,426 | (2,956 | ) (z) | 153,520 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred financing costs, net |
| 1,197 | (1,197 | ) (o) | | 1,823 | (aa) | 1,823 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other assets |
| 1,931 | | 448 | (ab) | 2,379 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes |
| | 38,408 | (38,408 | ) (y) | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets held for sale |
| 474 | | 474 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Total assets |
$ | | $ | 433,704 | $ | (19,043 | ) | $ | 147,706 | $ | 127,436 | $ | (18,723 | ) | $ | 671,080 | ||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity (Deficit) |
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Current liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term liabilities |
$ | | $ | 708 | $ | 1,417 | $ | (1,417 | ) (y) | $ | 708 | |||||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
| | 406 | (aa) | 406 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable |
| 8,367 | 1,320 | 9,687 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accrued expenses |
| 28,407 | 217 | (u) | 10,899 | (34 | ) (z) | 39,489 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Accrued interest |
| 4,701 | (4,701 | ) (p) | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred revenue |
| 24,983 | 7,706 | 32,689 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Total current liabilities |
| 67,166 | (4,701 | ) | 217 | 21,342 | (1,045 | ) | 82,979 | |||||||||||||||||||
Long-term liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt |
| 1,167,450 | (1,167,450 | ) (p) | | 32,594 | (aa) | 32,594 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term liabilities, less current portion |
| 2,062 | 131 | (u) | 12,191 | (12,191 | ) (y) | 2,193 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative instruments |
| 31,053 | (31,053 | ) (p) | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations |
| 14,828 | (1,066 | ) (v) | 53,265 | (53,265 | ) (y) | 13,762 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Total liabilities |
| 1,282,559 | (1,203,204 | ) | (718 | ) | 86,798 | (33,907 | ) | 131,528 | ||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Stockholders Equity (deficit): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common stock |
| 568 | (568 | ) (w) | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Common stock warrants |
| | 2,450 | (q) | | | 2,450 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
| 831,369 | 481,280 | (r) | (831,369 | ) (w) | | 55,822 | (ac) | 537,102 | ||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
| (37,928 | ) | 30,968 | (s) | 6,960 | (w) | | | |||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated income (deficit) |
| (1,642,554 | ) | 669,463 | (s) | 973,091 | (w) | 40,638 | (40,638 | ) (ad) | | |||||||||||||||||
Treasury stock |
| (310 | ) | 310 | (w) | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total stockholders equity (deficit) |
| (848,855 | ) | 1,184,161 | 148,424 | 40,638 | 15,184 | 539,552 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders equity (deficit) |
$ | | $ | 433,704 | $ | (19,043 | ) | $ | 147,706 | $ | 127,436 | $ (18,723 | ) | $ | 671,080 | |||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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GateHouse Effects of the Plan Adjustments
(n) | This adjustment to Cash and cash equivalents reflects the estimated payment of $17.8 million of additional reorganization related expenses. |
(o) | This adjustment reflects the elimination of all deferred financing costs that were capitalized by the Predecessor company. |
(p) | This adjustment removes historical long-term debt, derivative instruments and accrued interest balances as a result of the Restructuring. The Plan contemplates a Restructuring, as follows: holders of the Outstanding Debt, and the associated accrued interest, would receive, in full and final satisfaction of their respective claims, at their election (with respect to all or any portion of their claims) to be made in connection with solicitation of the Plan, their pro rata share of: |
i. | Cash pursuant to a Cash-Out Offer by Newcastle (and its affiliates) equal to 40.0% of the sum of (i) $1,167,449,812.96 of principal of claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (ii) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (iii) all amounts, excluding any default interest, arising from transactions in connection with interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility on the Effective Date, and/or |
ii. | 100% of New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility, if any. |
Creditors that do not make an election during the Solicitation period with respect to their claims will be deemed to have elected the Cash-Out Offer.
The Company will use commercially reasonable efforts based on market conditions and other factors, to enter into a New Credit Facility on the same or better terms for GateHouse than those set forth in the new debt facility term sheet attached as an exhibit to the Disclosure Statement. The Net Proceeds, if any, will be distributed to holders of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date. For the avoidance of doubt the New Credit Facility will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan and the impact of the potential New Credit Facility is not reflected in the pro forma financial information.
(q) | Existing Equity Holders will receive New Media Warrants representing the right to acquire equity equal to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of New Media as of the Effective Date of the Plan, with the strike price for such warrants calculated based on a total equity value of New Media, prior to the Local Media Acquisition, of $1.2 billion as of the Effective Date, subject to adjustment. Existing Predecessor equity values will be cancelled under the Plan. The New Media Warrants are presented at their estimated fair value using an assumed dividend yield, volatility factor, risk free rate and other factors based on the terms of this transaction. These assumptions are subject to change as the terms of the reorganization are finalized. |
(r) | This adjustment includes the net additional paid-in capital resulting from Newcastle (and its affiliates) exchanging $625.6 million Outstanding Debt that Newcastle (and its affiliates) holds, additional Outstanding Debt that Newcastle (and its affiliates) purchases in the Cash-Out Offer for New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date and creditors who elect New Media Common Stock. |
(s) | This adjustment reflects the net effect of the transaction related to the consummation of the Plan on the Predecessor companys accumulated deficit and accumulated other comprehensive loss. |
GateHouse Fresh-Start and Other Adjustments
(t) | In accordance with ASC 852, the reorganization value of GateHouse is allocated to the fair value of its assets and liabilities (including identifiable intangible assets). The amount of the reorganization value assigned to property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets is preliminary and subject to the completion of valuations to determine the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets. |
(u) | As prescribed in ASC 805, lease arrangements are recognized at fair value as of the Effective Date. This adjustment reflects the amounts estimated to record leases at their fair value. The Company continues to review the impact of lease modifications that may result from the Plan. No modifications have occurred to date and any favorable outcomes are not reflected in the pro forma financial information. |
(v) | In accordance with ASC 852, the reorganization value of GateHouse is allocated to the fair value of its assets and liabilities (including pension and post retirement liabilities). The amount of the reorganization value assigned to pension and post retirement liabilities is preliminary and subject to the completion of actuarial valuations to determine the fair market value. |
(w) | The Predecessor companys stockholders deficit accounts have been eliminated in accordance with fresh- start accounting. |
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Local Media Purchase Accounting and Other Adjustments
(x) | This adjustment reflects an additional equity contribution by Newcastle for approximately $2.5 million of working capital and $4.2 million of transaction-related costs which were partly offset by an estimated $1.8 million of deferred financing costs and the elimination of the historical cash balance that was not an acquired asset. |
(y) | This adjustment removes those assets and liabilities that were not assumed in the Local Media Acquisition, including deferred tax assets and liabilities, current and long term pension and other benefit obligations and long-term liabilities. |
(z) | In accordance with ASC 805, the purchase price for Local Media is allocated to the fair value of its assets and liabilities (including identifiable intangible assets). The value assigned to property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets is preliminary and subject to the completion of valuations to determine the fair market value of the tangible and intangible assets. |
(aa) | The Local Media Acquisition was financed with $33.0 million of debt which matures in September 2018 and has an interest rate of LIBOR, or minimum of 1%, plus 6.5%. Financing costs of $1.8 million were incurred related to the consummation of this debt. This adjustment recognizes the deferred financing costs and debt amounts. |
(ab) | As prescribed in ASC 805, lease arrangements should be recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date. This adjustment recognizes the impact of favorable leases assumed in the Local Media Acquisition. |
(ac) | This adjustment reflects the impact of the capital contribution by Newcastle into Local Media. |
(ad) | This adjustment eliminates the historical stockholders equity as a result of purchase accounting. |
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MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires, for purposes of this section under the heading Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, references to we, our us and the Company mean GateHouse Media, Inc. (GateHouse, or our Predecessor) and its consolidated subsidiaries.
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period financial information to conform to the current period classifications. For further information on discontinued operations, see Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements and Note 14 to GateHouses Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following discussion is based on the consolidated financial statements of GateHouse, included in this Information Statement (the Information Statement). The following discussion of GateHouses financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with this entire Information Statement, including the Risk Factors section and GateHouses consolidated financial statements and the notes to those statements appearing elsewhere in this Information Statement. The discussion and analysis below includes certain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors described in Risk Factors and elsewhere in this Information Statement that could cause our actual future growth, results of operations, performance and business prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements. See Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information.
Comparability of Information
Our core business performance, as presented in our revenue and our operating and selling, general, and administrative expense amounts, is not anticipated to be materially impacted by the spin-off. However, as a result of the execution of the Support Agreement (as defined below), all debt, including derivative liabilities and deferred financing assets, is expected to be eliminated on the effective date (the Effective Date) of the pre-packaged plan under Chapter 11 of title 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan). This will result in a significant reduction in our interest expense and the elimination of the gain (loss) on derivative instruments and deferred financing amortization. Upon the emergence from bankruptcy, fresh start accounting will lead to changes in the basis of our property, plant and equipment and intangible assets that will impact future depreciation and amortization expense levels. Other significant changes to our financial information include that we expect to become subject to federal and state income taxation and to pay fees to our Manager, as defined below. The impact of these changes is discussed in greater detail within the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information section of this Information Statement.
Overview
We are one of the largest publishers of locally based print and digital media in the United States as measured by number of daily publications. Our business model is to be the preeminent provider of local content and advertising in the small and midsize markets we serve. Our portfolio of products, which includes 404 community publications, 343 related websites, 313 mobile sites and six yellow page directories, serves over 128,000 business advertising accounts and reaches approximately 10 million people on a weekly basis.
Our core products include:
| 78 daily newspapers with total paid circulation of approximately 547,000; |
| 235 weekly newspapers (published up to three times per week) with total paid circulation of approximately 282,000 and total free circulation of approximately 706,000; |
| 91 shoppers (generally advertising-only publications) with total circulation of approximately 1.5 million; |
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| 343 locally focused websites and 313 mobile sites, which extend our franchises onto the internet and mobile devices with approximately 97 million page views per month; and |
| six yellow page directories, with a distribution of approximately 488,000, that covers a population of approximately 1.2 million people. |
In addition to our core products, we also opportunistically produce niche publications that address specific local market interests such as recreation, sports, healthcare and real estate.
We were incorporated in Delaware in 1997 for purposes of acquiring a portion of the daily and weekly newspapers owned by American Publishing Company. We accounted for the initial acquisition using the purchase method of accounting.
Since 1998, we have acquired 416 daily and weekly newspapers and shoppers and launched numerous new products. We generate revenues from advertising, circulation and commercial printing. Advertising revenue is recognized upon publication of the advertisements. Circulation revenue from subscribers, which is billed to customers at the beginning of the subscription period, is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related subscription. The revenue for commercial printing is recognized upon delivery of the printed product to our customers. Directory revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the period in which the corresponding directory is distributed and in use in the market, which is typically 12 months.
Our advertising revenue tends to follow a seasonal pattern, with higher advertising revenue in months containing significant events or holidays. Accordingly, our first quarter, followed by our third quarter, historically are our weakest quarters of the year in terms of revenue. Correspondingly, our second and fourth fiscal quarters, historically, are our strongest quarters. We expect that this seasonality will continue to affect our advertising revenue in future periods.
We have experienced on-going declines in print advertising revenue streams and increased volatility of operating performance, despite our geographic diversity, well-balanced portfolio of products, strong local franchises, broad customer base and reliance on smaller markets. These recent declines in print advertising revenue that we have experienced are typical in a soft economy. We believe our local advertising tends to be less sensitive to economic cycles than national advertising because local businesses generally have fewer advertising channels through which to reach their target audience. We also believe some of the declines are due to a secular shift from print media to digital media. We are making investments in digital platforms, such as online, mobile and applications, to support our print publications in order to capture this shift as witnessed by our digital advertising revenue growth.
Our operating costs consist primarily of labor, newsprint, and delivery costs. Our selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of labor costs.
Compensation represents just over 50% of our operating expenses. Over the last few years, we have worked to drive efficiencies and centralization of work throughout our Company. Additionally, we have taken steps to cluster our operations thereby increasing the usage of facilities and equipment while increasing the productivity of our labor force. We expect to continue to employ these steps as part of our business and clustering strategy.
On May 9, 2005, FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC (Fortress), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with the Company pursuant to which a wholly-owned subsidiary of FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC merged with and into the Company (the Merger). The Merger was effective on June 6, 2005, thus at the time making FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC our principal and controlling stockholder at that time. As of June 30, 2013, Fortress beneficially owned approximately 39.6% of our outstanding common stock.
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Recent Developments
The newspaper industry and our Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. As a result, we previously implemented plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow. This includes the suspension of the payment of cash dividends by GateHouse, the continued implementation of cost reduction and restructuring programs, and the sale of non-core assets. We believe these initiatives will provide the financial resources necessary to invest in the business and ensure our future success and provide sufficient cash flow to enable us to meet our commitments for the next year.
General economic conditions, including declines in consumer confidence, continued high unemployment levels, declines in real estate values, and other trends, have also impacted the markets in which we operate. Additionally, media companies continue to be impacted by the migration of consumers and businesses to an internet and mobile-based, digital medium. These conditions may continue to negatively impact print advertising and other revenue sources as well as increase operating costs in the future, even after an economic recovery.
We periodically perform testing for impairment of goodwill and newspaper mastheads in which the fair value of our reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and individual newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows and recent industry transaction multiples, using estimates, judgments and assumptions, that we believe were appropriate in the circumstances. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, we may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
During 2008, our credit rating was downgraded to be rated below-investment grade by both Standard & Poors and Moodys Investors Service and was further downgraded in 2009 and 2010. Any future long-term borrowing or the extension or replacement of our short-term borrowing will reflect the negative impact of these ratings, increase our borrowing costs, limit our financing options and subject us to more restrictive covenants than our existing debt arrangements. Additional downgrades in our credit ratings could further increase our borrowing cost, subject us to more onerous borrowing terms and reduce or eliminate our borrowing flexibility in the future.
The Companys operating segments (Large Community Newspapers, Small Community Newspapers and Directories) are aggregated into one reportable business segment.
On September 4, 2013, GateHouse and its affiliated debtors (the Debtors) announced that GateHouse, the Administrative Agent (as defined below), Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) and other lenders (the Participating Lenders) under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among certain affiliates of GateHouse, the Lenders from time to time party thereto and Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent (the Administrative Agent), dated February 27, 2007 (the 2007 Credit Facility) entered into the Restructuring Support Agreement, effective September 3, 2013, as may be amended, supplemented or modified from time to time (the Support Agreement), in which the parties agreed to support, subject to the terms and conditions of the Support Agreement, the restructuring of GateHouse (the Restructuring) pursuant to the consummation of a pre-packaged plan under Chapter 11 of title 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan). The Support Agreement relates to the Restructuring of GateHouses obligations under the 2007 Credit Facility and certain interest rate swaps secured thereunder (collectively, the Outstanding Debt) and GateHouses equity pursuant to the Plan.
The Plan, once effective, will discharge claims and interests against GateHouse primarily through the (a) issuance of shares of common stock in a new holding company, New Media Investment Group Inc. (New Media, and such common stock, Common Stock) and/or payment of cash to holders of claims in connection with the 2007 Credit Facility and related interest rate swaps, (b) reinstatement of certain claims, (c) entry into the Management Agreement (as defined below), (d) issuance of warrants by New Media to existing equity holders in GateHouse, including holders of warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests (Existing Equity Holders) and (e) entry into the New Credit Facility (as defined below), if any, the net proceeds of which go to holders that elect to receive New Media Common Stock. See The Spin-Off and Restructuring, Restructuring Agreements and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
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Pursuant to the Restructuring, Newcastle would offer to purchase the Outstanding Debt claims in cash and at 40% of (i) $1,167,449,812.96 of principal of claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (ii) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (iii) all amounts, excluding any default interest, arising from transactions in connection with interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (the Cash-Out Offer) on the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date). The holders of the Outstanding Debt would have the option of receiving, in satisfaction of their Outstanding Debt, their pro rata share of the (i) Cash-Out Offer and/or (ii) New Media Common Stock and the net proceeds, if any, of a potential new debt facility (the New Credit Facility). Newcastle will receive its pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the net proceeds of the New Credit Facility, if any, for all Outstanding Debt it holds, including Outstanding Debt purchased in the Cash-Out Offer. GateHouse intends to pay all pensions, trade and all other unsecured claims in full.
As of September 19, 2013, Newcastle and its affiliates held approximately 52.2% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility and the other Participating Lenders held approximately 28.7% of such principal amount (in each case, including certain amounts still pending trade settlement). Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Restructuring Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced a pre-packaged solicitation of the Plan (the Solicitation). Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if holders of Outstanding Debt sufficient to meet the requisite threshold of 67% in amount and majority in number (calculated without including any insider) necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code (Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors) vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, Debtors intend to commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the disclosure statement for the Plan (the Disclosure Statement) and confirmation of the Plan therein. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan.
Upon emergence from the Plan, New Media plans to adopt fresh-start reporting in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 852, Reorganizations. Under fresh-start accounting, a new entity is deemed to have been created on the Effective Date for financial reporting purposes and GateHouses recorded amounts of assets and liabilities will be adjusted to reflect their estimated fair values. As a result of the adoption of fresh-start accounting, New Medias reorganized company post-emergence financial statements will generally not be comparable with the financial statements of GateHouse prior to emergence, including the historical financial information in this Information Statement. See Restructuring Agreements, The Spin-Off and Restructuring and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
Critical Accounting Policy Disclosure
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience and other assumptions that we find reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from such estimates under different conditions. The following accounting policies require significant estimates and judgments.
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Goodwill and Long-Lived Assets
We assess the potential impairment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives on an annual basis in accordance with the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 350 IntangiblesGoodwill and Other (ASC 350). We perform our impairment analysis on each of our reporting units, represented by our six regions. The regions have discrete financial information and are regularly reviewed by management. The fair value of the applicable reporting unit is compared to its carrying value. Calculating the fair value of a reporting unit requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions. We estimate fair value by applying third-party market value indicators to projected cash flows and/or projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. In applying this methodology, we rely on a number of factors, including current operating results and cash flows, expected future operating results and cash flows, future business plans, and market data. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the estimate of fair value, we calculate the impairment as the excess of the carrying value of goodwill over its implied fair value.
We account for long-lived assets in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment (ASC 360). We assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and definite lived intangible assets, whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets, or related group of assets, may not be fully recoverable. Factors leading to impairment include significant under-performance relative to historical or projected results, significant changes in the manner of use of the acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business and significant negative industry or economic trends. The assessment of recoverability is based on managements estimates. If undiscounted projected future operating cash flows do not exceed the net book value of the long-lived assets, then a permanent impairment has occurred. We would record the difference between the net book value of the long-lived asset and the fair value of such asset as a charge against income in our consolidated statements of operations if such a difference arose.
The fair values of our reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and individual newspaper mastheads are estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believes are appropriate in the circumstances.
The sum of the fair values of the reporting units are reconciled to our current market capitalization (based upon the stock market price) plus an estimated control premium.
Significant judgment is required in determining the fair value of our goodwill and long-lived assets to measure impairment, including the determination of multiples of revenue and Adjusted EBITDA and future earnings projections. The estimates and judgments that most significantly affect the future cash flow estimates are assumptions related to revenue, and in particular, potential changes in future advertising (including the impact of economic trends and the speed of conversion of advertising and readership to online products from traditional print products); trends in newsprint prices; and other operating expense items.
We performed annual impairment testing of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets during the second quarter of 2012, 2011 and 2010. Additionally, we performed impairment testing of goodwill and indefinite lived intangibles during the first quarter of 2012 and the fourth quarter of 2011 due to operational management changes. As a result, impairment charges related to goodwill were recorded in fiscal 2012 and 2011, see additional information in Note 5 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements.
Newspaper mastheads (newspaper titles and website domain names) are not subject to amortization and are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. The impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of each group of mastheads with their carrying amount. We used a relief from royalty approach which utilizes a discounted cash flow model to determine the fair value of each newspaper masthead. Our judgments and estimates of future operating results
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in determining the reporting unit fair values are consistently in determining the fair value of mastheads. We performed impairment tests on newspaper mastheads as of July 1, 2012, April 1, 2012, January 1, 2012, June 26, 2011 and June 30, 2010. See Note 5 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the impairment charges taken.
Intangible assets subject to amortization (primarily advertiser and subscriber lists) are tested for recoverability whenever events or change in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. The carrying amount of each asset group is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use of such asset group. We performed impairment tests on long lived assets (including intangible assets subject to amortization) as of July 1, 2012, June 26, 2011 and June 30, 2010. See Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the impairment charges taken.
The newspaper industry and our Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, we may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
Derivative Instruments
We record all of our derivative instruments on our balance sheet at fair value pursuant to FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815) and FASB ASC Topic 820 Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820). Fair value is based on counterparty quotations adjusted for our credit related risk. Our derivative instruments are measured using significant unobservable inputs and they represent all liabilities measured at fair value. To the extent a derivative qualifies as a cash flow hedge under ASC 815, unrealized changes in the fair value of the derivative are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. However, any ineffective portion of a derivatives change in fair value is recognized immediately in earnings. Fair values of derivatives are subject to significant variability based on market conditions, such as future levels of interest rates. This variability could result in a significant increase or decrease in our accumulated other comprehensive income and/or earnings but will generally have no effect on cash flows, provided the derivative is carried through to full term. We also assess the capabilities of our counterparties to perform under the terms of the contracts. A change in the assessment could have an impact on the accounting and economics of our derivatives.
Revenue Recognition
Advertising revenue is recognized upon publication of the advertisement. Circulation revenue from subscribers is billed to customers at the beginning of the subscription period and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related subscription. Circulation revenue from single copy sales is recognized at the time of sale. Revenue for commercial printing is recognized upon delivery. Directory revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the period in which the corresponding directory is distributed.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740). Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. The assessment of the realizability of deferred tax assets involves a high degree of judgment and complexity. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts that are expected to be realized. When we determine that it is more likely than not that we will be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of our net recorded amount, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would be made and reflected either in income or as an adjustment to goodwill. This determination will be made by considering various factors, including our expected future results, that in our judgment will make it more likely than not that these deferred tax assets will be realized.
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FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes , an interpretation of SFAS No. 109 (FIN 48) and now codified as ASC 740. ASC 740 prescribes a comprehensive model for how a company should recognize, measure, present and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that a company has taken or expects to take on a tax return. Under ASC 740, the financial statements will reflect expected future tax consequences of such positions presuming the taxing authorities full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts, but without considering time values.
Pension and Postretirement Liabilities
FASB ASC Topic 715, CompensationRetirement Benefits (ASC 715) requires recognition of an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheet reflecting the funded status of pension and other postretirement benefit plans such as retiree health and life, with current-year changes in the funded status recognized in the statement of stockholders equity.
The determination of pension plan obligations and expense is based on a number of actuarial assumptions. Two critical assumptions are the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and the discount rate applied to pension plan obligations. For other postretirement benefit plans, which provide for certain health care and life insurance benefits for qualifying retired employees and which are not funded, critical assumptions in determining other postretirement benefit obligations and expense are the discount rate and the assumed health care cost-trend rates.
Our only pension plan has assets valued at $18.2 million and the plans benefit obligation is $27.1 million resulting in the plan being 67% funded.
To determine the expected long-term rate of return on pension plans assets, we consider the current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets, input from the actuaries and investment consultants, and long-term inflation assumptions. We used an assumption of 7.75% for its expected return on pension plan assets for 2012. If we were to reduce its rate of return by 50 basis points then the expense for 2012 would have increased approximately $0.1 million.
We developed our discount rate for our other postretirement benefit plans using the same methodology as that described for the pension. The assumed health care cost-trend rate also affects other postretirement benefit liabilities and expense. A 100 basis point increase in the health care cost trend rate would result in an increase of approximately $0.4 million in the December 30, 2012 postretirement benefit obligation and a 100 basis point decrease in the health care cost trend rate would result in a decrease of approximately $0.4 million in the December 30, 2012 postretirement benefit obligation.
Self-Insurance Liability Accruals
We maintain self-insured medical and workers compensation programs. We purchase stop loss coverage from third parties which limits our exposure to large claims. We record a liability for healthcare and workers compensation costs during the period in which they occur as well as an estimate of incurred but not reported claims.
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Results of Operations
The following table summarizes our historical results of operations for the following periods.
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Three
Months Ended June 30, 2013 |
Three
Months Ended July 1, 2012 |
Six
Months Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six
Months Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 (1) |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
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(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Operations Data: |
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Revenues: |
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Advertising |
$ | 79,220 | $ | 86,952 | $ | 150,559 | $ | 165,870 | $ | 330,881 | $ | 357,134 | $ | 385,579 | ||||||||||||||
Circulation |
33,047 | 32,744 | 65,513 | 65,114 | 131,576 | 131,879 | 133,192 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
7,331 | 6,275 | 14,107 | 12,197 | 26,097 | 25,657 | 25,967 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Total revenues |
119,598 | 125,971 | 230,179 | 243,181 | 488,554 | 514,670 | 544,738 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
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Operating costs |
64,978 | 68,324 | 129,998 | 136,328 | 268,222 | 281,884 | 296,974 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
41,156 | 35,215 | 78,722 | 72,054 | 145,020 | 146,295 | 154,516 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
9,791 | 9,893 | 19,636 | 20,204 | 39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs |
741 | 738 | 958 | 1,860 | 4,393 | 5,884 | 2,324 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| | | | | 1,733 | 430 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of assets |
649 | 158 | 1,043 | 155 | 1,238 | 455 | 1,551 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill and mastheads impairment |
| | | | | 385 | | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Operating income (loss) |
2,283 | 11,643 | (178 | ) | 12,580 | 29,793 | 35,608 | 43,863 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
14,456 | 14,449 | 28,886 | 28,997 | 57,928 | 58,309 | 60,021 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
261 | 340 | 522 | 680 | 1,255 | 1,360 | 1,360 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
5 | (809 | ) | 9 | (1,644 | ) | (1,635 | ) | (913 | ) | 8,277 | |||||||||||||||||
Other (income) expense |
737 | 5 | 1,008 | (40 | ) | (85 | ) | (395 | ) | (138 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
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Loss from continuing operations before income taxes |
(13,176 | ) | (2,342 | ) | (30,603 | ) | (15,413 | ) | (27,670 | ) | (22,753 | ) | (25,657 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| 148 | | 43 | (207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
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Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (13,176 | ) | $ | (2,490 | ) | $ | (30,603 | ) | $ | (15,456 | ) | $ | (27,463 | ) | $ | (20,950 | ) | $ | (25,502 | ) |
(1) | The year ended January 1, 2012 included a 53 rd week of operations for approximately 60% of the business. |
Three Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared To Three Months Ended July 1, 2012
Revenue. Total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2013 decreased by $6.4 million, or 5.1%, to $119.6 million from $126.0 million for the three months ended July 1, 2012. The difference between same store revenue and GAAP revenue for the current quarter is immaterial, therefore, revenue discussions will be limited to GAAP results. The decrease in total revenue was comprised of a $7.7 million, or 8.9%, decrease in advertising revenue which was offset by a $0.3 million, or 0.9%, increase in circulation revenue and a $1.0 million, or 16.8%, increase in commercial printing and other revenue. Advertising revenue declines were primarily driven
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by declines on the print side of our business in the local retail and classified categories, which were partially offset by growth in digital advertising. The local retail print declines reflect both secular pressures and a continuing uncertain and weak economic environment. These secular trends and economic conditions have also led to a decline in our print circulation volumes which have been slightly offset by price increases in certain locations. Our circulation revenue was also impacted by approximately $0.5 million for a net to gross accounting change at two of our larger locations. The $1.0 million increase in commercial printing and other revenue is primarily the result of the launch of our small business marketing services within GateHouse Ventures during 2012.
Operating Costs. Operating costs for the three months ended June 30, 2013 decreased by $3.3 million, or 4.9%, to $65.0 million from $68.3 million for the three months ended July 1, 2012. The decrease in operating costs was primarily due to a decrease in compensation expenses, professional and consulting fees, newsprint expenses, and supplies of $1.9 million, $1.2 million, $1.1 million, and $0.3 million, respectively, which were partially offset by an increase in outside services of $1.5 million. These decreases are the result of permanent cost reductions as we continue to work to consolidate operations and improve the productivity of our labor force.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2013 increased by $5.9 million, or 16.9%, to $41.1 million from $35.2 million for the three months ended July 1, 2012. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to an increase in outside services and compensation expenses of $5.0 million and $0.5 million. The increase in outside services is primarily from legal expenses related to the exploration of alternatives to improve our capital structure.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended June 30, 2013 decreased by $0.1 million to $9.8 million from $9.9 million for the three months ended July 1, 2012. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense was primarily due to the sale and disposal of assets, which reduced depreciation expense.
Integration and Reorganization Costs. During the three months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012, we recorded integration and reorganization costs of $0.7 million and $0.7 million, respectively, primarily resulting from severance costs related to the continued consolidation of our operations resulting from our ongoing implementation of our plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow.
(Gain) Loss on Derivative Instruments. During the three months ended July 1, 2012, we recorded a net gain on derivative instruments of $0.8 million, which was comprised of reclassifications of accumulated other comprehensive income amortization related to swaps terminated in 2008 that were partially offset by the impact of the ineffectiveness of our remaining swap agreements. The accumulated other comprehensive income reclassification for swaps terminated in 2008 was fully amortized in 2012 and the 2013 loss on derivative instruments relates only to the ineffectiveness of our remaining swaps.
Income Tax Expense. During the three months ended July 1, 2012, we recorded an income tax expense of $0.1 million due to the elimination of the tax effect related to the expiration of a previously terminated swap that could be fully recognized for tax purposes in the current year.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations. Net loss from continuing operations for the three months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 was $13.2 million and $2.5 million, respectively. Our net loss from continuing operations increased due to the factors noted above.
Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared To Six Months Ended July 1, 2012
Revenue. Total revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2013 decreased by $13.0 million, or 5.3%, to $230.2 million from $243.2 million for the six months ended July 1, 2012. The difference between same store revenue and GAAP revenue for the six month periods ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 is immaterial, therefore, revenue discussions will be limited to GAAP results. The decrease in total revenue was comprised of a $15.3 million, or 9.2%, decrease in advertising revenue which was offset by a $0.4 million, or 0.6%, increase in
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circulation revenue and a $1.9 million, or 15.7%, increase in commercial printing and other revenue. Advertising revenue declines were primarily driven by declines on the print side of our business in the local retail and classified categories, which were partially offset by growth in digital advertising. The local retail print declines reflect both secular pressures and a continuing uncertain and weak economic environment. These secular trends and economic conditions have also led to a decline in our print circulation volumes which have been slightly offset by price increases in certain locations. Our circulation revenue was also impacted by approximately $1.0 million for a net to gross accounting change at two of our larger locations. The $1.9 million increase in commercial printing and other revenue is primarily the result of the launch of our small business marketing services within GateHouse Ventures during 2012.
Operating Costs. Operating costs for the six months ended June 30, 2013 decreased by $6.3 million, or 4.6%, to $130.0 million from $136.3 million for the six months ended July 1, 2012. The decrease in operating costs was primarily due to a decrease in compensation expenses, professional and consulting fees, newsprint expenses, and supplies of $4.1 million, $2.2 million, $2.2 million, and $0.6 million, respectively, which were partially offset by an increase in outside services of $3.4 million. These decreases are the result of permanent cost reductions as we continue to work to consolidate operations and improve the productivity of our labor force.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2013 increased by $6.7 million, or 9.3%, to $78.7 million from $72.0 million for the six months ended July 1, 2012. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to an increase in outside services and compensation expenses of $5.7 million and $0.5 million. The increase in outside services is primarily from legal expenses related to the exploration of alternatives to improve our capital structure.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the six months ended June 30, 2013 decreased by $0.6 million to $19.6 million from $20.2 million for the six months ended July 1, 2012. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense was primarily due to the sale and disposal of assets, which reduced depreciation expense.
Integration and Reorganization Costs. During the six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012, we recorded integration and reorganization costs of $1.0 million and $1.9 million, respectively, primarily resulting from severance costs related to the continued consolidation of our operations resulting from our ongoing implementation of our plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow.
(Gain) Loss on Derivative Instruments. During the six months ended July 1, 2012, we recorded a net gain on derivative instruments of $1.6 million, which was comprised of reclassifications of accumulated other comprehensive income amortization related to swaps terminated in 2008 that were partially offset by the impact of the ineffectiveness of our remaining swap agreements. The accumulated other comprehensive income reclassification for swaps terminated in 2008 was fully amortized in 2012 and the 2013 loss on derivative instruments relates only to the ineffectiveness of our remaining swaps.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations. Net loss from continuing operations for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 was $30.6 million and $15.5 million, respectively. Our net loss from continuing operations increased due to the factors noted above.
Year Ended December 30, 2012 Compared To Year Ended January 1, 2012
Comparisons to the prior year were impacted by two factors around the number of days in the reporting period. First, there was a 53 rd week in 2011 for approximately 60% of the business already on a 52 week (5-4-4 quarterly) reporting cycle. Also in 2011, the remaining 40% of the Company changed its reporting cycle from a calendar year to a 52 week reporting cycle in order to be consistent with the rest of the Company. We estimate the 53 rd week in 2011 resulted in $4.8 million of revenue and $3.8 million of operating and selling, general and administrative expense. Comparisons below have not been adjusted for this calendar change.
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Revenue . Total revenue for the year ended December 30, 2012 decreased by $26.1 million, or 5.1%, to $488.6 million from $514.7 million for the year ended January 1, 2012. The difference between same store revenue and GAAP revenue for the current period is immaterial, therefore, revenue discussions will be limited to GAAP results. The decrease in total revenue was comprised of a $26.3 million, or 7.4%, decrease in advertising revenue and a $0.3 million, or 0.2%, decrease in circulation revenue which was partially offset by a $0.4 million, or 1.7%, increase in commercial printing and other revenue. Advertising revenue declines were primarily driven by declines on the print side of our business in the local retail and classified categories, which were partially offset by growth in digital advertising. The local retail print declines reflect both secular pressures and an uncertain and weak economic environment. These secular trends and economic conditions have also led to a decline in our print circulation volumes which have been offset by price increases in select locations. Our circulation revenue was also impacted by approximately $1.5 million for a net to gross accounting change due to a change from a carrier to a distributor model at one of our largest locations. The $0.4 million increase in commercial printing and other revenue is primarily the result of the launch of our small business marketing services and the stabilizing of our commercial printing operations during 2012.
Operating Costs. Operating costs for the year ended December 30, 2012 decreased by $13.7 million, or 4.8%, to $268.2 million from $281.9 million for the year ended January 1, 2012. The decrease in operating costs was primarily due to a decrease in compensation expenses, newsprint and ink, delivery and utility expenses of $12.4 million, $6.5 million, $3.3 million and $0.8 million, respectively, which were partially offset by an increase in outside services of $9.0 million. This decrease is the result of permanent cost reductions as we continue to work to consolidate operations and improve the productivity of our labor force.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 30, 2012 decreased by $1.3 million, or 0.9%, to $145.0 million from $146.3 million for the year ended January 1, 2012. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to a decrease in compensation of $1.6 million. We expect that the majority of these reductions will be permanent in nature.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 30, 2012 decreased by $2.5 million to $39.9 million from $42.4 million for the year ended January 1, 2012. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense was primarily due to the sale and disposal of assets in 2011 and 2012, which reduced depreciation expense.
Integration and Reorganization Costs. During the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, we recorded integration and reorganization costs of $4.4 million and $5.9 million, respectively, primarily resulting from severance costs related to the consolidation of certain print and other operations.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. During the year ended January 1, 2012 we incurred an impairment charge of $1.7 million related to the consolidation of our print operations and property, plant and equipment which were classified as held for sale. There were no such charges during the year ended December 30, 2012.
Goodwill and Mastheads Impairment. During the year ended January 1, 2012, we recorded a $0.4 million impairment on our goodwill due to an operational management change in the fourth quarter of 2011 which transferred a goodwill balance of $0.4 million to a reporting unit that previously did not have a goodwill balance. A similar operational change occurred in the first quarter of 2012 and resulted in a $0.2 million impairment that was subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations.
Interest Expense. Total interest expense for the year ended December 30, 2012 decreased by $0.4 million, or 0.7%, to $57.9 million from $58.3 million for the year ended January 1, 2012. The decrease was due to declines in interest rates and their related impact on the unhedged position or our debt and a slight decrease in our total outstanding debt.
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(Gain) Loss on Derivative Instruments. During the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, we recorded a net gain of $1.6 million and $0.9 million, respectively, which was comprised of reclassifications of accumulated other comprehensive income amortization related to swaps terminated in 2008 that were partially offset by the impact of the ineffectiveness of our remaining swap agreements.
Income Tax Benefit. During the year ended December 30, 2012, we recorded an income tax benefit of $0.2 million due to a reduction in uncertain tax positions which was partially offset by a tax expense due to the elimination of the tax effect related to the expiration of a previously terminated swap that could be fully recognized for tax purposes in the current year. During the year ended January 1, 2012, we recorded an income tax benefit of $1.8 million primarily due to the elimination of the tax effect related to the expiration of a previously terminated swap that could be fully recognized for tax purposes in the current year.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations. Net loss from continuing operations for the year ended December 30, 2012 was $27.5 million. Net loss from continuing operations for the year ended January 1, 2012 was $21.0 million. Our net loss from continuing operations increased due to the factors noted above.
Year Ended January 1, 2012 Compared To Year Ended December 31, 2010
Comparisons to the prior year were impacted by two factors around the number of days in the reporting period. First, there was a 53 rd week in 2011 for approximately 60% of the business already on a 52 week (5-4-4 quarterly) reporting cycle. Also in 2011, the remaining 40% of the Company changed its reporting cycle from a calendar year to a 52 week reporting cycle in order to be consistent with the rest of the Company, which resulted in a one additional day for the year. The discussion of our results of operations that follows is based upon our historical results of operations for the years ended January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010.
Revenue . Total revenue for the year ended January 1, 2012 decreased by $30.0 million, or 5.5%, to $514.7 million from $544.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The difference between same store revenue and GAAP revenue for the current period is immaterial, therefore, revenue discussions will be limited to GAAP results. We estimate the impact of the 53 rd week to be $4.8 million on total revenue, comparisons below have not been adjusted for this impact. The decrease in total revenue was comprised of a $28.4 million, or 7.4%, decrease in advertising revenue, a $1.3 million, or 1.0%, decrease in circulation revenue and a $0.3 million, or 1.2%, decrease in commercial printing and other revenue. Advertising revenue declines were primarily driven by declines on the print side of our business in the local retail and classified categories which were partially offset by growth in digital. The print declines reflect an uncertain economic environment, which continued to put pressure on our local advertisers. These economic conditions have also led to a decline in our circulation volumes which have been partially offset by price increases in select locations. Our circulation revenue was also impacted by approximately $0.5 million for a net to gross accounting change implemented at the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2011 at one of our largest locations which puts it more in line with the Company as a whole. The decrease in commercial printing and other revenue was due to declines in printing projects as a result of continued weak economic conditions as well as the strategic closure of certain of our print facilities.
Operating Costs. Operating costs for the year ended January 1, 2012 decreased by $15.1 million, or 5.1%, to $281.9 million from $297.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The decrease in operating costs was primarily due to a decrease in compensation, newsprint and ink, delivery and postage expenses of $9.4 million, $2.6 million, $1.8 million and $0.8 million, respectively. The majority of these decreases were the result of permanent cost reductions and were implemented as we continue to work to consolidate operations and improve the productivity of our labor force. We estimate the impact of the 53 rd week to be $3.8 million on operating costs and selling, general and administrative expenses.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended January 1, 2012 decreased by $8.2 million, or 5.3%, to $146.3 million from $154.5 million for the year
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ended December 31, 2010. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to a decrease in compensation of $10.4 million offset by an increase in professional and consulting fees of $2.0 million. We believe the majority of these reductions are also permanent in nature.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended January 1, 2012 decreased by $2.7 million to $42.4 million from $45.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense was primarily due to the sale and disposal of assets in 2010 and 2011, which reduced depreciation expense.
Integration and Reorganization Costs. During the years ended January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, we recorded integration and reorganization costs of $5.9 million and $2.3 million, respectively, primarily resulting from severance costs related to the consolidation of certain print operations.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. During the year ended January 1, 2012 we incurred an impairment charge of $1.7 million related to the consolidation of certain print operations and property, plant and equipment which were classified as held for sale. There was a $0.4 million of long-lived asset impairment charge during the year ended December 31, 2010.
Goodwill and Mastheads Impairment. During the year ended January 1, 2012, we recorded a $0.4 million impairment on our goodwill due to an operational management change in the fourth quarter of 2011 which transferred a goodwill balance of $0.4 million to a reporting unit that previously did not have a goodwill balance. There were no such charges during the year ended December 31, 2010.
Interest Expense. Total interest expense for the year ended January 1, 2012 decreased by $1.7 million, or 2.9%, to $58.3 million from $60.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The decrease was due to declines in interest rates and their related impact on the unhedged position or our debt and a slight decrease in our total outstanding debt.
(Gain) Loss on Derivative Instruments. During the years ended January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, we recorded a net gain of $0.9 million and a net loss of $8.3 million, respectively, comprised of accumulated other comprehensive income amortization related to swaps terminated in 2008 partially offset by the impact of the ineffectiveness of our remaining swap agreements.
Income Tax Benefit. Income tax benefit for the year ended January 1, 2012 was $1.8 million compared to $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The change of $1.6 million was primarily due to the elimination of the tax effect related to the expiration of a previously terminated swap that could be fully recognized for tax purposes in the current year.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations. Net loss from continuing operations for the year ended January 1, 2012 was $21.0 million. Net loss from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $25.5 million. Our net loss from continuing operations decreased due to the factors noted above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The following represents the liquidity and capital resources disclosure of GateHouse. New Medias primary cash requirements and cash flows are expected to be comparable to GateHouse, except that as a result of the Restructuring, New Media and its subsidiaries will have significantly less leverage and therefore substantially less interest and debt servicing expenses.
Our primary cash requirements are for working capital, debt obligations and capital expenditures. We have no material outstanding commitments for capital expenditures. Historically, we had significant long term debt and debt service obligations that do not remain following the Restructuring. For more information on our
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previous long term debt and debt service obligations, see Note 6 of GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements. Our principal sources of funds have historically been, and are expected to continue to be, cash provided by operating activities.
As a holding company, we have no operations of our own and accordingly we have no independent means of generating revenue, and our internal sources of funds to meet our cash needs, including payment of expenses, are dividends and other permitted payments from our subsidiaries.
In the future, we expect to fund our operations through cash provided by operating activities, the incurrence of debt or the issuance of additional equity securities.
Cash Flows
Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared to Six Months Ended July 1, 2012
The following table summarizes our historical cash flows for the periods presented.
Six months ended
June 30, 2013 |
Six months ended
July 1, 2012 |
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Cash (used in) provided by operating activities |
$ | (1,089 | ) | $ | 18,226 | |||
Cash used in investing activities |
(1,278 | ) | (1,295 | ) | ||||
Cash used in financing activities |
(6,648 | ) | (4,600 | ) |
The discussion of our cash flows that follows is based on our historical cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012.
Cash Flows from Operating Activities. Net cash used in operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2013 was $1.1 million, a decrease of $19.3 million when compared to $18.2 million of cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended July 1, 2012. This $19.3 million decrease was the result of an increase in net loss of $15.7 million and a decrease in cash provided by working capital of $5.5 million, which was offset by an increase in non-cash charges of $1.9 million.
The $15.7 million increase in net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2013 when compared to the six months ended July 1, 2012 primarily related to the following one-time expenditures; $5.9 million investment in our small business marketing services business and $3.9 million of expenses related to our restructuring.
The $5.5 million decrease in cash provided by working capital for the six months ended June 30, 2013 when compared to the six months ended July 1, 2012 is primarily attributable to an increase in prepaid expenses of $10.0 million in December 2011 related to a newsprint pricing agreement that was not required in 2012, partially offset by an increase in accrued expenses.
The $1.9 million increase in non-cash charges primarily consisted of an increase in loss on sale of assets of $2.0 million and an increase in loss on derivative instruments of $1.7 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in depreciation and amortization of $1.0 million, a decrease in goodwill impairment included in discontinued operations of $0.2 million, a decrease in pension and other postretirement benefit obligations of $0.2 million, a decrease in impairment of long-lived assets included in discontinued operations of $0.2 million, and a decrease in amortization of deferred financing costs of $0.2 million.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities. Net cash used in investing activities for the six months ended June 30, 2013 was $1.3 million. During the six months ended June 30, 2013, we used $2.0 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $0.7 million we received from the sale of publications and other assets.
Net cash used in investing activities for the six months ended July 1, 2012 was $1.3 million. During the six months ended July 1, 2012, we used $1.7 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $0.4 million we received from the sale of real property and insurance proceeds.
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Cash Flows from Financing Activities. Net cash used in financing activities for the six months ended June 30, 2013 was $6.6 million due to a repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended.
Net cash used in financing activities for the six months ended July 1, 2012 was $4.6 million due to a repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended.
Changes in Financial Position
The discussion that follows highlights significant changes in our financial position and working capital from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013.
Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable decreased $5.3 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, which relates to the timing of cash collections and lower revenue recognized in the 2013 six month period compared to 2012.
Property, Plant, and Equipment. Property, plant, and equipment decreased $7.8 million during the period from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, of which $8.0 million relates to depreciation and $1.7 million relates to assets sold and discontinued operations, which was partially offset by $2.0 million that was used for capital expenditures.
Intangible Assets. Intangible assets decreased $11.8 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, which primarily relates to amortization.
Current Portion of Long-term Debt. Current portion of long-term debt decreased $6.6 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, due to a principal payment as required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) related to the fiscal year ended December 30, 2012.
Accounts Payable. Accounts payable decreased $1.0 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, which primarily relates to the disposal of a of a non wholly owned subsidiary in Chicago, Illinois.
Derivative Instruments. Derivative instrument liability decreased $14.7 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, due to changes in the fair value measurement of our interest rate swaps.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. Accumulated other comprehensive loss decreased $14.7 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, which resulted from the change in fair value of the interest rate swaps of $14.7 million.
Accumulated Deficit. Accumulated deficit increased $29.4 million from December 30, 2012 to June 30, 2013, due to a net loss of $31.6 million.
Year Ended December 30, 2012 Compared to Year Ended January 1, 2012 and Year Ended January 1, 2012 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2010
The following table summarizes our historical cash flows for the periods presented.
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
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(in thousands) | ||||||||||||
Cash provided by operating activities |
$ | 23,499 | $ | 22,439 | $ | 26,453 | ||||||
Cash used in investing activities |
(1,044 | ) | (731 | ) | (624 | ) | ||||||
Cash used in financing activities |
(7,140 | ) | (11,249 | ) | (22,010 | ) |
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Cash Flows from Operating Activities. Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 30, 2012 was $23.5 million. The net cash provided by operating activities resulted from a depreciation and amortization of $40.6 million, a net increase in cash provided by working capital of $10.3 million, an impairment of long-lived assets of $2.1 million, a $1.3 million loss on the sale of assets, amortization of deferred financing costs of $1.2 million, a goodwill impairment charge of $0.2 million, and non-cash compensation of $0.1 million, partially offset by a net loss of $29.8 million, a gain of $1.6 million on derivative instruments, and an increase funding of pension and other post-retirement obligations of $0.9 million. The increase in cash provided by working capital primarily resulted from a decrease in prepaid expenses related to a newsprint pricing agreement that required a prepayment of $10 million in fiscal 2011. No such prepayment was required in fiscal 2012.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended January 1, 2012 was $22.4 million. The net cash provided by operating activities resulted from a depreciation and amortization of $43.4 million, an impairment of long-lived assets of $2.1 million, amortization of deferred financing costs of $1.4 million, a $0.8 million loss on the sale of assets, non-cash compensation of $0.5 million, a goodwill impairment charge of $0.4 million, partially offset by a net loss of $21.6 million, an increase funding of pension and other post-retirement obligations of $1.9 million, a net decrease in cash provided by working capital of $1.6 million, and a gain of $0.9 million on derivative instruments. The decrease in cash provided by working capital primarily resulted from a decrease in accrued expenses and an increase in prepaid expenses related to a newsprint pricing agreement that allowed for fixed pricing in 2012 below market rates from December 31, 2010 to January 1, 2012 offset by a decrease in accounts receivable and an increase in accounts payable.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $26.5 million. The net cash provided by operating activities resulted from a depreciation and amortization of $46.1 million, a loss of $8.3 million on derivative instruments, non-cash compensation of $1.7 million, a $1.5 million loss on the sale of assets, amortization of deferred financing costs of $1.4 million, an impairment of long-lived assets of $0.8 million, partially offset by a net loss of $26.0 million, a net decrease in cash provided by working capital of $6.0 million, an increase funding of pension and other post-retirement obligations of $1.4 million. The decrease in cash provided by working capital primarily resulted from an increase in prepaid expenses related to a newsprint pricing agreement that allowed for fixed pricing in 2011 below market rates from December 31, 2009 to December 31, 2010.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities. Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 30, 2012 was $1.0 million. During the year ended December 30, 2012, we used $4.6 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $3.6 million received from the sale of publications, other assets and insurance proceeds.
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended January 1, 2012 was $0.7 million. During the year ended January 1, 2012, we used $3.3 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $2.6 million received from the sale of publications, other assets and insurance proceeds.
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $0.6 million. During the year ended December 31, 2010, we used $4.8 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $4.2 million received from the collection of a receivable due from a previous real estate sale and the sale of other real property.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities. Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 30, 2012 was $7.1 million due to repayments under the 2007 Credit Facility.
Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended January 1, 2012 was $11.2 million due to a repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility.
Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $22.0 million, which primarily resulted from a $2.5 million repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility, the repurchase of subsidiary preferred stock of $11.5 million and an $8.0 million repayment under the Bridge Facility.
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Changes in Financial Position
The discussion that follows highlights significant changes in our financial position and working capital from December 30, 2012 to January 1, 2012.
Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable decreased $4.5 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, which relates to the timing of cash collections and lower revenue recognized in 2012 compared to 2011. An additional $1.4 million relates to assets sold during the current year.
Prepaid Expenses. Prepaid expenses decreased $9.7 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to a $10.0 million prepayment during the year ended January 1, 2012 which related to a newsprint pricing agreement that allowed for fixed pricing in 2012 at below market rates. The pricing agreement for fiscal 2013 did not require a prepayment at December 30, 2012.
Property, Plant, and Equipment. Property, plant, and equipment decreased $14.4 million during the period from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, of which $16.6 million relates to depreciation and $2.3 million relates to assets sold and held for sale, which was partially offset by $4.6 million that was used for capital expenditures.
Goodwill. Goodwill decreased $0.2 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to an impairment charge included in income (loss) from discontinued operations.
Intangible Assets. Intangible assets decreased $27.7 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to amortization of $24.0 million, $1.9 million due to an impairment of assets sold during the current year, which is included in income (loss) from discontinued operations, and $1.8 million which was sold during the current year.
Others Assets. Other assets increased $0.7 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to an investment in joint ventures where our ownership is less than 10%.
Long-term Assets Held for Sale. Long-term assets held for sale decreased $0.5 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to proceeds of $0.3 million and a $0.2 million impairment of assets classified as held for sale as of January 1, 2012. Assets held for sale as of December 30, 2012 consist of real estate in Winter Haven, FL.
Current Portion of Long-term Debt. Current portion of long-term debt increased $2.0 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012 due to an increase in the estimated payment as required by the 2007 Credit Facility, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the year ended December 30, 2012. This amount increased from $4.6 million at January 1, 2012 to $6.6 million at December 30, 2012.
Accounts Payable. Accounts payable increased $1.2 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, which was primarily attributable to the timing of vendor payments.
Accrued Interest. Accrued interest increased $1.8 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, which was primarily attributable to the timing of interest payments.
Long-term Debt. Long-term debt decreased $9.2 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012 due to a $6.6 million reclassification to current portion of long-term debt of a principal payment due in 2013 as required by the 2007 Credit Facility, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the year ended December 30, 2012 and a $2.5 million repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility from the proceeds of the sale of our Suburban Chicago publications.
Derivative Instruments. Derivative instrument liability decreased $5.9 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to changes in the fair value measurement of our interest rate swaps.
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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. Accumulated other comprehensive loss decreased $1.7 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, which resulted from the change in fair value of the interest rate swaps of $5.9 million, which was offset by a $2.6 million change to the Companys pension and post retirement plans, a gain on derivative instruments due to amortization of $1.6 million, and a $0.1 million reclassification of income tax benefit from accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Accumulated Deficit. Accumulated deficit increased $30.3 million from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2012, due to a net loss of $29.8 million.
Indebtedness
As of June 30, 2013, a total of $1.2 billion was outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility; consisting of $654.5 million under the term loan facility, $244.2 million under the delayed draw term loan facility, $268.6million under the incremental term loan facility. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility. Refer to Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion on our indebtedness.
As part of the Restructuring, we expect that our previous long term debt will be extinguished pursuant to the Support Agreement on the Effective Date of the Plan.
We will use our commercially reasonable efforts, in light of market conditions and other relevant factors, to enter into a New Credit Facility in aggregate amount of up to approximately $150 million on the same or better terms for GateHouse than those set forth in the new debt facility term sheet attached an exhibit to the Disclosure Statement to the Plan on the Effective Date. In the event that we enter into and receive proceeds from the New Credit Facility, New Media will distribute to each holder of New Media Common Stock, including Newcastle on account of the Cash-Out Offer, its pro rata share of the net proceeds of the New Credit Facility net of transaction costs and expenses of GateHouse and Newcastle associated with transactions under the Plan (the Net Proceeds), if any. Our entry into a credit facility will not be a condition to the effectiveness of the Plan.
In connection with the acquisition of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. (Local Media) by Newcastle on September 3, 2013 from News Corp. (the Local Media Acquisition), Local Media Group Holdings LLC (Local Media Parent) and certain of its subsidiaries entered into the Credit Agreement dated September 3, 2013, by and among Local Media Parent, the borrowers party thereto, the lenders party thereto, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent and collateral agent and Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC, as lead arranger (the Local Media Credit Facility). The Local Media Credit Facility consists of a $33.0 million senior secured term loan, which was funded on September 3, 2013, and a senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility of up to $10 million, but which will not be funded until certain conditions precedents have been met under the Local Media Credit Facility. Newcastle contributed $2.5 million on the closing date of the Local Media Acquisition for working capital purposes and Local Media can repay that amount when the senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility of up to $10 million under the Local Media Credit Facility becomes available. Under the Plan, Newcastle agreed to contribute its interests in Local Media Parent, the 100% owner of Local Media, on the Effective Date (the Local Media Contribution) to New Media.
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Summary Disclosure About Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
The following table reflects a summary of our contractual cash obligations, including estimated interest payments where applicable, as of December 30, 2012:
2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | Thereafter | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In Thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2007 Credit Facility (1) |
$ | 63,324 | $ | 1,204,780 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,268,104 | ||||||||||||||
Noncompete payments |
421 | 286 | 250 | 200 | 200 | 200 | 1,557 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Operating lease obligations |
4,640 | 4,616 | 3,447 | 2,523 | 2,203 | 2,551 | 19,980 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Letters of credit |
5,182 | | | | | | 5,182 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Total |
$ | 73,567 | $ | 1,209,682 | $ | 3,697 | $ | 2,723 | $ | 2,403 | $ | 2,751 | $ | 1,294,823 | ||||||||||||||
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(1) | Pursuant to the Restructuring, the 2007 Credit Facility will be extinguished on the Effective Date. |
The table above excludes future cash requirements for pension and postretirement obligations. The periods in which these obligations will be settled in cash are not readily determinable and are subject to numerous future events and assumptions. We estimate cash requirements for these obligations in 2013 totaling approximately $1,577. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Pension and Postretirement Benefits, included herein.
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial statements.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standard Update (ASU) 2012-02, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment. The amendments in this update allow companies the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. An entity is not required to calculate the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset and perform the quantitative impairment test unless the entity determines that it is more likely than not the asset is impaired. The changes to the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) as a result of this update are effective for annual and interim impairment test performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU No. 2012-02 did not have a material effect on the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASC Update No. 2013-02 Comprehensive Income Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), which amends ASC Topic 220. The amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) by component. In addition an entity is required to present either on the face of the Statement of Income or in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI and should be provided by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified in its entirety to net income in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures require under GAAP that provide additional detail about these amounts. The changes to the ASC as a result of this updated guidance became effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU No. 2013-02 did not have a material effect on GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
A non-GAAP financial measure is generally defined as one that purports to measure historical or future financial performance, financial position or cash flows, but excludes or includes amounts that would not be so adjusted in the most comparable GAAP measure. In this Information Statement, we define and use Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, as set forth below.
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Adjusted EBITDA
We define Adjusted EBITDA as follows:
Income (loss) from continuing operations before :
| Income tax expense (benefit); |
| interest/financing expense; |
| depreciation and amortization; and |
| non-cash impairments. |
Managements Use of Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to income from operations, net income (loss), cash flow from continuing operating activities or any other measure of performance or liquidity derived in accordance with GAAP. We believe this non-GAAP measure, as we have defined it, is helpful in identifying trends in our day-to-day performance because the items excluded have little or no significance on our day-to-day operations. This measure provides an assessment of controllable expenses and affords management the ability to make decisions which are expected to facilitate meeting current financial goals as well as achieve optimal financial performance. We believe that it also provides an indicator for management to determine if adjustments to current spending decisions are needed.
Adjusted EBITDA provides us with a measure of financial performance, independent of items that are beyond the control of management in the short-term, such as depreciation and amortization, taxation and interest expense associated with our capital structure. This metric measures our financial performance based on operational factors that management can impact in the short-term, namely the cost structure or expenses of the organization. Adjusted EBITDA is one of the metrics used by senior management and GateHouses Board of Directors to review the financial performance of the business on a monthly basis.
Limitations of Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool. It should not be viewed in isolation or as a substitute for GAAP measures of earnings or cash flows. Material limitations in making the adjustments to our earnings to calculate Adjusted EBITDA and using this non-GAAP financial measure as compared to GAAP net income (loss), include: the cash portion of interest/financing expense, income tax (benefit) provision and charges related to gain (loss) on sale of facilities represent charges (gains), which may significantly affect our financial results.
Readers of our financial statements may find this item important in evaluating our performance, results of operations and financial position. We use non-GAAP financial measures to supplement our GAAP results in order to provide a more complete understanding of the factors and trends affecting our business.
Adjusted EBITDA is not an alternative to net income, income from operations or cash flows provided by or used in operations as calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. Readers of our financial statements should not rely on Adjusted EBITDA as a substitute for any such GAAP financial measure. We strongly urge readers of our financial statements to review the reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDA, along with our Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this Information Statement. We also strongly urge readers of our financial statements to not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate our business. In addition, because Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP and is susceptible to varying calculations, the Adjusted EBITDA measure, as presented in this Information Statement, may differ from and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.
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We use Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of our core operating performance, which is evidenced by the publishing and delivery of news and other media and excludes certain expenses that may not be indicative of our core business operating results. We consider the unrealized (gain) loss on derivative instruments and the (gain) loss on early extinguishment of debt to be financing related costs associated with interest expense or amortization of financing fees. Accordingly, we exclude financing related costs such as the early extinguishment of debt because they represent the write-off of deferred financing costs and we believe these non-cash write-offs are similar to interest expense and amortization of financing fees, which by definition are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. Additionally, the non-cash gains (losses) on derivative contracts, which are related to interest rate swap agreements to manage interest rate risk, are financing costs associated with interest expense. Such charges are incidental to, but not reflective of, our core operating performance and it is appropriate to exclude charges related to financing activities such as the early extinguishment of debt and the unrealized (gain) loss on derivative instruments which, depending on the nature of the financing arrangement, would have otherwise been amortized over the period of the related agreement and does not require a current cash settlement.
The table below shows the reconciliation of loss from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented:
Three
Months Ended June 30, 2013 |
Three
Months Ended July 1, 2012 |
Six
Months Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six
Months Ended July 1, 2012 |
Year
Ended December 30, 2012 |
Year
Ended January 1, 2012 (l) |
Year
Ended December 31, 2010 |
Year
Ended December 31, 2009 |
Year
Ended December 31, 2008 |
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(in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (13,176 | ) | $ | (2,490 | ) | $ | (30,603 | ) | $ | (15,456 | ) | $ | (27,463 | ) | $ | (20,950 | ) | $ | (25,502 | ) | $ | (510,815 | ) | $ | (658,144 | ) | |||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
| 148 | | 43 | (207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | 342 | (21,139 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments (j) |
5 | (809 | ) | 9 | (1,644 | ) | (1,635 | ) | (913 | ) | 8,277 | 12,672 | 10,119 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on early extinguishment of debt (k) |
| | | | | | | (7,538 | ) | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
261 | 340 | 522 | 680 | 1,255 | 1,360 | 1,360 | 1,360 | 1,845 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Write-off of financing costs |
| | | | | | | 743 | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
14,456 | 14,449 | 28,886 | 28,997 | 57,928 | 58,309 | 60,021 | 64,615 | 88,625 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| | | | | 1,733 | 430 | 193,041 | 123,717 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
9,791 | 9,893 | 19,636 | 20,204 | 39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | 54,237 | 69,897 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill and mastheads impairment |
| | | | | 385 | | 273,914 | 487,744 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations |
$ | 11,337 | (a) | $ | 21,531 | (b) | $ | 18,450 | (c) | $ | 32,824 | (d) | $ | 69,766 | (e) | $ | 80,547 | (f) | $ | 89,511 | (g) | $ | 82,571 | (h) | $ | 102,664 | (i) | |||||||||
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(a) | Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended June 30, 2013 included net expenses of $6,066, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $6,066 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $4,889, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(213), integration and reorganization costs of $741 and a $649 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $275 from our discontinued operations. |
(b) | Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended July 1, 2012 included net expenses of $2,638, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $2,638 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $1,890, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(148), integration and reorganization costs of $738 and a $158 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $109 from our discontinued operations. |
(c) | Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2013 included net expenses of $7,521, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $7,521 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $5,948, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(428), integration and reorganization costs of $958 and a $1,043 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $123 from our discontinued operations. |
(d) | Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended July 1, 2012 included net expenses of $4,478, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $4,478 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $2,707, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(244), integration and reorganization costs of $1,860 and a $155 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $165 from our discontinued operations. |
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(e) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 30, 2012 included net expenses of $11,009, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $11,009 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $6,274, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(896), integration and reorganization costs of $4,393 and a $1,238 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $255 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations. |
(f) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended January 1, 2012 included net expenses of $9,461, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $9,461 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $4,226, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(1,104), integration and reorganization costs of $5,884 and an $455 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $432 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations. |
(g) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2010 included net expenses of $8,231, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $8,231 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $5,005, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(649), integration and reorganization costs of $2,324 and a $1,551 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $463 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations. |
(h) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 included net expenses of $9,289, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $9,289 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $8,632, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(782), integration and reorganization costs of $1,857 and a $418 gain on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $(855) of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations. |
(i) | Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2008 included net expenses of $24,487, which are one time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $24,487 are non-cash compensation and other expenses of $18,638, non-cash portion of post-retirement benefits expense of $(1,499), integration and reorganization costs of $7,011 and $337 loss on the sale of assets. |
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $4,663 of EBITDA generated from our discontinued operations. |
(j) | Non-cash (gain) loss on derivative instruments is related to interest rate swap agreements which are financing related and are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. |
(k) | Non-cash write-off of deferred financing costs are similar to interest expense and amortization of financing fees and are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. |
(l) | The year ended January 1, 2012 included a 53 rd week of operations for approximately 60% of the business. |
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates and commodity prices. Changes in these factors could cause fluctuations in earnings and cash flow. In the normal course of business, exposure to certain of these market risks is managed as described below.
Interest Rates
On August 18, 2008, we terminated interest rate swaps with a total notional amount of $570.0 million. At December 30, 2012, after consideration of the interest rate swaps described below, $570.0 million of the remaining principal amount of our term loans are subject to floating interest rates.
Our debt structure and interest rate risks are managed through the use of floating rate debt and interest rate swaps. Our primary exposure is to LIBOR. A 100 basis point change in LIBOR would change our income from continuing operations before income taxes on an annualized basis by approximately $5.6 million, based on average pro forma floating rate debt outstanding during 2012, after consideration of the interest rate swaps of $625.0 million described below, and average amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility during 2012.
On February 27, 2007, we executed an interest rate swap in the notional amount of $100.0 million with a forward starting date of February 28, 2007. The interest rate swap has a term of seven years. Under this swap, we pay an amount to the swap counterparty representing interest on a notional amount at a rate of 5.14% and receive an amount from the swap counterparty representing, interest on the notional amount at a rate equal to the one month LIBOR.
On April 4, 2007, we executed an additional interest rate swap in the notional amount of $250.0 million with a forward starting date of April 13, 2007. The interest rate swap has a term of seven years. Under this swap, we pay an amount to the swap counterparty representing interest on a notional amount at a rate of 4.971% and receive an amount from the swap counterparty representing interest on the notional amount at a rate equal to one month LIBOR.
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On April 13, 2007, we executed an additional interest rate swap in the notional amount of $200.0 million with a forward starting date of April 30, 2007. The interest rate swap has a term of seven years. Under this swap, we pay an amount to the swap counterparty representing interest on a notional amount at a rate of 5.079% and receive an amount from the swap counterparty representing interest on the notional amount at a rate equal to one month LIBOR.
On September 18, 2007, we executed an additional interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $75.0 million with a forward starting date of September 18, 2007. The interest rate swap has a term of seven years. Under the swap, we pay an amount to the swap counterparty representing interest on a notional amount at a rate of 4.941% and receive an amount from the swap counterparty representing interest on the notional amount at a rate equal to one month LIBOR.
Commodities
Certain materials we use are subject to commodity price changes. We manage this risk through instruments such as purchase orders, membership in a buying consortium, fixed pricing agreements for certain newsprint purchases and continuing programs to mitigate the impact of cost increases through identification of sourcing and operating efficiencies. Primary commodity price exposures are newsprint, energy costs and, to a lesser extent, ink.
A $10 per metric ton newsprint price change would result in a corresponding annualized change in our income from continuing operations before income taxes of $0.4 million based on newsprint usage for the year ended December 30, 2012 of approximately 41,400 metric tons. In 2013, 95% of the companies newsprint is fixed through a pricing agreement, therefore only 5% of the usage would be impacted by a price increase.
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Unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires, for purposes of this section under the heading Business, references to we, our, us and the Company mean GateHouse and its consolidated subsidiaries.
General Overview
We are one of the largest publishers of locally based print and online media in the United States as measured by number of daily publications. Our portfolio of products, which includes 404 community publications, 343 related websites, 313 mobile sites and six yellow page directories, serves over 128,000 business advertising accounts and reaches approximately 10 million people on a weekly basis.
Our core products include:
| 78 daily newspapers with total paid circulation of approximately 547,000; |
| 235 weekly newspapers (published up to three times per week) with total paid circulation of approximately 282,000 and total free circulation of approximately 706,000; |
| 91 shoppers (generally advertising-only publications) with total circulation of approximately 1.5 million; |
| 343 locally focused websites and 313 mobile sites, which extend our franchises onto the internet and mobile devices with approximately 97 million page views per month; and |
| six yellow page directories, with a distribution of approximately 488,000, that covers a population of approximately 1.2 million people. |
In addition to our core products, we also opportunistically produce niche publications that address specific local market interests such as recreation, sports, healthcare and real estate.
Our print and online products focus on the local community from both a content and advertising standpoint. As a result of our focus on small and midsize markets, we are usually the primary, and sometimes, the sole provider of comprehensive and in-depth local market news and information in the communities we serve. Our content is primarily devoted to topics that we believe are highly relevant and of interest to our audience such as local news and politics, community and regional events, youth sports, opinion and editorial pages, and local schools.
More than 86% of our daily newspapers have been published for more than 100 years and 100% have been published for more than 50 years. We believe that the longevity of our publications demonstrates the value and relevance of the local information that we provide and has created a strong foundation of reader loyalty and a highly recognized media brand name in each community we serve. As a result of these factors, we believe that our publications have high local audience penetration rates in our markets, thereby providing advertisers with strong local market reach.
We have a history of growth through acquisitions and new product launches. Since our inception, we have acquired 420 daily and weekly newspapers, shoppers and directories. Due to the weak economic backdrop over the past several years and tough financing market we have not done an acquisition since 2009 and instead have focused on transforming our business to a multi-media content and advertising business while maintaining our local orientation and pursuing cost reductions and de-levering opportunities. As part of our cost reduction efforts, we have engaged in a series of individual restructuring programs, designed primarily to right size our employee base, consolidate facilities and improve operations.
We operate in 328 markets across 21 states. A key element of our business strategy is geographic clustering of publications to realize operating efficiencies and provide consistent management practices. We share best
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practices across our organization, giving each publication the benefit of proven and executable revenue producing and cost saving initiatives. We regionally cluster functions such as ad composition, accounting and production and give each publication in a cluster access to top quality production equipment, which we believe enables us to cost-efficiently provide superior products and service to our customers. We are also centralizing certain functions across the entire company, particularly in the ad production and content areas in an effort to become more efficient and better serve our publications and customers. In addition, we believe that our size allows us to achieve economies of scale.
We believe that below average industry advertising revenue volatility is a result of our geographic diversity combined with our concentration of small markets. We have revenues coming from markets across 21 states, the large number of products we publish and our fragmented, diversified local advertising customer base. We also believe that local advertising tends to be less sensitive to economic cycles than national advertising because local businesses generally have fewer advertising channels in which to reach the local audience. We believe we are also less reliant than large metropolitan newspapers upon classified advertising, particularly the recruiting and real estate categories, which are generally more sensitive to economic conditions.
Our operating costs consist primarily of labor, newsprint, and delivery costs. Our selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of labor costs.
Compensation represents just over 50% of our operating expenses. Over the last few years, we have worked to drive efficiencies and centralization of work throughout our Company. Additionally, we have taken steps to cluster our operations thereby increasing the usage of facilities and equipment while increasing the productivity of our labor force. We expect to continue to employ these steps as part of our business and clustering strategy.
On September 4, 2013, Debtors and the Participating Lenders under the 2007 Credit Facility entered into a Support Agreement in which the parties agreed to support, subject to the terms and conditions of the Support Agreement, the restructuring of GateHouse pursuant to the consummation of the Plan. The Plan, once effective, will discharge claims and interests against GateHouse primarily through the (a) issuance of shares of Common Stock of New Media and/or payment of cash to holders of claims in connection with the 2007 Credit Facility and related interest rate swaps, (b) reinstatement of certain claims, (c) entry into the Management Agreement (as defined below), (d) issuance of warrants by New Media to Existing Equity Holders and (e) entry into the New Credit Facility, if any, the net proceeds of which go to holders that elect to receive New Media Common Stock. See The Spin-Off and Restructuring, Restructuring Agreements and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
Industry Overview
We operate in what is sometimes referred to as the hyper-local or community market within the media industry. Media companies that serve this segment provide highly focused local content and advertising that is generally unique to each market they serve and is not readily obtainable from other sources. Local publications include community newspapers, websites, shoppers, traders, real estate guides, special interest magazines and directories. Due to the unique nature of their content, community publications compete for advertising customers with other forms of traditional media, including: direct mail, directories, radio, television, and outdoor advertising. We also compete with new digital and social media businesses for advertising customers. We believe that local print and online publications are the most effective medium for local retail advertising, which emphasizes the price of goods in an effort to move inventory on a regular basis, in contrast to radio, broadcast and cable, television, and the internet, which are generally used for image or branding advertising. In addition, we believe local print and online publications generally have the highest local audience penetration rates, which allows local advertisers to get their message to a large portion of the local audience.
Locally focused media in small and midsize communities is distinct from national and urban media delivered through outlets such as television, radio, metropolitan and national newspapers and the internet. Larger
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media outlets tend to offer broad based information to a geographically scattered audience, which tends to be more of a commodity. In contrast, locally focused media delivers a highly focused product that is often the only source of local news and information in the market it serves. Our segment of the media industry is also characterized by high barriers to entry, both economic and social. Small and midsize communities can generally only sustain one newspaper. Moreover, the brand value associated with long-term reader and advertiser loyalty, and the high start-up costs associated with developing and distributing content and selling advertisements, help to limit competition.
Advertising Market
The primary sources of advertising revenue for local publications are small businesses, corporations, government agencies and individuals who reside in the market that a publication serves. By combining paid circulation publications with total market coverage publications such as shoppers and other specialty publications (tailored to the specific attributes of a local community), local publications are able to reach nearly 100% of the households in a distribution area. As macroeconomic conditions in advertising change due to increasing internet and mobile usage and the wide array of available information sources, we have seen advertisers shift their focus to have a digital component to their local advertising strategy. To that end, in addition to printed products, the majority of our local publications have an online presence that further leverages the local brand, ensures higher penetration into the market, and provides a digital alternative for local advertisers.
Digital Media
The time spent online and on mobile devices each day by media consumers continues to grow and newspaper web and mobile sites offer a wide variety of content providing comprehensive, in-depth and up to the minute coverage of news and current events. The ability to generate, publish and archive more news and information than most other sources has allowed newspapers to produce some of the most visited sites on the internet. Newspaper websites have shown to be some of the most visited websites by online media news consumers.
We believe that our local publications are well positioned to capitalize on their existing market franchises and grow their total audience base by publishing proprietary local content digitally; via the internet, mobile websites and mobile applications. Local digital media include traditional classifieds, directories of business information, local advertising, databases, audience-contributed content and mobile applications. We believe this additional community-specific content will further extend and expand both the reach and the brand of our publications with readers and advertisers. We believe that building a strong local digital business extends the core audience of a local publication.
The opportunity created by the digital extension of the core audience makes local digital advertising an attractive complement for existing print advertisers, while opening up opportunities to attract new local advertisers that have never advertised with local publications. In addition, we believe that national advertisers have an interest in reaching buyers on a hyper-local level and, although they historically have not been significant advertisers in community publications, we believe the digital media offers them a powerful medium to reach local audiences. This opportunity is further enhanced by our behavioral targeting products which allow advertisers to reach specific demographics of our audience. We also plan to hire a new digital only sales force to focus on digital growth in key designated market areas (DMAs).
We believe that a strong digital business will not only enhance our revenues but we also believe that we have the knowledge and reach to help other businesses maximize their digital opportunities. Accordingly, we have launched two digital businesses designed to help others grow their digital presence: Propel Marketing and adhance media. Propel Marketing will allow us to sell digital marketing services to small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) both in and outside existing markets. adhance media, our private advertising exchange, allows us to more
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fully monetize our (and third parties) valuable unsold digital advertising space. See Risk FactorsRisks Related to Our BusinessWe have invested in growing our digital business, but such investments may not be successful, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Circulation
Overall daily newspaper print circulation, including national and urban newspapers, has been declining steadily over the past several years. Small and midsize local market newspapers have generally had smaller declines and more stability in their paid print circulation volumes due to the relevant and unique hyper-local news they produce. In addition, this unique and valuable hyper-local content allows smaller market newspapers to continue to raise prices, leading to stable circulation revenues.
Our Strengths
High Quality Assets with Leading Local Franchises . Our publications benefit from a long history in the communities we serve as the leading, and often sole, provider of comprehensive and in-depth local content. This has resulted in strong reader loyalty and high local audience penetration rates, which are highly valued by local advertisers. We continue to build on long-standing relationships with local advertisers and our in-depth knowledge of the consumers in our local markets.
Superior Value Proposition for Our Advertisers . The concentrated smaller market local focus of our portfolio provides advertisers with large reach to a targeted audience with whom they can communicate directly, thereby maximizing the efficiency of their advertising spending. We offer advertisers several alternatives (daily, weekly, shopper, and niche print publications as well as an array of web, mobile and tablet products) to reach consumers and to tailor the nature and frequency of their marketing messages. We also offer advertisers the ability to target consumers based on their behavior online which is an effective and efficient way for businesses to market to the right customers.
Strong Revenue Characteristics . We have strong diversification in our revenues in terms of type of revenue, product source for revenue, geographic distribution of revenues and numbers of customers. We also benefit from our strong local franchises who serve local consumers and businesses in small to mid-size markets. All of these characteristics we believe give us long term stability and viability. During the twelve months ended June 30, 2013, we generated revenue in 328 markets across 21 states, serving a fragmented and diversified local customer base. For full year 2012, we served over 128,000 business advertising accounts in our publications, and our top 20 advertisers contributed less than 5% of our total revenues. Over 3.8 million classified advertisements were placed in our publications in 2012. Additionally, for the full year 2012 we generated 60% of revenue from print product advertising, 27% from subscription income from customers, 6% from digital advertising and 7% from commercial printing work for external customers and affiliated parties.
Scale Yields Stronger Operating Profit Margins and Allows Us to Realize Operating Synergies . We believe we generate higher operating profit margins than our publications could achieve on a stand-alone basis by leveraging our operations and implementing revenue initiatives, especially digital initiatives, across a broader local footprint in a geographic cluster and by centralizing certain back office production, accounting, administrative and corporate operations. We also benefit from economies of scale in the purchase of insurance, newsprint and other large strategic supplies and equipment. Finally, we have the ability to further leverage our centralized services and buying power to reduce operating costs when making future strategic accretive acquisitions.
Strong Local Business Profile Generates Significant Cash Flow . Our strong local business franchises generate significant recurring cash flow due to our diversified revenue base, healthy operating profit margins, and our low capital expenditure and working capital requirements. With the companys low leverage capital structure after the Restructuring it will have significant available cash flow to create stockholder value, including investing in organic growth, investing in accretive acquisitions and returning cash to stockholders in the form of dividends, subject to approval by our Board of Directors. We further believe the strong cash flows generated and available to be invested will lead to consistent future dividend growth.
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Large Locally Focused Sales Force . We have large and well known feet on the street local sales forces in the markets we serve. They are generally the largest locally oriented media sales force. Our sales forces and their respective local media brands tend to have strong credibility and trust within the local business communities. We have long-standing relationships with many local businesses and have the ability to get in the door with most local businesses due to these unique characteristics we enjoy. These qualities also provide leverage for our sales force to grow additional future revenue streams in our markets.
Strong Track Record of Acquiring and Integrating New Assets . We have created a national platform for consolidating local media businesses and have demonstrated an ability to successfully identify, acquire and integrate local media asset acquisitions. We have acquired over $1.6 billion of assets since 2006. We have acquired both traditional newspaper and directory businesses. We have a very scalable infrastructure and platform to leverage with future acquisitions.
Experienced Management Team . Our senior management team is made up of executives who have an average of over 20 years of experience in the media industry, including strong traditional and digital media expertise. Our executive officers have broad industry experience and a successful track record with regard to both business performance among its industry peer group, growing new digital business lines, and identifying and integrating strategic acquisitions. Our management team also has key strengths in managing wide geographically disbursed teams, including the sales force, and identifying and centralizing duplicate functions across businesses leading to reduced core infrastructure costs.
Our Strategy
We intend to create stockholder value through growth in our revenue and cash flow by expanding our digital marketing business, growing our online advertising business and pursuing strategic acquisitions of high quality local media assets. Our strategy will be to acquire and operate traditional local media businesses and transform them from print-centric operations to dynamic multi-media operations, through our existing online advertising and digital marketing businesses. We will also leverage our existing platform to operate these businesses more efficiently. We believe all of these initiatives will lead to revenue and cash flow growth for New Media and will enable us to pay dividends to our stockholders. We expect to distribute a substantial portion of our free cash flow as a dividend to stockholders, subject to approval by our Board of Directors. The key elements of our strategy include:
Maintain Our Leading Position in the Delivery of Proprietary Content in Our Communities . We seek to maintain our position as a leading provider of local content in the markets we serve and to leverage this position to strengthen our relationships with both readers and advertisers, thereby increasing penetration rates and market share. A critical aspect of this approach is to continue to provide local content that is not readily obtainable elsewhere and to be able to deliver that content to our customers across multiple print and digital platforms. We believe it is very important for us to protect the content from unauthorized users who use it for their own commercial purposes. We also believe it is important for us to develop subscription revenue streams from our digitally distributed content.
Stabilize Our Core Business Operations . We have four primary drivers in our strategic plans to stabilize our core business operations, including: (i) identifying permanent structural expense reductions in our traditional business cost infrastructure and re-deploying a portion of those costs toward future growth opportunities, primarily on the digital side of our business; (ii) accelerating the growth of both our digital audiences and revenues through improvements to current products, new product development, training, opportunistic changes in hiring to create an employee base with a more diversified skill set and sharing of best practices; (iii) accelerating our consumer revenue growth through subscription pricing increases and growth in our subscriber base, which we aim to improve by employing additional strategic customer acquisition techniques, driving digital only subscriber growth through our pay meter strategy and improving our customer retention programs; and (iv) stabilizing our core print advertising revenues through improvements to pricing (understanding and selling
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the unique value of our local audience reach and level of engagement, at the sales rep level), packaging of products for customers that will produce the best results for them (needs based selling), more technology and training for sales management and sales representatives and increased accountability through consistent setting of expectations and measuring against those expectations on a regular basis.
Grow New Digital Business and Revenue Streams Leveraging Key Strengths . We plan to scale and expand our two new recently created digital businesses, Propel Marketing and adhance media. Propel Marketing will allow us to sell digital marketing services to SMBs both in and outside existing markets. The SMB demand for digital service solutions is great and represents a rapidly expanding opportunity. adhance media, our private advertising exchange, allows us to more fully monetize our (and third parties) valuable unsold digital advertising space. Advertising bought programmatically through private exchanges is expected to grow rapidly over the next five years, especially in private exchange where advertisers get priority access to the advertising space. We also aim to leverage our large local sales forces and strong local media brands to create new business opportunities at the local market level.
Pursue Strategic Accretive Acquisitions . We intend to capitalize on the highly fragmented and distressed newspaper and directory industries. We initially expect to focus our investments in the local newspaper and yellow page directory sectors, primarily in the United States. We believe we have a strong operational platform, which currently owns local newspaper and directory businesses, as well as a scalable digital services business, Propel Marketing. This platform, along with deep industry specific knowledge and experience that our management team has can be leveraged to reduce costs, stabilize the core business and grow digital revenues at acquired properties. The size and fragmentation of the addressable newspaper and yellow page directory market place in the United States, the greatly reduced valuation levels that exist in these industries, and our deep experience make this an attractive place for our initial consolidation focus and capital allocation. Over the longer term we also believe there may be opportunity to diversify and acquire these types of assets internationally, as well other traditional local media assets such as broadcast TV, out of home advertising (billboards) and radio, in the United States and internationally.
Increase Sales Force Productivity . We aim to increase the effectiveness and productivity of our sales force and, in turn, help maximize advertising revenues. We also aim to shift the culture of our sales force from that of print-centric to multi-media and feel that is critical to our long term success. Our approach includes changes to sales force compensation to be more aligned with long term strategic goals, ongoing company-wide training of sales representatives and sales managers that focuses on strengthening their ability to perform needs based assessments and selling. We set expectations by sales representatives, manager and team and regularly evaluate the performance of our sales representatives and sales management against those expectations. We believe stronger accountability and measurement of our sales force, when combined with enhanced training and access to better technologies, demographic and marketing information, will lead to greater productivity and revenue from our sales force.
Introduce New Products or Modify Our Products to Enhance our Value Proposition to Local Businesses. We believe that our established positions in local markets, combined with our publishing and distribution capabilities, allow us to develop and customize new products to address the evolving interests and needs of our readers and local businesses. A primary source for product enhancement and growth we believe exists in the digital space. Product improvement and new product development across the web, mobile and tablets will be a key component to long term success. We are actively scaling web and mobile products, including deal platforms, digital service offerings, including Propel Marketing, mobile websites and applications, and we continue to expand on our offering of behavioral targeted and audience extension advertising options.
Pursue a Content-Driven Digital Strategy . As consumers continue to spend more time online especially with regard to consumption of news, we believe that we are well-positioned to increase our digital penetration and generate additional online audience and revenues due to both our ability to deliver unique local content online, and the relationship our local brand names have with readers and advertisers. We believe this presents an
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opportunity to increase our overall audience penetration rates and drive additional subscription revenues in each of the communities we serve. We have developed pay meters at most all of our daily newspaper websites and several of our largest weeklies, which we use to charge customers fees for access to our content. These meters will enable us to grow our digital subscription income and capture revenues that shift to the web as consumers shift to the web. Finally, we intend to share resources across our organization in order to give each of our publications access to technology, digital management expertise, content and advertisers that they may not have been able to obtain or afford if they were operating independently.
Products
Our product mix consists of four publication types: (i) daily newspapers, (ii) weekly newspapers, (iii) shoppers and (iv) niche publications. Most of these publications have a digital presence as discussed in the following table. Some of the key characteristics of each of these types of publications are also summarized in the table below.
Daily Newspapers |
Weekly Newspapers |
Shoppers |
Niche Publications |
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Cost: |
Paid | Paid and free | Paid and free | Paid and free | ||||
Distribution: |
Distributed four to seven days per week | Distributed one to three days per week | Distributed weekly | Distributed weekly, monthly or on annual basis | ||||
Format: |
Printed on newsprint, folded | Printed on newsprint, folded | Printed on newsprint, folded or booklet | Printed on newsprint or glossy, folded, booklet, magazine or book | ||||
Content: |
50% editorial (local news and coverage of community events, some national headlines) and 50% ads (including classifieds) | 50% editorial (local news and coverage of community events, some national headlines for smaller markets which cannot support a daily newspaper) and 50% ads (including classifieds) | Almost 100% ads, primarily classifieds, display and inserts | Niche content and targeted ads (e.g., Chamber of Commerce city guides, tourism guides and special interest publications such as, seniors, golf, real estate, calendars and directories) | ||||
Income: |
Revenue from advertisers, subscribers, rack/box sales | Paid: Revenue from advertising, subscribers, rack/box sales | Paid: Revenue from advertising, rack/box sales | Paid: Revenue from advertising, rack/box sales | ||||
Free: Advertising revenue only, provide 100% market coverage. | Free: Advertising revenue only, provide 100% market coverage | Free: Advertising revenue only | ||||||
Internet Availability: |
Maintain locally oriented websites, mobile sites and mobile apps, for select locations | Major publications maintain locally oriented websites and mobile sites for select locations | Major publications maintain locally oriented websites | Selectively available online |
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Overview of Operations
We operate in three publication groups: Small Community Newspapers, Metros and Large Daily Newspapers. A list of our dailies, weeklies, shoppers and websites in each of our publication groups is included as Exhibit 99.2 to New Medias registration statement on Form 10. We also operate over 343 related websites and 313 mobile sites.
The following table sets forth information regarding our publications.
Number of Publications | Circulation (1) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Group | Dailies | Weeklies | Shoppers | Paid | Free |
Total
Circulation |
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Small Community Newspapers |
59 | 105 | 72 | 304,259 | 1,217,531 | 1,521,790 | ||||||||||||||||||
Metro Newspapers |
7 | 127 | 7 | 276,231 | 503,391 | 779,622 | ||||||||||||||||||
Large Daily Newspapers |
12 | 3 | 12 | 248,847 | 511,107 | 759,854 | ||||||||||||||||||
Total |
78 | 235 | 91 | 829,337 | 2,232,029 | 3,061,366 | ||||||||||||||||||
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(1) | Circulation statistics are estimated by our management as of December 30, 2012, except that audited circulation statistics, to the extent available, are utilized as of the audit date. |
Small Community Newspaper Group. Our Small Community Newspaper group encompasses publications typically located in communities have a population less than 35,000 people, in the states of Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Michigan, California, Minnesota, Arkansas, New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Iowa. There are a total of 59 daily newspapers, 105 weekly newspapers and 72 shoppers. In addition to a good geographic mix, we benefit from a diverse economic and employment base across this group.
From the western shore of Lake Michigan to the eastern shore of the Mississippi River and running over 400 miles north to south, Illinois is a picture of manufacturing, agricultural and recreational diversity. Coupled with major daily newspapers from our Large Daily Newspaper Group in Rockford, Peoria, and the state capital of Springfield, we are the largest publishing company in Illinois. 20 paid daily newspapers, 30 paid weekly newspapers, and 20 shoppers provide inclusive coverage across the state which are further supported by four print production facilities.
La Junta in the southeastern part of the state represents the Colorado properties. Along with La Junta we also serve Bent County and Fowler and produce the weekly agricultural newspaper, The Ag Journal .
We are represented in California by two daily newspapers in Ridgecrest and Yreka, five paid weekly papers in Dunsmuir, Mt. Shasta, Weed, Gridley and Taft, and five shoppers in Gridley, Mt. Shasta, Ridgecrest and Yreka. These publications reach from northern California through the southern desert and China Lake naval base in Ridgecrest.
The greatest concentration of circulation and market presence in Missouri is in the northern part of the state where we operate seven daily newspapers and four weekly newspapers and five shoppers. We serve the 22,000 square mile area from Hannibal, on the states eastern border, to the western border and from Columbia in the south to the Iowa border in the north. Local employers include the University of Missouri and other colleges, local and federal governments, State Farm Insurance and 3M.
Our southern Missouri operations are clustered around Lake of the Ozarks and Joplin. Located midway between Kansas City and St. Louis and approximately 90 miles from Springfield, Missouri, our three daily newspapers, seven weekly newspapers and three shoppers that serve the Lake of the Ozarks area reach approximately 165,000 people.
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Located in southwest Missouri and southeast Kansas is our Joplin cluster with three daily and four weekly newspapers and four shoppers, serving a population of approximately 170,000. There are several colleges and universities in the area, a National Guard Fort, several large medical centers and a diverse mix of retail businesses, including the 120-store Northpark Mall.
This group also includes our Kansas City cluster with six publications (two daily and two weekly newspapers and two shoppers) located in the eastern Kansas cities of Leavenworth and Lansing and on the Missouri side, Independence and Blue Springs. The Leavenworth Times was one of our original daily newspapers and the balance of the cluster was acquired afterward. In addition, we secured the military publication, The Fort Leavenworth Lamp , in Fort Leavenworth. The Kansas City cluster is home to several prominent companies, including Hallmark, H&R Block, Interstate Bakeries, and the University of Kansas.
The Wichita cluster consists of three dailies, six weeklies and three shoppers in the towns of Andover, Augusta, El Dorado, Pratt, Wellington, Newton and McPherson near Wichita, Kansas. The clustering of the small dailies in this area allows the group to sell advertisers a package providing access to multiple communities. Major aircraft manufacturers Boeing, Bombardier, Cessna and Raytheon have facilities nearby and McConnell Air Force Base is a major component of the local economy.
We also have clusters in and around Grand Forks, North Dakota (home to the Grand Forks Air Force Base and the University of North Dakota) and near Mason City, Iowa, where Cargill, ConAgra, Kraft, Winnebago and Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth, each maintain significant operations.
We are represented in southwestern Minnesota through seven paid weekly newspapers and four shoppers. St. James, Redwood Falls, Sleepy Eye, Granite Falls, Cottonwood, Wabasso, and Montevideo are all communities with populations of 10,000 and under. These papers represent the primary local news and information source for these communities.
In Louisiana, we have an operating cluster in the southwestern part of the state, located between Lake Charles and Alexandria. This cluster consists of five publications located in the cities of Leesville, Sulpher, DeRidder and Vinton. Local employers include major manufacturers such as Alcoa, Firestone, International Paper and Proctor & Gamble.
Our Baton Rouge cluster consists of four weeklies and three shoppers in the southeastern Louisiana cities of Donaldsville, Gonzales, and Plaquemine. Numerous petrochemical companies such as BASF, Exxon Mobil and Dow Chemical, plus universities including Louisiana State, support the local economies.
In southwestern New York, our operations are centered around five publications based in Steuben County. In Corning, The Leader , a 7,709 circulation daily newspaper, dominates the eastern half of the county and shares its hometown namesake with Corning Incorporated. The Hornell Evening Tribune circulates daily throughout the western half of the county. Situated directly between these two dailies in the county seat of Bath is the 10,850 circulation Steuben Courier , a free-distribution weekly. The Pennysaver Plus , a standalone shopper, solidifies this flagship group.
We also have a strong presence in the print advertising markets in three other New York counties that surround Steuben. In Allegany County to the west, the Wellsville Daily Reporter and its shopper, the Pennysaver Plus , cover most households. In Livingston County to the north, the Pennysaver Plus and the Genesee Country Express complement one another with combined circulation of 33,480. In Yates County to the north and east, The Chronicle-Express and Chronicle Ad-Visor shopper distribute weekly to nearly 14,000 households centered around the county seat of Penn Yan.
In nearby Chemung County, the 21,000 circulation Horseheads Shopper anchors our presence in this area. The majority of the southwestern New York cluster parallels Interstate 86 across the central southern tier of
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New York State, which is benefiting from continued improvement and expansion under an omnibus federal highway appropriations bill. Moreover, the cluster has several colleges and universities nearby, including Cornell University, Ithaca College, Elmira College and Houghton College.
Our Honesdale cluster, approximately 30 miles from Scranton, Pennsylvania, consists of seven publications in the cities of Carbondale, Honesdale and Hawley, Pennsylvania, along with Liberty, New York, located just across the Delaware River to the east. The cluster was created from our daily and shopper operations in Honesdale and later supplemented by our acquisition of weeklies and shoppers in Carbondale and Liberty. Local employers include General Dynamics, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Commonwealth Telephone and various colleges and universities, medical centers and governmental agencies.
Our Pennsylvania/West Virginia cluster includes dailies in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, Keyser and Ripley, West Virginia. We also have two weeklies throughout the group and a commercial printing operation in Ravenswood, West Virginia.
We have a strong presence in southern Michigan where five of our dailies, Adrian, Coldwater, Holland, Hillsdale and Sturgis, along with two weeklies and seven shoppers blanket the southern tier of the state and into Indiana. The 12,853 circulation Holland Sentinel is the flagship publication of the group. This area has several large employers, including Delphi, ConAgra, Tecumseh Products, Kellogg, JCI, Herman Miller, Hayworth, Gentex, Jackson State Prison, and a number of colleges and universities.
The communities we serve in the Small Community Newspaper group are largely rural but also support educational institutions, government agencies (including prisons and military bases), tourism, veterinary medicine and ethanol and agricultural chemical manufacturing. The area also includes automotive (including recreational vehicles), boat, home construction products and furniture manufacturing businesses.
The following table sets forth information regarding the number of publications and production facilities in the Small Community Newspaper Group:
Metro Newspaper Group. Our Metro Newspaper Group includes publications that are typically within 50 miles of a metropolitan area with total population greater than 1.0 million people in the states of Massachusetts,
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New York, and Delaware. We are one of the largest community newspaper publishers in Massachusetts by number of daily publications and also publish a large concentration of weekly newspapers, serving 113 communities in markets across eastern Massachusetts. The three largest daily newspapers in this region are: The Patriot Ledger (founded in 1837 with circulation of 31,853), the Enterprise (founded in 1880 with circulation of 19,407) and the MetroWest Daily News (founded in 1897 with circulation of 15,456). We also have over 170 web sites, with more than 3.5 million average combined monthly unique visitors in Massachusetts.
Many of the towns within our Massachusetts were founded in the 1600s and our daily and weekly newspapers in the region have long been institutions within these communities. In fact, our Massachusetts publications have 31 daily and weekly newspapers that are over 100 years old. The Boston DMA is the seventh largest market in the United States with 2.4 million households and 6.2 million people, and ranks first nationally in concentration of colleges and universities. Massachusetts has more than one million households in the region earning greater than $75,000, and a substantial homeownership rate. We reach 1.7 million readers in the eastern Massachusetts market. Eastern Massachusetts is also an employment center for technology, biotechnology, healthcare and higher education.
In New York we operate and own a combination of 16 publications in Suburban Rochester that span four counties and have a combined circulation of 123,580. This market has a tourism industry and is known for boutique wineries and recreational activities. The flagship of Messenger Post Media is the 7,600 circulation Daily Messenger in Canandaigua.
The Delaware cluster publishes six weekly newspapers, one shopper, and various specialty papers that cover most of the state of Delaware, and range from suburban Wilmington in the north to Georgetown, Delaware at the southern end of the state. The weekly Express shopper serves nearly all of lower Delaware and a good portion of the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Circulation for the cluster is primarily free, and totals approximately 94,763 weekly.
The following table sets forth information regarding the number of publications and production facilities in the Metro Newspaper Group:
Publications |
Production
Facilities |
|||||||||||||||
State of Operations |
Dailies | Weeklies | Shoppers | |||||||||||||
Massachusetts |
6 | 110 | 2 | 2 | ||||||||||||
New York |
1 | 11 | 4 | 1 | ||||||||||||
Delaware |
0 | 6 | 1 | 1 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total |
7 | 127 | 7 | 4 |
Large Daily Newspaper Group. Our Large Daily Newspaper Group includes publication clusters in communities that typically have more than 35,000 people and are greater than 50 miles from a major metropolitan area. These publications are in Illinois, New York, Ohio, and Connecticut with a total of 12 daily newspapers, 3 weekly newspapers and 12 shoppers. In addition to a good geographic mix, we benefit from a diverse economic and employment base across this group.
Approximately 85 miles to the west of Chicago, Illinois is the Rockford Register Star supported by its 34,237 daily paid circulation base and its TMC product The Weekly, with six zoned editions. The Rockford Register Star operates successful web sites that have more than 0.7 million average monthly unique visitors.
The Journal (Freeport, IL) Standard is published Tuesdays through Sundays. The newspapers coverage area includes Caroll, Jo Daviess, Ogle and Stephenson counties. The newspaper has a daily circulation of 7,143 and a Sunday circulation of 7,896. The Journal Standard also publishes a website journalstandard.com and receives a monthly average of 1.1 million page views and monthly unique visitors over 105,000.
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The Peoria Journal Star with its daily paid circulation of 49,855 is the dominant newspaper in Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford Counties and is also distributed in an additional 17 surrounding counties. There are two shoppers JS Shopper and Pekin Extra which have a combined weekly circulation of 65,832. The Peoria facility provides print services to our neighboring New Media publications and commercial printing for Lee Enterprises The Pantagraph . The market includes manufacturing facilities for Caterpillar and Komatsu, and higher education at Bradley University, Illinois Central College and Midstate College. Peoria has a large medical community including OSF Healthcare, Methodist Medical Center, Proctor Hospital, University Of Illinois College Of Medicine and St. Jude Childrens Hospital Midwest Affiliate. It has agricultural facilities Archer Daniels Midland, LG Seeds and the USDA Ag Lab. The Journal Star has pjstar.com and pjstar.mobi with combined page views of over 9.1 million per month. The combined average monthly unique visitors are over 0.7 million.
The Springfield State Journal-Register with a daily paid circulation of 32,902 and a Sunday paid circulation of 40,935 covers the state capital of Illinois. The daily paid circulation includes a branded edition of 3,065 of the Lincoln Courier. The State Journal-Register also has successful web sites with monthly unique visitors of more than 1.1 million.
The Ohio cluster is anchored in Canton, Ohio and covers Stark and Tuscarawas Counties. It is comprised of three daily newspapers, one weekly publication and two shoppers. The Repository is a 49,386 daily newspaper that covers the entire area of Stark County. The Dover New Philadelphia Times Reporter is a 16,559 daily publication located 40 miles south of Canton in Tuscarawas County. The Massillon Independent is an 8,007 circulation daily that circulates in western Stark County. The Suburbanite is a 32,600 weekly publication that circulates in the affluent northern Stark County area. The Ohio cluster has very successful web sites with more than 1.4 million combined monthly unique visitors. Together the newspapers and web sites dominate their local markets.
The Central New York cluster is anchored by the Observer-Dispatch in Utica New York which has circulation of 28,009 Daily and 35,379 Sunday subscribers. The Utica operations include one daily and two shoppers and one weekly newspaper in Hamilton. Utica also has web sites with combined monthly unique visitors of more than 454,000. Other dailies in this group are located in Herkimer and Little Falls. The Utica and Herkimer County operations take advantage of numerous synergies in printing, circulation, and advertising.
Our Norwich, Connecticut publication diversifies the Large Daily Newspapers as the eastern Connecticut economy differs from the nation and New England markedly. Primary economic drivers include casinos, military submarine manufacture and pharmaceutical research. Major industrial employers in the region include General Dynamics, Pfizer, Dow Chemical, Dominion Resources and the United States Navy.
The following table sets forth information regarding the number of publications and production facilities in the Large Daily Newspaper Group:
Publications |
Production
Facilities |
|||||||||||||||
State of Operations |
Dailies | Weeklies | Shoppers | |||||||||||||
Illinois |
5 | 0 | 7 | 2 | ||||||||||||
New York |
3 | 2 | 2 | 0 | ||||||||||||
Ohio |
3 | 1 | 2 | 2 | ||||||||||||
Connecticut |
1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | ||||||||||||
Total |
12 | 3 | 12 | 4 |
Directories
The core of our directory portfolio is comprised of the three yellow page directories, which are located in and around the Sacramento, California area, primarily in Roseville, California. The three directories have an aggregate circulation of approximately 408,000 and service Roseville, Auburn/Grass Valley/Nevada City and Folsom/El Dorado/Placerville, reaching four counties within the Sacramento region.
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Our SureWest portfolio is highlighted by the Roseville directory. The Roseville directory is the incumbent (with a circulation of approximately 250,000) and has served the local Roseville community for over 95 years and has achieved more than 50% market share.
We also own three additional directories including two Michigan and Indiana phone guides servicing St. Joseph County, Michigan and LaGrange County, Indiana, and Branch County, Michigan and Steuben County, Indiana, respectively, and one yellow page directory based in Mt. Shasta, California.
Revenue
Our operations generate three primary types of revenue: (i) advertising, (ii) circulation (including home delivery subscriptions, single copy sales and digital subscriptions) and (iii) other (primarily commercial printing). In 2012, these revenue streams accounted for approximately 68%, 27% and 5%, respectively, of our total revenue. The contribution of advertising, circulation and other revenue to our total revenue in 2012, 2011 and 2010 was as follows:
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||
Advertising |
$ | 330,881 | $ | 357,134 | $ | 385,579 | ||||||
Circulation |
131,576 | 131,879 | 133,192 | |||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
26,097 | 25,657 | 25,967 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total revenue |
$ | 488,554 | $ | 514,670 | $ | 544,738 |
Advertising
Advertising revenue, which includes revenue generated from online and mobile products, is the largest component of our revenue, accounting for approximately 68%, 69% and 71% of our total revenue in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. We categorize advertising as follows:
| Local Retaillocal retailers, local stores for national retailers, grocers, drug stores, department and furniture stores, local financial institutions, niche shops, restaurants and other consumer related businesses. |
| Local Classifiedlocal employment, automotive, real estate, legal, obituaries and other advertising. |
| Onlinebanner, display, classified, behavioral targeting, audience extension, search and other advertising on websites or mobile devices. |
| Nationalnational and major accounts such as wireless communications companies, airlines and hotels. |
We believe that our advertising revenue tends to be less volatile than the advertising revenue of large metropolitan and national print media because we rely primarily on local, rather than national, advertising and we have less exposure to classified revenue than others within our industry. We generally derive 95% or more of our advertising revenue from local advertising (local retail, local classified and online) and less than 5% from national advertising. We believe that local advertising tends to be less sensitive to economic cycles than national advertising because local businesses generally have fewer effective advertising channels through which they may reach their customers. We are also less reliant than large metropolitan newspapers upon classified advertising, particularly the recruiting and real estate categories, which are generally more sensitive to economic conditions.
Our advertising rate structures vary among our publications and are a function of various factors, including local market conditions, competition, circulation, readership and demographics. Our corporate management
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works with our local newspaper management to approve advertising rates and a portion of our publishers incentive compensation is based upon growing advertising revenue. Our sales compensation program emphasizes digital and new business growth. We share advertising concepts throughout our network of publishers and advertising directors including periodic special section programs, enabling them to utilize advertising products and sales strategies that are successful in other markets we serve.
Substantially all of our advertising revenue is derived from a diverse group of local retailers and local classified advertisers, resulting in very limited customer concentration. No single advertiser accounted for more than 1% of our total revenue in 2010, 2011 or 2012 and our 20 largest advertisers account for less than 5% of total revenue.
Our advertising revenue tends to follow a seasonal pattern, with higher advertising revenue in months containing significant events or holidays. Accordingly, our first quarter, followed by our third quarter, historically are our weakest quarters of the year in terms of revenue. Correspondingly, our second fiscal quarter, and fourth fiscal quarter, historically are our strongest quarters. We expect that this seasonality will continue to affect our advertising revenue in future periods.
We have experienced declines in advertising revenue over the past few years, due primarily to a combination of the economic recession and secular pressures on the business. We continue to search for organic growth opportunities, specifically in our digital advertising and ways to stabilize print revenue declines through new product launches and pricing.
Circulation
Our circulation revenue is derived from home delivery sales to subscribers, single copy sales at retail stores and vending racks and boxes, and digital subscriptions. We own 78 paid daily publications that range in circulation from approximately 500 to 50,000 and 168 paid weekly publications that range in circulation from approximately 100 to 10,000. Circulation revenue accounted for approximately 27%, 26% and 24% of our total revenue in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Subscriptions are typically sold for three to twelve-month terms and often include promotions to extend the average subscription period or convert someone to become a subscriber. We also provide bundled print and digital subscriptions and employ pay meters for our website content at most of our daily publications. We implement marketing programs to increase readership through subscription and single copy sales, including company-wide and local circulation contests, direct mail programs, door-to-door sales and strategic alliances with local schools in the form of Newspapers in Education programs. In addition, since the adoption of the Telemarketing Sales Rule by the Federal Trade Commission in 2003, which created a national do not call registry, we have increased our use of EZ Pay programs, kiosks, sampling programs, in-paper promotions and online promotions to increase our circulation.
We encourage subscriber use of EZ Pay, a monthly credit card charge or direct bank debit payment program, which has led to higher retention rates for subscribers. We also use an active stop-loss program for all expiring subscribers. Additionally, in order to improve our circulation revenue and circulation trends, we periodically review the need for quality enhancements, such as:
| Increasing the amount of unique hyper-local content; |
| Increasing the use of color and color photographs; |
| Improving graphic design, including complete redesigns; |
| Developing creative and interactive promotional campaigns; and |
| Improving customer service and company wide customer retention efforts. |
| Better use of demographic data to specifically target pricing and customer acquisition opportunities. |
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We believe that our unique and valuable hyper-local content allows us to continue to produce products of great relevance to our local market audiences. This allows us to be able to periodically raise prices, both for home delivery and on a single copy basis, resulting in increased circulation revenues. We also believe this hyper-local unique content will allow us to find ways to grow circulation revenues from our wide array of digital products.
Other
We provide commercial printing services to third parties on a competitive bid basis as a means to generate incremental revenue and utilize excess printing capacity. These customers consist primarily of other publishers that do not have their own printing presses and do not compete with our publications. We also print other commercial materials, including flyers, business cards and invitations. Other sources of revenue, including commercial printing, accounted for approximately 5%, 5% and 5% of our total revenue in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Printing and Distribution
We own and operate 32 print facilities. Our print facilities produce 10 publications on average and are generally located within 60 miles of the communities served. By clustering our production resources or outsourcing where cost beneficial, we are able to reduce the operating costs of our publications while increasing the quality of our small and midsize market publications that would typically not otherwise have access to high quality production facilities. We also believe that we are able to reduce future capital expenditure needs by having fewer overall pressrooms and buildings. We believe our superior production quality is critical to maintaining and enhancing our position as the leading provider of local news coverage in the markets we serve.
The distribution of our daily newspapers is typically outsourced to independent, locally based, third-party distributors that also distribute a majority of our weekly newspapers and non-newspaper publications. We continuously evaluate lower cost options for newspaper delivery. In addition, certain of our shopper and weekly publications are delivered via the U.S. Postal Service.
Newsprint
We are a member of a consortium which enables our local publishers to obtain favorable pricing when investing in newsprint by going to local mills at reduced rates negotiated by the consortium. As a result, we have generally been able to purchase newsprint at a price of $10 to $12 per metric ton below the market price. In addition we have an agreement with a newsprint vendor to supply certain of our properties with all their newsprint requirements at a fixed price. We generally maintain a 45 to 55 day inventory of newsprint. Newsprint is a readily available commodity.
Historically, the market price of newsprint has been volatile, reaching a high of approximately $823 per metric ton in 2008 and a low of $410 per metric ton in 2002. The average market price of newsprint during 2012 was approximately $667 per metric ton.
In 2012 we consumed approximately 41,400 metric tons of newsprint (inclusive of commercial printing) and the cost of our newsprint consumption totaled approximately $27.7 million. Our newsprint expense typically averages less than 10% of total revenue, which we believe generally compares favorably to larger, metropolitan newspapers.
For our 2011 and 2012 purchases of newsprint we negotiated a fixed price for approximately 75% of our newsprint tons which allowed us to eliminate some of the volatility of the market price.
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Competition
Each of our publications competes for advertising revenue to varying degrees with traditional media outlets such as direct mail, yellow pages, radio, outdoor advertising, broadcast and cable television, magazines, local, regional and national newspapers, shoppers and other print and online media sources, including local blogs. We also increasingly compete with new digital and social media companies for advertising revenue. However, we believe that barriers to entry remain high in many of the markets we serve in terms of being the preeminent source for local news and information therein, because our markets are generally not large enough to support a second newspaper and because our local news gathering infrastructures, sales networks and relationships would be time consuming and costly to replicate. We also have highly recognized local brand names and long histories in the towns we serve.
We also provide our readers with community-specific content, which is generally not available from other media sources. We believe that our direct and focused coverage of the market and our cost effective advertising rates relative to more broadly circulated metropolitan newspapers allow us to tailor an approach for our advertisers. As a result, our publications generally capture a large share of local advertising in the markets they serve.
The level of competition and the primary competitors we face vary from market to market. Competition tends to be based on market penetration, demographic and quality factors, as opposed to price factors. The competitive environment in each of our operating regions is discussed in greater detail below.
Small Community Newspaper Group. The Small Community Newspaper Group operates in 164 markets and we believe our publications are the dominant print advertising media in the vast majority of these markets. There are radio stations in or within 20 miles of every market in which we operate, but we do not believe that any of these radio station operators pose a significant competitive threat to our publications. Yellow page advertising is prevalent in all of our markets with either a local phone book or a regional phone book. We believe that, in most cases, yellow page advertising is geared more towards the professional services advertisers such as attorneys and doctors and not the local retail advertisers, as is the focus with our non-directory publications. Lee Enterprises has the Southern Illinoisan that is located in Carbondale. This is a regional newspaper that competes with our dailies in Marion, Benton, West Frankfort and DuQuoin. In all four of these cases, we believe our publications are the dominant local daily, but do compete on a regional basis with the larger dailies. We also compete with shoppers or weekly newspapers. This competition comes from small independent operators and is not significant. We have very little television competition in this group because of our geographic location in relation to major markets. There are no local television affiliates in our markets.
In the southern regions of this group we believe our publications are generally the dominant media in those markets. Our major competition comes from regional daily newspapers, specifically: The Advocate in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; The American Press in Lake Charles, Louisiana; The Joplin Globe ; and the Wichita Eagle . We also face competition from numerous other daily and weekly papers, local radio stations, shopping guides, directories and niche publications.
In the Northeast market we believe our publications are generally the dominant media. The competition we face in this region are from major newspaper companies: daily newspapers owned by Gannett Company, Inc. ( The Star-Gazette in Elmira, NY and the Chambersburg (PA) Public-Opinion ); Times-Shamrock Companys Scranton (PA) The Times-Tribune and Towanda Daily/Sunday Review ; Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.s (CNHI) Sunbury Daily Item ; and Ogden-Nuttings Williamsport Sun-Gazette. We believe our publications tend to be the dominant local publication in those markets.
In our Great Lakes markets we believe our publications are generally the dominant media in those markets. Our only significant competition comes from regional television stations in Adrian, Michigan. We also face competition from dozens of other competitors such as other local daily and weekly papers and niche publications, as well as radio and television stations, directories, direct mail and non-local internet websites, but none of these have proven to be significant.
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Metro Newspaper Group. In the Metro Newspaper Group, the Boston Globe and boston.com , a metropolitan daily and website, respectively, owned by the New York Times Company, compete with us throughout eastern Massachusetts. In addition, we compete in Massachusetts with more than 30 other weekly or daily newspaper companies (that publish a combined total of approximately 16 dailies and 50 weeklies), three major radio station operators, five local network television broadcasters, one cable company and numerous niche publications for advertising revenues. We believe that our publications generally deliver the highest household coverage in their respective markets.
Large Daily Newspaper Group. In our Large Daily Newspaper Group we believe our publications are generally the dominant media in those markets. Daily newspapers owned by Gannett Company, Inc. ( Daily Sentinel in Rome, NY and The Dispatch in Oneida, NY) compete with in the New York market. We also face competition from other major newspaper companies in other regional markets such as Newhouse Newspapers Syracuse Post-Standard . Our competitors also include numerous other daily and weekly newspapers, local radio stations, shopping guides, directories and niche publications. We believe our publications, many of which have an extensive history in the relevant market, tend to be the dominant local publication.
Employees
As of December 30, 2012, we had approximately 4,131 full time equivalent employees, consisting of hourly and salaried employees. We employ union personnel at a number of our core publications representing approximately 612 full-time equivalent employees. As of December 30, 2012, there were 23 collective bargaining agreements covering union personnel. Most of our unionized employees work under collective bargaining agreements that expire in 2014. We believe that relations with our employees are generally good and we have had no work stoppages at any of our publications.
Environmental Matters
We believe that we are substantially in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations for the protection of the environment and the health and safety of our employees based upon existing facts presently known to us. Compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations relating to the discharge of substances into the environment, the disposal of hazardous wastes and other related activities has had, and will continue to have, an impact on our operations, but has, since our incorporation in 1997, been accomplished without having a material adverse effect on our operations. While it is difficult to estimate the timing and ultimate costs to be incurred due to uncertainties about the status of laws, regulations and technology, based on information currently known to us and insurance procured with respect to certain environmental matters, we do not expect environmental costs or contingencies to be material or to have a material adverse effect on our financial performance. Our operations involve risks in these areas, however, and we cannot assure you that we will not incur material costs or liabilities in the future which could adversely affect us.
Properties
We own and operate 32 print facilities across the United States. Our print facilities range in size from approximately 500 to 55,000 square feet. Our executive offices are located in Fairport, New York, where we lease approximately 15,000 square feet under a lease terminating in June 2014.
We maintain our properties in good condition and believe that our current facilities are adequate to meet the present needs of our business. We do not believe any individual property is material to our financial condition or results of operations.
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Corporate Governance and Public Information
The address of New Medias website is . Stockholders can access a wide variety of information on New Medias website, including news releases, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, information New Media is required to post online pursuant to applicable SEC rules, newspaper profiles and online links. New Media makes available via its website, all filings it makes under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K, and related amendments, as soon as reasonably practicable after they are filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. All such filings are available free of charge. Neither the content of New Medias corporate website nor any other website referred to in this Information Statement are incorporated by reference into this Information Statement unless expressly noted. The public may read and copy any information New Media files with the SEC at the SECs public reference room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the public reference room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains a website (http://www.sec.gov) where New Medias filings filed with the SEC are available free of charge.
List of Our Dailies, Weeklies, Shoppers, Websites and Directories
For a list of our dailies, weeklies, shoppers, websites and directories, please see Exhibit 99.2 to New Medias registration statement on Form 10.
Legal Proceedings
We become involved from time to time in claims and lawsuits incidental to the ordinary course of our business, including such matters as libel, invasion of privacy, intellectual property infringement, wrongful termination actions, and complaints alleging discrimination. In addition, we are involved from time to time in governmental and administrative proceedings concerning employment, labor, environmental and other claims. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these matters. Historically, such claims and proceedings have not had a material adverse effect upon our consolidated results of operations or financial condition. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of any currently outstanding legal actions, we believe that it is not a likely possibility that the disposition of these matters would have a material adverse effect upon our consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flow.
On September 4, 2013, Debtors entered into a Support Agreement, effective September 3, 2013, with Newcastle, the Administrative Agent and the Participating Lenders relating to a Restructuring of the Outstanding Debt and GateHouses equity pursuant to the Plan.
Pursuant to the Restructuring, Newcastle would make a Cash-Out Offer. On the Effective Date, the holders of the Outstanding Debt would have the option of receiving, in satisfaction of their Outstanding Debt, their pro rata share of the (i) Cash-Out Offer and/or (ii) New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds, if any, of the New Credit Facility. Newcastle will receive its pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility, if any, for all Outstanding Debt it holds, including Outstanding Debt purchased in the Cash-Out Offer. GateHouse intends to pay all pensions, trade and all other unsecured claims in full.
As of September 19, 2013, Newcastle and its affiliates held approximately 52.2% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility and the other Participating Lenders held approximately 28.7% of such principal amount (in each case, including certain amounts still pending trade settlement). Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
GateHouse commenced the Solicitation on September 20, 2013. Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if the Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, Debtors intend to
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commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan therein. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan. See additional discussion in The Spin-Off and Restructuring, Restructuring Agreements and Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations.
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OUR MANAGER AND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
This description is a summary and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by, the provisions of the Management Agreement, filed as an exhibit to our registration statement on Form 10.
General
New Media will be externally managed by FIG LLC (our Manager), an affiliate of Fortress, pursuant to the terms of a Management and Advisory Agreement (the Management Agreement) dated as of , 2013 between us and our Manager. Our Manager also manages Newcastle and is an affiliate of Fortress.
Management Agreement
Prior to the completion of the planned distribution (the Distribution or the spin-off), we will enter into a Management Agreement with our Manager, which will provide for the day-to-day management of our operations. Our Management Agreement will require our Manager to manage our business affairs subject to the supervision of our Board of Directors (the Board). Our Management Agreement will become effective upon the Effective Date.
Our Manager will be responsible for, among other things, (i) the purchase and sale of our investments, (ii) the financing of our investments, and (iii) investment advisory services. Our Manager will be responsible for our day-to-day operations and will perform (or cause to be performed) such services and activities relating to our assets and operations as may be appropriate, which may include, without limitation, the following:
(i) | serving as the Companys consultant with respect to the periodic review of the investment criteria and parameters for investments of the Company (Investments), borrowings and operations; |
(ii) | investigation, analysis, valuation and selection of investment opportunities; |
(iii) | with respect to prospective Investments by the Company and dispositions of Investments, conducting negotiations with brokers, sellers and purchasers and their respective agents and representatives, investment bankers and owners of privately and publicly held companies; |
(iv) | engaging and supervising, on behalf of the Company and at the Companys expense, independent contractors that provide services relating to the Investments, including, but not limited to, investment banking, legal advisory, tax advisory, accounting advisory, securities brokerage, real estate advisory and brokerage, and other financial and consulting services as the Manager determines from time to time is advisable; |
(v) | negotiating on behalf of the Company for the sale, exchange or other disposition of any Investments; |
(vi) | coordinating and managing operations of any joint venture or co-investment interests held by the Company and conducting all matters with the joint venture or co-investment partners; |
(vii) | providing executive and administrative personnel, office space and office services required in rendering services to the Company; |
(viii) | administering the day-to-day operations of the Company and performing and supervising the performance of such other administrative functions necessary in the management of the Company as may be agreed upon by the Manager and our Board, including, without limitation, the collection of revenues and the payment of the Companys debts and obligations and maintenance of appropriate computer services to perform such administrative functions; |
(ix) | communicating on behalf of the Company with the holders of any equity or debt securities of the Company as required to satisfy the reporting and other requirements of any governmental bodies or agencies or trading markets and to maintain effective relations with such holders; |
(x) | counseling the Company in connection with policy decisions to be made by our Board; |
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(xi) | evaluating and recommending to our Board modifications to the hedging strategies in effect on the date hereof and engaging in hedging activities on behalf of the Company; |
(xii) | counseling the Company regarding the maintenance of its exemption from the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the Investment Company Act) and monitoring compliance with the requirements for maintaining an exemption from the Investment Company Act; |
(xiii) | assisting the Company in developing criteria that are specifically tailored to the Companys investment objectives and making available to the Company its knowledge and experience with respect to its target assets; |
(xiv) | representing and making recommendations to the Company in connection with the purchase and finance, and commitment to purchase and finance, of its target assets, and in connection with the sale and commitment to sell such assets; |
(xv) | monitoring the operating performance of the Investments and providing periodic reports with respect thereto to our Board, including comparative information with respect to such operating performance, valuation and budgeted or projected operating results; |
(xvi) | investing and re-investing any moneys and securities of the Company (including investing in short-term Investments pending investment in Investments, payment of fees, costs and expenses, or payments of dividends or distributions to stockholders and partners of the Company) and advising the Company as to its capital structure and capital raising; |
(xvii) | causing the Company to retain qualified accountants and legal counsel, as applicable, to assist in developing appropriate accounting procedures, compliance procedures and testing systems with respect to financial reporting obligations and to conduct quarterly compliance reviews with respect thereto; |
(xviii) | causing the Company to qualify to do business in all applicable jurisdictions and to obtain and maintain all appropriate licenses; |
(xix) | assisting the Company in complying with all regulatory requirements applicable to the Company in respect of its business activities, including preparing or causing to be prepared all financial statements required under applicable regulations and contractual undertakings and all reports and documents required under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; |
(xx) | taking all necessary actions to enable the Company to make required tax filings and reports, including soliciting stockholders for required information to the extent provided by the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code); |
(xxi) | handling and resolving all claims, disputes or controversies (including all litigation, arbitration, settlement or other proceedings or negotiations) in which the Company may be involved or to which the Company may be subject arising out of the Companys day-to-day operations, subject to such limitations or parameters as may be imposed from time to time by our Board; |
(xxii) | using commercially reasonable efforts to cause expenses incurred by or on behalf of the Company to be reasonable or customary and within any budgeted parameters or expense guidelines set by our Board from time to time; |
(xxiii) | performing such other services as may be required from time to time for management and other activities relating to the assets of the Company as our Board shall reasonably request or the Manager shall deem appropriate under the particular circumstances; and |
(xxiv) | using commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Company to comply with all applicable laws. |
Indemnification
Pursuant to our Management Agreement, our Manager will not assume any responsibility other than to render the services called for thereunder in good faith and will not be responsible for any action of our Board in
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following or declining to follow its advice or recommendations. Our Manager, its members, managers, officers and employees will not be liable to us or any of our subsidiaries, to our Board, or our or any subsidiarys stockholders or partners for any acts or omissions by our Manager, its members, managers, officers or employees, except by reason of acts constituting bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of our Managers duties under our Management Agreement. We shall, to the full extent lawful, reimburse, indemnify and hold our Manager, its members, managers, officers and employees and each other person, if any, controlling our Manager, harmless of and from any and all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims of any nature whatsoever (including attorneys fees) in respect of or arising from any acts or omissions of an indemnified party made in good faith in the performance of our Managers duties under our Management Agreement and not constituting such indemnified partys bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of our Managers duties under our Management Agreement.
Our Manager will, to the full extent lawful, reimburse, indemnify and hold us, our stockholders, directors, officers and employees and each other person, if any, controlling us, harmless of and from any and all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims of any nature whatsoever (including attorneys fees) in respect of or arising from our Managers bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties under our Management Agreement. Our Manager carries errors and omissions and other customary insurance.
Management Team
Following the commencement date of regular-way trading of Common Stock on a major U.S. national securities exchange, the Manager will be responsible for the compensation and benefits of our Chief Executive Officer. Our Chief Executive Officers compensation and benefits will be subject to the review and approval of the Compensation Committee of the Board. Any increase to our Chief Executive Officers compensation and benefits in effect as of the date of the Management Agreement will either be approved by the Manager or be paid for by the Company.
Devotion of Additional Time; Conflicts of Interest
Our management team will not be required to exclusively dedicate their services to us and will provide services for other entities affiliated with our Manager, including, but not limited to, Newcastle.
In addition, Newcastle and other Fortress affiliates will not be restricted from pursuing other opportunities that may create conflicts or competition for us. However, our code of business conduct and ethics prohibits, subject to the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the directors, officers and employees of our Manager from engaging in any transaction that involves an actual conflict of interest with us. See Risk FactorsRisks Relating to Our ManagerThere may be conflicts of interest in our relationship with our Manager, including with respect to corporate opportunities and Description of Our Capital StockCorporate Opportunity.
Assignment
Our Manager may generally only assign our Management Agreement with the written approval of a majority of our independent directors; provided, however, that our Manager may assign our Management Agreement to an entity whose day-to-day business and operations are managed and supervised by Mr. Wesley R. Edens (the Principal), provided, further, that such transaction is determined at the time not to be an assignment for purposes of Section 205 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated under such act and the interpretations thereof issued by the SEC. We may not assign our Management Agreement without the prior written consent of our Manager, except in the case of an assignment to our successor, in which case such successor organization shall be bound under our Management Agreement and by the terms of such assignment in the same manner as we are bound under our Management Agreement.
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Term; Termination
The initial term of our Management Agreement will expire on the third anniversary of the Distribution and will be renewed automatically each year for an additional one-year period unless (i) a majority consisting of at least two-thirds of our independent directors or a simple majority of the holders of outstanding shares of our Common Stock, reasonably agree that there has been unsatisfactory performance that is materially detrimental to us or (ii) a simple majority of our independent directors agree that the management fee payable to our Manager is unfair; provided, that we shall not have the right to terminate our Management Agreement under clause (ii) foregoing if the Manager agrees to continue to provide the services under the Management Agreement at a fee that our independent directors have determined to be fair.
If we elect not to renew our Management Agreement at the expiration of the original term or any such one-year extension term as set forth above, our Manager will be provided with 60 days prior notice of any such termination. In the event of such termination, we would be required to pay the termination fee described below. We may also terminate our Management Agreement at any time for cause effective upon sixty (60) days prior written notice of termination from us to our Manager, in which case no termination fee would be due, for the following reasons:
(i) | the willful violation of the Management Agreement by the Manager in its corporate capacity (as distinguished from the acts of any employees of the Manager which are taken without the complicity of the Principal) under the Management Agreement; |
(ii) | our Managers fraud, misappropriation of funds, or embezzlement against us; and |
(iii) | our Managers gross negligence of duties under our Management Agreement. |
In addition, our Manager may terminate our Management Agreement effective upon sixty (60) days prior written notice of termination to us in the event that we default in the performance or observance of any material term, condition or covenant contained in our Management Agreement and such default continues for a period of thirty (30) days after written notice thereof specifying such default and requesting that the same be remedied in such 30 day period.
If our Management Agreement is terminated by our Manager upon our breach, we would be required to pay our Manager the termination fee described below.
Management Fee
After the commencement date of our Common Stock trading on the regular way market on a major U.S. national securities exchange , we will pay our Manager an annual management fee equal to 1.5% per annum of our total equity calculated and payable monthly in arrears in cash. Total equity is generally the equity transferred by Newcastle on the date on which our shares trade in the regular way market on the NYSE, plus total net proceeds from any equity capital raised (including through stock offerings), plus certain capital contributions to subsidiaries, plus the equity value of certain assets contributed to the Company, less capital distributions and repurchases of Common Stock.
Our Manager shall compute each installment of the management fee within 15 days after the end of the calendar month with respect to which such installment is payable.
Incentive Compensation
Commencing from the date on which our shares trade in the regular way market on a major U.S. national securities exchange, our Manager will be eligible to receive on a quarterly basis annual incentive compensation in an amount equal to the product of 25% of the dollar amount by which (a) the adjusted net income of the Company exceeds (b)(i) the weighted daily average total equity (plus cash capital raising costs), multiplied by (ii) a simple interest rate of 10% per annum.
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Adjusted net income means net income (computed in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)), plus depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships, joint ventures and permanent cash tax savings. Adjusted net income will be computed on an unconsolidated basis. The computation of adjusted net income may be adjusted at the direction of the independent directors based on changes in, or certain applications, of GAAP.
Upon any termination of our Management Agreement by either party, we shall be entitled to purchase our Managers right to receive incentive compensation from our Manager for a cash purchase price equal to the amount that would be distributed to our Manager if all of our assets were sold for cash at their then current fair market value (taking into account, among other things, expected future performance of the underlying investments) or otherwise continue to pay the incentive compensation to the Manager. In addition, if we do not elect to so purchase the Managers right to receive incentive compensation, our Manager will have the right to require us to purchase the same at the price described above. In either case, such fair market value shall be determined by independent appraisal to be conducted by a nationally recognized appraisal firm mutually agreed upon by us and our Manager.
Our Board may request that our Manager accept all or a portion of its incentive compensation in shares of our Common Stock, and our Manager may elect, in its discretion, to accept such payment in the form of shares, subject to limitations that may be imposed by the rules of the NYSE or otherwise.
Upon the successful completion of an offering of shares of our Common Stock or any shares of preferred stock, we will grant our Manager options equal to 10% of the number of shares being sold in the offering (excluding the shares issued to Newcastle or its affiliates in the Local Media Contribution), with an exercise price equal to the offering price per share paid by the public or other ultimate purchaser. For the avoidance of doubt, the listing of our Common Stock does not constitute an offering for purposes of this provision.
Reimbursement of Expenses
Because our Managers employees perform certain legal, accounting, due diligence tasks and other services that outside professionals or outside consultants otherwise would perform, on the date on which our shares trade in the regular way market on the NYSE, our Manager will be paid or reimbursed for the cost of performing such tasks, provided that such costs and reimbursements are no greater than those which would be paid to outside professionals or consultants on an arms-length basis.
We also pay all operating expenses, except those specifically required to be borne by our Manager under our Management Agreement. Our Manager is responsible for all costs incident to the performance of its duties under the Management Agreement, including compensation of our Managers employees, rent for facilities and other overhead expenses. The expenses required to be paid by us include, but are not limited to, issuance and transaction costs incident to the acquisition, disposition, operation and financing of our investments, legal and auditing fees and expenses, the compensation and expenses of our independent directors, the costs associated with the establishment and maintenance of any credit facilities and other indebtedness of ours (including commitment fees, legal fees, closing costs, etc.), expenses associated with other securities offerings of ours, the costs of printing and mailing proxies and reports to our stockholders, costs incurred by employees of our manager for travel on our behalf, costs associated with any computer software or hardware that is used solely for us, costs to obtain liability insurance to indemnify our directors and officers and the compensation and expenses of our distribution agent.
Termination Fee
The termination fee is a fee equal to the sum of (1) the amount of the management fee during the 12 months immediately preceding the date of termination, and (2) the Incentive Compensation Fair Value Amount, if such option is exercised by the Company or the Manager. The Incentive Compensation Fair Value Amount is an amount equal to the Incentive Compensation that would be paid to the Manager if our assets were sold for cash at their then current fair market value (as determined by an appraisal, taking into account, among other things, the expected future value of the underlying investments).
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Officers of GateHouse, our Predecessor
The following individuals serve as the officers of our Predecessor, GateHouse:
Michael E. Reed, age 47 , became our Chief Executive Officer in January of 2006. He was formerly the President and Chief Executive Officer of Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc., or CNHI, a leading publisher of local news and information and had served in that capacity since 1999. Mr. Reed served as CNHIs Chief Financial Officer from 1997 to 1999. Prior to that, he worked for Park Communications, Inc., a multimedia company, located in Ithaca, New York. Mr. Reed formerly served on the Board of Directors for the Newspaper Association of America. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Minneapolis Star Tribune, on which he has served since 2009. Mr. Reed formerly served as a director of the Associated Press and Chairman of the Audit Committee for the Associated Press. Mr. Reed was also a member of the Board of Visitors of the University of Alabamas College of Communication and Information Sciences and was a member of the Grady College Journalism Schools Board of Advisors. Mr. Reed has a deep understanding of our operations, strategy and people, as well as our industry, serving as our Chief Executive Officer for over seven years. He has also served in senior executive capacities with other companies in the newspaper and publishing industries. Mr. Reed also has extensive corporate board experience.
Melinda A. Janik, age 56 , became our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in February 2009. She formerly served as an officer and Vice President and Controller of Paychex, Inc., a provider of payroll, human resource services, from 2005 to 2009. Prior to joining Paychex, Inc., Ms. Janik served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Glimcher Realty Trust, a mall Real Estate Investment Trust based in Columbus, Ohio, from 2002 to 2004. Ms. Janik was formerly Vice President and Treasurer of NCR Corporation, a global provider of financial and retail self service solutions and data warehousing based in Atlanta, Georgia, from 1997 to 2002. Prior to that, she worked for the accounting firm Pricewaterhouse LLP. Ms. Janik is a Certified Public Accountant and holds an MBA in finance and accounting and a bachelors degree in chemistry from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
Kirk Davis, age 52 , became our President and Chief Operating Officer in January 2009. Mr. Davis has been with us since 2006, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of GateHouse Media New England. Prior to joining us, Mr. Davis served as the Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise NewsMedia, LLC, also known as the South of Boston Media Group, from 2004 to 2006. Prior to that, Mr. Davis served as Vice President of Publishing for Turley Publications, Inc., a publishing and printing company, from 2002 to 2004. In 2001, Mr. Davis formed Cracked Rock Media, Inc. and began acquiring newspapers in Central Massachusetts. Mr. Davis still owns Cracked Rock Media, but has no day-to-day operational involvement. Prior to that, Mr. Davis served as President of Community Newspaper Company (CNC) from 1998 to 2001. Mr. Davis also served as President of a newspaper group in the Boston area (TAB Newspapers), which was part of CNC, from 1996 to 1998. Mr. Davis also served as a Publisher and managed newspaper companies in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and California from 1990 to 1996. Mr. Davis also served as Vice President of Circulation and Marketing for Ingersoll Publications from 1985 to 1990. Mr. Davis attended Wright State University and Ohio University. He is past chairman of the board for the Suburban Newspapers of America (SNA) and as well as past chairman of the SNA Foundation. In 2007, Mr. Davis was elected to the Board of Directors of the Alliance for Audited Media.
Polly G. Sack, age 53 , became our Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel in May 2006. Ms. Sack was named a Senior Vice President of ours in February 2009. She was formerly Senior Vice President and Director of Mergers and Acquisitions of IMG Worldwide, Inc. (IMG), a global sports, media and entertainment company, and had served in that capacity since 2001. Ms. Sack also served as IMGs associate counsel and a vice president from 1992 to 2001. Prior to that, she worked in private practice for a major international law firm. Ms. Sack holds bachelor degrees in civil engineering and mathematics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a masters degree in civil engineering from Stanford University, in addition to a law degree from Stanford University Law School.
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Mark Maring, age 47 , became our Vice President of Investor Relations and Strategic Development in March 2008 and became our Treasurer in January 2009. Mr. Maring also served as our Interim Chief Financial Officer from August 2008 to February 2009. He was formerly a Vice President of Mendon Capital Advisors Corp, a registered investment advisor, from 2004 through 2008 where his responsibilities included risk management and hedging strategies. From 2000 to 2004 Mr. Maring was Vice President Investor Relations for Constellation Brands, Inc. (Constellation) an international producer and marketer of beverage alcohol brands. Mr. Maring also served as Constellations Director of Planning from 1997 to 2000. From 1992 to 1997, Mr. Maring worked with the accounting firm Arthur Andersen LLP. From 1987 to 1992 he worked for The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. in investment banking. Mr. Maring is a certified public accountant and holds a masters degree in finance and accounting, from the Simon School of Business at the University of Rochester and a B.S. from St. John Fisher College.
Directors of GateHouse, our Predecessor
For a description of GateHouses directors, see the section under the heading Directors of GateHouses Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, filed with the SEC on April 9, 2013, which is incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 99.3 to New Medias registration statement on Form 10.
Directors of New Media
In accordance with the terms of our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the Board of New Media is divided into three classes of directors (designated Class I, Class II and Class III) of the same or nearly the same number to the extent practicable. At each annual meeting of stockholders, one class of directors will be elected for a three-year term to succeed the directors of the same class whose terms are then expiring. As a result, absent extenuating circumstances, a portion of the Board will be elected each year.
Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation authorizes a Board consisting of at least three, but no more than nine, members, with the exact number of directors to be fixed from time to time by a resolution of the majority of the Board (or by a duly adopted amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation). Any additional directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors will be distributed among the three classes so that, as nearly as possible, each class will consist of one-third of the directors. The division of the Board into classes with staggered three-year terms may delay or prevent a change of management or a change in control.
Name, Position, Age |
Description |
|
Wesley R. Edens Director Age: 51 |
Mr. Edens has been Chairman of Newcastles board of directors since its inception and served as its Chief Executive Officer from its inception until February 2007. Mr. Edens is a principal and a Co-Chairman of the board of directors of Fortress, an affiliate of our Manager. Mr. Edens has been a principal and a member of the Management Committee of Fortress since co-founding Fortress in May 1998. Mr. Edens is responsible for the private equity and publicly traded alternative investment businesses of Fortress. He is also Chairman of the board of directors of each of GateHouse Media, Inc., Nationstar Mortgage Holdings Inc., Seacastle Inc. and Mapeley Limited, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Newcastle Investment Holdings LLC (the predecessor of Newcastle) and a director of GAGFAH S.A., Brookdale Senior Living Inc. and Penn National Gaming Inc. Mr. Edens was the Chief Executive Officer of Global Signal Inc. from February 2004 to April 2006 and Chairman of the board of directors from October 2002 to January 2007. Mr. Edens serves or has served in various capacities in the following five current or former registered investment companies: Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee of Fortress Registered Investment Trust and Fortress |
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Name, Position, Age |
Description |
|
Investment Trust II; Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fortress Brookdale Investment Fund LLC and Fortress Pinnacle Investment Fund LLC and Chief Executive Officer of RIC Coinvestment Fund GP LLC. Prior to forming Fortress Investment Group LLC, Mr. Edens was a partner and a managing director of BlackRock Financial Management Inc., where he headed BlackRock Asset Investors, a private equity fund. In addition, Mr. Edens was formerly a partner and a managing director of Lehman Brothers. As a result of his past experiences, Mr. Edens has private equity finance and management expertise. These factors and his other qualifications and skills, led our board of directors to conclude that Mr. Edens should serve as a director. | ||
Michael E. Reed Director Age: 47 |
Mr. Reed became GateHouses Chief Executive Officer in January of 2006. Mr. Reed is a member of the board of directors of GateHouse since October 2006. He was formerly the President and Chief Executive Officer of Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc., or CNHI, a leading publisher of local news and information and had served in that capacity since 1999. Mr. Reed served as CNHIs Chief Financial Officer from 1997 to 1999. Prior to that, he worked for Park Communications, Inc., a multimedia company, located in Ithaca, New York. Mr. Reed formerly served on the Board of Directors for the Newspaper Association of America. He has also served on the Board of Directors for the Minneapolis Star Tribune since 2009. Mr. Reed formerly served as a director of the Associated Press and Chairman of the Audit Committee for the Associated Press. Mr. Reed was also a member of the Board of Visitors of the University of Alabamas College of Communication and Information Sciences and was a member of the Grady College Journalism Schools Board of Advisors. Mr. Reed has a deep understanding of our operations, strategy and people, as well as our industry, serving as our Chief Executive Officer for over seven years. He has also served in senior executive capacities with other companies in the newspaper and publishing industries. Mr. Reed also has extensive corporate board experience. |
Corporate Governance Principles and Board Matters
New Media is committed to maintaining high standards of business conduct and corporate governance, which we believe are essential to running our business efficiently, serving our stockholders well and maintaining our integrity in the marketplace. To that end, we have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for our directors, officers and employees, including a separate Code of Ethics for our Chief Executive Officer and senior financial officers. In addition, we have adopted the Corporate Governance Guidelines of New Media on (our Corporate Governance Guidelines), which, in conjunction with our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, Amended and Restated Bylaws and Audit Committee charter, form the framework for our corporate governance. All of our corporate governance materials, including the Audit Committee charter, are available under the Investors tabs on our website at .
These materials also are available in print to any stockholder upon request. The Board regularly reviews corporate governance developments and makes modifications as warranted.
Board and Board Committee Independence
According to our Corporate Governance Guidelines, all members of the Audit Committee must be independent directors. Members of the Audit Committee also must satisfy a separate SEC independence requirement, which provides that they may not accept directly or indirectly any consulting, advisory or other compensatory fee from us or any of our subsidiaries other than their compensation for service as directors.
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Board Structure and Committee Composition
As of the date of this Information Statement, the Board has five directors, a standing Audit Committee, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and Compensation Committee. The committees memberships and functions are described below. The Audit Committee, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and Compensation Committee operate under written charters adopted by the Board.
Board Leadership Structure
We currently split the roles of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. The Board believes that separating these two positions allows each person to focus on their individual responsibilities and enhances the accountability of our Chief Executive Officer to the Board. Under this structure, our Chief Executive Officer can focus his attention on the day-to-day operations and performance of our Company and on implementing our longer-term strategic direction. At the same time, our Chairman of the Board can focus his attention on longer term strategic issues, setting the agenda for and on providing insight and guidance to our Chief Executive Officer. We currently believe that the separation of the roles of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer is appropriate, however, our Corporate Governance Guidelines do not require the separation of the offices of the Chairman of the Board and the Chief Executive Officer. The Board is free to choose its Chairman of the Board in any way that it deems best at any given point in time.
The Boards Role in Risk Oversight
The Board is responsible for enterprise risk management, including risks associated with our corporate governance, such as board organization, membership, structure and leadership succession planning, as well as the management of risks arising from our executive compensation policies and programs. While the Board retains responsibility for the general oversight of risks, it has delegated financial oversight to our Audit Committee, which focuses on financial risk, including those that could arise from our accounting and financial reporting processes and our consolidated financial statement audits.
The Board and the Audit Committee work together to provide enterprise-wide oversight of our management and handling of risk. These responsibilities are satisfied through periodic reports from the Audit Committee chairman regarding the risk considerations within its area of expertise, as well as through periodic reports to the Board, or the Audit Committee, from our management team on areas of material risk to the Company, including operational, financial, legal, regulatory and strategic risks. The Board, or the Audit Committee with respect to risks within its scope, reviews these reports to enable it to understand our risk identification, risk management and risk mitigation strategies. The Audit Committee chairman will report to the Board at subsequent Board meetings regarding particular risks within the scope of the Audit Committee, enabling the Board and the Audit Committee to coordinate the risk oversight role.
Committees of the Board
We have established the following committees of our Board:
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee:
| reviews the audit plans and findings of our independent registered public accounting firm and our internal audit and risk review staff, as well as the results of regulatory examinations, and tracks managements corrective action plans where necessary; |
| reviews our financial statements, including any significant financial items and/or changes in accounting policies, with our senior management and independent registered public accounting firm; |
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| reviews our financial risk and control procedures, compliance programs and significant tax, legal and regulatory matters; and |
| has the sole discretion to appoint annually our independent registered public accounting firm, evaluate its independence and performance and set clear hiring policies for employees or former employees of the independent registered public accounting firm. |
The members of the Audit Committee are (chair), , and . Upon effectiveness of the registration statement, each member of the committee will be independent, as defined under the rules of the NYSE and Rule 10A-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the Exchange Act). Our Board has determined that each director appointed to the Audit Committee is financially literate, and the board has determined that is our Audit Committee financial expert.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
The nominating and Corporate Governance Committee:
| reviews the performance of our Board and makes recommendations to the Board regarding the selection of candidates, qualification and competency requirements for service on the Board and the suitability of proposed nominees as directors; |
| advises the Board with respect to the corporate governance principles applicable to us; |
| oversees the evaluation of the Board and management; |
| reviews and approves in advance any related party transaction, other than those that are pre-approved pursuant to pre-approval guidelines or rules established by the committee; and |
| recommends guidelines or rules to cover specific categories of transactions. |
The members of the nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are (chair), , and . Each member of our nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is independent, as defined under the rules of the NYSE.
Compensation Committee
The Compensation Committee:
| reviews and recommends to the Board the salaries, benefits and equity incentive grants for all employees, consultants, officers, directors and other individuals we compensate; |
| reviews and approves corporate goals and objectives relevant to Chief Executive Officer compensation, evaluates the Chief Executive Officers performance in light of those goals and objectives, and determines the Chief Executive Officers compensation based on that evaluation; and |
| oversees our compensation and employee benefit plans. |
The members of the Compensation Committee are (chair), , and . Each member of our Compensation Committee is independent, as defined under the rules of the NYSE. The independent directors that are appointed to the Compensation Committee are also non-employee directors as defined in Rule 16b-3(b)(3) under the Exchange Act and outside directors within the meaning of Section 162(m)(4)(c)(i) of the Code.
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Compensation of GateHouses Directors
For a description of the compensation of GateHouses directors, see the section under the heading Director Compensation of GateHouses Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, filed with the SEC on April 9, 2013, which is incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 99.3 to New Medias registration statement on Form 10.
Compensation of New Media Directors
We have not yet paid any compensation to our directors. Following completion of the Distribution, we will pay an annual fee to each independent director equal to $ , payable semi-annually. In addition, an annual fee of $ will be paid to the chairs of each of the audit and compensation committees of the board of directors. Fees to independent directors may be made by issuance of common stock, based on the value of such common stock at the date of issuance, rather than in cash, provided that any such issuance does not prevent such director from being determined to be independent and such shares are granted pursuant to a stockholder-approved plan or the issuance is otherwise exempt from NYSE listing requirements. Affiliated directors, however, will not be separately compensated by us. All members of the board of directors will be reimbursed for reasonable costs and expenses incurred in attending meetings of our board of directors.
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GateHouse Executive Compensation
For a description of the compensation of GateHouses executive officers, see the section under the heading Compensation of Named Executive Officers of GateHouses Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, filed with the SEC on April 9, 2013, which is incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit 99.3 to New Medias registration statement on Form 10.
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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
As of the date hereof, of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock are owned by Newcastle. After the Distribution, Newcastle will own none of our Common Stock. The following table provides information with respect to the expected beneficial ownership of our Common Stock by (i) each person who we believe will be a beneficial owner of more than 5% of our outstanding Common Stock, (ii) each of our directors and our named executive officer, and (iii) all directors, director nominees and executive officers as a group. We based the share amounts on each persons beneficial ownership of Newcastle common stock as of , 2013, unless we indicate some other basis for the share amounts, and assuming a distribution ratio of shares of our Common Stock for every shares of Newcastle common stock.
To the extent our directors and officer own Newcastle common stock at the time of the Distribution, they will participate in the Distribution on the same terms as other holders of Newcastle common stock.
On the Effective Date of the Plan, or as soon as practicable thereafter, we will issue and distribute the New Media Warrants. The New Media Warrants will collectively represent the right to acquire New Media Common Stock, which in the aggregate will be equal to 5% of New Media Common Stock as of the Effective Date (calculated prior to dilution from shares of New Media Common Stock issued pursuant to the Local Media Contribution) at a strike price calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution of $1.2 billion. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan.
Except as otherwise noted in the footnotes below, each person or entity identified below has sole voting and investment power with respect to such securities. Following the distribution, we will have outstanding an aggregate of shares of Common Stock based upon shares of Newcastle common stock outstanding on , 2013, assuming no exercise of Newcastle options and applying the distribution ratio of shares of our Common Stock for every shares of Newcastle common stock held as of the record date of the Distribution.
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner (1) |
Amount and Nature of
Beneficial Ownership |
Percent of Class (2) | ||
Wesley R. Edens |
||||
Michael E. Reed |
||||
All directors, nominees and executive officers as a group ( persons) |
* | Denotes less than 1%. |
(1) | The address of all of the officers and directors listed above are in the care of Fortress Investment Group LLC, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, 46th Floor, New York, New York 10105. |
(2) | Percentages shown assume the exercise by such persons of all options to acquire shares of our Common Stock that are exercisable within 60 days of , 2013 and no exercise by any other person. |
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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PERSONS, AFFILIATES AND AFFILIATED ENTITIES
Our Board has adopted a policy regarding the approval of any related person transaction, which is any transaction or series of transactions in which we or any of our subsidiaries is or are to be a participant, the amount involved exceeds $120,000, and a related person (as defined under SEC rules) has a direct or indirect material interest. Under the policy, a related person would need to promptly disclose to the legal department of our Manager any proposed related person transaction and all material facts about the proposed transaction. The legal department would then assess and promptly communicate that information to our independent directors. Based on their consideration of all of the relevant facts and circumstances, our independent directors will decide whether or not to approve such transaction and will generally approve only those transactions that are in, or are not inconsistent with, the best interests of New Media, as determined by at least a majority of the independent directors acting with ordinary care and in good faith. If we become aware of an existing related person transaction that has not been pre-approved under this policy, the transaction will be referred to our independent directors, who will evaluate all options available, including ratification, revision or termination of such transaction. Our policy requires any director who may be interested in a related person transaction to recuse himself or herself from any consideration of such related person transaction.
Transactions between the Manager and any affiliate must be approved in advance by the majority of the independent directors and be determined by such independent directors to be in the best interests of the Company. If any affiliate transaction involving the acquisition of an asset from the Manager or an affiliate of the Manager is not approved in advance by a majority of the independent directors, then the Manager may be required to repurchase the asset at the purchase price (plus closing costs) to the Company.
Management Agreement
We intend to enter into a Management Agreement, pursuant to which our Manager provides for the day-to-day management of our operations. The Management Agreement will require our Manager to manage our business affairs subject to the supervision of our Board. See Our Manager and Management Agreement included elsewhere in this Information Statement.
Local Media Management and Advisory Agreement
GateHouse manages the assets of Local Media pursuant to a management and advisory agreement that will terminate on the Effective Date. While the agreement is in effect, GateHouse receives an annual management fee of $1.1 million, subject to adjustments (up to a maximum annual management fee of $1.2 million), and an annual incentive compensation fee based on exceeding EBITDA targets of Local Media.
Registration Rights Agreement
New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with Omega Advisors, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, Omega) and any other holder of Outstanding Debt that receives at least as many shares of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date as Omega receives, provided that Omega directly or indirectly, receives 10% or more of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date. Under the terms of the registration rights agreement, subject to customary exceptions and limitations, New Media will be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to file a registration statement as soon as reasonably practicable, but no later than the later of (i) 120 days following the Effective Date and (ii) 14 days after the required financials are completed in the ordinary course of business, providing for the registration and sale by Omega of its New Media Common Stock (the Initial Shelf Registration Statement). During the first 12 months following the regular-way trading of New Media Common Stock on a major U.S. national securities exchange, subject to customary exceptions and limitations, Omega may request one underwritten demand right with respect to some or all of the New Media Common Stock held by Omega under the Initial Shelf Registration Statement (the Initial Demand Registration).
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Once New Media is eligible to use Form S-3, New Media will be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to file a resale shelf registration statement providing for the registration and sale on a continuous or delayed basis by Omega of its New Media Common Stock (the Resale Shelf Registration), subject to customary exceptions and limitations.
Omega may only exercise its right to request the Initial Demand Registration and any Resale Shelf Registrations if it holds at least 3% of the then-outstanding New Media Common Stock.
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This description is a summary and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by, the provisions of the Debtors Joint Prepackaged Chapter 11 Plan, Support Agreement, Warrant Agreement, Investment Commitment Letter, New Credit Facility and Credit Amendment(as defined below) filed as exhibits to our registration statement on Form 10.
The Plan
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced the Solicitation of holders of Outstanding Debt to accept or reject the Plan. If the requisite amount and number of such holders necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code vote to accept the Plan, GateHouse intends to commence Chapter 11 cases in which it seeks confirmation of the Plan. The restructuring of GateHouse more fully described below is subject to the confirmation and effectiveness of the Plan.
Support Agreement
On September 4, 2013, Debtors entered into a Support Agreement, effective September 3, 2013, with Newcastle, the Administrative Agent and the Participating Lenders relating to a Restructuring of the Outstanding Debt and GateHouses equity pursuant to the Plan.
Pursuant to the Restructuring, Newcastle would make a Cash-Out Offer. On the Effective Date, the holders of the Outstanding Debt would have the option of receiving, in satisfaction of their Outstanding Debt, their pro rata share of the (i) Cash-Out Offer and/or (ii) New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds, if any, of the New Credit Facility. Newcastle will receive its pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility, if any, for all Outstanding Debt it holds, including Outstanding Debt purchased in the Cash-Out Offer. GateHouse intends to pay all pensions, trade and all other unsecured claims in full.
As of September 19, 2013, Newcastle and its affiliates held approximately 52.2% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility and the other Participating Lenders held approximately 28.7% of such principal amount (in each case, including certain amounts still pending trade settlement). Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced the Solicitation. Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if the Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, Debtors intend to commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan therein. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan.
Upon emergence from the Plan, we plan to adopt fresh-start reporting in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 852, Reorganizations. Under fresh-start accounting, a new entity is deemed to have been created on the Effective Date of the Plan for financial reporting purposes and GateHouses recorded amounts of assets and liabilities will be adjusted to reflect their estimated fair values. As a result of the adoption of fresh-start accounting, our reorganized company post-emergence financial statements will generally not be comparable with the financial statements of our Predecessor prior to emergence, including the historical financial information in this Information Statement.
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The Support Agreement could terminate prior to the Effective Date. The Support Agreement will terminate automatically upon certain events, including the following: (i) GateHouse has commenced Chapter 11 cases that are subsequently dismissed or converted to Chapter 7, or a Chapter 11 trustee, responsible officer or examiner with enlarged powers is appointed; (ii) GateHouse has elected to terminate the Support Agreement in accordance with the exercise of its fiduciary duties; or (iii) the occurrence of the earlier of (a) December 16, 2013 and (b) the Effective Date.
In the event of a material breach, the Support Agreement may be terminated by GateHouse, Newcastle, or Participating Lenders holding a majority in amount of the Loans held by Participating Lenders other than Newcastle, Fortress Investment Group LLC, and their respective affiliates (the Majority Unaffiliated Participating Creditors), respectively, upon delivery of notice and the expiration of a ten business day cure period.
In addition, the Support Agreement may be terminated by Newcastle or by the Majority Unaffiliated Participating Creditors ten business days after GateHouse receives written notice that any of the following events has occurred and is continuing and such events have not been cured or waived within such ten business day period: (i) GateHouse has commenced Chapter 11 cases prior to commencing the Solicitation; (ii) fifteen business days have elapsed since the Participating Lenders became party to the Support Agreement, and the Solicitation has not been commenced; (iii) five business days have elapsed since the completion of a Solicitation in which the Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors have accepted the Plan, and GateHouse has not commenced the Chapter 11 cases; (iv) the Investment Commitment Letter (as defined below) has terminated or ceased to be in full force and effect; (v) a court of competent jurisdiction or other governmental or regulatory authority has issued a ruling or order restricting a material aspect of the transaction in a manner materially adverse to Newcastle or the Participating Lenders; or (vi) GateHouse has commenced the Chapter 11 cases and (a) an order is entered terminating GateHouses exclusive right to file a plan of reorganization, (b) GateHouse fails to file the Plan and Disclosure Statement with the bankruptcy court on the commencement date of the Chapter 11 cases, (c) the bankruptcy court has not, within specified time periods, entered interim and final orders (I) authorizing GateHouse to use cash collateral, (II) granting adequate protection to creditors holding the Outstanding Debt, and (III) approving cash managements systems, (d) GateHouse consensual use of cash collateral is terminated in accordance with an interim or final cash collateral order entered by the bankruptcy court, (e) the bankruptcy court has not entered an order confirming the Plan within 60 business days after the bankruptcy filing date, (f) GateHouse withdraws the Plan or publicly announces an intention not to proceed with the Plan; GateHouse files any motion, pleading, plan of reorganization and/or disclosure statement, or the bankruptcy courts enters any order, in each case, that is materially inconsistent with the term sheet attached to the Support Agreement or materially adversely affects the rights of the party seeking to terminate the Support Agreement, or (g) GateHouse challenges or supports a challenge to, or the bankruptcy court enters an order granting a challenge to, GateHouses obligations under or the liens securing the Outstanding Debt, or against the Administrative Agent, or Participating Lenders. See additional discussion in Note 21 to GateHouses Consolidated Financial Statements, Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations and The Spin-Off and Restructuring.
New Media Warrants
On the Effective Date, or as soon as practicable thereafter, New Media will issue and distribute 10-year warrants to existing holders of equity interests in GateHouse, including holders of warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests to extent required under the Plan (the New Media Warrants). The New Media Warrants will collectively represent the right to acquire New Media Common Stock, which in the aggregate will be equal to 5% of New Media Common Stock as of the effective date of the Plan (calculated prior to dilution from shares of New Media Common Stock issued pursuant to the Local Media Contribution) at a strike price per share calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution of $1.2 billion as of the Effective Date. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan. New Media Warrants will not have the benefit of antidilution protections, other than customary protections including for stock splits and stock dividends.
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Investment Commitment Letter
On September 4, 2013, Newcastle and GateHouse entered into an Investment Commitment Letter (the Investment Commitment Letter) in connection with the Restructuring, effective September 3, 2013.
Under the Investment Commitment Letter and pursuant to the Plan, Newcastle has agreed to purchase the Cash-Out Offer claims.
The Investment Commitment Letter provides that, on account of the claims purchased in the Cash-Out Offer, on the Effective Date of the Plan, Newcastle will receive its pro rata share of (a) New Media Common Stock and (b) Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility, if any, net of transaction expenses associated with transactions under the Plan.
Newcastle may assign the Investment Commitment Letter to any of its affiliates, successors or designees as may be reasonably acceptable to GateHouse. The Investment Commitment Letter will terminate automatically and immediately if the Support Agreement has terminated or ceased to be in full force and effect. In addition, the Investment Commitment Letter may be terminated with notice upon certain events, as detailed in the Investment Commitment Letter.
New Credit Facility
GateHouse will use its commercially reasonable efforts, in light of market conditions and other relevant factors, to enter into a New Credit Facility on the Effective Date of the Plan. In the event that GateHouse enters into and receives proceeds of the New Credit Facility, we will distribute to each holder of New Media Common Stock, including Newcastle on account of the Cash-Out Offer, its pro rata share of the Net Proceeds, if any. The Net Proceeds will be distributed prior to the Local Media Contribution and no amount of the Net Proceeds will be distributed to Newcastle on account of the Local Media Contribution. GateHouses entry into a credit facility will not be a condition to the effectiveness of the Plan.
Credit Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On September 4, 2013, GateHouse entered into an Amendment Agreement to the 2007 Credit Facility (Credit Amendment) with Newcastle and certain lenders under GateHouses 2007 Credit Facility, effective September 3, 2013, which improved certain terms of the 2007 Credit Facility, including: a clarified and expanded definition of Eligible Assignee (as defined therein); an increase in the base amount in the formula used to calculate the Permitted Investments (as defined therein) basket from $35 million to a base of $50 million; the removal of the requirement that GateHouses annual financial statements not have a going concern or like qualification to the audit; the removal of a cross default from any Secured Hedging Agreement (as defined therein) to the 2007 Credit Facility; the removal of a Bankruptcy Default (as defined therein), arising from actions in furtherance of or indicating consent to the specified actions; and a waiver of any prior Default or Event of Default, as defined therein, including without limitation from the negotiation, entry into, or performance of the Support Agreement or the Investment Commitment Letter.
In consideration of the changes described above, GateHouse agreed to pay each of the lenders party to the Credit Amendment that timely executed the Credit Amendment and the Support Agreement an amendment fee equal to 3.5% multiplied by the aggregate Outstanding Debt held (including through trades pending settlement) by such lender (the Amendment Fee), unless waived in writing. Newcastle and certain other lenders elected to waive their Amendment Fee.
Contribution of Local Media Group Holdings LLC
Newcastle acquired Local Media from News Corp. for approximately $82.6 million with the associated estimated transaction costs of $4.2 million. Newcastle made a total equity investment of $53.8 million and financed the remainder of the purchase price with $33.0 million of term loan debt provided under the Local
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Media Credit Facility. Newcastle contributed $2.5 million to Local Media on the closing of the Local Media Acquisition for working capital purposes and Local Media can repay that amount when the senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility of up to $10 million under the Local Media Credit Facility becomes available.
Local Media operates print and online community media franchises in seven states including daily, Sunday and weekly newspapers, Internet sites, magazines, other news and advertising niche publications and commercial print and household distribution services, and had $33 million of real estate value as determined by third-party appraisals completed in the second quarter of 2012. Local Media publishes 8 daily community newspapers and 15 weeklies in the New England, Mid-Atlantic and Pacific Coast regions of the United States. Many of these publications have been providing local content to their respective communities for over 75 years.
Under the Plan, Newcastle agreed to make the Local Media Contribution and to assign its rights under the stock purchase agreement pursuant to which it acquired Local Media (the Local Media SPA) to New Media, each on the Effective Date. In exchange, Newcastle will receive New Media Common Stock, and, at Newcastles election, $50,000 in cash equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition, subject to certain adjustments (the Local Media Contribution Value). For the avoidance of doubt, the distribution of New Media Common Stock in exchange for the Local Media Contribution will not occur prior to the distribution of the Net Proceeds of the New Credit Facility (if any) to the holders of New Media Common Stock.
Assuming a contribution date of October 31, 2013, the Local Media Contribution Value is currently anticipated to be approximately $54.1 million, which represents approximately $82.6 million as the estimated cost of the Local Media Acquisition, plus (a) (i) $4.2 million in estimated out-of-pocket transaction expenses of Newcastle and (ii) no additional net cash equity contributions and (iii) $0.3 million owing to Newcastle under the Local Media SPA, less (b) (i) no dividends paid out by Local Media or Local Media Parent (other than in respect of amounts contributed by Newcastle on the closing date for working capital purposes) and (ii) $33.0 million in anticipated term loan debt at Local Media Parent under the Local Media Credit Facility.
GateHouse manages the assets of Local Media pursuant to a management and advisory agreement that will terminate on the Effective Date. While the agreement is in effect, GateHouse receives an annual management fee of $1.1 million, subject to adjustments (up to a maximum annual management fee of $1.2 million), and an annual incentive compensation fee based on exceeding EBITDA targets of Local Media.
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DESCRIPTION OF OUR CAPITAL STOCK
The following descriptions are summaries of the material terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws. These descriptions contain all information which we consider to be material, but may not contain all of the information that is important to you. To understand them fully, you should read our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, copies of which are filed with the SEC as exhibits to the registration statement of which this Information Statement is a part.
Please note that, with respect to any of our shares held in book-entry form through The Depository Trust Company or any other share depositary, the depositary or its nominee will be the sole registered and legal owner of those shares, and references in this Information Statement to any stockholder or holder of those shares means only the depositary or its nominee. Persons who hold beneficial interests in our shares through a depositary will not be registered or legal owners of those shares and will not be recognized as such for any purpose. For example, only the depositary or its nominee will be entitled to vote the shares held through it, and any dividends or other distributions to be paid, and any notices to be given, in respect of those shares will be paid or given only to the depositary or its nominee. Owners of beneficial interests in those shares will have to look solely to the depositary with respect to any benefits of share ownership, and any rights they may have with respect to those shares will be governed by the rules of the depositary, which are subject to change from time to time. We have no responsibility for those rules or their application to any interests held through the depositary.
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, our authorized capital stock consists of:
| shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share; and |
| preferred shares, par value $0.01 per share. |
Upon completion of the Distribution, there will be outstanding shares of our Common Stock and no outstanding shares of preferred stock.
The following is a description of the material terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws. We refer you to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, copies of which have been filed with the SEC as exhibits to our registration statement of which this Information Statement forms a part.
Common Stock
Each holder of Common Stock is entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. Except as provided with respect to any other class or series of stock, the holders of our Common Stock will possess the exclusive right to vote for the election of directors and for all other purposes. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws do not provide for cumulative voting in the election of directors, which means that the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock can elect all of the directors standing for election, and the holders of the remaining shares are not able to elect any directors.
Subject to any preference rights of holders of any preferred stock that we may issue in the future, holders of our Common Stock are entitled to receive dividends, if any, declared from time to time by our Board out of legally available funds. In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the holders of our Common Stock are entitled to share ratably in all assets remaining after the payment of liabilities, subject to any rights of holders of our preferred stock prior to distribution.
Holders of our Common Stock have no preemptive, subscription, redemption or conversion rights. Any shares of Common Stock distributed under this Information Statement will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable upon issuance against full payment of the purchase price for such shares.
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Preferred Stock
Our Board has the authority, without action by our stockholders, to issue preferred stock and to fix voting powers for each class or series of preferred stock, and to provide that any class or series may be subject to redemption, entitled to receive dividends, entitled to rights upon dissolution, or convertible or exchangeable for shares of any other class or classes of capital stock. The rights with respect to a series or class of preferred stock may be greater than the rights attached to our Common Stock. It is not possible to state the actual effect of the issuance of any shares of our preferred stock on the rights of holders of our Common Stock until our Board determines the specific rights attached to that preferred stock. The effect of issuing preferred stock could include, among other things, one or more of the following:
| restricting dividends in respect of our Common Stock; |
| diluting the voting power of our Common Stock or providing that holders of preferred stock have the right to vote on matters as a class; |
| impairing the liquidation rights of our Common Stock; or |
| delaying or preventing a change of control of us. |
Registration Rights
New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with Omega Advisors, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, Omega) and any other holder of Outstanding Debt that receives at least as many shares of New Media Common Stock on the Effective Date as Omega receives, provided that Omega, directly or indirectly, receives 10% or more of New Media Common Stock on the effective date of the Plan. Under the terms of the registration rights agreement, subject to customary exceptions and limitations, New Media will be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to file the Initial Shelf Registration Statement as soon as reasonably practicable, but no later than the later of (i) 120 days following the Effective Date and (ii) 14 days after the required financials are completed in the ordinary course of business. During the first 12 months following regular-way trading of New Media Common Stock on a major U.S. national securities exchange, subject to customary exceptions and limitations, Omega may request an Initial Demand Registration.
Once New Media is eligible to use Form S-3, New Media will be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to file the Resale Shelf Registration, subject to customary exceptions and limitations.
Omega may only exercise its right to request the Initial Demand Registration and any Resale Shelf Registrations if it holds at least 3% of the then-outstanding New Media Common Stock.
Anti-Takeover Effects of Delaware Law, Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Amended and Restated Bylaws
The following is a summary of certain provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws that may be deemed to have an anti-takeover effect and may delay, deter or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that a stockholder might consider to be in its best interest, including those attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares held by stockholders.
Authorized but Unissued Shares
The authorized but unissued shares of our Common Stock and our preferred stock will be available for future issuance without obtaining stockholder approval. These additional shares may be utilized for a variety of corporate purposes, including future public offerings to raise additional capital, corporate acquisitions and employee benefit plans. The existence of authorized but unissued shares of our Common Stock and preferred stock could render more difficult or discourage an attempt to obtain control over us by means of a proxy contest, tender offer, merger or otherwise.
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Delaware Business Combination Statute
We are organized under Delaware law. Some provisions of Delaware law may delay or prevent a transaction that would cause a change in our control.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the DGCL), as amended, an anti-takeover law, will not apply to us. In general, this statute prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested stockholder for a period of three years after the date of the transaction by which that person became an interested stockholder, unless the business combination is approved in a prescribed manner. For purposes of Section 203, a business combination includes a merger, asset sale or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder, and an interested stockholder is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years prior, did own, 15% or more of voting stock.
Other Provisions of Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Amended and Restated Bylaws
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides for a staggered Board consisting of three classes of directors. Directors of each class are chosen for three-year terms upon the expiration of their current terms and each year one class of our directors will be elected by our stockholders. The terms of the first, second and third classes will expire in , and , respectively. We believe that classification of our Board will help to assure the continuity and stability of our business strategies and policies as determined by our Board. Additionally, there is no cumulative voting in the election of directors. This classified board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent directors more time consuming and difficult. At least two annual meetings of stockholders, instead of one, will generally be required to effect a change in a majority of our Board. Thus, the classified board provision could increase the likelihood that incumbent directors will retain their positions. The staggered terms of directors may delay, defer or prevent a tender offer or an attempt to change control of us, even though a tender offer or change in control might be believed by our stockholders to be in their best interest. In addition, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws provide that directors may be removed only for cause and only with the affirmative vote of at least 80% of the voting interest of stockholders entitled to vote.
Pursuant to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, shares of our preferred stock may be issued from time to time, and the Board is authorized to determine and alter all rights, preferences, privileges, qualifications, limitations and restrictions without limitation. See Preferred Stock.
Ability of our Stockholders to Act
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws do not permit our stockholders to call special stockholders meetings. Written notice of any special meeting so called shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such meeting not less than 10 or more than 60 days before the date of such meeting, unless otherwise required by law.
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken by our stockholders must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of our stockholders and the ability of our stockholders to consent in writing to the taking of any action is specifically denied.
Our amended and restated bylaws provide that nominations of persons for election to our Board may be made at any annual meeting of our stockholders, or at any special meeting of our stockholders called for the purpose of electing directors, (a) by or at the direction of our Board or (b) by any of our stockholders. In addition to any other applicable requirements, for a nomination to be properly brought by a stockholder, such stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in proper written form to our Secretary of the Company. To be timely, a
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stockholders notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at our principal executive offices (a) in the case of an annual meeting of stockholders, not less than 90 days nor more than 120 days prior to the anniversary date of the immediately preceding annual meeting of stockholders; provided, however, that in the event that the annual meeting is called for a date that is not within 30 days before or after such anniversary date, notice by a stockholder in order to be timely must be so received not later than the close of business on the tenth day following the day on which such notice of the date of the annual meeting was mailed or such public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting was made, whichever first occurs; and (b) in the case of a special meeting of our stockholders called for the purpose of electing directors, not later than the close of business on the tenth day following the day on which notice of the date of the special meeting was mailed or public disclosure of the date of the special meeting was made, whichever first occurs.
Our amended and restated bylaws provide that no business may be transacted at any annual meeting of our stockholders, other than business that is either (a) specified in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of our Board, (b) otherwise properly brought before the annual meeting by or at the direction of our Board, or (c) otherwise properly brought by any of our stockholders. In addition to any other applicable requirements, for business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, such stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in proper written form to our Secretary. To be timely, a stockholders notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at our principal executive offices not less than 90 days nor more than 120 days prior to the anniversary date of the immediately preceding annual meeting of stockholders; provided, however, that in the event that the annual meeting is called for a date that is not within 30 days before or after such anniversary date, notice by a stockholder in order to be timely must be so received not later than the close of business on the tenth day following the day on which such notice of the date of the annual meeting was mailed or such public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting was made, whichever first occurs.
Forum Selection Clause
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors or officers or our stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL or our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or amended and restated bylaws or (iv) any action asserting a claim against the us governed by the internal affairs doctrine.
Limitations on Liability and Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that our directors will not be personally liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for breach of a fiduciary duty as a director, except to the extent such exemption is not permitted under the DGCL, as amended from time to time.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws provide that we must indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by law. We are also expressly authorized to advance certain expenses (including attorneys fees and disbursements and court costs) to our directors and officers and carry directors and officers insurance providing indemnification for our directors and officers for some liabilities. We believe that these indemnification provisions and insurance are useful to attract and retain qualified directors and executive officers.
Prior to the completion of this offering, we intend to enter into separate indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers. Each indemnification agreement will provide, among other things, for indemnification to the fullest extent permitted by law and our amended and restated certificate of incorporation against (i) any and all expenses and liabilities, including judgments, fines, penalties and amounts paid in settlement of any claim with our approval and counsel fees and disbursements, (ii) any liability pursuant to a loan guarantee, or otherwise, for any of our indebtedness, and (iii) any liabilities incurred as a result of acting
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on our behalf (as a fiduciary or otherwise) in connection with an employee benefit plan. The indemnification agreements will provide for the advancement or payment of all expenses to the indemnitee and for reimbursement to us if it is found that such indemnitee is not entitled to such indemnification under applicable law and our amended and restated certificate of incorporation. These provisions and agreements may have the practical effect in some cases of eliminating our stockholders ability to collect monetary damages from our directors and executive officers.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that, in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
Corporate Opportunity
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, to the extent permitted by law:
| the Fortress stockholders have the right to, and have no duty to abstain from, exercising such right to, engage or invest in the same or similar business as us, do business with any of our clients, customers or vendors or employ or otherwise engage any of our officers, directors or employees; |
| if the Fortress stockholders or any of their officers, directors or employees acquire knowledge of a potential transaction that could be a corporate opportunity, they have no duty to offer such corporate opportunity to us, our stockholders or affiliates; |
| we have renounced any interest or expectancy in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, such corporate opportunities; and |
| in the event that any of our directors and officers who is also a director, officer or employee of any of the Fortress stockholders acquires knowledge of a corporate opportunity or is offered a corporate opportunity, provided that this knowledge was not acquired solely in such persons capacity as our director or officer and such person acted in good faith, then such person is deemed to have fully satisfied such persons fiduciary duty and is not liable to us if any of the Fortress stockholders pursues or acquires such corporate opportunity or if such person did not present the corporate opportunity to us. |
Transfer Agent
The registrar and transfer agent for our Common Stock is American Stock Transfer and Trust Company, LLC.
Listing
We intend to list our Common Stock on the NYSE under the symbol NEWM.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Before the date of this Information Statement, we were not required to file reports with the SEC. This Information Statement and all future materials we file with the SEC may be read and copied at the SECs public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. The SEC maintains an Internet site at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. New Media maintains an Internet site at . The information contained on or accessible through our website or the SECs website shall not be deemed to be a part of this Information Statement or the registration statement of which this Information Statement forms a part.
We have filed a registration statement on Form 10 to register with the SEC the shares of our Common Stock to be distributed in the spin-off. This document constitutes a part of that registration statement, together with all amendments, supplements, schedules and exhibits to the registration statement.
This Information Statement does not contain all of the information in the registration statement. Each statement contained in this Information Statement as to the contents of any contract, agreement or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to that exhibit for a more complete description of the matter involved. The registration statement can be examined at the SECs Public Reference Room or on its Internet website at http://www.sec.gov .
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I NDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page | ||||
Beginning Balance Sheet of New Media Investment Group Inc.: |
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F-2 | ||||
F-3 | ||||
F-4 | ||||
Consolidated Financial Statements of GateHouse Media Inc.: |
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F-7 | ||||
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 |
F-8 | |||
F-9 | ||||
F-10 | ||||
F-11 | ||||
F-12 | ||||
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of GateHouse Media Inc.: |
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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2013 (unaudited) and December 30, 2012 |
F-50 | |||
F-51 | ||||
F-52 | ||||
F-53 | ||||
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements |
F-54 | |||
Combined Financial Statements of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. |
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F-75 | ||||
F-76 | ||||
F-77 | ||||
Combined Statements of Equity for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 2013 |
F-78 | |||
Combined Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 2013 |
F-79 | |||
F-80 |
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Stockholder of New Media Investment Group Inc.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of New Media Investment Group Inc. as of September 16, 2013. This balance sheet is the responsibility of the Companys management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this balance sheet 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 the balance sheet is free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Companys internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the balance sheet, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall presentation of the balance sheet. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the balance sheet referred to above presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of New Media Investment Group Inc. at September 16, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
New York, New York
September 26, 2013
F-2
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC.
BALANCE SHEET
September 16, 2013
Cash |
$ | 100 | ||
|
|
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Commitments and contingencies |
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Stockholders Equity |
||||
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 1,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding |
$ | 10 | ||
Additional paid-in-capital |
90 | |||
|
|
|||
Total Stockholders Equity |
$ | 100 | ||
|
|
See accompanying notes to balance sheet.
F-3
NEW MEDIA INVESTMENT GROUP INC.
NOTES TO BALANCE SHEET
September 16, 2013
1. | ORGANIZATION |
New Media Investment Group Inc. (New Media) was formed as a Delaware corporation on June 18, 2013. Under the Certificate of Incorporation, New Media is authorized to issue up to 1,000 common shares. On September 16, 2013, New Media was capitalized and issued 1,000 common shares to Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle). Newcastle is the sole stockholder of New Media. New Media expects to operate newspaper, media directory and other media content businesses. New Media has had no operations since its formation.
On September 4, 2013, Newcastle entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) with GateHouse Media, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries (GateHouse) and certain other debt holders of GateHouse. The terms of the RSA are summarized as follows. This summary only discussed the key terms of the RSA and is not intended to be a complete description of the RSA.
The RSA proposes a restructuring of GateHouse pursuant to a pre-packaged restructuring plan under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan) whereby each Creditor (as defined below) has the option of exchanging its holdings in the Outstanding Debt (as defined below) for either its pro rata share of cash or common stock in New Media with ownership interests in the reorganized GateHouse.
New Media intends to distribute a portion of its estimated EBITDA (as defined in the RSA) less (i) cash taxes; (ii) interest expense; (iii) principal payments under the financing to be entered into by GateHouse, using commercially reasonable efforts, of up to $150,000,000 of new debt, (iv) capital expenditures; and (v) changes in net working capital to its shareholders and reinvest the remainder for general corporate purposes which may include accretive acquisitions.
The RSA includes the restructuring of certain indebtedness of GateHouse (the Outstanding Debt) including indebtedness under the 2007 Credit Facility and swap liability. Holders of the Outstanding Debt are referred to herein as Creditors. Subject to the approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the RSA proposes a restructuring of the Outstanding Debt as follows:
(a) | Each Creditor of the Outstanding Debt would receive, in full and final satisfaction of its respective claim, at its election (with respect to all or any portion of its claims) to be made in connection with solicitation of the Plan, its pro rata share of: |
i. | Cash pursuant to the Cash-Out Offer (described below under Cash-Out Offer) (the Cash-Out Option); and/or |
ii. | (A) 100% of New Media common stock and (B) 100% of the net proceeds, if any , of new debt that GateHouse intends to raise (collectively, the New Media Equity Option). |
Creditors that do not make an election before the expiration of the September 26, 2013 deadline of the pre-packaged solicitation of the Plan (the Solicitation), as such date may be extended by Newcastle in its sole discretion (the Solicitation Period) with respect to their claims, will be deemed to have elected the Cash-Out Option.
(b) | Holders of equity interests in GateHouse, including warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests (Existing Equity Holders), would be cancelled, and Existing Equity Holders will receive 10-year warrants, collectively representing the right to acquire, in the aggregate, equity equal to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of New Media (subject to dilution) as of the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date), with the strike price per share for such warrants calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution (as defined below) of $1.2 billion as of the Effective Date. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan. |
F-4
(c) | Pension, trade and all other unsecured claims will be unimpaired by the Plan. |
Cash-Out Offer
In connection with the restructuring, Newcastle (or its designated affiliates) will offer to purchase, in cash, an amount equal to 40.0% of the sum of (i) (a) principal of the claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (b) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (c) all amounts due under and subject to the terms of the interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (for the avoidance of doubt, excluding any default interest) on the Effective Date of the Plan. The Cash-Out Offer will be coterminous with the Solicitation Period.
Registration Rights
As of the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with certain holders of the Outstanding Debt that received 10% or more of the New Media common stock, to provide customary registration rights.
New Media Equity Option
Instead of the Cash-Out Offer, each holder of Outstanding Debt may elect to receive in satisfaction of its claims, a pro rata share of New Media common stock and the net proceeds of the Financing, if any. Following the completion of the restructuring, New Media will use commercially reasonable efforts, based on market conditions and other factors, to list New Media Common Stock (the Listing) and may raise additional equity capital in connection with or subsequent to the Listing. New Media intends to seek the Listing on the New York Stock Exchange. For the avoidance of doubt, a Listing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan. Under the Plan, New Media will not impose any transfer restrictions on New Media common stock (excepting restrictions imposed by applicable law).
Contribution of Local Media Group Holdings LLC
Newcastle acquired Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. (Local Media), a publisher of weekly newspaper publications, on September 3, 2013. Subject to the terms of the RSA, Newcastle will contribute Local Media Group Holdings LLC (Local Media Parent) and assign its rights under the related stock purchase agreement to New Media on the Effective Date (the Local Media Contribution) in exchange for shares of common stock of New Media (and at Newcastles option, $50,000), collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition (as adjusted pursuant to the Plan) based upon the equity value of New Media as of the Effective Date prior to the contribution.
The parties to the RSA have agreed to support the Plan and take reasonable actions in furtherance of the restructuring.
Management Agreement
On the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a management agreement with an affiliate of Newcastle (the Manager) pursuant to which the Manager will manage the operations of New Media. The annual management fee will be 1.50% of New Medias gross equity as set forth in the Management Agreement.
F-5
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Accounting
The accompanying balance sheet is prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash is comprised of cash held in a major banking institution. New Media considers all highly liquid short term investments with maturities of 90 days or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The carrying value of New Medias cash approximates fair value at the date of the balance sheet.
Organizational Costs
Costs incurred to organize New Media will be expensed as incurred.
3. Subsequent Events
There have not been any events that have occurred that would require adjustments to or disclosures to the audited balance sheet.
F-6
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Board of Directors and Stockholders of
GateHouse Media, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of GateHouse Media, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders equity (deficit), and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 30, 2012. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Companys management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule 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. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Companys internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of GateHouse Media, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 30, 2012, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 21 to the financial statements, the Company entered into an agreement with the lenders under its 2007 credit facility to restructure the terms of the credit facility. Among other matters, the restructuring agreement requires the Company to file a voluntary petition seeking to reorganize under chapter 11 of the U.S. bankruptcy code, which would constitute an event of default under the terms of the Companys 2007 credit facility. These conditions raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Managements plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 21. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Rochester, New York
March 7, 2013,
except for Note 21, as to which the date is
September 26, 2013
F-7
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share data)
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
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ASSETS | ||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 34,527 | $ | 19,212 | ||||
Restricted Cash |
6,467 | 6,167 | ||||||
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,456 and $2,976 at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively |
54,692 | 59,236 | ||||||
Inventory |
6,019 | 6,017 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses |
5,815 | 15,483 | ||||||
Other current assets |
8,215 | 7,347 | ||||||
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|
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Total current assets |
115,735 | 113,462 | ||||||
Property, plant, and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $128,208 and $116,780 at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively |
116,510 | 130,937 | ||||||
Goodwill |
13,742 | 13,958 | ||||||
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $196,878 and $179,327 at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively |
218,981 | 246,661 | ||||||
Deferred financing costs, net |
1,719 | 2,974 | ||||||
Other assets |
2,605 | 1,876 | ||||||
Assets held for sale |
474 | 934 | ||||||
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|
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Total assets |
$ | 469,766 | $ | 510,802 | ||||
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LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS DEFICIT | ||||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||||
Current portion of long-term liabilities |
$ | 853 | $ | 1,039 | ||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
6,648 | 4,600 | ||||||
Accounts payable |
9,396 | 8,216 | ||||||
Accrued expenses |
26,258 | 27,625 | ||||||
Accrued interest |
4,665 | 2,876 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
25,217 | 27,171 | ||||||
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|
|
|
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Total current liabilities |
73,037 | 71,527 | ||||||
Long-term liabilities: |
||||||||
Long-term debt |
1,167,450 | 1,176,638 | ||||||
Long-term liabilities, less current portion |
2,347 | 2,935 | ||||||
Derivative instruments |
45,724 | 51,576 | ||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations |
15,367 | 13,758 | ||||||
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|
|||||
Total liabilities |
1,303,925 | 1,316,434 | ||||||
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|
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Stockholders deficit: |
||||||||
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012; 58,313,868 issued, and 58,077,031 outstanding at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 |
568 | 568 | ||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
831,344 | 831,249 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
(52,642 | ) | (54,359 | ) | ||||
Accumulated deficit |
(1,610,917 | ) | (1,581,114 | ) | ||||
Treasury stock, at cost, 236,837 shares at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 |
(310 | ) | (310 | ) | ||||
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|
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Total GateHouse Media stockholders deficit |
(831,957 | ) | (803,966 | ) | ||||
Noncontrolling interest |
(2,202 | ) | (1,666 | ) | ||||
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|
|
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Total stockholders deficit |
(834,159 | ) | (805,632 | ) | ||||
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|
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Total liabilities and stockholders deficit |
$ | 469,766 | $ | 510,802 | ||||
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See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-8
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||
Advertising |
$ | 330,881 | $ | 357,134 | $ | 385,579 | ||||||
Circulation |
131,576 | 131,879 | 133,192 | |||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
26,097 | 25,657 | 25,967 | |||||||||
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Total revenues |
488,554 | 514,670 | 544,738 | |||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
||||||||||||
Operating costs |
268,222 | 281,884 | 296,974 | |||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative |
145,020 | 146,295 | 154,516 | |||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
39,888 | 42,426 | 45,080 | |||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs |
4,393 | 5,884 | 2,324 | |||||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| 1,733 | 430 | |||||||||
Loss on sale of assets |
1,238 | 455 | 1,551 | |||||||||
Goodwill impairment |
| 385 | | |||||||||
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|
|||||||
Operating income |
29,793 | 35,608 | 43,863 | |||||||||
Interest expense |
57,928 | 58,309 | 60,021 | |||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
1,255 | 1,360 | 1,360 | |||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
(1,635 | ) | (913 | ) | 8,277 | |||||||
Other income |
(85 | ) | (395 | ) | (138 | ) | ||||||
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Loss from continuing operations before income taxes |
(27,670 | ) | (22,753 | ) | (25,657 | ) | ||||||
Income tax benefit |
(207 | ) | (1,803 | ) | (155 | ) | ||||||
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Loss from continuing operations |
(27,463 | ) | (20,950 | ) | (25,502 | ) | ||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes |
(2,340 | ) | (699 | ) | (542 | ) | ||||||
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Net loss |
$ | (29,803 | ) | $ | (21,649 | ) | $ | (26,044 | ) | |||
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Loss per share: |
||||||||||||
Basic and diluted: |
||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (0.47 | ) | $ | (0.36 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | |||
Net loss |
$ | (0.51 | ) | $ | (0.37 | ) | $ | (0.45 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
||||||||||||
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of $0 |
$ | 4,364 | $ | 11,052 | $ | (12,691 | ) | |||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit items: |
||||||||||||
Net actuarial loss |
(2,530 | ) | (2,663 | ) | (662 | ) | ||||||
Amortization of net actuarial loss |
383 | 83 | 112 | |||||||||
Amortization of prior service credit |
(457 | ) | (457 | ) | (457 | ) | ||||||
Other adjustment |
(43 | ) | 240 | | ||||||||
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Total pension and other postretirement benefit items, net of income taxes of $0 |
(2,647 | ) | (2,797 | ) | (1,007 | ) | ||||||
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|
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Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax |
1,717 | 8,255 | (13,698 | ) | ||||||||
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Comprehensive loss |
$ | (28,086 | ) | $ | (13,394 | ) | $ | (39,742 | ) | |||
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See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-9
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY (DEFICIT)
(In thousands, except share data)
Common stock |
Additional
paid-in capital |
Accumulated
other comprehensive loss |
Accumulated
deficit |
Treasury stock |
Non-
controlling interest in subsidiary |
Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2009 |
58,313,868 | $ | 568 | $ | 829,009 | $ | (48,916 | ) | $ | (1,533,421 | ) | 209,859 | $ | (306 | ) | $ | (510 | ) | $ | (753,576 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Net loss |
| | | | (26,044 | ) | | | | (26,044 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Loss on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | (12,691 | ) | | | | | (12,691 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net actuarial loss and prior service cost, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | (1,007 | ) | | | | | (1,007 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Disposal of non wholly owned subsidiary |
| | | | | | | (596 | ) | (596 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-cash compensation expense |
| | 1,715 | | | | | | 1,715 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued by non wholly owned subsidiary |
| | 63 | | | | | 19 | 82 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock |
| | | | | 25,402 | (4 | ) | | (4 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Balance at December 31, 2010 |
58,313,868 | $ | 568 | $ | 830,787 | $ | (62,614 | ) | $ | (1,559,465 | ) | 235,261 | $ | (310 | ) | $ | (1,087 | ) | $ | (792,121 | ) | |||||||||||||||
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Net loss |
| | | | (21,649 | ) | | | | (21,649 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | 11,052 | | | | | 11,052 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net actuarial loss and prior service cost, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | (2,797 | ) | | | | | (2,797 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Disposal of non wholly owned subsidiary |
| | | | | | | (579 | ) | (579 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-cash compensation expense |
| | 462 | | | | | | 462 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock |
| | | | | 1,576 | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Balance at January 1, 2012 |
58,313,868 | $ | 568 | $ | 831,249 | $ | (54,359 | ) | $ | (1,581,114 | ) | 236,837 | $ | (310 | ) | $ | (1,666 | ) | $ | (805,632 | ) | |||||||||||||||
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Net loss |
| | | | (29,803 | ) | | | (29,803 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | 4,364 | | | | | 4,364 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net actuarial loss and prior service cost, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | (2,647 | ) | | | | | (2,647 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Disposal of non wholly owned subsidiary |
| | | | | | | (536 | ) | (536 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-cash compensation expense |
| | 95 | | | | | | 95 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Balance at December 30, 2012 |
58,313,868 | $ | 568 | $ | 831,344 | $ | (52,642 | ) | $ | (1,610,917 | ) | 236,837 | $ | (310 | ) | $ | (2,202 | ) | $ | (834,159 | ) | |||||||||||||||
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See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-10
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands)
Year ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year ended
December 31, 2010 |
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Cash flows from operating activities: |
||||||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (29,803 | ) | $ | (21,649 | ) | $ | (26,044 | ) | |||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities: |
||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
40,627 | 43,393 | 46,122 | |||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
1,255 | 1,360 | 1,360 | |||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
(1,635 | ) | (913 | ) | 8,277 | |||||||
Non-cash compensation expense |
95 | 462 | 1,715 | |||||||||
Loss on sale of assets |
1,270 | 806 | 1,540 | |||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations |
(939 | ) | (1,859 | ) | (1,401 | ) | ||||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
2,128 | 2,051 | 834 | |||||||||
Goodwill impairment |
216 | 385 | | |||||||||
Changes in assets and liabilities: |
||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
3,448 | 2,478 | 6,157 | |||||||||
Inventory |
(2 | ) | 1,714 | (682 | ) | |||||||
Prepaid expenses |
9,605 | (4,977 | ) | (5,378 | ) | |||||||
Other assets |
(1,903 | ) | (585 | ) | (78 | ) | ||||||
Accounts payable |
1,322 | 2,311 | (170 | ) | ||||||||
Accrued expenses |
(1,789 | ) | (1,731 | ) | (2,227 | ) | ||||||
Accrued interest |
1,789 | 71 | (430 | ) | ||||||||
Deferred revenue |
(1,597 | ) | (177 | ) | (478 | ) | ||||||
Other long-term liabilities |
(588 | ) | (701 | ) | (2,664 | ) | ||||||
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Net cash provided by operating activities |
23,499 | 22,439 | 26,453 | |||||||||
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Cash flows from investing activities: |
||||||||||||
Purchases of property, plant, and equipment |
(4,687 | ) | (3,330 | ) | (4,780 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from sale of publications, other assets and insurance |
3,643 | 2,599 | 4,156 | |||||||||
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Net cash used in investing activities |
(1,044 | ) | (731 | ) | (624 | ) | ||||||
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Cash flows from financing activities: |
||||||||||||
Repayments under short-term debt |
| | (8,000 | ) | ||||||||
Repayments under current portion of long-term debt |
(4,600 | ) | (11,249 | ) | (2,513 | ) | ||||||
Repayments under long-term debt |
(2,540 | ) | | | ||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock |
| | (4 | ) | ||||||||
Stock issued by non wholly owned subsidiary |
| | 7 | |||||||||
Repurchase of subsidiary preferred stock |
| | (11,500 | ) | ||||||||
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Net cash used in financing activities |
(7,140 | ) | (11,249 | ) | (22,010 | ) | ||||||
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Net increase in cash and cash equivalents |
15,315 | 10,459 | 3,819 | |||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period |
19,212 | 8,753 | 4,934 | |||||||||
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Cash and cash equivalents at end of period |
$ | 34,527 | $ | 19,212 | $ | 8,753 | ||||||
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Supplemental disclosures on cash flow information: |
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Cash interest paid |
$ | 55,976 | $ | 58,225 | $ | 59,317 | ||||||
Cash income taxes paid |
| | 80 |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-11
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands, except share data)
(1) Description of Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
(a) Description of Business
GateHouse Media, Inc. (GateHouse), formerly Liberty Group Publishing, Inc. (LGP), and its subsidiaries is a leading U.S. publisher of local newspapers and related publications that are generally the dominant source of local news and print advertising in their markets. As of December 30, 2012, the Company (as defined below) owned and operated 406 publications located in 21 states. The majority of the Companys paid daily newspapers have been published for more than 100 years and are typically the only paid daily newspapers of general circulation in their respective nonmetropolitan markets. The Companys publications generally face limited competition as a result of operating in small and midsized markets that can typically support only one newspaper. The Company has strategically clustered its publications in geographically diverse, nonmetropolitan markets in the Midwest and Northeast United States, which limits its exposure to economic conditions in any single market or region.
Unlike large metropolitan newspapers, the Company derives a majority of its revenues from local advertising, rather than national advertising which the Company believes is generally more sensitive to economic conditions.
During the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized its management structure to align with its publication types. The resulting operating segments are Large Community Newspapers, Small Community Newspapers and Directories. These operating segments are aggregated into one reportable business segment.
(b) Basis of Presentation
GateHouse was formed in 1997 for purposes of acquiring 166 daily and weekly newspapers. GateHouse is a holding company for its wholly owned subsidiary, GateHouse Media Operating, Inc. (Operating Company). The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of GateHouse and Operating Company and its consolidated subsidiaries (the Company). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
(c) Recent Developments
The newspaper industry and the Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. These trends have eliminated the availability to the Company of additional borrowings under its 2007 Credit Facility, see Note 8. As a result, the Company previously implemented and continues to implement plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow. This includes the suspension of the payment of cash dividends, cost reduction programs, and the sale of non-core assets. The Company believes these initiatives will provide it with the financial resources necessary to invest in the business and provide sufficient cash flow to enable the Company to meet its commitments for the next year.
In February 2013, the US Postal Service announced that it will end Saturday delivery beginning in August 2013. The Company is evaluating the impact of this change, but does not expect it to be material.
(d) Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management 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. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
F-12
(e) Fiscal Year
Prior to 2011, the Companys fiscal year ended on December 31. Effective January 1, 2011, the Companys fiscal year changed to a 52 week operating year ending on the Sunday closest to December 31. For 2012 a portion of the business had 364 days of operations compared to 366 days in 2011. The 2012 fiscal year ended on December 30, 2012. The year ended January 1, 2012 encompassed a 53-week period for approximately 60% of the Company.
(f) Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are stated at amounts due from customers, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The Companys allowance for doubtful accounts is based upon several factors including the length of time the receivables are past due, historical payment trends and current economic factors. The Company generally does not require collateral.
(g) Inventory
Inventory consists principally of newsprint, which is valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. In 2011 and 2012 the Company purchased approximately 75% of its newsprint from one vendor. In 2013 the Company expects to purchase approximately 95% of newsprint from the same vendor.
(h) Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant, and equipment is recorded at cost. Routine maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.
Depreciation is calculated under the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives, principally 25 years for buildings and improvements, 3 to 10 years for machinery and equipment, and 3 to 10 years for furniture, fixtures, and computer software. Leasehold improvements are amortized under the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life of the asset.
(i) Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of advertiser, subscriber and customer relationships, mastheads, non-compete agreements with former owners of acquired newspapers, trade names and publication rights. The excess of acquisition costs over the estimated fair value of tangible and identifiable intangible net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.
Goodwill and mastheads are not amortized pursuant to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standard Update (ASU) Topic 350 IntangiblesGoodwill and Other (ASC 350). Mastheads are not amortized because it has been determined that the useful lives of such mastheads are indefinite.
In accordance with ASC 350, goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment annually or when events indicate that an impairment could exist which may include an economic downturn in a market, a change in the assessment of future operations or a decline in the Companys stock price. The Company performs an annual impairment assessment on the last day of its fiscal second quarter. As required by ASC 350, the Company performs its impairment analysis on each of its reporting units. The reporting units have discrete financial information which are regularly reviewed by management. The fair value of the applicable reporting unit is compared to its carrying value. Calculating the fair value of a reporting unit requires significant estimates and assumptions by the Company. The Company estimates fair value by applying third-party market value indicators to projected cash flows and/or projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. In applying this methodology, the Company relies on a number of factors, including current operating results and
F-13
cash flows, expected future operating results and cash flows, future business plans, and market data. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the estimate of fair value, the Company calculates the impairment as the excess of the carrying value of goodwill over its implied fair value.
During the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized its management structure to align with its publication types. The fair value of goodwill was allocated to each of the new reporting units: Small Community Newspapers, Large Daily Newspapers and Metro Newspapers. The Company determined that impairment indicators were present for the Metro Newspaper reporting unit, which had a goodwill balance of $216. As of April 1, 2012 the Company performed a Step 1 analysis for this reporting unit and determined that its carrying value exceeded fair value. As a result of the Step 2 analysis, the entire $216 of goodwill was impaired and this amount was subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations, see Note 19. The fair value of this reporting unit for impairment testing purposes was estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believes were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of this reporting unit. The Company performed further analysis of this reporting units intangible and long-lived assets and determined that impairments of these assets were not present.
Due to an operational management change in the fourth quarter of 2011, certain properties having a goodwill balance of $385 were transferred to a reporting unit that previously did not have a goodwill balance. The Company performed an impairment assessment for this reporting unit and as a result an impairment charge related to goodwill of $385 was recorded as of January 1, 2012. The Company performed further analysis of this reporting units intangible assets and determined that additional impairments were not present as of year-end. A review of impairment indicators was performed for the Companys other reporting units and it was determined that financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 26, 2011 impairment test and it was determined that no indicators of impairment were present.
Refer to Note 5 for additional information on the impairment testing of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets.
The Company accounts for long-lived assets in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment (ASC 360). The Company assesses the recoverability of its long-lived assets, including property, plant, and equipment and definite lived intangible assets, whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets, or related group of assets, may not be fully recoverable. Impairment indicators include significant under performance relative to historical or projected future operating losses, significant changes in the manner of use of the acquired assets or the strategy for the Companys overall business, and significant negative industry or economic trends. The assessment of recoverability is based on managements estimates. If the carrying value of the assets exceeds the undiscounted cash flows, the asset would be deemed to be impaired. Impairment would be measured as the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying value.
(j) Revenue Recognition
Circulation revenue from subscribers is billed to customers at the beginning of the subscription period and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related subscription. Circulation revenue from single copy sales is recognized at the time of sale. Advertising revenue is recognized upon publication of the advertisement. Revenue for commercial printing is recognized upon delivery. Directory revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the period in which the corresponding directory is distributed.
F-14
(k) Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
The Company has determined that more likely than not its existing deferred tax assets will not be realized, and accordingly has provided a valuation allowance. Any changes in the scheduled reversals of deferred taxes may require an additional valuation allowance against the remaining deferred tax assets. Any increase or decrease in the valuation allowance could result in an increase or decrease in income tax expense in the period of adjustment.
The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 740 Income Taxes. The Company does not anticipate significant increases or decreases in our uncertain tax positions within the next twelve months. The Company recognizes penalties and interest relating to uncertain tax positions in tax expense.
(l) Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying value of the Companys cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. An estimate of the fair value of the Companys debt is disclosed in Note 8.
The Company accounts for derivative instruments in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815) and FASB ASC Topic 820 Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820). These standards require an entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and measure those instruments at fair value. Additionally, the fair value adjustments will affect either accumulated other comprehensive loss or net loss depending on whether the derivative instrument qualifies as an effective hedge for accounting purposes and, if so, the nature of the hedging activity. The fair value of the Companys derivative financial instruments is disclosed in Note 9.
(m) Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents represent highly liquid certificates of deposit which have original maturities of three months or less.
(n) Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs consist of costs incurred in connection with debt financings. Such costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated remaining term of the related debt.
(o) Advertising
Advertising costs are expensed in the period incurred. The Company incurred total advertising expenses of $3,419, $2,620 and $3,549 during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, respectively.
(p) Earnings (loss) per share
Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed as net income (loss) available to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issued through common stock equivalents.
F-15
(q) Stock-based Employee Compensation
FASB ASC Topic 718, CompensationStock Compensation (ASC 718) requires that all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, be recognized in the consolidated financial statements over the service period (generally the vesting period) based on fair values measured on grant dates.
(r) Pension and Postretirement Liabilities
FASB ASC Topic 715, CompensationRetirement Benefits (ASC 715) requires recognition of an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheet reflecting the funded status of pension and other postretirement benefit plans such as retiree health and life, with current-year changes in the funded status recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss. During the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 a total of $(2,647), $(2,797) and $(1,007) net of taxes of $0, $0 and $0, respectively, was recognized in other comprehensive loss (see Note 13).
(s) Self-Insurance Liability Accruals
The Company maintains self-insured medical and workers compensation programs. The Company purchases stop loss coverage from third parties which limits our exposure to large claims. The Company records a liability for healthcare and workers compensation costs during the period in which they occur as well as an estimate of incurred but not reported claims.
(t) Reclassifications
Certain amounts in the prior periods consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
(u) Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2012, the FASB Accounting Standard Update (ASU) 2012-02, Intangibles- Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment. The amendments in this update allow companies the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. An entity is not required to calculate the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset and perform the quantitative impairment test unless the entity determines that it is more likely than not the asset is impaired. The changes to the ASC as a result of this update are effective for annual and interim impairment test performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU No. 2012-02 will not have a material effect on the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASC Update No. 2013-02 Comprehensive Income Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), which amends ASC Topic 220. The amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) by component. In addition an entity is required to present either on the face of the Statement of Income or in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI and should be provided by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified in its entirety to net income in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures require under GAAP that provide additional detail about these amounts. The changes to the ASC as a result of this updated guidance are effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU No. 2013-02 will not have a material effect on the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-16
(2) Share-Based Compensation
The Company recognized compensation expense for share-based payments of $95, $462 and $1,715, during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, respectively. The total compensation cost not yet recognized related to non-vested awards as of December 30, 2012 was $23, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.3 years through April 2013.
(a) Restricted Share Grants (RSGs)
Prior to the Companys IPO in 2006, the Company had issued 792,500 RSGs to certain management investors pursuant to each investors management stockholder agreement (each, a Management Stockholder Agreement). Under the Management Stockholder Agreements, RSGs vest by one-third on each of the third, fourth and fifth anniversaries from the grant date. Following the adoption of the GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the Plan) in October 2006, an additional 268,680 RSGs were granted during the year ended December 31, 2006 to Company directors, management, and employees. During the year ended December 31, 2007 an additional 198,846 RSGs were granted to Company directors, management and employees, 105,453 of which were both granted and forfeited. During the year ended December 31, 2008 an additional 266,795 RSGs were granted to Company directors, management and employees, 42,535 of which were both granted and forfeited. During the year ended December 31, 2009 an additional 100,000 RSGs were granted to Company management. The majority of the RSGs issued under the Plan vest in increments of one-third on each of the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date. In the event a grantee of an RSG is terminated by the Company without cause, a number of unvested RSGs immediately vest that would have vested under the normal vesting period on the next succeeding anniversary date following such termination. In the event an RSG grantees employment with the Company is terminated without cause within twelve months after a change in control as defined in the applicable award agreement, all unvested RSGs become immediately vested at the termination date. During the period prior to the lapse and removal of the vesting restrictions, a grantee of an RSG will have all of the rights of a stockholder, including without limitation, the right to vote and the right to receive all dividends or other distributions. As a result, the RSGs are reflected as outstanding common stock and the unvested RSGs have been excluded from the calculation of basic earnings per share. With respect to Company employees, the value of the RSGs on the date of issuance is recognized as employee compensation expense over the vesting period or through the grantees eligible retirement date, if shorter, with an increase to additional paid-in-capital. During the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 the Company recognized $95, $462 and $1,715 respectively in share-based compensation expense related to RSGs and is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
As of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, there were 25,424 and 84,181 RSGs, respectively, issued and outstanding with a weighted average grant date fair value of $6.04 and $3.67, respectively. As of December 30, 2012, the aggregate intrinsic value of unvested RSGs was $2. As of December 30, 2012, the aggregate fair value of vested RSGs was $4.
RSG activity was as follows:
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Number
of RSGs |
Weighted-
Average Grant Date Fair Value |
Number
of RSGs |
Weighted-
Average Grant Date Fair Value |
Number
of RSGs |
Weighted-
Average Grant Date Fair Value |
|||||||||||||||||||
Unvested at beginning of year |
84,181 | $ | 3.67 | 299,560 | $ | 8.89 | 570,696 | $ | 10.01 | |||||||||||||||
Granted |
| | | | | | ||||||||||||||||||
Vested |
(58,757 | ) | 2.65 | (215,379 | ) | 10.93 | (264,403 | ) | 11.29 | |||||||||||||||
Forfeited |
| | | | (6,733 | ) | 9.75 | |||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Unvested at end of year |
25,424 | $ | 6.04 | 84,181 | $ | 3.67 | 299,560 | $ | 8.89 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-17
ASC 718 requires the recognition of share-based compensation for the number of awards that are ultimately expected to vest. The Companys estimated forfeitures are based on forfeiture rates of comparable plans. Estimated forfeitures will be reassessed in subsequent periods and the estimate may change based on new facts and circumstances.
(b) Valuation of Equity Securities Issued as Compensation
The Company values equity securities issued as compensation using the fair value of the securities as of the grant date.
Prior to January 1, 2006, the Company recorded deferred share-based compensation, which consisted of the amounts by which the estimated fair value of the instrument underlying the grant exceeded the grant or exercise price, at the date of grant or other measurement date, if applicable and recognized the expense over the related service period. In determining the fair value of the Companys common stock at the dates of grant prior to the IPO on October 25, 2006, the Companys stock was not publicly traded and, therefore, the Company was unable to rely on a public trading market for its stock prior to October 25, 2006.
As the Company began the process of preparing for its IPO, it developed a preliminary valuation using a discounted cash flow approach as of July 2006. The Company estimated that the fair value of its common stock was $15.01 per share based on a valuation using a discounted cash flow approach as of July 2006.
The Company retrospectively applied the valuation to share-based compensation relating to RSGs and common stock sales which occurred from January 2006 to May 2006. Therefore, the financial statements reflect this valuation for grants made prior to the Companys IPO.
(3) Restructuring
Over the past several years, and in furtherance of the Companys cost reduction and cash preservation plans outlined in Note 1, the Company has engaged in a series of individual restructuring programs, designed primarily to right size the Companys employee base, consolidate facilities and improve operations. These initiatives impact all of the Companys geographic regions and are often influenced by the terms of union contracts within the region. All costs related to these programs, which primarily reflect involuntary severance expense, are accrued at the time of announcement.
Information related to restructuring program activity during the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 is outlined below.
Severance
and Related Costs |
Other
Costs (1) |
Total | ||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2010 |
$ | 253 | $ | 1 | $ | 254 | ||||||
Restructuring provision included in Integration and Reorganization (2) |
3,724 | 2,226 | 5,950 | |||||||||
Cash payments |
(3,077 | ) | (1,801 | ) | (4,878 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance at January 1, 2012 |
$ | 900 | $ | 426 | $ | 1,326 | ||||||
Restructuring provision included in Integration and Reorganization (2) |
3,610 | 800 | 4,410 | |||||||||
Cash payments |
(3,826 | ) | (1,062 | ) | (4,888 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance at December 30, 2012 |
$ | 684 | $ | 164 | $ | 848 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) | Other costs primarily included costs to consolidate operations. |
(2) | Included above are amounts that were initially recognized in integration and reorganization and were subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the operations ceased. |
F-18
The restructuring reserve balance as of December 30, 2012, for all programs was $848, which is expected to be paid out over the next twelve months.
The following table summarizes the costs incurred and cash paid in connection with these restructuring programs for the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012.
Years Ended | ||||||||
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
|||||||
Severance and related costs (2) |
$ | 3,610 | $ | 3,724 | ||||
Other costs (1) (2) |
800 | 2,226 | ||||||
Cash payments |
(4,888 | ) | (4,878 | ) |
(1) | Other costs primarily included costs to consolidate operations. |
(2) | Included above are amounts that were initially recognized in integration and reorganization and were subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the operations ceased. |
Additionally, during the year ended January 1, 2012, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $1,696 related to the consolidation of its print operations. Refer to Note 16 for fair value measurement discussion.
(4) Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant, and equipment consisted of the following:
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
|||||||
Land |
$ | 19,384 | $ | 19,627 | ||||
Buildings and improvements |
84,028 | 86,786 | ||||||
Machinery and equipment |
118,907 | 120,554 | ||||||
Furniture, fixtures, and computer software |
20,673 | 20,225 | ||||||
Construction in progress and other non-depreciating assets |
1,726 | 525 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
244,718 | 247,717 | |||||||
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization |
(128,208 | ) | (116,780 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total |
$ | 116,510 | $ | 130,937 | ||||
|
|
|
|
Depreciation expense during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 was $16,435, $18,669 and $21,099, respectively.
F-19
(5) Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and intangible assets consisted of the following:
December 30, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Gross Carrying
Amount |
Accumulated
Amortization |
Net Carrying
Amount |
||||||||||
Amortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Noncompete agreements |
$ | 4,970 | $ | 4,839 | $ | 131 | ||||||
Advertiser relationships |
278,543 | 145,878 | 132,665 | |||||||||
Customer relationships |
8,940 | 3,597 | 5,343 | |||||||||
Subscriber relationships |
82,280 | 39,226 | 43,054 | |||||||||
Trade name |
5,493 | 3,204 | 2,289 | |||||||||
Publication rights |
345 | 134 | 211 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total |
$ | 380,571 | $ | 196,878 | $ | 183,693 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Goodwill |
$ | 13,742 | ||||||||||
Mastheads |
35,288 | |||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
Total |
$ | 49,030 | ||||||||||
|
|
January 1, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Gross Carrying
Amount |
Accumulated
Amortization |
Net Carrying
Amount |
||||||||||
Amortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Noncompete agreements |
$ | 4,970 | $ | 4,479 | $ | 491 | ||||||
Advertiser relationships |
286,478 | 134,228 | 152,250 | |||||||||
Customer relationships |
8,940 | 2,946 | 5,994 | |||||||||
Subscriber relationships |
83,158 | 34,908 | 48,250 | |||||||||
Trade name |
5,493 | 2,655 | 2,838 | |||||||||
Publication rights |
345 | 111 | 234 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total |
$ | 389,384 | $ | 179,327 | $ | 210,057 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Goodwill |
$ | 13,958 | ||||||||||
Mastheads |
36,604 | |||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
Total |
$ | 50,562 | ||||||||||
|
|
The weighted average amortization periods for amortizable intangible assets are 4.4 years for noncompete agreements, 16.7 years for advertiser relationships, 13.8 years for customer relationships, 17.2 years for subscriber relationships, 10.0 years for trade names and 15.0 years for publication rights.
Amortization expense for the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 was $23,598, $23,914 and $24,037, respectively. Estimated future amortization expense as of January 1, 2012, is as follows:
For the years ending the Sunday closest to December 31: |
||||
2013 |
$ | 23,323 | ||
2014 |
23,277 | |||
2015 |
23,243 | |||
2016 |
21,316 | |||
2017 |
20,242 | |||
Thereafter |
72,292 | |||
|
|
|||
Total |
$ | 183,693 | ||
|
|
F-20
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 are as follows:
Gross balance at December 31, 2010 |
$ | 886,843 | ||
Accumulated impairment losses |
(872,500 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Net balance at December 31, 2010 |
$ | 14,343 | ||
|
|
|||
Goodwill impairment |
(385 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Balance at January 1, 2012 |
$ | 13,958 | ||
|
|
|||
Gross balance at January 1, 2012 |
$ | 886,843 | ||
Accumulated impairment losses |
(872,885 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Net balance at January 1, 2012 |
$ | 13,958 | ||
|
|
|||
Goodwill impairment from divestitures (1) |
(216 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Balance at December 30, 2012 |
$ | 13,742 | ||
|
|
|||
Gross balance at December 30, 2012 |
$ | 886,843 | ||
Accumulated impairment losses |
(873,101 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Net balance at December 30, 2012 |
$ | 13,742 | ||
|
|
(1) | Goodwill impairment was initially recognized in continuing operations and was subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the operations were classified as held for sale. |
As of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, goodwill in the amount $606,013 was deductible for income tax purposes.
The Companys annual impairment assessment is made on the last day of its fiscal second quarter.
As of March 31, 2010 a review of impairment indicators was performed with the Company noting that its financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 30, 2009 impairment test and its market capitalization exceeded its consolidated carrying value. It was determined that an impairment analysis was not required.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of June 30, 2010, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and individual newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that current transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units. Given the stabilization of operating results for the only reporting unit having a goodwill balance at the time, no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the stock market price and fair value of debt) plus an estimated control premium.
As of September 30, 2010, December 31, 2010, and March 27, 2011 a review of impairment indicators was performed with the Company noting that its financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 30, 2010 impairment test and its market capitalization exceeded its consolidated carrying value. It was determined that an impairment analysis was not required.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of June 26, 2011, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and
F-21
assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units. Given the stabilization of operating results for the only reporting unit having a goodwill balance at the time, no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the stock market price and fair value of debt) plus an estimated control premium.
As of September 25, 2011 a review of impairment indicators was performed with the Company noting that its financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 26, 2011 impairment test and its market capitalization exceeded its consolidated carrying value. It was determined that an impairment analysis was not required.
Due to an operational management change in the fourth quarter of 2011, certain properties having a goodwill balance of $385 were transferred to a reporting unit that previously did not have a goodwill balance. The Company performed a Step 1 analysis for this reporting unit and determined that its carrying value exceeded fair value. As a result of the Step 2 analysis, the entire $385 of goodwill was impaired. The fair value of this reporting unit for impairment testing purposes was estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of this reporting unit. The Company performed further analysis of this reporting units intangible and long-lived assets and determined that impairments of these assets were not present as of year-end.
As of January 1, 2012, a review of impairment indicators was performed for the Companys other reporting units and it was determined that financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 26, 2011 impairment test and it was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
During the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized its management structure to align with its publication types. The fair value of goodwill was allocated to each of the new reporting units: Small Community Newspapers, Large Daily Newspapers and Metro Newspapers. The Company determined that impairment indicators were present for the Metro Newspaper reporting unit, which had a goodwill balance of $216. As of April 1, 2012 the Company performed a Step 1 analysis for this reporting unit and determined that its carrying value exceeded fair value. As a result of the Step 2 analysis, the entire $216 of goodwill was impaired and this amount was subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations, see Note 19. The fair value of this reporting unit for impairment testing purposes was estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of this reporting unit. The Company performed further analysis of this reporting units intangible and long-lived assets and determined that impairments of these assets were not present.
As of April 1, 2012, a review of impairment indicators was performed for the Companys other reporting units and it was determined that financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 26, 2011 impairment test and it was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of July 1, 2012, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the
F-22
assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units. Given the stabilization of operating results for the two reporting units that had a goodwill balance as of the annual impairment assessment date, no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the stock market price and fair value of debt) plus an estimated control premium.
As of September 30, 2012 and December 30, 2012, a review of impairment indicators was performed with the Company noting that its financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the July 1, 2012 impairment test and its market capitalization exceeded its consolidated carrying value. It was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
The newspaper industry and our Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, we may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
(6) Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consisted of the following:
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
|||||||
Accrued payroll |
$ | 4,305 | $ | 3,790 | ||||
Accrued bonus |
2,219 | 4,465 | ||||||
Accrued vacation |
959 | 1,396 | ||||||
Accrued insurance |
6,903 | 6,488 | ||||||
Accrued newsprint |
| 45 | ||||||
Accrued other |
11,872 | 11,441 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 26,258 | $ | 27,625 | |||||
|
|
|
|
(7) Lease Commitments
The future minimum lease payments related to the Companys non-cancelable operating lease commitments as of December 30, 2012 are as follows:
For the years ending the Sunday closest to December 31: |
||||
2013 |
$ | 4,640 | ||
2014 |
4,616 | |||
2015 |
3,447 | |||
2016 |
2,523 | |||
2017 |
2,203 | |||
Thereafter |
2,551 | |||
|
|
|||
Total minimum lease payments |
$ | 19,980 | ||
|
|
Rental expense under operating leases for the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 was $5,009, $5,382 and $5,297, respectively.
F-23
(8) Indebtedness
2007 Credit Facility
GateHouse Media Operating, Inc. (Operating), an indirectly wholly owned subsidiary of GateHouse Media, GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc. (Holdco), an indirectly wholly-owned subsidiary of GateHouse Media, and certain of their subsidiaries entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2007, with a syndicate of financial institutions with Wells Fargo Bank as administrative agent.
The 2007 Credit Facility, prior to execution of the Second Amendment (defined below), provided for a: (a) $670,000 term loan facility that matures on August 28, 2014; (b) a delayed draw term loan facility of up to $250,000 that matures on August 28, 2014 and (c) a revolving credit facility with a $40,000 aggregate loan commitment amount available, including a $15,000 sub-facility for letters of credit and a $10,000 swingline facility, that matures on February 28, 2014. The borrowers used the proceeds of the 2007 Credit Facility to refinance existing indebtedness and for working capital and other general corporate purposes, including, without limitation, financing acquisitions permitted under the 2007 Credit Facility. The 2007 Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in: (a) all present and future capital stock or other membership, equity, ownership or profits interest of Operating and all of its direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries, (b) 65% of the voting stock (and 100% of the nonvoting stock) of all present and future first-tier foreign subsidiaries and (c) substantially all of the tangible and intangible assets of Holdco, Operating and their present and future direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries. In addition, the loans and other obligations of the borrowers under the 2007 Credit Facility are guaranteed, subject to specified limitations, by Holdco, Operating and their present and future direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries.
Borrowings under the 2007 Credit Facility bear interest, at the borrowers option, equal to the LIBOR Rate for a LIBOR Rate Loan (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility), or the Alternate Base Rate for an Alternate Base Rate Loan (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility), plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin for the LIBOR Rate term loans and Alternate Base Rate term loans, as amended by the First Amendment (defined below), is 2.00% and 1.00%, respectively. The applicable margin for revolving loans is adjusted quarterly based upon Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) ( i.e ., the ratio of Holdcos Consolidated Indebtedness (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) on the last day of the preceding quarter to Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) for the four fiscal quarters ending on the date of determination). The applicable margin ranges from 1.50% to 2.00%, in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans, and 0.50% to 1.00% in the case of Alternate Base Rate Loans. Under the revolving credit facility, GateHouse Media will also pay a quarterly commitment fee on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility ranging from 0.25% to 0.5% based on the same total leverage ratio (as described above), and a quarterly fee equal to the applicable margin for LIBOR Rate Loans on the aggregate amount of outstanding letters of credit. In addition, GateHouse Media will be required to pay a ticking fee at the rate of 0.50% of the aggregate unfunded amount available to be borrowed under the delayed draw term facility.
No principal payments are due on the term loan facilities or the revolving credit facility until the applicable maturity date. The borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities in an amount equal to 50.0% of Holdcos Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) earned during the previous fiscal year, except that no prepayments are required if the Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) is less than or equal to 6.0 to 1.0 at the end of such fiscal year. In addition, the borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with asset disposition proceeds in excess of specified amounts to the extent necessary to cause Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio to be less than or equal to 6.25 to 1.00, and with cash insurance proceeds and condemnation or expropriation awards, in excess of specified amounts, subject, in each case, to reinvestment rights. The borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with the net proceeds of equity issuances by GateHouse Media in an amount equal to the lesser of (a) the amount by which 50.0% of the net cash proceeds exceeds the amount (if any) required to repay any credit facilities of GateHouse Media or (b) the amount of proceeds required to reduce Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio to 6.0 to 1.0. The borrowers are also required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with 100% of the proceeds of
F-24
debt issuances (with specified exceptions), except that no prepayment is required if Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio is less than 6.0 to 1.0. If the term loan facilities have been paid in full, mandatory prepayments are applied to the repayment of borrowings under the swingline facility and revolving credit facilities and the cash collateralization of letters of credit.
The 2007 Credit Facility contains a financial covenant that requires Holdco to maintain a Total Leverage Ratio of less than or equal to 6.5 to 1.0 at any time an extension of credit is outstanding under the revolving credit facility. The 2007 Credit Facility contains affirmative and negative covenants applicable to Holdco, Operating and their restricted subsidiaries customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions, including restrictions on their ability to incur indebtedness (which GateHouse Media is generally permitted to incur so long as it satisfies an incurrence test that requires it to maintain a pro forma Total Leverage Ratio of less than 6.5 to 1.0), create liens on assets, engage in certain lines of business, engage in mergers or consolidations, dispose of assets, make investments or acquisitions, engage in transactions with affiliates, enter into sale leaseback transactions, enter into negative pledges or pay dividends or make other restricted payments (except that Holdco is permitted to (a) make restricted payments (including quarterly dividends) so long as, after giving effect to any such restricted payment, Holdco and its subsidiaries have a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) equal to or greater than 1.0 to 1.0 and would be able to incur an additional $1.00 of debt under the incurrence test referred to above and (b) make restricted payments of proceeds of asset dispositions to GateHouse Media to the extent such proceeds are not required to prepay loans under the 2007 Credit Facility and/or cash collateralize letter of credit obligations and such proceeds are used to prepay borrowings under acquisition credit facilities of GateHouse Media. The 2007 Credit Facility also permits the borrowers, in certain limited circumstances, to designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries which are not subject to the covenant restrictions in the 2007 Credit Facility. The 2007 Credit Facility contains customary events of default, including defaults based on a failure to pay principal, reimbursement obligations, interest, fees or other obligations, subject to specified grace periods; a material inaccuracy of representations and warranties; breach of covenants; failure to pay other indebtedness and cross-accelerations; a Change of Control (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility); events of bankruptcy and insolvency; material judgments; failure to meet certain requirements with respect to ERISA; and impairment of collateral. There were no extensions of credit outstanding under the revolving credit portion of the facility at December 30, 2012 and, therefore, the Company was not required to be in compliance with the Total Leverage Ratio covenant.
First Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On May 7, 2007, the borrowers entered into the First Amendment to amend the 2007 Credit Facility (the First Amendment). The First Amendment provided an incremental term loan facility under the 2007 Credit Facility in the amount of $275,000. As amended by the First Amendment, the 2007 Credit Facility includes $1,195,000 of term loan facilities and $40,000 of a revolving credit facility. The incremental term loan facility amortizes at the same rate and matures on the same date as the existing term loan facilities under the 2007 Credit Facility. Interest on the incremental term loan facility accrues at a rate per annum equal to, at the option of the borrowers, (a) adjusted LIBOR plus a margin equal to (i) 2.00%, if the corporate family ratings and corporate credit ratings of Operating by Moodys Investors Service Inc. and Standard & Poors Rating Services, are at least B1, and B+, respectively, in each case with stable outlook or (ii) 2.25%, otherwise, as was the case as of December 30, 2012, or (b) the greater of the prime rate set by Wells Fargo Bank, or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50%, plus a margin 1.00% lower than that applicable to adjusted LIBOR-based loans. Any voluntary or mandatory repayment of the First Amendment term loans made with the proceeds of a new term loan entered into for the primary purpose of benefiting from a margin that is less than the margin applicable as a result of the First Amendment will be subject to a 1.00% prepayment premium. The First Amendment term loans are subject to a most favored nation interest provision that grants the First Amendment term loans an interest rate margin that is 0.25% less than the highest margin of any future term loan borrowings under the 2007 Credit Facility.
As previously noted, the First Amendment also modified the interest rates applicable to the term loans under the 2007 Credit Facility. Term loans thereunder accrue interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the option of the Borrower, (a) adjusted LIBOR plus a margin equal to 2.00% or (b) the greater of the prime rate set by Wells
F-25
Fargo Bank, or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50%, plus a margin equal to 1.00%. The terms of the previously outstanding borrowings were also modified to include a 1.00% prepayment premium corresponding to the prepayment premium applicable to the First Amendment term loans and a corresponding most favored nation interest provision.
Second Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On February 3, 2009, the Company entered into a Second Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility (the Second Amendment).
The Second Amendment, among other things, permits the borrowers to repurchase term loans outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility at prices below par through one or more Modified Dutch Auctions (as defined in the Second Amendment) through December 31, 2011, provided that: (a) no Default or Event of Default (each as described in the 2007 Credit Facility) under the 2007 Credit Facility has occurred and is continuing or would result from such repurchases; (b) the sum of Unrestricted Cash and Accessible Borrowing Availability (as defined in the Second Amendment) under the 2007 Credit Facility is greater than or equal to $20,000; and (c) no Extension of Credit (as defined in the Second Amendment) is outstanding under the revolving credit facility before or after giving effect to such repurchases. The Second Amendment further provides that such repurchases may result in the prepayment of term loans on a non-pro rata basis. No debt repurchases were required to be made pursuant to the Second Amendment and no repurchases were made.
The Second Amendment also reduced the aggregate principal amounts available under the 2007 Credit Facility, as follows: (a) for revolving loans, from $40,000 to $20,000; (b) for the letter of credit subfacility, from $15,000 to $5,000; and (c) for the swingline loan subfacility, from $10,000 to $5,000.
In addition, the Second Amendment provides that Holdco may not incur additional term debt under the 2007 Credit Facility unless the Senior Secured Incurrence Test (as defined in the Second Amendment) is less than 4.00 to 1 and the current Incurrence Test (as defined in the Second Amendment) is satisfied. At December 30, 2012, Holdco was not able to incur additional debt under the 2007 Credit Facility.
In conjunction with the Second Amendment, the Company incurred and expensed approximately $550 of fees. The existing unamortized deferred financing fees that should be written off, in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 855, Debt , as a result of the decrease in borrowing capacity were not significant. The Company determined that the approximate net impact of $400 was immaterial and as a result the Company expensed the $550 of new fees and continues to amortize the existing deferred financing fees.
Agency Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On April 1, 2011, the borrowers entered into an Agency Succession and Amendment Agreement, dated as of March 30, 2011, to the 2007 Credit Facility (the Agency Amendment).
Pursuant to the Agency Amendment, among other things, (a) Wells Fargo Bank resigned as Agent and (b) Gleacher was appointed as Agent. In addition, the Agency Amendment effected certain amendments to the 2007 Credit Facility that provide that (x) the Agent need not be a lender under the 2007 Credit Facility and (y) the lenders holding a majority of the outstanding term loans and loan commitments under the 2007 Credit Facility have (i) the right, in their discretion, to remove the Agent and (ii) the right to make certain decisions and exercise certain powers under the 2007 Credit Facility that had previously been within the discretion of the Agent.
2007 Credit Facility Excess Cash Flow Payment and Outstanding Balance
As required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, on March 15, 2012 and March 2, 2011, the Company made principal payments of $4,600 and $11,249, respectively, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the fiscal years ended January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, respectively. As of December 30, 2012,
F-26
a total of $1,174,098 was outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility; consisting of $658,281 under the term loan facility, $245,627 under the delayed draw term loan facility, and $270,190 under the incremental term loan facility. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility. Following the filing of this Annual Report (Form 10-K) on March 7, 2013 the Company expects to make a principal payment of $6,648, which represents 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the fiscal year ended December 30, 2012, as required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended. This amount has been classified as current portion of long-term debt in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 30, 2012.
Compliance with Covenants
The Company currently is in compliance with all of the covenants and obligations under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended. However, due to restrictive covenants and conditions within the facility, the Company currently does not have the ability to draw upon the revolving credit facility portion of the 2007 Credit Facility for any immediate short-term funding needs or to incur additional long-term debt and do not expect to be able to do so in the foreseeable future.
2008 Bridge Facility
On February 15, 2008, GateHouse Media Intermediate Holdco, Inc., a subsidiary of the Company, and the Company entered into the 2008 Bridge Facility with Barclays Capital (Barclays), as subsequently modified and amended. The 2008 Bridge Facility originally provided for a $20,600 secured term loan facility. On June 7, 2010, the Company paid off in full the remaining balance under the 2008 Bridge Facility.
Preferred Stock Agreement with Subsidiary
On August 21, 2008, FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC (FIF III) purchased an aggregate of $11,500 in 10% cumulative preferred stock of GateHouse Media Macomb Holdings, Inc. (Macomb), an operating subsidiary of the Company. Macomb, an Unrestricted Subsidiary under the terms of the 2007 Credit Facility, used the proceeds from such sale of preferred stock to make an $11,500 cash investment in Holdco non-voting 10% cumulative preferred stock. On December 7, 2010, FIF III exercised its right to require the Company to purchase its Macomb preferred stock. During the five-year period following the full repayment by the Company of its 2008 Bridge Facility, which repayment occurred in the second quarter of 2010, FIF III had the right to require the Company to purchase the preferred stock. The Company paid the purchase price of $14,144 on December 8, 2010, which represented the sum of original purchase price of $11,500 paid by FIF III for the Macomb preferred stock and accrued but unpaid dividends of $2,644. FIF III is an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group, LLC, the owner of approximately 39.6% of the Companys outstanding Common Stock.
Fair Value
The fair value of the Companys total long-term debt, determined based on the average yield to maturity of publicly traded debt with similar ratings and consistent maturities and terms, Level 2 inputs (see Note 16), was approximately $715,000. The average yield to maturity of such publicly traded debt used in valuing the Companys debt ranged from 6.9% to 52.0% with an average of 19.7%. The fair value is an estimate based on publicly available information and may not necessarily represent the fair market value in an arms length transaction.
F-27
Payment Schedule
As of December 30, 2012, scheduled principal payments of outstanding debt are as follows:
2013 |
6,648 | |||
2014 |
1,167,450 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 1,174,098 | |||
Less: Short-Term Debt |
6,648 | |||
|
|
|||
Long-Term Debt |
$ | 1,167,450 | ||
|
|
(9) Derivative Instruments
The Company uses certain derivative financial instruments to hedge the aggregate risk of interest rate fluctuations with respect to its long-term debt, which requires payments based on a variable interest rate index. These risks include: increases in debt rates above the earnings of the encumbered assets, increases in debt rates resulting in the failure of certain debt ratio covenants, increases in debt rates such that assets can no longer be refinanced, and earnings volatility.
In order to reduce such risks, the Company primarily uses interest rate swap agreements to change floating-rate long term debt to fixed-rate long-term debt. This type of hedge is intended to qualify as a cash-flow hedge under ASC 815. For these instruments, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Statement of Stockholders Equity (Deficit) and recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the same period in which the hedged transaction impacts earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is immediately recognized in earnings.
Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
Liability Derivatives | ||||||||||||||||
December 30, 2012 | January 1, 2012 | |||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Location | Fair Value | Balance Sheet Location | Fair Value | |||||||||||||
Derivative designed as hedging instruments under ASC 815 |
||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swaps |
Derivative Instruments | $ | 45,724 | Derivative Instruments | $ | 51,576 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total derivatives |
$ | 45,724 | $ | 51,576 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
F-28
The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Years Ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010
Derivatives in ASC 815
|
Location of Gain or (Loss)
Derivative |
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in Income on Derivative |
||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||||
Interest rate swaps |
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments | $ | 1,635 | $ | 913 | $ | (8,277 | ) |
Derivatives in
Relationships |
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion) |
Location of
Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) |
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) |
Location of
Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swaps |
$ | 5,832 | $ | 13,829 | $ | (20,801 | ) |
Interest income/
(expense) |
$ | (28,771 | ) | $ | (29,560 | ) | $ | (38,209 | ) |
Other income
(expense) |
$ | 20 | $ | 85 | $ | (167 | ) |
On June 23, 2005, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $300,000 maturing June 2012 as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company received interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.135%, with settlements occurring monthly. On February 20, 2006, the Company redesignated the same interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. At December 31, 2006, the swap no longer qualified as an effective hedge. Therefore, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income has been reclassified into earnings over the life of the hedged item. On January 1, 2007, the Company redesignated the same interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. On August 18, 2008, the Company terminated the swap and entered into a settlement agreement with Goldman Sachs in the aggregate amount of $18,947, which also includes the termination of the swap having a notional value of $270,000. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive income is reclassified into earnings over the remaining life of the item previously hedged. During the twelve months ended December 30, 2012, ($1,615) was amortized and recognized through earnings relating to balances in accumulated other comprehensive income and the associated deferred income taxes of $148 were recognized in income tax expense. As of December 30, 2012, all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income have been reclassified into earnings.
In connection with financing obtained in 2006, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $270,000 maturing July 2011 as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company received interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.359%, with settlements occurring monthly. On January 1, 2007, the swap was redesignated. Therefore, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income has been reclassified into earnings over the life of the hedged item. On August 18, 2008, the Company terminated the swap and entered into a settlement agreement with Goldman Sachs in the aggregate amount of $18,947 which also includes the termination of the swap having a notional value of $300,000. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive income is reclassified into earnings over the remaining life of the item previously hedged. As of December 30, 2012, all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income have been reclassified into earnings.
In connection with the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $100,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one-month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.14%, with settlements occurring monthly. During the year ended December 30, 2012, the fair value of the swap increased by $969, net, of which $0 was recognized through earnings and $969 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
In connection with the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $250,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the
F-29
Company receives interest equivalent to one-month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.971%, with settlements occurring monthly. During the year ended December 30, 2012, the fair value of the swap increased by $2,293, net, of which $3 was recognized through earnings and $2,290 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
In connection with the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $200,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one-month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.079% with settlements occurring monthly. During the year ended December 30, 2012, the fair value of the swap increased by $1,900, net, of which a decrease of $20 was recognized through earnings and an increase of $1,920 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
During September, 2007, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $75,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one-month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.941% with settlements occurring monthly. During the year ended December 30, 2012, the fair value of the swap increased by $690, net, of which $37 was recognized through earnings and $653 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
Upon the maturity of a redesignated hedge the Company reviewed all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income and determined $240 should be reclassified from the derivative to the pension balance during the twelve months ended January 1, 2012.
The aggregate amount of unrealized loss related to derivative instruments recognized in other comprehensive loss as of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 was $45,651 and $50,017, respectively.
(10) Income Taxes
Income tax expense (benefit) on loss from continuing operations for the periods shown below consisted of:
Current | Deferred | Total | ||||||||||
Year ended December 30, 2012: |
||||||||||||
U.S. Federal |
$ | 149 | $ | | $ | 149 | ||||||
State and local |
(356 | ) | | (356 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | (207 | ) | | $ | (207 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Year ended January 1, 2012: |
||||||||||||
U.S. Federal |
$ | (1,368 | ) | $ | | $ | (1,368 | ) | ||||
State and local |
(435 | ) | | (435 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | (1,803 | ) | | $ | (1,803 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Year ended December 31, 2010: |
||||||||||||
U.S. Federal |
$ | | $ | | $ | | ||||||
State and local |
(155 | ) | | (155 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | (155 | ) | | $ | (155 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-30
Income tax expense (benefit) differed from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 34% to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes as a result of the following:
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
||||||||||
Computed expected tax benefit |
$ | (9,303 | ) | $ | (8,171 | ) | $ | (8,755 | ) | |||
Increase (decrease) in income tax benefit resulting from: |
||||||||||||
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit |
20 | (367 | ) | | ||||||||
Nondeductible meals, entertainment, and other expenses |
393 | 358 | 82 | |||||||||
Return to provision adjustment |
288 | 6 | (60 | ) | ||||||||
Impairment of Non-Deductible Goodwill |
| 51 | | |||||||||
Change in valuation allowance |
8,462 | 6,183 | 7,755 | |||||||||
Increase (decrease) to provision for unrecognized tax benefits |
(356 | ) | 120 | (155 | ) | |||||||
Preferred stock dividend |
| | 899 | |||||||||
Other |
289 | 17 | 79 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | (207 | ) | $ | (1,803 | ) | $ | (155 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
During the year ended December 30, 2012, the income tax benefit, net of income tax valuation allowance, was $207.
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets as of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 are presented below:
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
|||||||
Current deferred tax assets: |
||||||||
Accounts receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful accounts |
$ | 962 | $ | 1,165 | ||||
Accrued expenses |
12,077 | 12,976 | ||||||
Inventory capitalization |
2,356 | 2,356 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Gross current deferred tax assets |
15,395 | 16,497 | ||||||
Less valuation allowance |
(15,395 | ) | (16,497 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net current deferred tax assets |
| | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Non-current deferred tax assets: |
||||||||
Derivative instruments |
17,870 | 20,219 | ||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligation |
8,922 | 7,489 | ||||||
Long-lived and intangible assets, principally due to differences in depreciation and amortization |
160,131 | 183,794 | ||||||
Net operating losses |
242,272 | 204,955 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Gross non-current deferred tax assets |
429,195 | 416,457 | ||||||
Less valuation allowance |
(429,195 | ) | (416,457 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net non-current deferred tax assets |
| | ||||||
|
|
|
|
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the valuation allowance increased by $10,980, of which $5,617 was charged to earnings and $5,363 was recorded through accumulated other comprehensive income. During the
F-31
year ended January 1, 2012, the valuation allowance increased by $2,707 of which $6,551 was charged to earnings and $3,844 was recorded as a reduction through accumulated other comprehensive income. During the year ended December 30, 2012, the valuation allowance increased by $11,636 of which $11,795 was charged to earnings, $513 was charged to discontinued operations, and $672 was recorded as a reduction through accumulated other comprehensive income.
At December 30, 2012, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards for Federal and state income tax purposes of approximately $632,120, which are available to offset future taxable income, if any. These Federal and state net operating loss carryforwards begin to expire on various dates from 2018 through 2031. A portion of these net operating losses are subject to the limitations of Internal Revenue Code (the Code) Section 382. This section provides limitations on the availability of net operating losses to offset current taxable income if significant ownership changes have occurred for Federal tax purposes.
At December 30, 2012, the Company had uncertain tax positions of $4,677 which, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. The Company did not record significant amounts of interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions for the year ended December 30, 2012. Certain amounts were recognized in 2012 due to expiration of the statute of limitations.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of uncertain tax positions for the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 are as follows:
Balance as of January 1, 2011 |
$ | 4,913 | ||
Increases based on tax positions prior to 2011 |
120 | |||
|
|
|||
Uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2012 |
$ | 5,033 | ||
Decreases based on tax positions prior to 2012 |
(399 | ) | ||
Increases based on tax positions prior to 2012 |
43 | |||
|
|
|||
Uncertain tax positions as of December 30, 2012 |
$ | 4,677 | ||
|
|
The Company does not anticipate significant increases or decreases in our uncertain tax positions within the next twelve months. The Company recognizes penalties and interest relating to uncertain tax positions in the provision for income taxes.
The Company files a U.S. federal consolidated income tax return for which the statute of limitations remains open for the 2009 tax year and beyond. U.S. state jurisdictions have statute of limitations generally ranging from 3 to 6 years.
F-32
(11) Earnings (Loss) Per Share
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (EPS):
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 31, 2010 |
||||||||||
Numerator for earnings per share calculation: |
||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (27,463 | ) | $ | (20,950 | ) | $ | (25,502 | ) | |||
Loss from discontinued operations |
(2,340 | ) | (699 | ) | (542 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net loss |
$ | (29,803 | ) | $ | (21,649 | ) | $ | (26,044 | ) | |||
Denominator for earnings per share calculation: |
||||||||||||
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
58,041,907 | 57,949,815 | 57,723,353 | |||||||||
Dilutive securities, including restricted share grants |
| | | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
58,041,907 | 57,949,815 | 57,723,353 | |||||||||
Loss per sharebasic and diluted: |
||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (0.47 | ) | $ | (0.36 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | |||
Loss from discontinued operations |
(0.04 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net loss |
$ | (0.51 | ) | $ | (0.37 | ) | $ | (0.45 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
|
|
During the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, 25,424, 84,181 and 299,560 RSGs, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted loss per share because their effect would have been antidilutive.
(12) Employee Benefit Plans
The Company maintains a GateHouse Media, Inc. defined contribution plan (the Defined Plan) designed to conform to IRS rules for 401(k) plans for all of its employees satisfying minimum service requirements as set forth under the plan. The plan allows for a matching contribution at the discretion of the Company. Employees can contribute amounts up to 100% of their eligible gross wages to the plan, subject to IRS limitations. The Company implemented a Companywide matching contribution on January 1, 2008 and discontinued offering such matching contribution across the Company on January 1, 2009. Effective January 2, 2012 the Company reinstated the matching contribution across the Company. During fiscal 2010 and 2011 the Company only offered a matching contribution to certain groups of the Companys employees. The Companys current match ranges from 50% to 100% of a specified portion of employee contribution, which specified portion ranges from 1% to 6% of eligible gross wages. During the year ended December 30, 2012, when the Company offered a matching contribution across the entire Company, the Companys matching contribution to the plan was $1,033. During the years ended January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, when the Company did not offer a matching contribution across the entire Company, the Companys matching contributions to the plan were $117 and $102, respectively.
The Company maintains three nonqualified deferred compensation plans, as described below, for certain of its employees.
The Company maintains the GateHouse Media, Inc. Publishers Deferred Compensation Plan (Publishers Plan), a nonqualified deferred compensation plan for the benefit of certain designated publishers of the Companys newspapers. Under the Publishers Plan, the Company credits an amount to a bookkeeping account established for each participating publisher pursuant to a pre-determined formula, which is based upon the gross operating profits of each such publishers newspaper. The bookkeeping account is credited with earnings and losses based upon the investment choices selected by the participant. The amounts credited to the bookkeeping account on behalf of each participating publisher vest on an installment basis over a period of 15 years. A participating publisher forfeits all amounts under the Publishers Plan in the event that the publishers
F-33
employment with the Company is terminated for cause, as defined in the Publishers Plan. Amounts credited to a participating publishers bookkeeping account are distributable upon termination of the publishers employment with the Company and will be made in a lump sum or installments as elected by the publisher. The Publishers Plan was frozen effective as of December 31, 2006, and all accrued benefits of participants under the terms of the Publishers Plan became 100% vested. The Company recorded $0, $0 and $0 of compensation expense related to the Publishers Plan for the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, respectively.
The Company maintains the GateHouse Media, Inc. Executive Benefit Plan (Executive Benefit Plan), a nonqualified deferred compensation plan for the benefit of certain key employees of the Company. Under the Executive Benefit Plan, the Company credits an amount, determined at the Companys sole discretion, to a bookkeeping account established for each participating key employee. The bookkeeping account is credited with earnings and losses based upon the investment choices selected by the participant. The amounts credited to the bookkeeping account on behalf of each participating key employee vest on an installment basis over a period of 5 years. A participating key employee forfeits all amounts under the Executive Benefit Plan in the event that the key employees employment with the Company is terminated for cause, as defined in the Executive Benefit Plan. Amounts credited to a participating key employees bookkeeping account are distributable upon termination of the key employees employment with the Company, and will be made in a lump sum or installments as elected by the key employee. The Executive Benefit Plan was frozen effective as of December 31, 2006, and all accrued benefits of participants under the terms of the Executive Benefit Plan became 100% vested. The Company recorded $0, $0 and $0 of compensation expense related to the Executive Benefit Plan for the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010, respectively.
The Company maintains the GateHouse Media, Inc. Executive Deferral Plan (Executive Deferral Plan), a nonqualified deferred compensation plan for the benefit of certain key employees of the Company. Under the Executive Deferral Plan, eligible key employees may elect to defer a portion of their compensation for payment at a later date. Currently, the Executive Deferral Plan allows a participating key employee to defer up to 100% of his or her annual compensation until termination of employment or such earlier period as elected by the participating key employee. Amounts deferred are credited to a bookkeeping account established by the Company for this purpose. The bookkeeping account is credited with earnings and losses based upon the investment choices selected by the participant. Amounts deferred under the Executive Deferral Plan are fully vested and non-forfeitable. The amounts in the bookkeeping account are payable to the key employee at the time and in the manner elected by the key employee.
(13) Pension and Postretirement Benefits
As a result of the Enterprise News Media, LLC and Copley Press, Inc. acquisitions, the Company maintains a pension plan and postretirement medical and life insurance plans which cover certain employees. The Company uses the accrued benefit actuarial method and best estimate assumptions to determine pension costs, liabilities and other pension information for defined benefit plans.
The Enterprise News Media, LLC pension plan was amended to freeze all future benefit accruals as of December 31, 2008, except for a select group of union employees whose benefits were frozen during 2009. Also, during 2008 the medical and life insurance benefits were frozen and the plan was amended to limit future benefits to a select group of active employees under the Enterprise News Media, LLC postretirement medical and life insurance plan.
F-34
The following provides information on the pension plan and postretirement medical and life insurance plan as of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, for the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012.
Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | |||||||||||||
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
|||||||||||||
Change in projected benefit obligation: |
||||||||||||||||
Benefit obligation at beginning of period |
$ | 23,926 | $ | 6,461 | $ | 23,142 | $ | 6,413 | ||||||||
Service cost |
300 | 40 | 200 | 42 | ||||||||||||
Interest cost |
1,203 | 273 | 1,238 | 303 | ||||||||||||
Actuarial loss |
3,422 | 187 | 946 | 23 | ||||||||||||
Benefits and expenses paid |
(1,725 | ) | (282 | ) | (1,600 | ) | (321 | ) | ||||||||
Participant contributions |
| 14 | | 18 | ||||||||||||
Employer implicit subsidy fulfilled |
| (27 | ) | | (17 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Projected benefit obligation at end of period |
$ | 27,126 | $ | 6,666 | $ | 23,926 | $ | 6,461 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Change in plan assets: |
||||||||||||||||
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period |
$ | 16,498 | $ | | $ | 17,101 | $ | | ||||||||
Actual return on plan assets |
2,353 | | (372 | ) | | |||||||||||
Employer contributions |
1,115 | 268 | 1,369 | 303 | ||||||||||||
Employer implicit subsidy contribution |
| 27 | | 17 | ||||||||||||
Participant contributions |
| 14 | | 18 | ||||||||||||
Employer implicit subsidy fulfilled |
| (27 | ) | | (17 | ) | ||||||||||
Benefits paid |
(1,402 | ) | (282 | ) | (1,295 | ) | (321 | ) | ||||||||
Expenses paid |
(323 | ) | | (305 | ) | | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Fair value of plan assets at end of period |
$ | 18,241 | $ | | $ | 16,498 | $ | | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Reconciliation of funded status: |
||||||||||||||||
Benefit obligation at end of period |
$ | (27,126 | ) | $ | (6,666 | ) | $ | (23,926 | ) | $ | (6,461 | ) | ||||
Fair value of assets at end of period |
18,241 | | 16,498 | | ||||||||||||
Funded status |
(8,885 | ) | (6,666 | ) | (7,428 | ) | (6,461 | ) | ||||||||
Unrecognized prior service cost |
| (1,525 | ) | | (2,155 | ) | ||||||||||
Unrecognized actuarial (gain) loss |
8,294 | 220 | 6,289 | 206 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net accrued benefit cost |
$ | (591 | ) | $ | (7,971 | ) | $ | (1,139 | ) | $ | (8,410 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-35
Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | |||||||||||||
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
|||||||||||||
Balance sheet presentation: |
||||||||||||||||
Accrued liabilities |
$ | | $ | 423 | $ | | $ | 393 | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations |
8,885 | 6,243 | 7,428 | 6,068 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income |
(8,294 | ) | 1,305 | (6,289 | ) | 1,949 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net accrued benefit cost |
$ | 591 | $ | 7,971 | $ | 1,139 | $ | 8,410 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Components of net periodic benefit cost: |
||||||||||||||||
Service cost |
$ | 300 | $ | 40 | $ | 200 | $ | 42 | ||||||||
Interest cost |
1,203 | 273 | 1,238 | 303 | ||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
(1,275 | ) | | (1,324 | ) | | ||||||||||
Amortization of prior service cost |
| (457 | ) | | (457 | ) | ||||||||||
Amortization of unrecognized (gain) loss |
382 | | 82 | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost |
$ | 610 | $ | (144 | ) | $ | 196 | $ | (112 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: |
||||||||||||||||
Net actuarial loss |
$ | 2,343 | $ | 187 | $ | 2,640 | $ | 23 | ||||||||
Amortization of net actuarial loss |
(383 | ) | | (83 | ) | | ||||||||||
Amortization of prior service credit |
| 457 | | 457 | ||||||||||||
Other adjustment |
43 | | (240 | ) | | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total recognized in other comprehensive income |
$ | 2,003 | $ | 644 | $ | 2,317 | $ | 480 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Comparison of obligations to plan assets: |
||||||||||||||||
Projected benefit obligation |
$ | 27,126 | $ | 6,666 | $ | 23,926 | $ | 6,461 | ||||||||
Accumulated benefit obligation |
27,126 | 6,666 | 23,926 | 6,461 | ||||||||||||
Fair value of plan assets |
18,241 | | 16,498 | |
The following assumptions were used to calculate the net periodic benefit cost for the Companys defined benefit pension and post retirement plans:
Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | |||||||||||||
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
|||||||||||||
Weighted average discount rate |
4.1 | % | 3.6 | % | 5.1 | % | 4.4 | % | ||||||||
Rate of increase in future compensation levels |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Expected return on assets |
7.75 | % | | 7.75 | % | | ||||||||||
Current year trend |
| 7.7 | % | | 8.1 | % | ||||||||||
Ultimate year trend |
| 4.8 | % | | 4.8 | % | ||||||||||
Year of ultimate trend |
| 2022 | | 2021 |
F-36
The following assumptions were used to calculate the net periodic benefit cost for the Companys defined benefit pension and post retirement plans:
Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | |||||||||||||
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
Year Ended
January 1, 2012 |
|||||||||||||
Weighted average discount rate |
5.1 | % | 4.4 | % | 5.7 | % | 5.3 | % | ||||||||
Rate of increase in future compensation levels |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Expected return on assets |
7.75 | % | | 7.75 | % | | ||||||||||
Current year trend |
| 8.1 | % | | 8.5 | % | ||||||||||
Ultimate year trend |
| 4.8 | % | | 4.8 | % | ||||||||||
Year of ultimate trend |
| 2022 | | 2021 |
To determine the expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets, the Company considers the current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets, input from the actuaries and investment consultants, and long-term inflation assumptions. The expected allocation of pension plan assets is based on a diversified portfolio consisting of domestic and international equity securities and fixed income securities. This expected return is then applied to the fair value of plan assets. The Company amortizes experience gains and losses, including the effects of changes in actuarial assumptions and plan provisions over a period equal to the average future service of plan participants.
Amortization of prior service costs was calculated using the straight-line method over the average remaining service periods of the employees expected to receive benefits under the plan.
Postretirement | ||||
Year Ended
December 30, 2012 |
||||
Effect of 1% increase in health care cost trend rates |
||||
APBO |
$ | 7,092 | ||
Dollar change |
$ | 426 | ||
Percent change |
6.4 | % | ||
Effect of 1% decrease in health care cost trend rates |
||||
APBO |
$ | 6,308 | ||
Dollar change |
$ | (358 | ) | |
Percent change |
(5.4 | )% |
Fair Value of plan assets are measured on a recurring basis using quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets, Level 1 input. The pension plans assets by asset category are as follows:
December 30, 2012 | January 1, 2012 | |||||||||||||||
Dollar | Percent | Dollar | Percent | |||||||||||||
Equity mutual funds |
$ | 12,299 | 67 | % | $ | 10,105 | 61 | % | ||||||||
Fixed income mutual funds |
5,320 | 29 | % | 5,353 | 33 | % | ||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
575 | 3 | % | 346 | 2 | % | ||||||||||
Other |
47 | 1 | % | 694 | 4 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total |
$ | 18,241 | 100 | % | $ | 16,498 | 100 | % | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plan fiduciaries of the George W. Prescott Publishing Company LLC Pension Plan set investment policies and strategies for the pension trust. Objectives include preserving the funded status of the plan and balancing risk against return. The general target allocation is 70% in equity funds and 30% in fixed income funds for the plans investments. To accomplish this goal, each plans assets are actively managed by outside investment managers
F-37
with the objective of optimizing long-term return while maintaining a high standard of portfolio quality and proper diversification. The Company monitors the maturities of fixed income securities so that there is sufficient liquidity to meet current benefit payment obligations.
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future services, as appropriate, are expected to be paid as follows:
Pension | Postretirement | |||||||
2013 |
$ | 1,451 | $ | 430 | ||||
2014 |
1,451 | 428 | ||||||
2015 |
1,498 | 433 | ||||||
2016 |
1,528 | 428 | ||||||
2017 |
1,536 | 393 | ||||||
2018-2022 |
7,942 | 1,743 | ||||||
Employer contribution expected to be paid during the year ending December 31, 2013 |
$ | 1,147 | $ | 430 |
The postretirement plans are not funded.
The aggregate amount of net actuarial loss and prior service cost related to the Companys pension and post retirement plans recognized in other comprehensive income as of December 30, 2012 was $6,991.
Multiemployer Plans
The Company is a participant in three multi-employer pension plans covering certain employees with Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) in Ohio, Massachusetts and Illinois. The risks of participating in these multi-employer plans are different from single-employer plans in the following aspects:
| The Company plays no part in the management of plan investments or any other aspect of plan administration. |
| Assets contributed to the multi-employer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers. |
| If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers. |
| If the Company chooses to stop participating in some of its multi-employer plans, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the unfunded status of the plan, referred to as withdrawal liability. |
The Companys participation in these plans for the year ended December 30, 2012, is outlined in the table below. The EIN/Pension Plan Number column provides the Employee Identification Number (EIN) and the three-digit plan number. Unless otherwise noted, the two most recent Pension Protection Act (PPA) zone statuses available are for the plans for the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively. The zone status is based on information that the company received from the plan and is certified by the plans actuary. Among other factors, plans in the red zone are generally less than 65% funded; plans in the orange zone are both a) less than 80% funded and b) have an accumulated/expected funding deficiency in any of the next six plan years, net of any amortization extensions; plans in the yellow zone meet either one of the criteria mentioned in the orange zone; and plans in the green zone are at least 80% funded. The FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented column indicates plans for which a financial improvement plan (FIP) or a rehabilitation plan (RP) is either pending or has been implemented. The last column lists the expiration date(s) of the collective-bargaining agreement(s) to which the plans are subject.
F-38
The Company makes all required contributions to these plans as determined under the respective CBAs. For each of the plans listed below, the Companys contribution represented less than 5% of total contributions to the plan.
Pension Plan Name |
EIN Number/ Plan
Number |
Zone
Status |
FIP/RP
Status Pending/ Implemented |
Contributions
(in thousands) |
Surcharge
Imposed |
Expiration
Dates of CBAs |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CWA/ITU Negotiated Pension Plan |
13-6212879/001 | Red | Red | Implemented | $ | 13 | $ | 9 | $ | 8 | No |
Under
negotiation |
||||||||||||||||||||
GCIUEmployer Retirement Benefit Plan (a)(b) |
91-6024903/001 | Red | Red | Implemented | 89 | 87 | 89 | No | 11/14/2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
The Newspaper Guild International Pension Plan (a) |
52-1082662/001 | Red | Red | Implemented | 49 | 130 | 146 | No | 09/30/2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total |
$ | 151 | $ | 226 | $ | 243 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | This plan has elected to utilize special amortization provisions provided under the Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010. |
(b) | During the fiscal year 2012 the Company accrued $1,185 related to this plan due to the discontinuance of press operations at its Suburban Chicago location. |
(14) Stock Compensation Plans
Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan
On October 5, 2006, the Company adopted a new equity incentive plan for its employees, the GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the Plan) and presented the Plan to the Companys stockholders for approval, which was received on October 6, 2006. The Plan provides for the issuance of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, deferred shares, performance shares, unrestricted shares and other stock-based awards. A total of 2,000,000 shares of the Companys common stock were initially reserved for issuance under the Plan, provided however, that commencing on the first day of each fiscal year beginning in calendar year 2007, the number of shares reserved and available for issuance is increased by an amount equal to 100,000. All such shares of the Companys common stock that are available for the grant of awards under the Plan may be granted as incentive stock options. Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code) states that the maximum aggregate number of shares that is subject to stock options or stock appreciation rights that may be granted to any individual during any fiscal year is 400,000 and the maximum aggregate number of shares that is subject to awards of restricted stock, deferred shares, unrestricted shares or other stock-based awards that may be granted to any individual during any fiscal year is 400,000.
The Plan is administered by the Companys board of directors, although it may be administered by either the board of directors or any committee of the board of directors including a committee that complies with the applicable requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code, Section 16 of the Exchange Act and any other applicable legal or stock exchange listing requirements.
Except as otherwise provided by the Plan administrator, on the first business day after the Companys annual meeting of stockholders and each such annual meeting thereafter during the term of the Plan, each of the Companys independent directors who is serving following such annual meeting will automatically be granted under the Plan a number of unrestricted shares of common stock having a fair market value of $15 as of the date of grant; however, those of the Companys independent directors who were granted restricted common stock upon the consummation of the IPO will not be eligible to receive these automatic annual grants.
F-39
The terms of the Plan provide that the board of directors may amend, alter or discontinue the Plan, but no such action may impair the rights of any participant with respect to outstanding awards without the participants consent. The Plan administrator, however, reserves the right to amend, modify, or supplement an award to either bring it into compliance with Section 409A of the Code, or to cause the award to not be subject to such section. The Plan will terminate on October 5, 2016.
As of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, a total of 25,424 and 84,181 RSGs were outstanding under the Plan, respectively.
(15) Assets Held for Sale
As of December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, the Company intended to dispose of various assets which are classified as held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet in accordance with ASC 360. The following table summarizes the major classes of assets and liabilities held for sale at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012:
December 30,
2012 |
January 1,
2012 |
|||||||
Long-term assets held for sale: |
||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net |
$ | 474 | $ | 934 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total long-term assets held for sale |
$ | 474 | $ | 934 | ||||
|
|
|
|
These assets are real property and no publication related assets are included.
During the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012 the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $2,128 and $355, respectively, related to property, plant and equipment which were classified as held for sale, refer to Note 16 for fair value measurement discussion.
(16) Fair Value Measurement
The Company measures and records in the accompanying consolidated financial statements certain assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy for those instruments measured at fair value that distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and the Companys own assumptions (unobservable inputs).
These inputs are prioritized as follows:
| Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; |
| Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities or market corroborated inputs; and |
| Level 3: Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data and which require us to develop our own assumptions about how market participants price the asset or liability. |
The valuation techniques that may be used to measure fair value are as follows:
| Market approachUses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities; |
| Income approachUses valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present amount based on current market expectation about those future amounts; |
| Cost approachBased on the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset (replacement cost). |
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The following table provides information for the Companys major categories of financial assets and liabilities measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis:
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using |
Total Fair
Value Measurements |
Valuation
Technique |
||||||||||||||||||
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
Significant
Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
Significant
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
||||||||||||||||||
As of January 1, 2012 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 19,212 | $ | | $ | | $ | 19,212 | Income | |||||||||||
Restricted cash |
6,167 | | | 6,167 | Income | |||||||||||||||
Liabilities |
||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives (1) |
$ | | $ | | $ | 51,576 | $ | 51,576 | Income | |||||||||||
As of December 30, 2012 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 34,527 | $ | | $ | | $ | 34,527 | Income | |||||||||||
Restricted cash |
6,467 | | | 6,467 | Income | |||||||||||||||
Liabilities |
||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives (1) |
$ | | $ | | $ | 45,724 | $ | 45,724 | Income |
(1) | Derivative assets and liabilities include interest rate swaps which are measured using the Companys estimates of the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the derivative. The fair value of the interest rate derivative is determined based on the upper notional band using cash flows discounted at the relevant market interest rates in effect at the period close and incorporates an assessment of the risk of non-performance by the interest rate derivative counterparty in valuing derivative assets and an evaluation of the Companys credit risk in valuing derivative liabilities. |
The following table reflects the activity of our derivative liabilities measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for year ended December 30, 2012:
Derivative
Liabilities |
||||
Balance as of January 1, 2012 |
$ | 51,576 | ||
Total (gains) losses, net: |
||||
Included in earnings |
(20 | ) | ||
Included in other comprehensive income |
(5,832 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Balance as of December 30, 2012 |
$ | 45,724 | ||
|
|
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments only in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). During the quarters ended April 1, 2012 and January 1, 2012, goodwill was written down to implied fair value using Level 3 inputs. The valuation techniques utilized to measure fair value are discussed in Note 5.
Refer to Note 8 for the discussion on the fair value of the Companys total long-term debt.
Refer to Note 13 for the discussion on the fair value of the Companys pension plan.
During the years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $2,128 and $355, respectively, related to property, plant and equipment which were classified as held for sale. The Company used assessed values and current market data, Level 2 inputs, to
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determine the fair value. Additionally, during the three months ended June 26, 2011, the Company wrote-off presses having a net book value of $1,696 related to the consolidation of its print operations, utilizing recent sale activity, Level 2 inputs.
(17) Commitments and Contingencies
The Company becomes involved from time to time in claims and lawsuits incidental to the ordinary course of its business, including with respect to such matters as libel, invasion of privacy, intellectual property infringement, wrongful termination actions, and complaints alleging employment discrimination. In addition, the Company is involved from time to time in governmental and administrative proceedings concerning employment, labor, environmental and other claims. Insurance coverage maintained by the Company mitigates potential loss for certain of these matters. Historically, such claims and proceedings have not had a material effect upon the Companys consolidated results of operations or financial condition. While the Company is unable to predict the ultimate outcome of any currently outstanding legal actions, it is the opinion of the Companys management that it is a remote possibility that the disposition of these matters would have a material adverse effect upon the Companys consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flow.
Restricted cash at December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, in the aggregate amount of $6,467 and $6,167, respectively, is used to collateralize standby letters of credit in the name of the Companys insurers in accordance with certain insurance policies and as cash collateral for certain business operations.
(18) Related-Party Transactions
Fortress Investment Group, LLC
On May 9, 2005, FIF III, FIF III Liberty Acquisitions, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of FIF III (Merger Subsidiary), and the Company entered into an agreement that provided for the merger of Merger Subsidiary with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as a wholly-owned subsidiary of FIF III (the Merger). The Merger was completed on June 6, 2005. FIF III is an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC.
As of December 30, 2012, Fortress Investment Group LLC and its affiliates (Fortress) beneficially owned approximately 39.6% of the Companys outstanding common stock.
In addition, the Companys Chairman, Wesley Edens, is also the Co-Chairman of the board of directors of Fortress Investment Group LLC. The Company does not pay Mr. Edens a salary or any other form of compensation.
Affiliates of Fortress own $410,862 of the $1,174,098 outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended as of March 7, 2013, of which $49,085 is still waiting to be settled. These amounts were purchased on arms length terms in secondary market transactions.
On August 21, 2008, FIF III purchased an aggregate of $11,500 in 10% cumulative preferred stock of GateHouse Media Macomb. The preferred stock was issued on August 21, 2008. Macomb, an Unrestricted Subsidiary under the terms of the 2007 Credit Facility, used the proceeds from such sale of preferred stock to make an $11,500 cash investment in Holdco non-voting 10% cumulative preferred stock. On December 7, 2010, FIF III exercised its right to require the Company to purchase its Macomb preferred stock. The Company paid the purchase price of $14,144 on December 8, 2010, which represented the sum of original purchase price of $11,500 paid by FIF III for the Macomb preferred stock and accrued but unpaid dividends of $2,644.
On October 24, 2006, the Company entered into an Investor Rights Agreement with FIF III. The Investor Rights Agreement provides FIF III with certain rights with respect to the nomination of directors to the Companys board of directors as well as registration rights for securities of the Company owned by Fortress.
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The Investor Rights Agreement requires the Company to take all necessary or desirable action within its control to elect to its board of directors so long as Fortress beneficially owns (i) more than 50% of the voting power of the Company, four directors nominated by FIG Advisors LLC, an affiliate of Fortress (FIG Advisors), or such other party nominated by Fortress; (ii) between 25% and 50% of the voting power of the Company, three directors nominated by FIG Advisors; (iii) between 10% and 25% of the voting power of the Company, two directors nominated by FIG Advisors; and (iv) between 5% and 10% of the voting power of the Company, one director nominated by FIG Advisors. In the event that any designee of FIG Advisors shall for any reason cease to serve as a member of the board of directors during his term of office, FIG Advisors will be entitled to nominate an individual to fill the resulting vacancy on the board of directors. The Company is also to take all necessary or desirable action to limit the overall size of the Companys board of directors to not more than seven directors.
Pursuant to the Investor Rights Agreement, the Company has granted FIF III, for so long as it or its permitted transferees beneficially own an amount of the Companys common stock at least equal to 5% or more of the Companys common stock issued and outstanding immediately after the consummation of its IPO (a Registrable Amount), demand registration rights that allow FIF III at any time to request that the Company register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, an amount equal to or greater than a Registrable Amount (as defined in the Investor Rights Agreement). Parent is entitled to an aggregate of four demand registrations. The Company is not required to maintain the effectiveness of the registration statement for more than 60 days. The Company is also not required to effect any demand registration within nine months of a firm commitment underwritten offering to which the requestor held piggyback rights and which included at least half of the securities requested by the requestor to be included. The Company is not obligated to grant a request for a demand registration within four months of any other demand registration and may refuse a request for demand registration if, in the Companys reasonable judgment, it is not feasible for the Company to proceed with the registration because of the unavailability of audited financial statements.
FIF III also has piggyback registration rights that allow FIF III to include the shares of common stock that FIF III and its permitted transferees own in any public offering of equity securities initiated by the Company (other than those public offerings pursuant to registration statements on Forms S-4 or S-8) or by any of the Companys other stockholders that may have registration rights in the future. The piggyback registration rights of FIF III are subject to proportional cutbacks based on the manner of the offering and the identity of the party initiating such offering.
The Company has additionally granted FIF III and its permitted transferees for as long as Fortress beneficially owns a Registrable Amount, the right to request shelf registrations on Form S-3, providing for an offering to be made on a continuous basis, subject to a time limit on the Companys efforts to keep the shelf registration statement continuously effective and the Companys right to suspend the use of a shelf registration prospectus for a reasonable period of time (not exceeding 60 days in succession or 90 days in the aggregate in any 12-month period) if the Company determines that certain disclosures required by the shelf registration statement would be detrimental to the Company or the Companys stockholders.
The Company has agreed to indemnify FIF III and its permitted transferees against any losses or damages resulting from any untrue statement or omission of material fact in any registration statement or prospectus pursuant to which FIF III and its permitted transferees sells shares of the Companys common stock, unless such liability arose from FIF III misstatement or omission, and Parent has agreed to indemnify the Company against all losses caused by its misstatements or omissions. The Company will pay all expenses incident to registration and Fortress will pay its respective portions of all underwriting discounts, commissions and transfer taxes relating to the sale of its shares under such a registration statement.
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(19) Discontinued Operations
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company discontinued a publication in New York. An impairment loss of $404 is included in discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for this period for the aforementioned discontinued operation and previously sold and discontinued operations.
During the year ended December 30, 2012, the Company sold 22 publications in Suburban Chicago, Illinois for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $2,800. As a result, an impairment loss of $1,922 is included in loss from discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for this period. Additionally, an impairment loss of $206 is included in loss from discontinued operations net of income taxes on the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for this period related to previously discontinued operations. The financial position and results of operations of the publications in Suburban Chicago, Illinois are reflected as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
The net revenue during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 for the aforementioned discontinued operations was $8,722, $11,123 and $13,941, respectively. Loss, net of income taxes of $0, during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 for the aforementioned discontinued operations was $2,340, $699 and $542, respectively.
(20) Quarterly Results (unaudited)
Quarter Ended
April 1 (a) |
Quarter Ended
July 1 (a) |
Quarter Ended
September 30 (a) |
Quarter Ended
December 30 (a) |
|||||||||||||
Year Ended December 30, 2012 |
||||||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 117,211 | $ | 125,970 | $ | 119,980 | $ | 125,393 | ||||||||
Operating income |
936 | 11,644 | 6,881 | 10,332 | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
(13,072 | ) | (2,341 | ) | (7,945 | ) | (4,312 | ) | ||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(13,241 | ) | (2,690 | ) | (9,313 | ) | (4,559 | ) | ||||||||
Basic income (loss) per share |
$ | (0.23 | ) | $ | (0.05 | ) | $ | (0.16 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | ||||
Diluted income (loss) per share |
$ | (0.23 | ) | $ | (0.05 | ) | $ | (0.16 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) |
Quarter Ended
March 27 (a) |
Quarter Ended
June 26 (a) |
Quarter Ended
September 25 (a) |
Quarter Ended
January 1 (a) |
|||||||||||||
Year Ended January 1, 2012 |
||||||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 117,080 | $ | 131,842 | $ | 124,295 | $ | 141,453 | ||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
(2,625 | ) | 10,394 | 9,314 | 18,525 | |||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
(17,121 | ) | (4,454 | ) | (4,865 | ) | 3,687 | |||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(17,968 | ) | (4,876 | ) | (4,978 | ) | 6,173 | |||||||||
Basic income (loss) per share |
$ | (0.31 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | $ | (0.09 | ) | $ | 0.11 | |||||
Diluted income (loss) per share |
$ | (0.31 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | $ | (0.09 | ) | $ | 0.11 |
(a) | Certain amounts differ from those previously reported on Forms 10-Q and 10-K due to the reclassification of discontinued operations as described in Note 19 to the consolidated Financial Statements. |
(21) Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations
On September 4, 2013, the Company entered into a restructuring support agreement (RSA) with Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent (the Administrative Agent) and certain of the lenders under the Companys 2007 Credit Facility, including Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) and its affiliates. The terms of the RSA are summarized as follows. This summary only discusses the key terms of the RSA and is not intended to be a complete description of the RSA.
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The key terms of the RSA are as follows:
The RSA proposes a restructuring of the Company pursuant to a pre-packaged restructuring plan under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan) whereby each Creditor (as defined below) has the option of exchanging its holdings in the Outstanding Debt (as defined below) for either its pro rata share of cash or common stock in a new holding company (such common stock, New Media Common Stock , and such holding company from and after the Effective Date, New Media ) with ownership interests in the reorganized Company (such reorganized Company, New GateHouse ). New Media is an entity that is unrelated to GateHouse and currently is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Newcastle.
New Media intends to distribute a portion of its estimated EBITDA (as defined in the RSA) less (i) cash taxes; (ii) interest expense; (iii) principal payments under the Financing (as defined below), (iv) capital expenditures; and (v) changes in net working capital to its shareholders and reinvest the remainder for general corporate purposes which may include accretive acquisitions.
The RSA includes the restructuring of the following indebtedness of the Company (the Outstanding Debt ):
(a) | Indebtedness under the 2007 Credit Facility, consisting of a Revolving Credit Facility, a Term Loan Facility, a Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility and an Incremental Term Loan Facility (collectively, the 2007 Credit Facility Claims ). The 2007 Credit Facility Claims consisted of a (i) Revolving Credit Facility of $0 and $0 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively, (ii) Term Loan Facility of $658,281 and $654,554 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively, (iii) Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility of $245,627 and $244,236 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively and (iv) Incremental Term Loan Facility of $270,190 and $268,660 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively. |
(b) | Swap Liability, including (i) $100,000 notional amount executed February 27, 2007, (ii) $250,000 notional amount executed April 4, 2007, (iii) $200,000 notional amount executed April 13, 2007 and (iv) $75,000 notional amount executed September 18, 2007. As of December 31, 2012 and June 30, 2013, the carrying value of the Swap Liability totaled $45,724 and $31,053, respectively. |
Holders of the Outstanding Debt are referred to herein as Creditors .
Subject to the approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the RSA proposes a restructuring of the Outstanding Debt as follows:
(a) | Each Creditor of the Outstanding Debt would receive, in full and final satisfaction of its respective claim, at its election (with respect to all or any portion of its claims) to be made in connection with solicitation of the Plan, its pro rata share of: |
i. | Cash pursuant to the Cash-Out Offer (described below under Cash-Out Offer) (the Cash-Out Option ); and/or |
ii. | (A) 100% of New Media Common Stock (subject to dilution as discussed herein) and (B) 100% of the Net Proceeds (as defined below), if any (collectively, the New Media Equity Option ). |
Creditors that do not make an election during the Solicitation Period (as defined below) with respect to their claims will be deemed to have elected the Cash-Out Option.
(b) | Pension, trade and all other unsecured claims will be unimpaired by the Plan. |
(c) |
Holders of equity interests in GateHouse Media, including warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests ( Existing Equity Holders ), would be cancelled, and Existing Equity Holders will receive 10-year warrants, collectively representing the right to acquire, in the aggregate, equity equal to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of New Media (subject to dilution) as of the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date ), with the strike price per share for such warrants calculated based on a |
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total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution (as defined below) of $1,200,000 as of the Effective Date. New Media Warrants will not have the benefit of antidilution protections, other than customary protections including for stock splits and stock dividends. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan. |
Cash-Out Offer
In connection with the restructuring, Newcastle ( Plan Sponsor ) (or its designated affiliates) has offered to purchase, in cash, an amount equal to 40.0% of the sum of (a) $1,167,450 of principal of the claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (b) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (c) all amounts due under and subject to the terms of the interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (for the avoidance of doubt, excluding any default interest) on the Effective Date of the Plan. The Cash-Out Offer will be coterminous with the Solicitation Period (as defined below).
Registration Rights
As of the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with certain holders of the Outstanding Debt that received 10% or more of the New Media Common Stock, to provide customary registration rights.
New Media Equity Option
Instead of the Cash-Out Offer, each Creditor may elect to receive in satisfaction of its claims, a pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds (as defined below), if any. Following the completion of the restructuring, New Media will use commercially reasonable efforts, based on market conditions and other factors, to list New Media Common Stock (the Listing ) and may raise additional equity capital in connection with or subsequent to the Listing. New Media intends to seek the Listing on the New York Stock Exchange. For the avoidance of doubt, a Listing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan. Under the Plan, New Media will not impose any transfer restrictions on New Media Common Stock.
Financing
GateHouse will use commercially reasonable efforts based on market conditions and other factors, to raise up to $150,000 of new debt (the Financing). The net proceeds, if any, will be distributed to holders of New Media Common Stock, including Plan Sponsor (or its designated affiliates) on account of the Cash-Out Offer, on the Effective Date (the Net Proceeds). For the avoidance of doubt the Financing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan.
Contribution of Local Media Group Holdings LLC
The Plan Sponsor acquired Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. ( Local Media ), a publisher of weekly newspaper publications, on September 3, 2013. Subject to the terms of the RSA, the Plan Sponsor will contribute Local Media Group Holdings LLC ( Local Media Parent ) and assign its rights under the related stock purchase agreement to New Media on the Effective Date (the Local Media Contribution ) in exchange for shares of common stock of New Media (and at Plan Sponsors option, $50), collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition (as adjusted pursuant to the Plan) based upon the equity value of New Media as of the Effective Date prior to the contribution.
Solicitation of the Plan and Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced a pre-packaged solicitation of the Plan (the Solicitation), with a voting deadline of September 26, 2013, as such date may be extended by Plan Sponsor in its sole discretion (the Solicitation Period ), such that the Plan could become effective no later than December 16,
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2013. Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if holders of Outstanding Debt sufficient to meet the requisite threshold of 67% in amount and majority in number (calculated without including any insider) necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code (Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors) vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, GateHouse and its affiliated debtors (the Debtors) intend to commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the disclosure statement for the Plan (the Disclosure Statement) and confirmation of the Plan therein. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan.
Management Agreement
On the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a management agreement with an affiliate of the Plan Sponsor (the Manager ) pursuant to which the Manager will manage the operations of New Media. The annual management fee will be 1.50% of New Medias gross equity as set forth in the Management Agreement.
Releases
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the restructuring shall include a full release from liability of GateHouse, Plan Sponsor, the Administrative Agent, the Creditors, and all current and former direct and indirect members, partners, subsidiaries, affiliates, funds, managers, managing members, officers, directors, employees, advisors, principals, attorneys, professionals, accountants, investment bankers, consultants, agents, and other representatives (including their respective members, partners, subsidiaries, affiliates, funds, managers, managing members, officers, directors, employees, advisors, principals, attorneys, professionals, accountants, investment bankers, consultants, agents, and other representatives) by GateHouse, Plan Sponsor and the Creditors from any claims or causes of action related to or arising out of GateHouse, the Outstanding Debt or the Restructuring on or prior to the Effective Date, except for any claims and causes of action for fraud, gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Conditions Precedent to Closing
The occurrence of the Effective Date shall be subject to the satisfaction (unless waived) of conditions precedent customary for transactions of this type and the satisfaction of such other conditions precedent agreed upon by the lenders, Plan Sponsor and GateHouse, including but not limited to, the following:
| Each of the conditions precedent set forth in the Plan having been satisfied or waived; |
| Entry of an order confirming the Plan in form and substance satisfactory to the Plan Sponsor; and |
| The confirmation order has (a) not been reversed, stayed, modified, or amended, and (b) the time to appeal or seek certiorari has expired and (i) no appeal or petition for certiorari has been timely taken, or (ii) any appeal or petition for certiorari has been fully resolved, denied, resulted in no modification, or has otherwise been dismissed with prejudice. |
Investment Commitment Letter
On September 4, 2013 the Plan Sponsor and the Company entered into an investment commitment letter in connection with the restructuring, described above, under which Plan Sponsor has agreed to purchase the Cash-Out Offer claims, described above. The investment commitment letter provides that, on account of the claims purchased in the Cash-Out Offer on the Effective Date of the Plan, Plan Sponsor will receive its pro rata share of (a) New Media Common Stock and (b) Net Proceeds, if any, net of transaction expenses associated with transactions under the Plan.
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Discontinued Operations
In May 2013, the Company disposed of a non wholly owned subsidiary in Chicago, Illinois. As a result, the asset, liability and noncontrolling interest carrying amounts of this subsidiary were derecognized. A loss of $1,146 was recognized in discontinued operations and no noncontrolling interest amounts remain after this disposal.
The net revenues during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 for the aforementioned discontinued operation and previously discontinued operations $8,722, $11,123 and $13,941, respectively. Loss, net of income taxes of $0, during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 for the aforementioned discontinued operation and previously discontinued operations was $2,340, $699 and $542, respectively. The loss from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest during the years ended December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2010 was $536, $579 and $596, respectively. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been recast to reflect the results of the discontinued operations for all periods presented.
Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility
On September 4, 2013, the Company executed an amendment to its 2007 Credit Facility effective September 3, 2013. Among other matters, the amendment revised certain terms and conditions of the 2007 Credit Facility, including the removal of an event of default related to the Company taking any action in furtherance of, or indicating its consent to or approval of a bankruptcy or similar filing, while still maintaining as an event of default the filing by the Company of a proceeding under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. The amendment also eliminated the requirement that the Companys annual audited financial statements include an auditors report without a going concern uncertainty or like modification.
On September 20, 2013, the Company delivered notice to lenders under the 2007 Credit Facility terminating the Revolving Credit Facility of the 2007 Credit Facility effective September 27, 2013.
Going Concern Considerations
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes continuity of operations, realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. As discussed in Note 1 (c), the Company has experienced declining same stores revenue and profitability over the past several years, has incurred significant recurring losses from continuing operations and has a net capital deficiency. Further, the RSA described above requires the Company to file a voluntary petition seeking to reorganize under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code upon the satisfaction of certain conditions, which filing would constitute an event of default under the terms of the Companys 2007 Credit Facility. The ability of the Company, both during and after the Chapter 11 proceedings, to continue as a going concern is contingent upon, among other things; (i) the ability of the Company to generate cash from operations and to maintain adequate cash on hand; (ii) the resolution of the uncertainty as to the amount of claims that will be allowed; (iii) the ability of the Company to confirm its reorganization plan in the Chapter 11 proceedings and obtain any financing which may be required to emerge from bankruptcy protection; and (iv) the Companys ability to achieve profitability. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to successfully achieve these objectives in order to continue as a going concern. The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
(22) Subsequent Events (Unaudited)
Management Agreement
On August 27, 2013, the Company entered into a management agreement (the Local Media Management Agreement ) with Local Media Parent. Under the terms of the Local Media Management Agreement, the Company will manage the operations of Local Media. In return, the Company will receive compensation
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including an annual fee of $1,100, which may be adjusted to an amount not to exceed $1,210 based on a formula defined in the Local Media Management Agreement. In addition, the Company will be eligible to earn an annual incentive pay out equal to 12.5% of the EBITDA of Local Media in excess of budget. Although Local Media Parent owns 100% of the equity of Local Media, GateHouse manages the daily operations of Local Media. The Company has determined that the Local Media Management Agreement results in Local Media being a variable interest entity as the Company has the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the entity. As a result, GateHouse expects that it will be the primary beneficiary and therefore expects to consolidate Local Medias financial position and results of operations. Local Media had revenues of $158,559 and pre-tax loss of $27,907 for the twelve months ended June 30, 2013, and total assets of $127,436 at June 30, 2013.
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GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except share data)
June 30, 2013 | December 30, 2012 | |||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 25,512 | $ | 34,527 | ||||
Restricted cash |
6,467 | 6,467 | ||||||
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,233 and $2,456 at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively |
49,409 | 54,692 | ||||||
Inventory |
5,309 | 6,019 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses |
5,243 | 5,815 | ||||||
Other current assets |
8,533 | 8,215 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current assets |
100,473 | 115,735 | ||||||
Property, plant, and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $133,283 and $128,208 at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively |
108,679 | 116,510 | ||||||
Goodwill |
13,742 | 13,742 | ||||||
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $208,177 and $196,878 at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively |
207,208 | 218,981 | ||||||
Deferred financing costs, net |
1,197 | 1,719 | ||||||
Other assets |
1,931 | 2,605 | ||||||
Assets held for sale |
474 | 474 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total assets |
$ | 433,704 | $ | 469,766 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS DEFICIT | ||||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||||
Current portion of long-term liabilities |
$ | 708 | $ | 853 | ||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
| 6,648 | ||||||
Accounts payable |
8,367 | 9,396 | ||||||
Accrued expenses |
28,407 | 26,258 | ||||||
Accrued interest |
4,701 | 4,665 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
24,983 | 25,217 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current liabilities |
67,166 | 73,037 | ||||||
Long-term liabilities: |
||||||||
Long-term debt |
1,167,450 | 1,167,450 | ||||||
Long-term liabilities, less current portion |
2,062 | 2,347 | ||||||
Derivative instruments |
31,053 | 45,724 | ||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations |
14,828 | 15,367 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities |
1,282,559 | 1,303,925 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Stockholders deficit: |
||||||||
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012; 58,313,868 issued and 58,077,031 outstanding at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012 |
568 | 568 | ||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
831,369 | 831,344 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
(37,928 | ) | (52,642 | ) | ||||
Accumulated deficit |
(1,642,554 | ) | (1,610,917 | ) | ||||
Treasury stock, at cost, 236,837 shares at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012 |
(310 | ) | (310 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total GateHouse Media stockholders deficit |
(848,855 | ) | (831,957 | ) | ||||
Noncontrolling interest |
| (2,202 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total stockholders deficit |
(848,855 | ) | (834,159 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities and stockholders deficit |
$ | 433,704 | $ | 469,766 | ||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
F-50
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Three months
ended June 30, 2013 |
Three months
ended July 1, 2012 |
Six months
ended June 30, 2013 |
Six months
ended July 1, 2012 |
|||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||
Advertising |
$ | 79,220 | $ | 86,952 | $ | 150,559 | $ | 165,870 | ||||||||
Circulation |
33,047 | 32,744 | 65,513 | 65,114 | ||||||||||||
Commercial printing and other |
7,331 | 6,275 | 14,107 | 12,197 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total revenues |
119,598 | 125,971 | 230,179 | 243,181 | ||||||||||||
Operating costs and expenses: |
||||||||||||||||
Operating costs |
64,978 | 68,324 | 129,998 | 136,328 | ||||||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative |
41,156 | 35,215 | 78,722 | 72,054 | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
9,791 | 9,893 | 19,636 | 20,204 | ||||||||||||
Integration and reorganization costs |
741 | 738 | 958 | 1,860 | ||||||||||||
Loss on sale of assets |
649 | 158 | 1,043 | 155 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
2,283 | 11,643 | (178 | ) | 12,580 | |||||||||||
Interest expense |
14,456 | 14,449 | 28,886 | 28,997 | ||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
261 | 340 | 522 | 680 | ||||||||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
5 | (809 | ) | 9 | (1,644 | ) | ||||||||||
Other (income) expense |
737 | 5 | 1,008 | (40 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes |
(13,176 | ) | (2,342 | ) | (30,603 | ) | (15,413 | ) | ||||||||
Income tax expense |
| 148 | | 43 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
(13,176 | ) | (2,490 | ) | (30,603 | ) | (15,456 | ) | ||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes |
(946 | ) | (200 | ) | (1,034 | ) | (475 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net loss |
(14,122 | ) | (2,690 | ) | (31,637 | ) | (15,931 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Loss per share: |
||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted: |
||||||||||||||||
Loss from continuing operations |
$ | (0.23 | ) | $ | (0.05 | ) | $ | (0.53 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | ||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes |
(0.01 | ) | | (0.01 | ) | | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (0.24 | ) | $ | (0.05 | ) | $ | (0.54 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | ||||
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
58,076,193 | 58,051,049 | 58,063,901 | 58,032,205 | ||||||||||||
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
58,076,193 | 58,051,049 | 58,063,901 | 58,032,205 | ||||||||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) |
$ | (7,126 | ) | $ | 757 | $ | (16,923 | ) | $ | (17,204 | ) |
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
F-51
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders Equity (Deficit)
(In thousands, except share data)
Common stock |
Additional
paid-in capital |
Accumulated
other comprehensive loss |
Accumulated
deficit |
Treasury stock |
Non-
controlling interest in subsidiary |
Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2012 |
58,313,868 | $ | 568 | $ | 831,344 | $ | (52,642 | ) | $ | (1,610,917 | ) | 236,837 | $ | (310 | ) | $ | (2,202 | ) | $ | (834,159 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Net loss |
| | | | (31,637 | ) | | | | (31,637 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | 14,680 | | | | | 14,680 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net actuarial loss and prior service cost, net of income taxes of $0 |
| | | 34 | | | | | 34 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Disposal of non wholly owned subsidiary |
| | | | | | | 2,202 | 2,202 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-cash compensation expense |
| | 25 | | | | | | 25 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2013 |
58,313,868 | $ | 568 | $ | 831,369 | $ | (37,928 | ) | $ | (1,642,554 | ) | 236,837 | $ | (310 | ) | $ | | $ | (848,855 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
F-52
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands)
Six months
ended June 30, 2013 |
Six months
ended July 1, 2012 |
|||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (31,637 | ) | $ | (15,931 | ) | ||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities: |
||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
19,693 | 20,678 | ||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
522 | 680 | ||||||
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments |
9 | (1,644 | ) | |||||
Non-cash compensation expense |
25 | 48 | ||||||
Loss on sale of assets |
2,198 | 187 | ||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations |
(428 | ) | (244 | ) | ||||
Impairment of long-lived assets |
| 206 | ||||||
Goodwill impairment |
| 216 | ||||||
Changes in assets and liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
4,912 | 6,857 | ||||||
Inventory |
710 | (417 | ) | |||||
Prepaid expenses |
518 | 9,991 | ||||||
Other assets |
194 | (1,295 | ) | |||||
Accounts payable |
(293 | ) | 1,469 | |||||
Accrued expenses |
2,549 | (1,530 | ) | |||||
Accrued interest |
42 | (65 | ) | |||||
Deferred revenue |
112 | (558 | ) | |||||
Other long-term liabilities |
(215 | ) | (422 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities |
(1,089 | ) | 18,226 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
||||||||
Purchases of property, plant, and equipment |
(2,018 | ) | (1,737 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from sale of assets and insurance |
740 | 442 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
(1,278 | ) | (1,295 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
||||||||
Repayments under current portion of long-term debt |
(6,648 | ) | (4,600 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash used in financing activities |
(6,648 | ) | (4,600 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents |
(9,015 | ) | 12,331 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period |
34,527 | 19,212 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period |
$ | 25,512 | $ | 31,543 | ||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
F-53
GATEHOUSE MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(1) | Unaudited Financial Statements |
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of GateHouse Media, Inc. and its subsidiaries (together, the Company) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and applicable provisions of Regulation S-X, each as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). Certain information and note disclosures normally included in comprehensive annual financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP have generally been condensed or omitted pursuant to SEC rules and regulations.
Management believes that the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (which include normal recurring adjustments) that, in the opinion of management, are necessary to present fairly the Companys consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 30, 2012, included in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The Companys operating segments (Large Community Newspapers, Small Community Newspapers and Directories) are aggregated into one reportable business segment.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the six months ended June 30, 2013 are outlined below.
Gain (loss)
on derivative instruments |
Net actuarial
loss and prior service cost |
Total | ||||||||||
For the six months ended June 30, 2013: |
||||||||||||
Balance at December 30, 2012 |
$ | (45,651 | ) | $ | (6,991 | ) | $ | (52,642 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications |
(396 | ) | | (396 | ) | |||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss |
15,076 | 34 | 15,110 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net current period other comprehensive income, net of taxes |
14,680 | 34 | 14,714 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance at June 30, 2013 |
$ | (30,971 | ) | $ | (6,957 | ) | $ | (37,928 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-54
The following table presents reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013.
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Loss |
Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
|||||||||
Three Months
Ended June 30, 2013 |
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2013 |
|||||||||
Realized gain on interest rate swap agreements, designated as cash flow hedges |
$ | 7,543 | $ | 15,076 | Interest expense | |||||
Amortization of prior service cost |
(114 | ) | (228 | ) | (1) | |||||
Amortization of unrecognized loss |
131 | 262 | (1) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss |
7,560 | 15,110 | Loss from continuing operations before income taxes | |||||||
Income tax expense |
| | Income tax expense | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss |
$ | 7,560 | $ | 15,110 | Net loss | |||||
|
|
|
|
(1) | This accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component is included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost. See Note 10. |
Recent Developments
The newspaper industry and the Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. These trends have eliminated the availability to the Company of additional borrowings under its 2007 Credit Facility, see Note 6. As a result, the Company previously implemented and continues to implement plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow. This includes the suspension of the payment of cash dividends, cost reduction and restructuring programs, and the sale of non-core assets. Additionally, the Company is exploring alternatives to improve its capital structure. The Company believes these initiatives will provide it with the financial resources necessary to invest in the business and provide sufficient cash flow to enable the Company to meet its commitments for the next year.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASC Update No. 2013-02 Comprehensive Income Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), which amends ASC Topic 220. The amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) by component. In addition an entity is required to present either on the face of the Statement of Income or in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI and should be provided by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified in its entirety to net income in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures require under GAAP that provide additional detail about these amounts. The changes to the ASC as a result of this updated guidance became effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU No. 2013-02 did not have a material effect on the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) | Share-Based Compensation |
The Company recognized compensation cost for share-based payments of $1, $23, $25 and $48 during the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012, respectively. As of June 30, 2013, all compensation cost for share-based payments have been recognized.
F-55
Restricted Share Grants (RSGs)
Under the GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the Plan), 266,795 RSGs were granted to Company directors, management and employees, 42,535 of which were both granted and forfeited during the year ended December 31, 2008. An additional 100,000 RSGs were granted to Company management during the year ended December 31, 2009. The majority of the RSGs issued under the Plan vest in increments of one-third on each of the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date. In the event a grantee of an RSG is terminated by the Company without cause, a number of unvested RSGs immediately vest that would have vested under the normal vesting period on the next succeeding anniversary date following such termination. In the event an RSG grantees employment with the Company is terminated without cause within twelve months after a change in control (as defined in the applicable award agreement), all unvested RSGs become immediately vested at the termination date. During the period prior to the lapse and removal of the vesting restrictions, a grantee of an RSG will have all of the rights of a stockholder, including without limitation, the right to vote and the right to receive all dividends or other distributions. As a result, the RSGs are reflected as outstanding common stock and the unvested RSGs have been excluded from the calculation of basic earnings per share. With respect to Company employees, the value of the RSGs on the date of issuance is recognized as employee compensation expense over the vesting period or through the grantees eligible retirement date, if shorter, with an increase to additional paid-in-capital.
As of June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012, there were 0 and 25,424 RSGs, respectively, issued and outstanding with a weighted average grant date fair value of $0.00 and $6.04, respectively. As of June 30, 2013, the aggregate intrinsic value of unvested RSGs was $0. During the six months ended June 30, 2013, the aggregate fair value of vested RSGs was $1.
RSG activity during the six months ended June 30, 2013 was as follows:
Number of RSGs |
Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value |
|||||||
Unvested at December 30, 2012 |
25,424 | $ | 6.04 | |||||
Vested |
(25,424 | ) | 6.04 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Unvested at June 30, 2013 |
| $ | | |||||
|
|
|
|
FASB ASC Topic 718, CompensationStock Compensation , requires the recognition of share-based compensation for the number of awards that are ultimately expected to vest. The Companys estimated forfeitures are based on forfeiture rates of comparable plans. Estimated forfeitures are reassessed periodically and the estimate may change based on new facts and circumstances.
(3) | Reclassifications |
Certain amounts in the prior period unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation.
(4) | Restructuring |
Over the past several years, and in furtherance of the Companys cost reduction and cash flow preservation plans outlined in Note 1, the Company has engaged in a series of individual restructuring programs, designed primarily to right size the Companys employee base, consolidate facilities and improve its operations. These initiatives impact all of the Companys geographic regions and are often influenced by the terms of union contracts within each region. All costs related to these programs, which primarily reflect severance expense, are accrued at the time of announcement.
F-56
Information related to restructuring program activity during the twelve months ended December 30, 2012 and the six months ended June 30, 2013 is outlined below.
Severance
and Related Costs |
Other
Costs (1) |
Total | ||||||||||
Balance at January 1, 2012 |
$ | 900 | $ | 426 | $ | 1,326 | ||||||
Restructuring provision included in integration and reorganization (2) |
3,610 | 800 | 4,410 | |||||||||
Cash payments |
(3,826 | ) | (1,062 | ) | (4,888 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance at December 30, 2012 |
$ | 684 | $ | 164 | $ | 848 | ||||||
Restructuring provision included in integration and reorganization |
920 | 38 | 958 | |||||||||
Cash payments |
(942 | ) | (79 | ) | (1,021 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance at June 30, 2013 |
$ | 662 | $ | 123 | $ | 785 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) | Other costs primarily included costs to consolidate operations. |
(2) | Included above are amounts that were initially recognized in integration and reorganization and were subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the affected operations ceased. |
The restructuring reserve balance as of June 30, 2013, for all programs was $785, which is expected to be paid out over the next twelve months.
The following table summarizes the costs incurred and cash paid in connection with these restructuring programs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012.
Three Months Ended | Six Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
June 30, 2013 | July 1, 2012 | June 30, 2013 | July 1, 2012 | |||||||||||||
Severance and related costs (2) |
$ | 726 | $ | 547 | $ | 920 | $ | 1,362 | ||||||||
Other costs (1) |
15 | 200 | 38 | 515 | ||||||||||||
Cash payments |
(371 | ) | (953 | ) | (1,021 | ) | (2,484 | ) |
(1) | Other costs primarily included costs to consolidate operations. |
(2) | Included above are amounts that were initially recognized in integration and reorganization and were subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the affected operations ceased. |
(5) | Goodwill and Intangible Assets |
Goodwill and intangible assets consisted of the following:
June 30, 2013 | ||||||||||||
Gross carrying
amount |
Accumulated
amortization |
Net carrying
amount |
||||||||||
Amortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Noncompete agreements |
$ | 4,970 | $ | 4,893 | $ | 77 | ||||||
Advertiser relationships |
278,458 | 154,422 | 124,036 | |||||||||
Customer relationships |
8,940 | 3,922 | 5,018 | |||||||||
Subscriber relationships |
81,934 | 41,316 | 40,618 | |||||||||
Trade name |
5,493 | 3,479 | 2,014 | |||||||||
Publication rights |
345 | 145 | 200 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total |
$ | 380,140 | $ | 208,177 | $ | 171,963 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Goodwill |
$ | 13,742 | ||||||||||
Mastheads |
35,245 | |||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
Total |
$ | 48,987 | ||||||||||
|
|
F-57
December 30, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Gross Carrying
Amount |
Accumulated
Amortization |
Net Carrying
Amount |
||||||||||
Amortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Noncompete agreements |
$ | 4,970 | $ | 4,839 | $ | 131 | ||||||
Advertiser relationships |
278,543 | 145,878 | 132,665 | |||||||||
Customer relationships |
8,940 | 3,597 | 5,343 | |||||||||
Subscriber relationships |
82,280 | 39,226 | 43,054 | |||||||||
Trade name |
5,493 | 3,204 | 2,289 | |||||||||
Publication rights |
345 | 134 | 211 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total |
$ | 380,571 | $ | 196,878 | $ | 183,693 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets: |
||||||||||||
Goodwill |
$ | 13,742 | ||||||||||
Mastheads |
35,288 | |||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
Total |
$ | 49,030 | ||||||||||
|
|
The weighted average amortization periods for amortizable intangible assets are 4.4 years for noncompete agreements, 16.7 years for advertiser relationships, 13.8 years for customer relationships, 17.2 years for subscriber relationships, 10.0 years for trade names and 15.0 years for publication rights.
Amortization expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 was $5,823, $5,893, $11,668 and $11,801, respectively. Estimated future amortization expense as of June 30, 2013 is as follows:
For the years ending the Sunday closest to December 31:
2013 |
$ | 11,592 | ||
2014 |
23,277 | |||
2015 |
23,244 | |||
2016 |
21,316 | |||
2017 |
20,242 | |||
Thereafter |
72,292 | |||
|
|
|||
Total |
$ | 171,963 | ||
|
|
The Companys annual impairment assessment is made on the last day of its fiscal second quarter.
During the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized its management structure to align with its publication types. The fair value of goodwill was allocated to each of the new reporting units: Small Community Newspapers, Large Daily Newspapers and Metro Newspapers. The Company determined that impairment indicators were present for the Metro Newspaper reporting unit, which had a goodwill balance of $216. As of April 1, 2012 the Company performed a Step 1 analysis for this reporting unit and determined that its carrying value exceeded fair value. As a result of the Step 2 analysis, the entire $216 of goodwill was impaired and this amount was subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations, see Note 14. The fair value of this reporting unit for impairment testing purposes was estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of this reporting unit. The Company performed further analysis of this reporting units intangible and long-lived assets and determined that impairments of these assets were not present.
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As of April 1, 2012, a review of impairment indicators was performed for the Companys other reporting units and it was determined that financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 26, 2011 impairment test and it was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of July 1, 2012, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units and no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the market price of the Companys common stock and fair value of the Companys debt) plus an estimated control premium.
As of September 30, 2012, December 30, 2012 and March 31, 2013, a review of impairment indicators was performed with the Company noting that its financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the July 1, 2012 impairment test and its market capitalization exceeded its consolidated carrying value. It was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of June 30, 2013, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units and no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the market price of the Companys common stock and fair value of the Companys debt) plus an estimated control premium.
The newspaper industry and the Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, the Company may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
(6) | Indebtedness |
2007 Credit Facility
GateHouse Media Operating, Inc. (Operating), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, GateHouse Media Holdco, Inc. (Holdco), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, and certain of their subsidiaries (together, the Borrowers) entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2007, with a syndicate of financial institutions with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., successor-by-merger to Wachovia Bank, National Association (Wells Fargo Bank), as administrative agent (the 2007 Credit Facility).
The 2007 Credit Facility, prior to execution of the Second Amendment (defined below), provided for: (a) a $670,000 term loan facility that matures on August 28, 2014; (b) a delayed draw term loan facility of up to $250,000 that matures on August 28, 2014, and (c) a revolving credit facility with a $40,000 aggregate loan commitment amount available, including a $15,000 sub-facility for letters of credit and a $10,000 swingline facility, that matures on February 28, 2014. The Borrowers used the proceeds of the 2007 Credit Facility to refinance existing indebtedness and for working capital and other general corporate purposes, including, without
F-59
limitation, financing acquisitions permitted under the 2007 Credit Facility. The 2007 Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in: (a) all present and future capital stock or other membership, equity, ownership or profits interest of Operating and all of its direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries; (b) 65% of the voting stock (and 100% of the nonvoting stock) of all present and future first-tier foreign subsidiaries; and (c) substantially all of the tangible and intangible assets of Holdco, Operating and their present and future direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries. In addition, the loans and other obligations of the Borrowers under the 2007 Credit Facility are guaranteed, subject to specified limitations, by Holdco, Operating and their present and future direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries.
Borrowings under the 2007 Credit Facility bear interest, at the borrowers option, equal to the LIBOR Rate for a LIBOR Rate Loan (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility), or the Alternate Base Rate for an Alternate Base Rate Loan (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility), plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin for the LIBOR Rate term loans and Alternate Base Rate term loans, as amended by the First Amendment (defined below), are 2.00% and 1.00%, respectively. The applicable margin for revolving loans is adjusted quarterly based upon Holdcos Total Leverage (defined as the ratio of Holdcos Consolidated Indebtedness (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) on the last day of the preceding quarter to Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) for the four fiscal quarters ending on the date of determination). The applicable margin ranges from 1.50% to 2.00%, in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans and, 0.50% to 1.00% in the case of Alternate Base Rate Loans. Under the revolving credit facility, GateHouse Media will also pay a quarterly commitment fee on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility ranging from 0.25% to 0.50% based on the same ratio of Consolidated Indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDA and a quarterly fee equal to the applicable margin for LIBOR Rate Loans on the aggregate amount of outstanding letters of credit. In addition, GateHouse Media will be required to pay a ticking fee at the rate of 0.50% of the aggregate unfunded amount available to be borrowed under the delayed draw term facility.
No principal payments are due on the term loan facilities or the revolving credit facility until the applicable maturity date. The Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities in an amount equal to 50.0% of Holdcos Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) earned during the previous fiscal year, except that no prepayments are required if the Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) is less than or equal to 6.0 to 1.0 at the end of such fiscal year. In addition, the Borrowers are required to prepayF borrowings under the term loan facilities with asset disposition proceeds in excess of specified amounts to the extent necessary to cause Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio to be less than or equal to 6.25 to 1.00, and with cash insurance proceeds and condemnation or expropriation awards, in excess of specified amounts, subject, in each case, to reinvestment rights. The Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with the net proceeds of equity issuances by GateHouse Media in an amount equal to the lesser of (a) the amount by which 50.0% of the net cash proceeds exceeds the amount (if any) required to repay any credit facilities of GateHouse Media or (b) the amount of proceeds required to reduce Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio to 6.0 to 1.0. The Borrowers are also required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with 100% of the proceeds of debt issuances (with specified exceptions), except that no prepayment is required if Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio is less than 6.0 to 1.0. If the term loan facilities have been paid in full, mandatory prepayments are applied to the repayment of borrowings under the swingline facility and revolving credit facilities and the cash collateralization of letters of credit.
The 2007 Credit Facility contains a financial covenant that requires Holdco to maintain a Total Leverage Ratio of less than or equal to 6.5 to 1.0 at any time an extension of credit is outstanding under the revolving credit facility. The 2007 Credit Facility contains affirmative and negative covenants applicable to Holdco, Operating and their restricted subsidiaries customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions, including restrictions on their ability to incur indebtedness (which GateHouse Media is generally permitted to incur so long as it satisfies an incurrence test that requires it to maintain a pro forma Total Leverage Ratio of less than 6.5 to 1.0), create liens on assets, engage in certain lines of business, engage in mergers or consolidations, dispose of assets, make investments or acquisitions, engage in transactions with affiliates, enter into sale leaseback transactions, enter into negative pledges or pay dividends or make other restricted payments, except
F-60
that Holdco is permitted to (a) make restricted payments (including quarterly dividends) so long as, after giving effect to any such restricted payment, Holdco and its subsidiaries have a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) equal to or greater than 1.0 to 1.0 and would be able to incur an additional $1.00 of debt under the incurrence test referred to above and (b) make restricted payments of proceeds of asset dispositions to GateHouse Media to the extent such proceeds are not required to prepay loans under the 2007 Credit Facility and/or cash collateralize letter of credit obligations and such proceeds are used to prepay borrowings under acquisition credit facilities of GateHouse Media. The 2007 Credit Facility also permits the borrowers, in certain limited circumstances, to designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries which are not subject to the covenant restrictions in the 2007 Credit Facility. The 2007 Credit Facility contains customary events of default, including defaults based on a failure to pay principal, reimbursement obligations, interest, fees or other obligations, subject to specified grace periods; any material inaccuracy of a representation or warranty; breach of covenant; failure to pay other indebtedness and cross-accelerations; a Change of Control (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility); events of bankruptcy and insolvency; material judgments; failure to meet certain requirements with respect to ERISA; and impairment of collateral. There were no extensions of credit outstanding under the revolving credit portion of the facility at June 30, 2013 and, therefore, the Company was not required to be in compliance with the Total Leverage Ratio covenant at such time.
First Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On May 7, 2007, the Borrowers entered into the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility (the First Amendment). The First Amendment provided an incremental term loan facility under the 2007 Credit Facility in the amount of $275,000. As amended by the First Amendment, the 2007 Credit Facility includes $1,195,000 of term loan facilities and $40,000 of a revolving credit facility. The incremental term loan facility amortizes at the same rate and matures on the same date as the existing term loan facilities under the 2007 Credit Facility. Interest on the incremental term loan facility accrues at a rate per annum equal to, at the option of the borrower, (a) adjusted LIBOR plus a margin equal to (i) 2.00%, if the corporate family ratings and corporate credit ratings of Operating by Moodys Investors Service Inc. and Standard & Poors Rating Services, are at least B1, and B+, respectively, in each case with stable outlook or (ii) 2.25%, otherwise, as was the case as of June 30, 2013, or (b) the greater of the prime rate set by Wells Fargo Bank, or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50%, plus a margin 1.00% lower than that applicable to adjusted LIBOR-based loans. Any voluntary or mandatory repayment of the First Amendment term loans made with the proceeds of a new term loan entered into for the primary purpose of benefiting from a margin that is less than the margin applicable as a result of the First Amendment will be subject to a 1.00% prepayment premium. The First Amendment term loans are subject to a most favored nation interest provision that grants the First Amendment term loans an interest rate margin that is 0.25% less than the highest margin of any future term loan borrowings under the 2007 Credit Facility.
As previously noted, the First Amendment also modified the interest rates applicable to the term loans under the 2007 Credit Facility. Term loans thereunder accrue interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the option of the Borrower, (a) adjusted LIBOR plus a margin equal to 2.00% or (b) the greater of the prime rate set by Wells Fargo Bank, or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50%, plus a margin equal to 1.00%. The terms of the previously outstanding borrowings were also modified to include a 1.00% prepayment premium corresponding to the prepayment premium applicable to the First Amendment term loans and a corresponding most favored nation interest provision.
Second Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On February 3, 2009, the Company entered into the Second Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility (the Second Amendment).
Among other things, the Second Amendment reduced the aggregate principal amounts available under the 2007 Credit Facility, as follows: (a) for revolving loans, from $40,000 to $20,000; (b) for the letter of credit subfacility, from $15,000 to $5,000; and (c) for the swingline loan subfacility, from $10,000 to $5,000.
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In addition, the Second Amendment provides that Holdco may not incur additional term debt under the 2007 Credit Facility unless the Senior Secured Incurrence Test (as defined in the Second Amendment) is less than 4.00 to 1.00 and the current Incurrence Test (as defined in the Second Amendment) is satisfied.
Agency Amendment to 2007 Credit Facility
On April 1, 2011, the Borrowers entered into an Agency Succession and Amendment Agreement, dated as of March 30, 2011, to the 2007 Credit Facility (the Agency Amendment).
Pursuant to the Agency Amendment, among other things, (a) Wells Fargo Bank resigned as administrative agent and (b) Gleacher Products Corp. was appointed as administrative agent. In addition, the Agency Amendment effected certain amendments to the 2007 Credit Facility that provide that (x) the administrative agent need not be a lender under the 2007 Credit Facility and (y) the lenders holding a majority of the outstanding term loans and loan commitments under the 2007 Credit Facility have (i) the right, in their discretion, to remove the administrative agent and (ii) the right to make certain decisions and exercise certain powers under the 2007 Credit Facility that had previously been within the discretion of the administrative agent.
2007 Credit Facility Excess Cash Flow Payment and Outstanding Balance
As required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, on March 26, 2013 and March 15, 2012, the Company made principal payments of $6,648 and $4,600, respectively, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the fiscal years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively. As of June 30, 2013, a total of $1,167,450 was outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility: $654,554 was outstanding under the term loan facility, $244,236 was outstanding under the delayed draw term loan facility, $268,660 was outstanding under the incremental term loan facility and no amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility.
Compliance with Covenants
As of June 30, 2013 the Company is in compliance with all of the covenants and obligations under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended. However, due to restrictive covenants and conditions within the facility, the Company currently does not have the ability to draw upon the revolving credit facility portion of the 2007 Credit Facility for any immediate short-term funding needs or to incur additional long-term debt and does not expect to be able to do so in the foreseeable future.
Fair Value
As of June 30, 2013, the fair value of the Companys total long-term debt, determined based on the average yield to maturity of publicly traded debt with similar ratings and consistent maturities and terms, Level 2 inputs (see Note 12), was approximately $857,000. As of June 30, 2013, the average yield to maturity of such publicly traded debt used in valuing the Companys debt ranged from 8.4% to 41.8% with an average of 18.3%. The fair value is an estimate based on publicly available information and may not necessarily represent the fair market value in an arms length transaction.
Payment Schedule
As of June 30, 2013, scheduled principal payments of outstanding debt are as follows:
2013 |
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2014 |
1,167,450 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 1,167,450 | |||
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F-62
(7) | Derivative Instruments |
The Company uses certain derivative financial instruments to hedge the aggregate risk of interest rate fluctuations with respect to its long-term debt, which requires payments based on a variable interest rate index. These risks include: increases in debt rates above the earnings of the encumbered assets, increases in debt rates resulting in the failure of certain debt ratio covenants, increases in debt rates such that assets can no longer be refinanced, and earnings volatility.
In order to reduce such risks, the Company primarily uses interest rate swap agreements to change floating-rate long-term debt to fixed-rate long-term debt. This type of hedge is intended to qualify as a cash-flow hedge under FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815). For these instruments, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders Equity (Deficit) and recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the same period in which the hedged transaction impacts earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is immediately recognized in earnings.
Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
Liability Derivatives | ||||||||||||
June 30, 2013 | December 30, 2012 | |||||||||||
Balance Sheet
Location |
Fair Value |
Balance Sheet
Location |
Fair Value | |||||||||
Derivative designed as hedging instruments under ASC 815 |
||||||||||||
Interest rate swaps |
Derivative
Instruments |
$ | 31,053 |
Derivative
Instruments |
$ | 45,724 | ||||||
|
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|
|
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Total derivatives |
$ | 31,053 | $ | 45,724 | ||||||||
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The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012
Derivatives in ASC 815 Cash Flow Hedging Relationships |
Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative |
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in Income on Derivative |
||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||
Interest rate swaps |
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments | $(5) | $809 |
Derivatives in ASC 815
Relationships |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) on Derivative (Effective Portion) |
Location of
Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) |
Location of
Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swaps |
$ | 6,979 | $ | 3,991 |
Interest
income/ (expense) |
$ | 7,543 | $ | 6,785 |
Gain (loss)
on derivative instruments |
$ | (5 | ) | $ | 3 |
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The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statement of Operations
for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012
Derivatives in ASC 815
Relationships |
Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative |
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in Income on Derivative |
||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||
Interest rate swaps |
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments | $(9) | $1,644 |
Derivatives in ASC 815
Relationships |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion) |
Location of
Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) |
Location of
Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) |
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swaps |
$ | 14,680 | $ | (34 | ) |
Interest
income/ (expense) |
$ | 15,076 | $ | 13,441 |
Gain (loss)
on derivative instruments |
$ | (9 | ) | $ | 29 |
On June 23, 2005, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $300,000, which matured in June 2012, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company received interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.135%, with settlements occurring monthly. On February 20, 2006, the Company redesignated the same interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. At December 31, 2006, the swap no longer qualified as an effective hedge. Therefore, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income has been reclassified into earnings over the life of the hedged item. On January 1, 2007, the Company redesignated the same interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. On August 18, 2008, the Company terminated the swap and entered into a settlement agreement with Goldman Sachs in the aggregate amount of $18,947, which also includes the termination of the swap having a notional value of $270,000. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive income was reclassified into earnings over the remaining life of the item previously hedged. As of June 30, 2013, all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income have been reclassified into earnings.
In connection with financing obtained in 2006, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $270,000, which matured in July 2011, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company received interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and paid a fixed rate of 5.359%, with settlements occurring monthly. On January 1, 2007, the swap was redesignated. Therefore, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income has been reclassified into earnings over the life of the hedged item. On August 18, 2008, the Company terminated the swap and entered into a settlement agreement with Goldman Sachs in the aggregate amount of $18,947 which also includes the termination of the swap having a notional value of $300,000. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive income was reclassified into earnings over the remaining life of the item previously hedged. As of June 30, 2013, all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income have been reclassified into earnings.
In connection with the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $100,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.14%, with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $1,142, of which $0 was recognized through earnings and $1,142 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income. During the six months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $2,401, of which $0 was recognized through earnings and $2,401 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
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In connection with the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $250,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.971%, with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $2,754, of which $0 was recognized through earnings and $2,754 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income. During the six months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $5,794, of which $1 was recognized through earnings and $5,793 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
In connection with the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $200,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.079% with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $2,254, of which a decrease of $5 was recognized through earnings and an increase of $2,259 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income. During the six months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $4,742, of which a decrease of $10 was recognized through earnings and an increase of $4,752 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
In connection with the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $75,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.941% with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $824, of which $0 was recognized through earnings and $824 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income. During the six months ended June 30, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $1,734, of which $0 was recognized through earnings and $1,734 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income.
The aggregate amount of unrealized loss related to derivative instruments recognized in other comprehensive loss as of June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 was $30,971 and $51,517, respectively.
(8) | Related Party Transactions |
Fortress Investment Group, LLC
On May 9, 2005, FIF III, FIF III Liberty Acquisitions, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of FIF III (Merger Subsidiary), and the Company entered into an agreement that provided for the merger of Merger Subsidiary with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as a wholly-owned subsidiary of FIF III (the Merger). The Merger was completed on June 6, 2005. FIF III is an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC (Fortress).
As of June 30, 2013, Fortress and its affiliates beneficially owned approximately 39.6% of the Companys outstanding common stock.
In addition, the Companys Chairman, Wesley Edens, is also the Co-Chairman of the board of directors of Fortress. The Company does not pay Mr. Edens a salary or any other form of compensation.
Affiliates of Fortress own $639,233 of the $1,167,450 outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, as of August 1, 2013, of which $33,456 is still waiting to be settled. These amounts were purchased on arms length terms in secondary market transactions.
F-65
On October 24, 2006, the Company entered into an Investor Rights Agreement with FIF III. The Investor Rights Agreement provides FIF III with certain rights with respect to the nomination of directors to the Companys board of directors as well as registration rights for securities of the Company owned by Fortress.
The Investor Rights Agreement requires the Company to take all necessary or desirable action within its control to elect to its board of directors so long as Fortress beneficially owns (a) more than 50% of the voting power of the Company, four directors nominated by FIG Advisors LLC, an affiliate of Fortress (FIG Advisors), or such other party nominated by Fortress; (b) between 25% and 50% of the voting power of the Company, three directors nominated by FIG Advisors; (c) between 10% and 25% of the voting power of the Company, two directors nominated by FIG Advisors; and (d) between 5% and 10% of the voting power of the Company, one director nominated by FIG Advisors. In the event that any designee of FIG Advisors shall for any reason cease to serve as a member of the board of directors during his term of office, FIG Advisors will be entitled to nominate an individual to fill the resulting vacancy on the board of directors.
Pursuant to the Investor Rights Agreement, the Company has granted FIF III, for so long as it or its permitted transferees beneficially own an amount of the Companys common stock at least equal to 5% or more of the Companys common stock issued and outstanding immediately after the consummation of its IPO (a Registrable Amount), demand registration rights that allow FIF III at any time to request that the Company register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, an amount equal to or greater than a Registrable Amount (as defined in the Investor Rights Agreement). FIF III is entitled to an aggregate of four demand registrations. The Company is not required to maintain the effectiveness of the registration statement for more than 60 days. The Company is also not required to effect any demand registration within nine months of a firm commitment underwritten offering to which the requestor held piggyback rights and which included at least half of the securities requested by the requestor to be included. The Company is not obligated to grant a request for a demand registration within four months of any other demand registration and may refuse a request for demand registration if, in the Companys reasonable judgment, it is not feasible for the Company to proceed with the registration because of the unavailability of audited financial statements.
FIF III also has piggyback registration rights that allow FIF III to include the shares of common stock that FIF III and its permitted transferees own in any public offering of equity securities initiated by the Company (other than those public offerings pursuant to registration statements on Forms S-4 or S-8) or by any of the Companys other stockholders that may have registration rights in the future. The piggyback registration rights of FIF III are subject to proportional cutbacks based on the manner of the offering and the identity of the party initiating such offering.
The Company has additionally granted FIF III and its permitted transferees for as long as Fortress beneficially owns a Registrable Amount, the right to request shelf registrations on Form S-3, providing for an offering to be made on a continuous basis, subject to a time limit on the Companys efforts to keep the shelf registration statement continuously effective and the Companys right to suspend the use of a shelf registration prospectus for a reasonable period of time (not exceeding 60 days in succession or 90 days in the aggregate in any 12-month period) if the Company determines that certain disclosures required by the shelf registration statement would be detrimental to the Company or the Companys stockholders.
The Company has agreed to indemnify FIF III and its permitted transferees against any losses or damages resulting from any untrue statement or omission of material fact in any registration statement or prospectus pursuant to which FIF III and its permitted transferees sells shares of the Companys common stock, unless such liability arose from FIF III misstatement or omission, and Parent has agreed to indemnify the Company against all losses caused by its misstatements or omissions. The Company will pay all expenses incident to registration and Fortress will pay its respective portions of all underwriting discounts, commissions and transfer taxes relating to the sale of its shares under such a registration statement.
F-66
(9) | Income Taxes |
The Company performs a quarterly assessment of its deferred tax assets and liabilities. FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740) limits the ability to use future taxable income to support the realization of deferred tax assets when a company has experienced a history of losses even if future taxable income is supported by detailed forecasts and projections.
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. The Company considers the scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. The Company concluded that during the six months ended June 30, 2013, a net increase to the valuation allowance of $6,221 would be necessary to offset additional deferred tax assets. Of this amount, an $11,548 increase was recognized through the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), a $5,658 decrease was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive loss, and a $331 increase was recognized through discontinued operations.
The realization of the remaining deferred tax assets is primarily dependent on the scheduled reversals of deferred taxes. Any changes in the scheduled reversals of deferred taxes may require an additional valuation allowance against the remaining deferred tax assets. Any increase or decrease in the valuation allowance could result in an increase or decrease in income tax expense in the period of adjustment.
The computation of the annual expected effective tax rate at each interim period requires certain estimates and assumptions including, but not limited to, the expected operating income (loss) for the year, projections of the proportion of income (or loss), permanent and temporary differences, including the likelihood of recovering deferred tax assets generated in the current year. The accounting estimates used to compute the provision for income taxes may change as new events occur, more experience is acquired, or as additional information is obtained. To the extent that the estimated annual effective tax rate changes during a quarter, the effect of the change on prior quarters is included in tax expense for the current quarter.
For the six months ended June 30, 2013, the expected federal tax benefit at 34% is $10,405. The difference between the expected tax and the effective tax of $0 is primarily attributable to the tax effect of the federal valuation allowance of $10,032, the tax effect related to non-deductible expenses of $280, and deferred tax benefits that expired of $93.
The Company and its subsidiaries file a U.S. federal consolidated income tax return. The U.S. federal and state statute of limitations generally remains open for the 2009 tax year and beyond.
In accordance with ASC 740, the Company recognizes penalties and interest relating to uncertain tax positions in the provision for income taxes. As of June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $4,677 and $4,677, respectively. The Company did not record significant amounts of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits for the periods ending June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012. The Company does not expect significant changes in unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.
(10) | Pension and Postretirement Benefits |
The Company maintains a pension plan and several postretirement medical and life insurance plans which cover certain employees. The Company uses the accrued benefit actuarial method and best estimate assumptions to determine pension costs, liabilities and other pension information for defined benefit plans.
F-67
The following provides information on the pension plan and postretirement medical and life insurance plans for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012.
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2013 |
Three Months Ended
July 1, 2012 |
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2013 |
Six Months Ended
July 1, 2012 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | Pension | Postretirement | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Components of net periodic benefit costs: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service cost |
$ | 75 | $ | 10 | $ | 50 | $ | 9 | $ | 150 | $ | 20 | $ | 100 | $ | 19 | ||||||||||||||||
Interest cost |
271 | 57 | 296 | 68 | 542 | 115 | 592 | 136 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
(340 | ) | | (310 | ) | | (680 | ) | | (620 | ) | | ||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of prior service cost |
| (114 | ) | | (114 | ) | | (228 | ) | | (228 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of unrecognized loss |
131 | | 92 | | 262 | | 184 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Total |
$ | 137 | $ | (47 | ) | $ | 128 | $ | (37 | ) | $ | 274 | $ | (93 | ) | $ | 256 | $ | (73 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
During the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012, the Company recognized a total of $90, $91, $181 and $183 in pension and postretirement benefit expense, respectively.
The following assumptions were used in connection with the Companys actuarial valuation of its defined benefit pension and postretirement plans:
Pension | Postretirement | |||||||
Weighted average discount rate |
4.10 | % | 3.62 | % | ||||
Rate of increase in future compensation levels |
| | ||||||
Expected return on assets |
7.5 | % | | |||||
Current year trend |
| 7.7 | % | |||||
Ultimate year trend |
| 4.8 | % | |||||
Year of ultimate trend |
| 2022 |
(11) | Assets Held for Sale |
As of June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Company intended to dispose of various assets which are classified as held for sale on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet in accordance with ASC 360.
The following table summarizes the major classes of assets and liabilities held for sale at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012:
June 30,
2013 |
December 30,
2012 |
|||||||
Long-term assets held for sale: |
||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net |
$ | 474 | $ | 474 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total long-term assets held for sale |
$ | 474 | $ | 474 | ||||
|
|
|
|
During the twelve months ended December 30, 2012 the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $2,128 related to property, plant and equipment and certain intangible assets which were classified as held for sale, refer to Note 12 for fair value measurement discussion. No such impairment charges were recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2013.
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(12) | Fair Value Measurement |
Fair value measurements and disclosures require the use of valuation techniques to measure fair value that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. These inputs are prioritized as follows:
| Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. |
| Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities or market corroborated inputs. |
| Level 3: Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data and which require the Company to develop our own assumptions about how market participants price the asset or liability. |
The valuation techniques that may be used to measure fair value are as follows:
| Market approachUses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities. |
| Income approachUses valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present amount based on current market expectation about those future amounts. |
| Cost approachBased on the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset (replacement cost). |
The following table presents financial assets and liabilities measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis for the periods presented:
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using |
Total Fair Value
Measurements |
Valuation
Technique |
||||||||||||||||||
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
Significant Other
Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
Significant
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
||||||||||||||||||
As of December 30, 2012 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 34,527 | $ | | $ | | $ | 34,527 | Income | |||||||||||
Restricted cash |
6,467 | | | 6,467 | Income | |||||||||||||||
Liabilities |
||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives (1) |
$ | | $ | | $ | 45,724 | $ | 45,724 | Income | |||||||||||
As of June 30, 2013 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 25,512 | $ | | $ | | $ | 25,512 | Income | |||||||||||
Restricted cash |
6,467 | | | 6,467 | Income | |||||||||||||||
Liabilities |
||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives (1) |
$ | | $ | | $ | 31,053 | $ | 31,053 | Income |
(1) | Derivative assets and liabilities consist of interest rate swaps which are measured using the Companys estimates of the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the derivative. The fair value of the interest rate derivative is determined based on the upper notional band using cash flows discounted at the relevant market interest rates in effect at the period close and incorporates an assessment of the risk of non-performance by the interest rate derivative counterparty in valuing derivative assets and an evaluation of the Companys credit risk in valuing derivative liabilities. |
F-69
The following table reflects the activity of our derivative liabilities measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the six months ended June 30, 2013:
Derivative
Liabilities |
||||
Balance as of December 30, 2012 |
$ | 45,724 | ||
Total (gains) losses, net: |
||||
Included in earnings |
9 | |||
Included in other comprehensive income |
(14,680 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Balance as of June 30, 2013 |
$ | 31,053 | ||
|
|
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments only in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). During the quarter ended April 1, 2012, goodwill was written down to implied fair value using Level 3 inputs. The valuation techniques utilized to measure fair value are discussed in Note 5.
Refer to Note 6 for the discussion on the fair value of the Companys total long-term debt.
During the twelve months ended December 30, 2012, the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $2,128 related to property, plant and equipment and certain intangible assets which were classified as held for sale. The Company used assessed values and current market data, Level 2 inputs, to determine the fair value.
(13) | Commitments and Contingencies |
The Company becomes involved from time to time in claims and lawsuits incidental to the ordinary course of its business, including with respect to matters such as libel, invasion of privacy, intellectual property infringement, wrongful termination actions, and complaints alleging employment discrimination. In addition, the Company is involved from time to time in governmental and administrative proceedings concerning employment, labor, environmental and other claims. Insurance coverage maintained by the Company mitigates potential loss for certain of these matters. Historically, such claims and proceedings have not had a material effect upon the Companys condensed consolidated results of operations or financial condition. While the Company is unable to predict the ultimate outcome of any currently outstanding legal actions, it is the opinion of the Companys management that it is a remote possibility that the disposition of these matters would have a material adverse effect upon the Companys condensed consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.
Restricted cash at June 30, 2013 and December 30, 2012, in the aggregate amount of $6,467 for both periods, is used to collateralize standby letters of credit in the name of the Companys insurers in accordance with certain insurance policies and as cash collateral for certain business operations.
(14) | Discontinued Operations |
In May 2013, the Company disposed of a non wholly owned subsidiary in Chicago, Illinois. As a result, the asset, liability and noncontrolling interest carrying amounts of this subsidiary were derecognized. A loss of $1,146 was recognized in discontinued operations and no noncontrolling interest amounts remain after this disposal.
The net revenue during the six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 for the aforementioned discontinued operation and previously discontinued operations was $394 and $5,598, respectively. Loss, net of income taxes of $0, during the six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 for the aforementioned
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discontinued operation and previously discontinued operations was $1,034 and $475, respectively. The loss from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest during the six months ended June 30, 2013 and July 1, 2012 was $55 and $304, respectively.
(15) | Subsequent Events and Going Concern Considerations |
On September 4, 2013, the Company entered into a restructuring support agreement (RSA) with Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent (the Administrative Agent) and certain of the lenders under the Companys 2007 Credit Facility, including Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) and its affiliates. The terms of the RSA are summarized as follows. This summary only discusses the key terms of the RSA and is not intended to be a complete description of the RSA.
The key terms of the RSA are as follows:
The RSA proposes a restructuring of the Company pursuant to a pre-packaged restructuring plan under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan) whereby each Creditor (as defined below) has the option of exchanging its holdings in the Outstanding Debt (as defined below) for either its pro rata share of cash or common stock in a new holding company (such common stock, New Media Common Stock , and such holding company from and after the Effective Date, New Media ) with ownership interests in the reorganized Company (such reorganized Company, New GateHouse ). New Media is an entity that is unrelated to GateHouse and currently is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Newcastle.
New Media intends to distribute a portion of its estimated EBITDA (as defined in the RSA) less (i) cash taxes; (ii) interest expense; (iii) principal payments under the Financing (as defined below), (iv) capital expenditures; and (v) changes in net working capital to its shareholders and reinvest the remainder for general corporate purposes which may include accretive acquisitions.
The RSA includes the restructuring of the following indebtedness of the Company (the Outstanding Debt ):
(a) Indebtedness under the 2007 Credit Facility, consisting of a Revolving Credit Facility, a Term Loan Facility, a Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility and an Incremental Term Loan Facility (collectively, the 2007 Credit Facility Claims ). The 2007 Credit Facility Claims consisted of a (i) Revolving Credit Facility of $0 and $0 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively, (ii) Term Loan Facility of $658,281 and $654,554 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively, (iii) Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility of $245,627 and $244,236 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively and (iv) Incremental Term Loan Facility of $270,190 and $268,660 at December 30, 2012 and June 30, 2013, respectively.
(b) Swap Liability, including (i) $100,000 notional amount executed February 27, 2007, (ii) $250,000 notional amount executed April 4, 2007, (iii) $200,000 notional amount executed April 13, 2007 and (iv) $75,000 notional amount executed September 18, 2007. As of December 31, 2012 and June 30, 2013, the carrying value of the Swap Liability totaled $45,724 and $31,053, respectively.
Holders of the Outstanding Debt are referred to herein as Creditors .
Subject to the approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the RSA proposes a restructuring of the Outstanding Debt as follows:
(a) Each Creditor of the Outstanding Debt would receive, in full and final satisfaction of its respective claim, at its election (with respect to all or any portion of its claims) to be made in connection with solicitation of the Plan, its pro rata share of:
i. Cash pursuant to the Cash-Out Offer (described below under Cash-Out Offer) (the Cash-Out Option ); and/or
ii.(A) 100% of New Media Common Stock (subject to dilution as discussed herein) and (B) 100% of the Net Proceeds (as defined below), if any (collectively, the New Media Equity Option ).
F-71
Creditors that do not make an election during the Solicitation Period (as defined below) with respect to their claims will be deemed to have elected the Cash-Out Option.
(b) Pension, trade and all other unsecured claims will be unimpaired by the Plan.
(c) Holders of equity interests in GateHouse Media, including warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests ( Existing Equity Holders ), would be cancelled, and Existing Equity Holders will receive 10-year warrants, collectively representing the right to acquire, in the aggregate, equity equal to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of New Media (subject to dilution) as of the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date ), with the strike price per share for such warrants calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution (as defined below) of $1,200,000 as of the Effective Date. New Media Warrants will not have the benefit of antidilution protections, other than customary protections including for stock splits and stock dividends. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan.
Cash-Out Offer
In connection with the restructuring, Newcastle ( Plan Sponsor ) (or its designated affiliates) has offered to purchase, in cash, an amount equal to 40.0% of the sum of (a) $1,167,450 of principal of the claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (b) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (c) all amounts due under and subject to the terms of the interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (for the avoidance of doubt, excluding any default interest) on the Effective Date of the Plan. The Cash-Out Offer will be coterminous with the Solicitation Period (as defined below).
Registration Rights
As of the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with certain holders of the Outstanding Debt that received 10% or more of the New Media Common Stock, to provide customary registration rights.
New Media Equity Option
Instead of the Cash-Out Offer, each Creditor may elect to receive in satisfaction of its claims, a pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds (as defined below), if any. Following the completion of the restructuring, New Media will use commercially reasonable efforts, based on market conditions and other factors, to list New Media Common Stock (the Listing ) and may raise additional equity capital in connection with or subsequent to the Listing. New Media intends to seek the Listing on the New York Stock Exchange. For the avoidance of doubt, a Listing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan. Under the Plan, New Media will not impose any transfer restrictions on New Media Common Stock.
Financing
GateHouse will use commercially reasonable efforts based on market conditions and other factors, to raise up to $150,000 of new debt (the Financing). The net proceeds, if any, will be distributed to holders of New Media Common Stock, including Plan Sponsor (or its designated affiliates) on account of the Cash-Out Offer, on the Effective Date (the Net Proceeds). For the avoidance of doubt the Financing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan.
Contribution of Local Media Group Holdings LLC
The Plan Sponsor acquired Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. ( Local Media ), a publisher of weekly newspaper publications, on September 3, 2013. Subject to the terms of the RSA, the Plan Sponsor will contribute Local Media Group Holdings LLC ( Local Media Parent ) and assign its rights under the related stock purchase agreement to New Media on the Effective Date (the Local Media Contribution ) in exchange for shares of
F-72
common stock of New Media (and at Plan Sponsors option, $50), collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition (as adjusted pursuant to the Plan) based upon the equity value of New Media as of the Effective Date prior to the contribution.
Solicitation of the Plan and Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code
On September 20, 2013, GateHouse commenced a pre-packaged solicitation of the Plan (the Solicitation), with a voting deadline of September 26, 2013, as such date may be extended by Plan Sponsor in its sole discretion (the Solicitation Period ), such that the Plan could become effective no later than December 16, 2013. Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, if holders of Outstanding Debt sufficient to meet the requisite threshold of 67% in amount and majority in number (calculated without including any insider) necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code (Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors) vote to accept the Plan in the Solicitation, GateHouse and its affiliated debtors (the Debtors) intend to commence Chapter 11 cases and seek approval of the disclosure statement for the Plan (the Disclosure Statement) and confirmation of the Plan therein. Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders has agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan.
Management Agreement
On the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a management agreement with an affiliate of the Plan Sponsor (the Manager) pursuant to which the Manager will manage the operations of New Media. The annual management fee will be 1.50% of New Medias gross equity as set forth in the Management Agreement.
Releases
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the restructuring shall include a full release from liability of GateHouse, Plan Sponsor, the Administrative Agent, the Creditors, and all current and former direct and indirect members, partners, subsidiaries, affiliates, funds, managers, managing members, officers, directors, employees, advisors, principals, attorneys, professionals, accountants, investment bankers, consultants, agents, and other representatives (including their respective members, partners, subsidiaries, affiliates, funds, managers, managing members, officers, directors, employees, advisors, principals, attorneys, professionals, accountants, investment bankers, consultants, agents, and other representatives) by GateHouse, Plan Sponsor and the Creditors from any claims or causes of action related to or arising out of GateHouse, the Outstanding Debt or the Restructuring on or prior to the Effective Date, except for any claims and causes of action for fraud, gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Conditions Precedent to Closing
The occurrence of the Effective Date shall be subject to the satisfaction (unless waived) of conditions precedent customary for transactions of this type and the satisfaction of such other conditions precedent agreed upon by the lenders, Plan Sponsor and GateHouse, including but not limited to, the following:
| Each of the conditions precedent set forth in the Plan having been satisfied or waived; |
| Entry of an order confirming the Plan in form and substance satisfactory to the Plan Sponsor; and |
| The confirmation order has (a) not been reversed, stayed, modified, or amended, and (b) the time to appeal or seek certiorari has expired and (i) no appeal or petition for certiorari has been timely taken, or (ii) any appeal or petition for certiorari has been fully resolved, denied, resulted in no modification, or has otherwise been dismissed with prejudice. |
F-73
Investment Commitment Letter
On September 4, 2013 the Plan Sponsor and the Company entered into an investment commitment letter in connection with the restructuring, described above, under which Plan Sponsor has agreed to purchase the Cash-Out Offer claims, described above. The investment commitment letter provides that, on account of the claims purchased in the Cash-Out Offer on the Effective Date of the Plan, Plan Sponsor will receive its pro rata share of (a) New Media Common Stock and (b) Net Proceeds, if any, net of transaction expenses associated with transactions under the Plan.
Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility
On September 4, 2013, the Company executed an amendment to its 2007 Credit Facility effective September 3, 2013. Among other matters, the amendment revised certain terms and conditions of the 2007 Credit Facility, including the removal of an event of default related to the Company taking any action in furtherance of, or indicating its consent to or approval of a bankruptcy or similar filing, while still maintaining as an event of default the filing by the Company of a proceeding under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. The amendment also eliminated the requirement that the Companys annual audited financial statements include an auditors report without a going concern uncertainty or like modification.
On September 20, 2013, the Company delivered notice to lenders under the 2007 Credit Facility terminating the Revolving Credit Facility of the 2007 Credit Facility effective September 27, 2013.
Management Agreement
On August 27, 2013, the Company entered into a management agreement (the Local Media Management Agreement ) with Local Media Parent. Under the terms of the Local Media Management Agreement, the Company will manage the operations of Local Media. In return, the Company will receive compensation including an annual fee of $1,100, which may be adjusted to an amount not to exceed $1,210 based on a formula defined in the Local Media Management Agreement. In addition, the Company will be eligible to earn an annual incentive pay out equal to 12.5% of the EBITDA of Local Media in excess of budget. Although Local Media Parent currently owns 100% of the equity of Local Media, GateHouse manages the daily operations of Local Media. The Company has determined that the Local Media Management Agreement results in Local Media being a variable interest entity as the Company has the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the entity. As a result, GateHouse expects that it will be the primary beneficiary and therefore expects to consolidate Local Medias financial position and results of operations. Local Media had revenues of $158,559 and pre-tax loss of $27,907 for the twelve months ended June 30, 2013 and total assets of $127,436 at June 30, 2013.
Going Concern Considerations
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes continuity of operations, realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. As discussed in Note 1, the Company has experienced declining same stores revenue and profitability over the past several years, has incurred significant recurring losses from continuing operations and has a net capital deficiency. Further, the RSA described above requires the Company to file a voluntary petition seeking to reorganize under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code upon the satisfaction of certain conditions, which filing would constitute an event of default under the terms of the Companys 2007 Credit Facility. The ability of the Company, both during and after the Chapter 11 proceedings, to continue as a going concern is contingent upon, among other things; (i) the ability of the Company to generate cash from operations and to maintain adequate cash on hand; (ii) the resolution of the uncertainty as to the amount of claims that will be allowed; (iii) the ability of the Company to confirm its reorganization plan in the Chapter 11 proceedings and obtain any financing which may be required to emerge from bankruptcy protection; and (iv) the Companys ability to achieve profitability. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to successfully achieve these objectives in order to continue as a going concern. The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
F-74
Report of Independent Auditors
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying combined financial statements of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc., which comprise the combined balance sheets as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, and the related combined statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 2013, and the related notes to the combined financial statements.
Managements Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; this includes the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free of material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the 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 involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditors judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entitys preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entitys internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the combined financial position of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. at June 30, 2013 and 2012, and the combined results of its operations and it cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended June 30, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
September 10, 2013
F-75
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Combined Balance Sheets
(In Thousands)
June 30 | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Assets |
||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||
Cash |
$ | 567 | $ | 1,878 | ||||
Accounts receivable, net |
13,984 | 14,130 | ||||||
Inventory |
1,657 | 1,579 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes |
848 | 949 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
3,247 | 2,580 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current assets |
20,303 | 21,116 | ||||||
Property and equipment, net |
64,299 | 70,644 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes |
38,408 | 34,508 | ||||||
Intangible assets, net |
4,426 | 46,714 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total assets |
$ | 127,436 | $ | 172,982 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Liabilities and equity |
||||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts payable |
$ | 1,320 | $ | 1,235 | ||||
Accrued wages |
5,259 | 4,929 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
7,706 | 7,967 | ||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits |
1,417 | 1,672 | ||||||
Income taxes payable |
34 | | ||||||
Other current liabilities |
5,606 | 5,574 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current liabilities |
21,342 | 21,377 | ||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits |
53,265 | 73,772 | ||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities |
12,191 | 12,050 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities |
86,798 | 107,199 | ||||||
Commitments and contingencies |
||||||||
Total equity |
40,638 | 65,783 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities and equity |
$ | 127,436 | $ | 172,982 | ||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-76
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Combined Statements of Operations and Comprehensive (Loss) Income
(In Thousands)
For the Fiscal Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||
Advertising |
$ | 83,096 | $ | 92,502 | $ | 106,381 | ||||||
Circulation and subscription |
51,192 | 52,493 | 52,332 | |||||||||
Other |
24,271 | 24,275 | 23,131 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total revenues |
158,559 | 169,270 | 181,844 | |||||||||
Operating expenses |
136,340 | 142,281 | 154,026 | |||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
7,858 | 8,500 | 9,601 | |||||||||
Impairments and restructuring |
42,268 | 197,869 | 247 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total expenses |
186,466 | 348,650 | 163,874 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Operating (loss) income |
(27,907 | ) | (179,380 | ) | 17,970 | |||||||
Income tax benefit (expense) |
10,242 | 34,682 | (8,504 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net (loss) income |
(17,665 | ) | (144,698 | ) | 9,466 | |||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
||||||||||||
Pension and postretirement plans adjustment |
11,578 | (29,955 | ) | 6,114 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total comprehensive (loss) income |
$ | (6,087 | ) | $ | (174,653 | ) | $ | 15,580 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-77
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Combined Statements of Equity
(In Thousands)
Fiscal Years Ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011
Parent
Company Investment |
Accumulated
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income |
Total | ||||||||||
Balance, June 30, 2010 |
$ | 295,273 | $ | (30,740 | ) | $ | 264,533 | |||||
Net income |
9,466 | | 9,466 | |||||||||
Comprehensive income |
| 6,114 | 6,114 | |||||||||
Net decrease in parent company investment |
(23,962 | ) | | (23,962 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance, June 30, 2011 |
280,777 | (24,626 | ) | 256,151 | ||||||||
Net loss |
(144,698 | ) | | (144,698 | ) | |||||||
Comprehensive loss |
| (29,955 | ) | (29,955 | ) | |||||||
Net decrease in parent company investment |
(15,715 | ) | | (15,715 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance, June 30, 2012 |
120,364 | (54,581 | ) | 65,783 | ||||||||
Net loss |
(17,665 | ) | | (17,665 | ) | |||||||
Comprehensive income |
| 11,578 | 11,578 | |||||||||
Net decrease in parent company investment |
(19,058 | ) | | (19,058 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance, June 30, 2013 |
$ | 83,641 | $ | (43,003 | ) | $ | 40,638 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-78
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Combined Statements of Cash Flows
(In Thousands)
For the Fiscal Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||
Operating activities |
||||||||||||
Net (loss) income |
$ | (17,665 | ) | $ | (144,698 | ) | $ | 9,466 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities: |
||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
7,858 | 8,500 | 9,601 | |||||||||
Impairments |
42,268 | 197,869 | | |||||||||
Provision for doubtful accounts |
802 | 478 | 1,170 | |||||||||
(Gain) loss on disposal of property and equipment |
(81 | ) | (1,458 | ) | 1,371 | |||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: |
||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
(656 | ) | 1,510 | (198 | ) | |||||||
Inventory |
(78 | ) | (716 | ) | (1,534 | ) | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
(666 | ) | 1,293 | (390 | ) | |||||||
Accounts payable and accrued wages |
449 | (465 | ) | 590 | ||||||||
Deferred income taxes, net |
(11,635 | ) | (36,695 | ) | 5,119 | |||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits |
(1,349 | ) | (10,082 | ) | 1,467 | |||||||
Deferred revenue |
(261 | ) | 121 | (317 | ) | |||||||
Other liabilities |
173 | (18 | ) | (1,763 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities |
19,159 | 15,639 | 24,582 | |||||||||
Investing activities |
||||||||||||
Capital expenditures |
(1,938 | ) | (2,180 | ) | (3,758 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment |
526 | 2,036 | 3,569 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
(1,412 | ) | (144 | ) | (189 | ) | ||||||
Financing activities |
||||||||||||
Net transfers to Parent and affiliates |
(19,058 | ) | (15,715 | ) | (23,962 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net cash used in financing activities |
(19,058 | ) | (15,715 | ) | (23,962 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net change in cash |
(1,311 | ) | (220 | ) | 431 | |||||||
Cash, beginning of year |
1,878 | 2,098 | 1,667 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Cash, end of year |
$ | 567 | $ | 1,878 | $ | 2,098 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-79
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements
(In Thousands)
June 30, 2013
1. Organization
Overview
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. (LMG or the Company) operates as a business unit of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. (Parent), a wholly-owned subsidiary of News Corporation. The Company operates print and online community media franchises, Internet sites, digital services, magazines, other news, and advertising niche publications and commercial print and household distribution services. These combined financial statements were prepared on a stand-alone basis derived from the financial statements and accounting records of the Company and Parent, and reflect the combined historical financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of the Companys businesses in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Certain costs that were incurred centrally by Parent for functions such as corporate overhead for services and administrative functions have been allocated to the Company and included in the combined financial statements. We believe the assumptions underlying such allocations were made on a reasonable basis.
On June 28, 2013, the Company and Parent entered into a stock purchase agreement with Newcastle Investment Corp., whereby Newcastle Investment Corp. would acquire the Company for $82 million. The transaction received regulatory approvals and closed on September 3, 2013. These combined financial statements have been prepared in contemplation of this transaction.
Basis of Presentation
These financial statements are presented as if the businesses of the Company had been combined for all periods presented. All intracompany transactions and accounts within LMG have been eliminated in combination. The assets and liabilities in the combined financial statements have been reflected on an historical cost basis as adjusted for the acquisition of Parent by News Corporation in December 2007. Cash is managed centrally, with net earnings reinvested locally and working capital requirements met from existing liquid funds. LMG reflects transfers of cash to and from Parents cash management system as a component of parent company investment.
Income tax benefit (expense) in the combined statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income has been calculated as if LMG filed a separate tax return and was operating as a stand-alone business. Therefore, cash tax payments and items of current and deferred taxes may not be reflective of LMGs actual tax balances had it been a stand-alone business.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Combination
The combined financial statements include certain assets and liabilities that have historically been held at Parents corporate level, but are specifically identifiable or otherwise attributable to LMG. All significant intercompany transactions between Parent and LMG have been included within parent company investment in these combined financial statements.
LMGs fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to June 30. Fiscal 2013 and 2012 included 52 weeks, while fiscal 2011 included 53 weeks with the 53rd week falling in the fourth fiscal quarter. All references to June 30, 2013, June 30, 2012, and June 30, 2011 relate to the twelve month periods ended June 30, 2013, July 1, 2012, and July 3, 2011, respectively. For convenience purposes, LMG continues to date its combined financial statements as of June 30.
F-80
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Use of Estimates
The preparation of LMGs combined financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts that are reported in the combined financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Accounts Receivable, Net
The Company provides an allowance for doubtful accounts equal to estimated uncollectible amounts. The Companys estimate is based on historical collection experience and a review of the current status of such accounts receivable. It is reasonably possible that the Companys estimate of the allowance for doubtful accounts will change. Accounts receivable are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,450 and $1,572 at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Advertising Expenses
The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred. Included in operating expenses are advertising expenses of $22,521, $23,553, and $22,760 for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
Shipping and Handling
Costs incurred for shipping and handling are reflected in operating expenses in the combined statements of operations.
Concentrations of Credit and Other Risks
Advertising spending, which drives a significant portion of LMGs revenues, is sensitive to economic conditions. Local economic conditions affect the levels of advertising revenues. Economic factors that have adversely affected advertising revenues include lower consumer and business spending, high unemployment and depressed home sales. Advertising revenues are particularly adversely affected if advertisers respond to weak and uneven economic conditions by reducing their budgets or shifting spending patterns or priorities, or if they are forced to consolidate or cease operations. Continuing weak and uncertain economic conditions and outlook could adversely affect the level of advertising revenues and combined financial condition and results of operations.
Contingencies
Certain conditions may exist which may result in a loss to the Company, but which will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The Companys management, insurance advisers and legal counsel assess such contingent liabilities, and such assessment inherently involves an exercise of judgment. In assessing loss contingencies related to legal proceedings that are pending against the Company, or unasserted claims that may result in such proceedings, the Companys legal counsel evaluates the perceived merits of any legal proceedings or unasserted claims, as well as the perceived merits of the amount of relief sought or expected to be sought therein.
If the assessment of a contingency indicates that it is probable that a material loss has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be estimated, the estimated liability would be accrued in the Companys combined
F-81
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
financial statements. If the assessment indicates that a potentially material loss contingency is not probable but is reasonably possible, or is probable but cannot be estimated, the nature of the contingent liability, together with an estimate of the range of possible loss if determinable and material, would be disclosed.
Loss contingencies considered remote are generally not disclosed unless they arise from guarantees, in which case the guarantees would be disclosed.
Income Taxes
LMG accounts for income taxes in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740). ASC 740 requires an asset and liability approach for financial accounting and reporting for income taxes. Under the asset and liability approach, deferred taxes are provided for the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Valuation allowances are established where management determines that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized.
Inventory
Inventory is comprised of newsprint and is valued using weighted average cost.
Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of 3 to 25 years for equipment and 10 to 40 years for buildings and improvements. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the life of the lease. Costs associated with the repair and maintenance of property are expensed as incurred. Changes in circumstances, such as technological advances or changes to LMGs business model or capital strategy could result in the actual useful lives differing from LMGs estimates.
Revenue Recognition
Advertising revenues from the publication of newspapers are recognized when advertisements are published in newspapers or placed on digital platforms or, with respect to certain digital advertising, each time a user either clicks on or views certain ads, net of commissions and provisions for estimated sales incentives including rebates, rate adjustments, and discounts.
Circulation revenues include single-copy and subscription revenues. Circulation revenues are based on the number of copies of the printed newspaper (through home-delivery subscriptions and single-copy sales) and digital subscriptions sold and the rates charged to the respective customers. Single-copy revenue is recognized based on date of publication, net of provisions for related returns. Proceeds from subscription revenues are deferred at the time of sale and are recognized in earnings on a pro rata basis over the terms of the subscriptions. Several factors are considered to determine whether the Company is a principal, most notably whether the Company is primary obligor to the customer and has determined the selling price and product specifications.
Other revenues are recognized when the related service or product has been delivered.
F-82
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Billings to clients and payments received in advance of the performance of services or delivery of products are recorded as deferred revenue until the services are performed or the product is delivered.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
LMG has intangible assets, including goodwill, trade names, and advertising and subscriber relationships. Goodwill is recorded as the difference between the cost of acquired entities and amounts assigned to their tangible and identifiable intangible net assets. In accordance with ASC 350, IntangiblesGoodwill and Other (ASC 350), LMGs indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment or earlier if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value below its carrying amount. Intangible assets with finite lives are generally amortized over their estimated useful lives. The impairment assessment of indefinite-lived intangibles compares the fair value of these intangible assets to their carrying value.
LMGs goodwill impairment reviews are performed using a two-step process. The first step of the process is to compare the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, the goodwill of the reporting unit is not impaired and the second step of the impairment review is not necessary. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment review is required to be performed to estimate the implied fair value of the reporting units goodwill. The implied fair value of the reporting units goodwill is compared with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting units goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Long-lived Assets
ASC 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment , and ASC 350 require that LMG periodically reviews the carrying amounts of its long-lived assets, including property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, to determine whether current events or circumstances indicate that such carrying amounts may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount of the asset is greater than the expected undiscounted cash flows to be generated by such asset, an impairment adjustment is recognized if the carrying value of such asset exceeds its fair value. LMG generally measures fair value by considering sale prices for similar assets or by discounting estimated future cash flows using an appropriate discount rate. Considerable management judgment is necessary to estimate the fair value of assets; accordingly, actual results could vary significantly from such estimates.
Self-Insurance Plans
The Company has self-insured health plans for all its employees. The Company has purchased stop-loss insurance in order to limit its exposure, which will reimburse the Company for individual claims in excess of $450 annually. Self-insurance losses are accrued based on the Companys estimates of the aggregate liability for uninsured claims incurred using certain actuarial assumptions followed in the insurance industry. Included in accrued wages is an estimate for self-insured health plan expenses of $850 and $950 at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The Company is self-insured for property and casualty losses, and included in other current liabilities is an accrual for losses of $3,622 and $3,755 at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
F-83
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Fair Value Measurements
In accordance with ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements , LMG measures assets and liabilities using inputs from the following three levels of the fair value hierarchy: (i) inputs that are quoted prices in active markets (Level 1); (ii) inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities (Level 2); and (iii) inputs that require the entity to use its own assumptions about market participant assumptions (Level 3).
The fair values of the Companys financial instruments, such as accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate their carrying values due to the short-term maturities of these assets and liabilities. The Companys assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include long-lived assets, indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. The Company reviews the carrying amounts of such assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable or at least annually as of June 30 for indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. Any resulting asset impairment would require that the asset be recorded at its fair value. The resulting fair value measurements of the assets are considered to be Level 3 measurements.
During fiscal 2012, the Company recorded non-cash impairment charges of $152,842 relating to Goodwill, $44,335 relating to Trade Names and $692 relating to long-lived assets as a result of a potential sale of the Company below its carrying value. The Company recorded an additional impairment in fiscal 2013 for $42,268 to further reduce the carrying value as a result of the pending sale that subsequently closed on September 3, 2013.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the FASB) issued ASU 2012-02, Intangibles Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment (ASU 2012-02), which permits an entity to make a qualitative assessment of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting units indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than the assets carrying value before applying a quantitative impairment assessment. If it is determined through the qualitative assessment that the fair value of a reporting units indefinite-lived intangible asset is more likely than not greater than the assets carrying value, the remaining impairment steps would be unnecessary. The qualitative assessment is optional, allowing companies to go directly to the quantitative assessment. ASU 2012-02 is effective for the Company for annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed beginning July 1, 2013. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2012-02 will have a significant impact on its combined financial statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (ASU 2013-02), which requires the Company to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, it requires the Company to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, the Company is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. ASU 2013-02 is effective for the Company for interim reporting periods beginning July 1, 2013. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2012-02 will have a significant impact on its combined financial statements, as it relates to disclosures only.
F-84
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11, Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists (ASU 2013-11). ASU 2013-11 clarifies guidance and eliminates diversity in practice on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists at the reporting date. This new guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2013 and subsequent interim periods. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2013-11 will have a significant impact on its combined financial statements.
3. Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net was comprised of the following:
As of June 30 | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Property and equipment: |
||||||||
Land |
$ | 11,252 | $ | 11,334 | ||||
Buildings and leasehold improvements |
38,604 | 39,207 | ||||||
Machinery and equipment |
61,435 | 57,953 | ||||||
Construction-in-progress |
60 | 1,699 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
111,351 | 110,193 | |||||||
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization |
(47,052 | ) | (39,549 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Property and equipment, net |
$ | 64,299 | $ | 70,644 | ||||
|
|
|
|
Depreciation expense for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $7,838, $8,431, and $8,995, respectively. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012, the Company recorded impairment to property and equipment of $692.
4. Intangible Assets, Net and Goodwill
The changes in the carrying values of LMGs intangible assets, goodwill and related accumulated amortization for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, were as follows:
Goodwill (a) |
Trade
Names (a) |
Subscriber
Relationships (b) |
Advertising
Relationships (c) |
Total
Intangible Assets, Net |
||||||||||||||||
Balance, June 30, 2011 |
$ | 152,842 | $ | 66,300 | $ | 3,010 | $ | 21,808 | $ | 91,118 | ||||||||||
Amortization |
| | (69 | ) | | (69 | ) | |||||||||||||
Impairments |
(152,842 | ) | (44,335 | ) | | | (44,335 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance, June 30, 2012 |
| 21,965 | 2,941 | 21,808 | 46,714 | |||||||||||||||
Amortization |
| | (20 | ) | | (20 | ) | |||||||||||||
Impairments |
| (21,965 | ) | (2,399 | ) | (17,904 | ) | (42,268 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance, June 30, 2013 |
$ | | $ | | $ | 522 | $ | 3,904 | $ | 4,426 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Goodwill and Trade Names are not subject to amortization. |
F-85
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
4. Intangible Assets, Net and Goodwill (continued)
(b) | Net of accumulated amortization of $2,379 and $2,359 as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The useful life of Subscriber Relationships is ten years, primarily based on historical attrition rates of subscribers. |
(c) | Net of accumulated amortization of $7,292 as of June 30, 2013 and 2012. The useful life of Advertising Relationships is 25 years, primarily based on historical attrition rates of advertisers. |
Aggregate amortization expense for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $20, $69, and $606, respectively.
Based on the current amount of amortizable intangible assets, net, the estimated amortization expense for each of the succeeding five fiscal years is less than $1.
The Company evaluates the recoverability of identifiable intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an intangible assets carrying amount may not be recoverable. Such circumstances could include, but are not limited to: (1) a significant decrease in the market value of an asset, (2) a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, or (3) an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition of an asset. The Company measures the carrying amount of the asset against the estimated undiscounted future cash flows associated with it. Should the sum of the expected future net cash flows be less than the carrying value of the asset being evaluated, an impairment loss would be recognized. The impairment loss would be calculated as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value. The fair value is measured based on quoted market prices, if available. If quoted market prices are not available, the estimate of fair value is based on various valuation techniques, including the discounted value of estimated future cash flows. The evaluation of asset impairment requires the Company to make assumptions about future cash flows over the life of the asset being evaluated. These assumptions require significant judgment and actual results may differ from assumed and estimated amounts.
During fiscal 2012, LMG received an offer to sell its business for an amount that was less than the carrying amount of its net assets, excluding goodwill. As of result, this indicator led the Company to record an impairment charge to Goodwill of $152,842 and Trade Names of $44,335 during the year ended June 30, 2012. On June 28, 2013, Parent entered into an agreement to sell the Company for $82,000 and due to the net proceeds being less than previously estimated, the Company recorded an additional impairment to Trade Names, Advertising Relationships and Subscriber Relationships totaling $42,268. Impairment charges of $42,268 and $197,177 for fiscal years ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in impairment and restructuring in the accompanying combined statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income.
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Certain of LMGs U.S. employees participate in defined benefit pension plans sponsored by the Company (Direct Plans), of which certain plans are frozen. Accordingly, the funded and unfunded position of each Direct Plan is recorded in LMGs combined balance sheets. Actuarial gains and losses that have not yet been recognized through income are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income net of taxes, until they are amortized as a component of net periodic benefit cost. The determination of benefit obligations and the recognition of expenses related to Direct Plans are dependent on various assumptions. The major assumptions primarily relate to discount rates, long-term expected rates of return on plan assets, and future compensation increases. Management develops each assumption using relevant company experience in conjunction with market-related data. The funded status of the Direct Plans can change from year to year, but the assets of the funded plans have been sufficient to pay all benefits that came due in each of the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011.
F-86
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
The Company uses a June 30 measurement date for all direct pension and postretirement benefit plans. The following table sets forth the change in the projected benefit obligation, change in the fair value of Direct Plans plan assets and funded status:
Pension Benefits |
Postretirement
Benefits |
|||||||||||||||
As of June 30 | ||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||
Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year |
$ | 254,431 | $ | 223,237 | $ | 7,854 | $ | 7,628 | ||||||||
Service cost |
51 | 45 | 162 | 124 | ||||||||||||
Interest cost |
10,551 | 12,436 | 277 | 371 | ||||||||||||
Benefits paid |
(13,868 | ) | (13,674 | ) | (913 | ) | (1,158 | ) | ||||||||
Settlements |
(10,238 | ) | (8,896 | ) | | | ||||||||||
Actuarial (gain) loss |
(16,549 | ) | 41,283 | (970 | ) | 889 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Projected benefit obligation, end of year |
224,378 | 254,431 | 6,410 | 7,854 | ||||||||||||
Change in the fair value of plan assets |
||||||||||||||||
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year |
186,842 | 195,662 | | | ||||||||||||
Actual return on plan assets |
12,649 | 3,248 | | | ||||||||||||
Employer contributions |
721 | 10,501 | 913 | 1,158 | ||||||||||||
Benefits paid |
(13,868 | ) | (13,674 | ) | (913 | ) | (1,158 | ) | ||||||||
Settlements |
(10,238 | ) | (8,895 | ) | | | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Fair value of plan assets, end of year |
176,106 | 186,842 | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Funded status |
$ | (48,272 | ) | $ | (67,589 | ) | $ | (6,410 | ) | $ | (7,854 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amounts recognized in the balance sheets consist of:
Pension Benefits |
Postretirement Benefits |
|||||||||||||||
As of June 30 | ||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits |
$ | (48,272 | ) | $ | (67,590 | ) | $ | (6,410 | ) | $ | (7,854 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net amount recognized |
$ | (48,272 | ) | $ | (67,590 | ) | $ | (6,410 | ) | $ | (7,854 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of:
Pension Benefits |
Postretirement Benefits |
|||||||||||||||
As of June 30 | ||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||
Actuarial loses (gains) |
$ | 79,933 | $ | 99,510 | $ | (1,895 | ) | $ | (937 | ) | ||||||
Prior service benefit |
| | (5,544 | ) | (6,666 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net amount recognized |
$ | 79,933 | $ | 99,510 | $ | (7,439 | ) | $ | (7,603 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-87
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic pension cost in fiscal 2014:
Pension Benefits |
Postretirement
Benefits |
|||||||
As of June 30 | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Actuarial loses (gains) |
$ | 2,336 | $ | (111 | ) | |||
Prior service benefit |
| (1,122 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net amount recognized |
$ | 2,336 | $ | (1,233 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
Accumulated pension benefit obligations as of June 30, 2013 and 2012 were $224,378 and $254,432, respectively. The accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of the plan assets for all of the Companys plans. Below is information about funded and unfunded pension plans:
Funded Plans | Unfunded Plans | |||||||||||||||
As of June 30 | ||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||
Projected benefit obligation |
$ | 216,734 | $ | 246,036 | $ | 7,644 | $ | 8,395 | ||||||||
Accumulated benefit obligation |
216,672 | 245,968 | 7,644 | 8,395 | ||||||||||||
Fair value of plan assets |
176,106 | 186,842 | | |
The components of net periodic pension and postretirement expense (benefit) were as follows:
Pension Benefits | Postretirement Benefits | |||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Fiscal Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||
Service cost benefits earned during the period |
$ | 51 | $ | 45 | $ | 197 | $ | 162 | $ | 124 | $ | 113 | ||||||||||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligations |
10,551 | 12,436 | 12,406 | 277 | 371 | 416 | ||||||||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
(12,615 | ) | (13,235 | ) | (12,622 | ) | | | | |||||||||||||||
Amortization of deferred losses |
2,993 | 3,025 | 4,176 | (12 | ) | (87 | ) | (104 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Amortization of prior service benefit |
| | | (1,122 | ) | (1,122 | ) | (1,122 | ) | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Net pension and postretirement expense (benefit) |
$ | 980 | $ | 2,271 | $ | 4,157 | $ | (695 | ) | $ | (714 | ) | $ | (697 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-88
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
Assumptions
The following are weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at year end:
Pension Benefits | Postretirement Benefits | |||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||
Additional information |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Discount rate |
5.00 | % | 4.25 | % | 5.75 | % | 4.75 | % | 3.75 | % | 5.25 | % | ||||||||||||
Rate of increase in future compensation |
N/A | 3.25 | % | 3.25 | % | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Discount rate |
4.25 | % | 5.75 | % | 5.75 | % | 3.75 | % | 5.25 | % | 5.50 | % | ||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
7.00 | % | 7.00 | % | 7.00 | % | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||||||||
Rate of increase in future compensation |
N/A | 3.25 | % | 3.25 | % | N/A | N/A | N/A |
The following assumed health care trend rates as of June 30 were also used in accounting for postretirement benefits:
Postretirement Benefits | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Health care cost trend rate |
6.8 | % | 7.2 | % | ||||
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) |
5.0 | % | 5.0 | % | ||||
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate |
2019 | 2019 |
Assumed health care cost trend rates could have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement health care plan. The effect of a one percentage point increase and one percentage point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate would have the following effects on the results for fiscal 2013:
Service and
Interest Cost |
Benefit
Obligation |
|||||||
One percentage point increase |
$ | 46,874 | $ | 385,456 | ||||
One percentage point decrease |
(38,895 | ) | (334,384 | ) |
The following table sets forth the estimated benefit payments for the next five fiscal years, and in the aggregate for the five fiscal years thereafter. The expected benefits are estimated based on the same assumptions used to measure LMGs benefit obligation at the end of the fiscal year and include benefits attributable to estimated future employee service:
Pension
Benefits |
Postretirement
Benefits |
|||||||
2014 |
$ | 14,119 | $ | 716 | ||||
2015 |
14,261 | 603 | ||||||
2016 |
14,391 | 539 | ||||||
2017 |
14,479 | 486 | ||||||
2018 |
14,559 | 435 | ||||||
20192023 |
74,323 | 2,333 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 146,132 | $ | 5,112 | |||||
|
|
|
|
F-89
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
The Company does not expect to receive U.S. Medicare subsidy receipts.
Plan Assets
LMG applies the provisions of ASC 715 CompensationRetirement Plans , which required disclosures include: (i) investment policies and strategies; (ii) the major categories of plan assets; (iii) the inputs and valuation techniques used to measure plan assets; (iv) the effect of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs on changes in plan assets for the period; and (v) significant concentrations of risk within plan assets.
The table below presents LMGs plan assets by level within the fair value hierarchy, as described in Note 2 as of June 30, 2013 and 2012.
The fair values of the Companys pension plan assets as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, by asset category, are as follows:
As of June 30, 2013 | As of June 30, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Measurements
at Reporting Date Using |
Fair Value Measurements
at Reporting Date Using |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Description |
Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-term investments |
$ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | ||||||||||||||||
Pooled funds (a) : |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money market funds |
142 | | 142 | | 24,175 | | 24,175 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Domestic equity funds |
46,552 | | 46,552 | | 13,514 | 13,514 | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
International equity funds |
43,227 | | 43,227 | | 27,219 | 19,148 | 8,071 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Domestic fixed income funds |
76,479 | | 76,479 | | 33,584 | 33,584 | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balanced funds |
28,490 | 15,773 | 12,717 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common stocks (b) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. common stocks |
| | | | 27,847 | 27,760 | 87 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Government and agency obligations (c) : |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Domestic government obligations |
| | | | 2,767 | | 2,767 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
International government obligations |
| | | | 8,029 | | 8,029 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate obligations (c) |
| | | | 2,720 | | 2,720 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Partnership interests (d) |
| | | | 4,067 | | 4,067 | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
9,706 | 9,706 | | | 14,430 | (359 | ) | 14,726 | 63 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Total |
$ | 176,106 | $ | 9,706 | $ | 166,400 | $ | | $ | 186,842 | $ | 109,420 | $ | 77,359 | $ | 63 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Open-ended pooled funds that are registered and/or available to the general public are valued at the daily published net asset value (NAV). Other pooled funds are valued at the NAV provided by the fund issuer. |
F-90
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
(b) | Common stocks that are publicly traded are valued at the closing price reported on active markets in which the individual securities are traded. |
(c) | The fair value of corporate, government, and agency obligations are valued based on a compilation of primary observable market information or a broker quote in a non-active market. |
(d) | The fair values of partnerships that are not publicly traded are based on fair value obtained from the general partner. |
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of investments reflected as Level 3 assets as of June 30, 2013 and 2012:
Partnership
Interests |
Other | Total | ||||||||||
Beginning balance at June 30, 2011 |
$ | | $ | 2 | $ | 2 | ||||||
Actual return on plan assets: |
||||||||||||
Relating to assets still held at end of year |
| 42 | 42 | |||||||||
Purchases, sales, settlements, and issuances |
| 19 | 19 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance at June 30, 2012 |
| 63 | 63 | |||||||||
Purchases, sales, settlements, and issuances |
| (63 | ) | (63 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Ending balance at June 30, 2013 |
$ | | $ | | $ | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Companys investment policy includes various guidelines and procedures designed to ensure assets are invested in a manner necessary to meet expected future benefits earned by participants. The investment guidelines consider a broad range of economic conditions. Central to the policy are target allocation ranges by asset class.
The objectives of the target allocations are to maintain investment portfolios that diversify risk through prudent asset allocation parameters, achieve asset returns that meet or exceed the plans actuarial assumptions, and achieve asset returns that are competitive with like institutions employing similar investment strategies.
The investment policy is periodically reviewed by the Company and a designated third-party fiduciary for investment matters. The policy is established and administered in a manner that is compliant at all times with applicable government regulations.
LMG pension assets are managed by News Corporation. News Corporations investment strategy for its pension plans is to maximize the long-term rate of return on plan assets within an acceptable level of risk in order to minimize the cost of providing pension benefits, while maintaining adequate funding levels. News Corporations practice is to conduct a periodic strategic review of its asset allocation. News Corporations current broad strategic targets are to have a pension asset portfolio comprising of 54% equity securities and 46% fixed income securities. News Corporations equity portfolios are managed in such a way as to achieve optimal diversity. News Corporations fixed income portfolio is investment grade in the aggregate. News Corporation does not manage any assets internally.
F-91
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
LMGs benefit plan weighted-average asset allocations, by asset category, are as follows:
Pension Benefits
As of June 30 |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Asset category: |
||||||||
Equity securities |
50 | % | 37 | % | ||||
Debt securities |
42 | 35 | ||||||
Cash and other |
8 | 28 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total |
100 | % | 100 | % | ||||
|
|
|
|
Required pension plan contributions for the next fiscal year are expected to be approximately $701; however, actual contributions may be affected by pension asset and liability valuation changes during the year.
Defined Contribution Plan
LMG has a defined contribution plan for the benefit of substantially all employees meeting certain eligibility requirements. The Company has limited contribution requirements for this plan.
6. Income Taxes
The income tax (benefit) expense in the combined statements of operations has been calculated as if LMG filed a separate tax return and was operating as a stand-alone business. Therefore, cash tax payments and items of current and deferred taxes may not be reflective of LMGs actual tax balances had it been a standalone business.
(Loss) income before income tax benefit (expense) was attributable to the following jurisdiction:
For the Fiscal Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||
U.S. |
$ | (27,907 | ) | $ | (179,380 | ) | $ | 17,970 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
(Loss) income before income tax benefit (expense) |
$ | (27,907 | ) | $ | (179,380 | ) | $ | 17,970 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Significant components of LMGs (benefit) provision for income taxes were as follows:
For the Fiscal Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||
Current: |
||||||||||||
Federal |
$ | (18 | ) | $ | 456 | $ | 2,115 | |||||
State and local |
1,410 | 1,556 | 2,038 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total current |
1,392 | 2,012 | 4,153 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Deferred: |
||||||||||||
Federal |
(9,426 | ) | (29,061 | ) | 3,676 | |||||||
State and local |
(2,208 | ) | (7,633 | ) | 675 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total deferred |
(11,634 | ) | (36,694 | ) | 4,351 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total (benefit) provision for income taxes |
$ | (10,242 | ) | $ | (34,682 | ) | $ | 8,504 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-92
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
6. Income Taxes (continued)
The reconciliation between the effective tax rate and the U.S. statutory rate was as follow:
For the Fiscal Years Ended
June 30 |
||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||
U.S. federal income tax rate |
35.00 | % | 35.00 | % | 35.00 | % | ||||||
Non-deductible goodwill on asset impairment (a) |
| (17.82 | ) | | ||||||||
State and local taxes, net of federal benefit |
2.40 | 2.22 | 10.04 | |||||||||
Other |
(0.70 | ) | (0.06 | ) | 2.28 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Effective tax rate |
36.70 | % | 19.34 | % | 47.32 | % | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 4 |
The following is a summary of the components of the deferred tax accounts:
As of June 30 | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Deferred tax assets: |
||||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits |
$ | 22,069 | $ | 30,554 | ||||
Amortization of goodwill and intangibles |
16,365 | 3,483 | ||||||
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities |
11,295 | 11,098 | ||||||
Other |
1,616 | 3,205 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total deferred tax assets |
51,345 | 48,340 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Deferred tax liabilities: |
||||||||
Property and equipment |
(11,638 | ) | (12,432 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total deferred tax liabilities |
(11,638 | ) | (12,432 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net deferred tax asset |
39,707 | 35,908 | ||||||
Less: valuation allowance |
(451 | ) | (451 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net deferred tax asset |
$ | 39,256 | $ | 35,457 | ||||
|
|
|
|
LMG had net current deferred tax assets of $848 and $949 as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and noncurrent deferred tax assets of $38,408 and $34,508 as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. LMG had no current and non-current deferred tax liabilities as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
We have recorded a deferred tax asset of $1,404 and $2,982 associated with our net operating loss carryforwards as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In accordance with the Companys accounting policy, valuation allowances of $451 and $451 have been established to reduce the deferred tax asset associated with our net operating losses to an amount that will more likely than not be realized as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
As of June 30, 2013, LMG had $15,824 net operating loss or capital loss carryforwards available to offset future taxable income.
F-93
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
6. Income Taxes (continued)
The following table sets forth the change in the accrual for uncertain tax positions, excluding interest and penalties:
For the Fiscal Years Ended June 30 | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||
Balance, beginning of year |
$ | 12,606 | $ | 12,107 | $ | 12,347 | ||||||
Adjustment for current year tax positions |
1,560 | 2,438 | 1,939 | |||||||||
Reductions for prior year tax position |
(1,617 | ) | (1,939 | ) | (2,179 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Balance, end of year |
$ | 12,549 | $ | 12,606 | $ | 12,107 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
LMG recognizes interest and penalty charges related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense, which is consistent with the recognition in prior reporting periods. LMG recognized interest charges of $911, $895 and $855 during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. LMG recorded liabilities for accrued interest of approximately $5,614 and $4,703 as of June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
LMG is subject to tax in various domestic jurisdictions and, as a matter of ordinary course, LMG is regularly audited by federal and state tax authorities. LMG believes it has appropriately accrued for the expected outcome of all other pending tax matters and does not currently anticipate that the ultimate resolution of other pending tax matters will have a material adverse effect on its combined financial condition, future results of operations or liquidity. LMGs income tax returns for 2006 and later are subject to examination in various jurisdictions. As of June 30, 2013 and 2012, approximately $11,171 would affect LMGs effective income tax rate, if and when recognized in future fiscal years. The Company believes that it is reasonably possible that a decrease of up to $11,728 in unrecognized tax benefits related to state exposures may occur within the next twelve months.
LMG paid $70, $163 and $143 for income taxes during the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
7. Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is related to the actuarial gains and losses related to the pension and postretirement benefit plans. The balance of $43,003 and $54,581 at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, is net of tax of $29,491 and $37,326 at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
F-94
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
8. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
Operating Leases
Operating lease commitments are primarily for office space and equipment. Certain office space leases provide for rent adjustments relating to changes in real estate taxes and other operating costs. Rental expense amounted to $437 in 2013, $467 in 2012, and $397 in 2011. The minimum rental commitments under non-cancelable leases, net of subleases, as of June 30, 2013 were as follows:
2014 |
$ | 274 | ||
2015 |
69 | |||
2016 |
28 | |||
2017 |
5 | |||
Thereafter |
| |||
|
|
|||
Total minimum lease payments |
$ | 376 | ||
|
|
9. Related Parties
Parent and News Corporation provide various cash management, human resources, financial, tax, legal, insurance, and other services to LMG. These services include processing certain cash activity; cash is generally maintained by News Corporation. Costs of these services are allocated to LMG based upon established criteria, primarily determined by the associated cash outflows of the business or the specific amount of services provided. The total costs allocated to LMG for these services were $2,254, $2,200, and $1,496 for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. In addition, News Corporation billed LMG for insurance related to certain specified events of $2,769, $4,468, and $2,723 for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. Management believes that the allocations are reasonable. Settlement of amounts owed to and by the Parent are generally cleared through equity.
LMG purchases content for its newspapers from Parent and in certain geographic area purchases and/or delivers Parents and News Corporations newspapers for agreed-upon fees. Under these agreements, total purchases were $2,880, $2,933, and $2,891 and fees received were $271, $299, and $303 for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
LMGs arrangements with Parent and News Corporation have been entered into in the context of a parent-subsidiary relationship; therefore, these arrangements are not the result of arms-length negotiations between independent parties. There can be no assurance that any of such arrangements has been effected on terms more or less as favorable to LMG as could have been obtained from unaffiliated third parties.
10. Subsequent Events
In accordance with ASC 855, Subsequent Events , the Company evaluated subsequent events through September 10, 2013, the date these combined financial statements were available to be issued.
On September 3, 2013, Parent sold the Company to a subsidiary of Fortress Investment Group LLC. As a result, the Companys operations are now managed by GateHouse Media, Inc.
F-95
Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(In Thousands)
11. Event (unaudited) subsequent to date of independent auditors report
On September 3, 2013, the Company along with other specified related parties entered into a credit agreement (the Credit Agreement). The Credit Agreement consists of a $33.0 million senior secured term loan, which was funded on September 3, 2013, and a senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility of up to $10 million, but which will not be funded until certain conditions precedent have been met under the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement expires on September 4, 2018 or earlier in the case of an Event of Default as defined per the Credit Agreement.
F-96
Exhibit 99.2
List of GateHouse Media, Inc.s Dailies, Weeklies, Shoppers, Websites and Directories
GateHouse Media, Inc.s (GateHouse) dailies, weeklies, shoppers, websites and directories are listed below. GateHouse maintains registered trademarks in many of the masthead names listed below. Maintaining such trademarks allows GateHouse to exclusively use the masthead name to the exclusion of third parties.
Small Community Newspaper Group
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Illinois | Benton |
Benton Evening News www.bentoneveningnews.com |
Daily | |||
Canton |
Daily Ledger www.cantondailyledger.com |
Daily | ||||
Carmi |
The Carmi Times www.carmitimes.com |
Daily | ||||
Du Quoin |
Du Quoin Evening Call www.duquoin.com |
Daily | ||||
El Dorado | El Dorado Daily Journal | Daily | ||||
Galesburg |
The Register-Mail www.galesburg.com |
Daily | ||||
Harrisburg |
Harrisburg Daily Register www.dailyregister.com |
Daily | ||||
Kewanee |
Star-Courier www.starcourier.com |
Daily | ||||
Macomb |
McDonough County Voice www.mcdonoughvoice.com |
Daily | ||||
Marion |
The Daily Republican www.dailyrepublicannews.com |
Daily | ||||
Monmouth |
Daily Review Atlas www.reviewatlas.com |
Daily | ||||
Olney |
The Olney Daily Mail www.olneydailymail.com |
Daily | ||||
Pekin |
Pekin Daily Times www.pekintimes.com |
Daily | ||||
Pontiac |
Daily Leader www.pontiacdailyleader.com |
Daily | ||||
West Frankfort |
Daily American www.dailyamericannews.com |
Daily | ||||
Abingdon |
Abingdon Argus-Sentinel www.eaglepublications.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Aledo |
The Times Record www.aledotimesrecord.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Augusta |
Augusta Eagle-Scribe www.eaglepublicatons.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Cambridge |
Cambridge Chronicle www.cambridgechron.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Carmi | The Weekly Times | Paid Weekly | ||||
Chester |
Randolph County Herald Tribune www.randolphcountyheraldtribune.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Christopher | The Progress | Paid Weekly | ||||
Du Quoin | Du Quoin News | Paid Weekly | ||||
Du Quoin | Ashley News | Paid Weekly | ||||
Fairbury | The Blade | Paid Weekly |
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Flora |
Clay County Advocate Press www.advocatepress.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Galva |
Galva News www.galvanews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Geneseo |
The Geneseo Republic www.geneseorepublic.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Murphysboro |
Murphysboro American www.murphysboroamerican.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Newton |
Newton Press Mentor www.pressmentor.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Oquawka | Oquawka Current | Paid Weekly | ||||
Orion |
Orion Gazette www.oriongazette.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Roseville |
Roseville Independent www.eaglepublications.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Shawneetown | Ridgway News | Paid Weekly | ||||
Shawneetown | Gallatin Democrat | Paid Weekly | ||||
Steelville | The Steelville Ledger | Paid Weekly | ||||
Teutopolis |
Teutopolis Press-Deiterich Gazette www.teutopolispress.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
West Frankfort |
SI Trader www.sitraders.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Chillicothe |
Chillicothe Times Bulletin www.chillicothetimesbulletin.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
East Peoria |
East Peoria Times-Courier www.eastpeoriatimescourier.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Galesburg |
Knox County Neighbors www.galesburg.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Macomb | Daily Brief | Free Weekly | ||||
Metamora |
Woodford Times www.woodfordtimes.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Morton |
Morton Times News www.mortontimesnews.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Washington |
Washington Times Reporter www.washingtontimesreporter.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Aledo | Town Crier Advertiser | Shopper | ||||
Canton | Fulton County Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Carmi | White County Shopper News | Shopper | ||||
Flora | CCAP Special | Shopper | ||||
Galatia |
Money Stretcher www.galatiamoneystretcher.com |
Shopper | ||||
Geneseo | Henry County Advertizer/Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Macomb | McDonough County Choice | Shopper | ||||
Marion | This Week in Williamson County | Shopper | ||||
Monmouth | Pennysaver | Shopper | ||||
Olney | Richland County Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Olney | Jasper County News Eagle | Shopper | ||||
Pontiac | Livingston Shopping News | Shopper | ||||
West Frankfort | Free Press | Shopper | ||||
Missouri | Camdenton |
Lake Sun Leader www.lakenewsonline.com |
Daily | |||
Carthage |
The Carthage Press www.carthagepress.com |
Daily | ||||
Chillicothe |
Constitution Tribune www.chillicothenews.com |
Daily |
2
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Hannibal |
Hannibal Courier Post www.hannibal.net |
Daily | ||||
Independence |
The Examiner www.examiner.net |
Daily | ||||
Kirksville |
Kirksville Daily Express & News www.kirksvilledailyexpress.com |
Daily | ||||
Macon |
Chronicle Herald www.maconch.com |
Daily | ||||
Maryville |
Maryville Daily Forum www.maryvilledailyforum.com |
Daily | ||||
Mexico |
The Mexico Ledger www.mexicoledger.com |
Daily | ||||
Moberly |
Moberly Monitor Index www.moberlymonitor.com |
Daily | ||||
Neosho |
Neosho Daily News www.neoshodailynews.com |
Daily | ||||
Rolla |
Rolla Daily News www.therolladailynews.com |
Daily | ||||
Waynesville |
The Daily Guide www.waynesvilledailyguide.com |
Daily | ||||
Aurora |
Aurora Advertiser www.auroraadvertiser.net |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Boonville |
Boonville Daily News www.boonvilledailynews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Brookfield |
The Linn County Leader www.linncountyleader.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Greenfield |
The Vedette www.greenfieldvedette.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
St James |
St James Leader Journal www.leaderjournal.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Boonville | Weekly | Free Weekly | ||||
Camdenton |
West Side Star www.lakenewsonline.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Carthage | The Carthage Press Wednesday TMC | Free Weekly | ||||
Hannibal | Salt River Journal | Free Weekly | ||||
Neosho | The Neighborhood Showcase | Free Weekly | ||||
Osage Beach | Lake Area News Focus | Free Weekly | ||||
Osage Beach | Lake of the Ozarks Real Estate | Free Weekly | ||||
Osage Beach | Tube Tab | Free Weekly | ||||
Osage Beach | Vacation News | Free Weekly | ||||
Rolla | Rolla Daily News Plus | Free Weekly | ||||
Aurora | Big AA Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Brookfield | Sho-Me Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Camdenton | Penny Saver | Shopper | ||||
Chillicothe | Chillicothe C-T Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Greenfield | Lake Stockton Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Joplin | Big Nickel | Shopper | ||||
Kirksville | Nemo Trader | Shopper | ||||
Kirksville | Kirksville Crier | Shopper | ||||
Macon |
Macon Journal www.maconch.com |
Shopper | ||||
Moberly | The Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Osage Beach | Lake of the Ozarks Boats | Shopper |
3
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Waynesville | Pulaski County Weekly | Shopper | ||||
Kansas |
Dodge City |
Dodge City Daily Globe www.dodgeglobe.com |
Daily | |||
Leavenworth |
The Leavenworth Times www.leavenworthtimes.com |
Daily | ||||
McPherson |
McPherson Sentinel www.mcphersonsentinel.com |
Daily | ||||
Newton |
The Newton Kansan www.thekansan.com |
Daily | ||||
Pittsburg |
The Morning Sun www.morningsun.net |
Daily | ||||
Andover |
Andover America www.andoveramerican.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Augusta |
Augusta Daily Gazette www.augustagazette.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
El Dorado |
The El Dorado Times www.eldoradotimes.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Greensburg |
Kiowa County Signal www.kiowacountysignal.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Pratt |
The Pratt Tribune www.pratttribune.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
St John |
St John News www.sjnewsonline.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Wellington |
Wellington Daily News www.wellingtondailynews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Dodge City | La Estrella | Free Weekly | ||||
Leavenworth | Lansing This Week | Free Weekly | ||||
Leavenworth |
The Fort Leavenworth Lamp www.ftleavenworthlamp.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Dodge City | Shoppers Weekly | Shopper | ||||
El Dorado | Shoppers Guide | Shopper | ||||
Hiawatha | Penny Press 4 | Shopper | ||||
Leavenworth | Chronicle Shopper | Shopper | ||||
McPherson/Newton | South Central Kansas Shoppers Guide | Shopper | ||||
Pittsburg | The Sunland Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Pratt | Sunflower Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Michigan |
Adrian |
The Daily Telegram www.lenconnect.com |
Daily | |||
Cheboygan |
Cheboygan Daily Tribune www.cheboygannews.com www.mackinacjournal.com |
Daily | ||||
Coldwater |
The Daily Reporter www.thedailyreporter.com |
Daily | ||||
Hillsdale |
Hillsdale Daily News www.hillsdale.net |
Daily | ||||
Holland |
The Holland Sentinel www.hollandsentinel.com |
Daily | ||||
Ionia |
Sentinel-Standard www.sentinel-standard.com |
Daily | ||||
Sault Ste Marie |
The Evening News www.sooeveningnews.com |
Daily | ||||
Sturgis |
Sturgis Journal www.sturgisjournal.com |
Daily | ||||
Coldwater |
Bronson Journal www.thebronsonjournal.com |
Paid Weekly |
4
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation
|
|||
Coldwater | Jonesville Independent | Paid Weekly | ||||
Adrian |
Adrian Access Shopper www.accessshoppersguide.com |
Shopper | ||||
Allegan |
Flashes Shopping Guide (Allegan/Lakeshore) www.flashespublishers.com |
Shopper | ||||
Cheboygan | Shopper Fair | Shopper | ||||
Coldwater | The Reporter Extra | Shopper | ||||
Coldwater | Coldwater Shoppers Guide | Shopper | ||||
Hillsdale |
Tip Off Shopping Guide www.tipoffonline.com |
Shopper | ||||
Holland |
Flashes Shopping Guide (Holland/Zeeland) www.flashespublishers.com |
Shopper | ||||
Ionia | Sentinel-Standard TMC | Shopper | ||||
Sault Ste Marie | Tri County Buyers Guide | Shopper | ||||
Sturgis | Sturgis Gateway Shopper | Shopper | ||||
California |
Ridgecrest |
The Daily Independent www.ridgecrestca.com |
Daily | |||
Yreka |
Siskiyou Daily News www.siskiyoudaily.com |
Daily | ||||
Gridley |
Gridley Herald www.gridleyherald.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Mt Shasta |
Weed Press www.mtshastanews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Mt Shasta |
Dunsmuir News www.mtshastanews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Mt Shasta |
Mt Shasta Herald www.mtshastanews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Taft |
Midway Driller www.taftmidwaydriller.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Gridley |
Gidley Shopping News www.gridleyherald.com |
Shopper | ||||
Mt Shasta | Spotlight | Shopper | ||||
Mt Shasta | Super Saver Advertiser | Shopper | ||||
Ridgecrest | Super Tuesday | Shopper | ||||
Yreka |
Siskiyou Seen www.siskiyoudaily.com |
Shopper | ||||
Minnesota |
Crookston |
Crookston Daily Times www.crookstontimes.com |
Daily | |||
Cottonwood | Tri-County News | Paid Weekly | ||||
Granite Falls |
Granite Falls Advocate-Tribune www.granitefallsnews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Montevideo |
Montevideo American News www.montenews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Redwood Falls |
Redwood Gazette www.redwoodfallsgazette.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Sleepy Eye |
Sleepy Eye Herald Dispatch www.sleepyeyenews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
St James |
St James Plaindealer www.stjamesnews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Wabasso | The Wabasso Standard | Paid Weekly | ||||
Halstad | The Valley Journal | Free Weekly | ||||
Crookston | Crookston Valley Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Halstad | The Shopper | Shopper |
5
6
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
DeRidder |
Beauregard Daily News www.beauregarddailynews.net |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Donaldsonville |
The Donaldsonville Chief www.donaldsonvillechief.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Gonzales |
Gonzales Weekly Citizen www.weeklycitizen.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Leesville |
Leesville Daily Leader www.leesvilledailyleader.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Plaquemine |
Post South www.postsouth.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Sulphur |
Southwest Daily News www.sulphurdailynews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Sulphur | Vinton News | Paid Weekly | ||||
Sterlington | North Quachita Weekly | Free Weekly | ||||
Gonzales |
The Marketeer www.weeklycitizen.com |
Shopper | ||||
Gonzales |
Nickel Ads www.weeklycitizen.com |
Shopper | ||||
Plaquemine |
West Bank Shopper www.postsouth.com |
Shopper | ||||
Sulphur | Calcasieu Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Pennsylvania |
Honesdale |
The Wayne Independent www.wayneindependent.com |
Daily | |||
Waynesboro |
The Record Herald www.therecordherald.com |
Daily | ||||
Carbondale | The Villager | Paid Weekly | ||||
Carbondale |
Carbondale News www.thecarbondalenews.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Greencastle |
The Echo Pilot www.echo-pilot.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hawley |
News Eagle www.neagle.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hawley | The Pike Pennysaver | Shopper | ||||
Honesdale | The Independent Extra | Shopper | ||||
West Virginia |
Keyser |
Mineral Daily News Tribune www.newstribune.info |
Daily | |||
Ripley |
The Jackson Herald www.jacksonnewspapers.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Ripley |
The Jackson Star News www.jacksonnewspapers.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Keyser | Todays Shopper | Shopper | ||||
Ravenswood |
Star Herald Weekender www.jacksonnewspapers.com |
Shopper | ||||
Colorado |
LaJunta |
LaJunta Tribune Democrat www.lajuntatribunedemocrat.com |
Daily | |||
LaJunta |
Ag Journal www.agjournalonline.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
LaJunta |
Fowler Tribune www.fowlertribune.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Las Pimas |
Bent County Democrat www.bcdemocratonline.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Nebraska |
Nebraska City |
Nebraska City News Press www.ncnewspress.com |
Paid Weekly |
7
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Syracuse |
Syracuse Journal Democrat www.journaldemocrat.com |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Nebraska City | Penny Press 1 | Shopper | ||||
Syracuse | Penny Press 2 | Shopper | ||||
Oklahoma | Ardmore |
The Daily Ardmoreite www.ardmoreite.com |
Daily | |||
Shawnee |
The Shawnee News-Star www.news-star.com |
Daily | ||||
Ardmore | Entertainment Spotlight | Shopper | ||||
North Dakota | Devils Lake |
Devils Lake Daily Journal www.devilslakejournal.com |
Daily | |||
Devils Lake | The Country Peddler | Shopper | ||||
Tennessee | Oak Ridge |
The Oak Ridger www.oakridger.com |
Daily | |||
Iowa | Hamburg |
Hamburg Reporter www.hamburgreporter.com |
Paid Weekly |
Metro Newspaper Group
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Massachusetts | Brockton |
The Enterprise www.enterprisenews.com |
Daily | |||
Fall River |
The Herald News www.heraldnews.com |
Daily | ||||
Framingham |
The Metrowest Daily News www.metrowestdailynews.com |
Daily | ||||
Milford |
The Milford Daily News www.milforddailynews.com |
Daily | ||||
Quincy |
Patriot Ledger www.patriotledger.com |
Daily | ||||
Taunton |
Taunton Daily Gazette www.tauntongazette.com |
Daily | ||||
Abington |
Abington Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/abington |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Acton/Roxborough |
The Beacon www.wickedlocal.com/acton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Allston |
Allston/Brighton Tab www.wickedlocal.com/allston |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Amesbury |
Amesbury News www.wickedlocal.com/amesbury |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Arlington |
The Arlington Advocate www.wickedlocal.com/arlington |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Ashland |
Ashland Tab www.wickedlocal.com/ashland |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Bedford |
Bedford Minuteman www.wickedlocal.com/bedford |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Belmont |
Belmont Citizen-Herald www.wickedlocal.com/belmont |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Beverly |
Beverly Citizen www.wickedlocal.com/beverly |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Billerica |
Billerica Minuteman www.wickedlocal.com/billerica |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Bolton |
The Bolton Common www.wickedlocal.com/bolton |
Paid Weekly |
8
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Boxford |
Tri-Town Transcript www.wickedlocal.com/boxford |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Braintree |
Braintree Forum www.wickedlocal.com/braintree |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Brewster |
The Cape Codder www.wickedlocal.com/capecod |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Burlington |
Burlington Union www.wickedlocal.com/burlington |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Cambridge |
Cambridge Chronicle & Tab www.wickedlocal.com/cambridge |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Carver |
Carver Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/carver |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Chelmsford |
Chelmsford Independent www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Clinton |
The Lancaster Times & Clinton Courier www.wickedlocal.com/clinton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Cohasset |
Cohasset Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/cohasset |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Concord |
The Concord Journal www.wickedlocal.com/concord |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Danvers |
Danvers Herald www.wickedlocal.com/danvers |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Dedham |
Dedham Transcript www.wickedlocal.com/dedham |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Dover |
Dover/Sherborn Press www.wickedlocal.com/dover |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Easton |
Easton Journal www.wickedlocal.com/easton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Framingham |
Westwood Press www.wickedlocal.com/westwood |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Georgetown |
Georgetown Record www.wickedlocal.com/georgetown |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Halifax |
Halifax/Plympton Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/halifax |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hamilton |
Hamilton-Wenham Chronicle www.wickedlocal.com/hamilton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hanover |
Hanover Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/hanover |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Harvard |
Harvard Post www.wickedlocal.com/harvard |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Harwich |
Harwich Oracle www.wickedlocal.com/harwich |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hingham |
The Hingham Journal www.wickedlocal.com/hingham |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Holbrook |
Holbrook Sun www.wickedlocal.com/holbrook |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Holliston |
Holliston Tab www.wickedlocal.com/holliston |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hopkinton |
Hopkinton Crier www.wickedlocal.com/hopkinton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hudson |
Hudson Sun www.wickedlocal.com/hudson |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Hyannis |
The Register www.wickedlocal.com/barnstable |
Paid Weekly |
9
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Ipswich |
Ipswich Chronicle www.wickedlocal.com/ipswich |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Kingston |
Kingston Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/kingston |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Lexington |
Lexington Minuteman www.wickedlocal.com/lexington |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Lincoln |
Lincoln Journal www.wickedlocal.com/lincoln |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Littleton |
Littleton Independent www.wickedlocal.com/littleton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Malden |
Malden Observer www.wickedlocal.com/malden |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Mansfield |
Mansfield News www.wickedlocal.com/mansfield |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Marblehead |
Marblehead Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/marblehead |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Marion |
The Sentinel www.wickedlocal.com/marion |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Marlborough |
Marlborough Enterprise www.wickedlocal.com/marlborough |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Marshfield |
Marshfield Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/marshfield |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Maynard/Stow |
The Beacon-Villager www.wickedlocal.com/maynard |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Medfield |
Medfield Press www.wickedlocal.com/medfield |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Medford |
Medford Transcript www.wickedlocal.com/medford |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Melrose |
Melrose Free Press www.wickedlocal.com/melrose |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Natick |
Natick Bulletin & Tab www.wickedlocal.com/natick |
Paid Weekly | ||||
North Andover |
North Andover Citizen www.wickedlocal.com/northandover |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Northborough/Southborough |
The Northborough/Southborough Villager www.wickedlocal.com/northborough |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Norton |
Norton Mirror www.wickedlocal.com/norton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Norwell |
Norwell Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/norwell |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Norwood |
Norwood Transcript & Bulletin www.wickedlocal.com/norwood |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Pembroke |
Pembroke Mariner & Express www.wickedlocal.com/pembroke |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Plymouth |
Old Colony Memorial www.wickedlocal.com/plymouth |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Provincetown |
The Provincetown Banner www.wikedlocal.com/provincetown |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Reading |
The Reading Advocate www.wickedlocal.com/reading |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Rockland |
Rockland Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/rockland |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Roslindale |
Roslindale Transcript www.wickedlocal.com/roslindale |
Paid Weekly |
10
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Saugus |
Saugus Advertiser www.wickedlocal.com/saugus |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Scituate |
Scituate Mariner www.wickedlocal.com/scituate |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Sharon |
Sharon Advocate www.wickedlocal.com/sharon |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Shrewsbury |
Shrewsbury Chronicle www.wickedlocal.com/shrewsbury |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Somerville |
Somerville Journal www.wickedlocal.com/somerville |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Stoughton |
Stoughton Journal www.wickedlocal.com/stoughton |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Sudbury |
The Sudbury Town Crier www.wickedlocal.com/sudbury |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Swampscott |
Swampscott Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/swampscott |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Tewksbury |
Tewksbury Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/tewksbury |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Wakefield |
Wakefield Observer www.wickedlocal.com/wakefield |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Walpole |
The Walpole Times www.wickedlocal.com/walpole |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Waltham |
Waltham News Tribune www.wickedlocal.com/waltham |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Wareham |
Wareham Courier www.wickedlocal.com/wareham |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Watertown |
Watertown Tab & Press www.wickedlocal.com/watertown |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Wayland |
The Wayland Town Crier www.wickedlocal.com/wayland |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Wellesley |
The Wellesley Townsman www.wickedlocal.com/wellesley |
Paid Weekly | ||||
West Roxbury |
West Roxbury Transcript www.wickedlocal.com/west-roxbury |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Westborough |
Westborough News www.wickedlocal.com/westborough |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Westford |
Westford Eagle www.wickedlocal.com/westford |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Weston |
The Weston Town Crier www.wickedlocal.com/weston |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Weymouth |
Weymouth News www.wickedlocal.com/weymouth |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Winchester |
The Winchester Star www.wickedlocal.com/winchester |
Paid Weekly | ||||
Bellingham |
County Gazette www.wickedlocal.com/franklin |
Free Weekly | ||||
Boston |
Boston Homes www.linkbostonhomes.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Bourne |
Bourne Courier www.wickedlocal.com/bourne |
Free Weekly | ||||
Bridgewater |
Bridgewater Independent www.wickedlocal.com/bridgewater |
Free Weekly | ||||
Brookline |
Brookline Tab www.wickedlocal.com/brookline |
Free Weekly |
11
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Canton |
Canton Journal www.wickedlocal.com/canton |
Free Weekly | ||||
Danvers | North Shore Sunday | Free Weekly | ||||
Duxbury |
Duxbury Reporter www.wickedlocal.com/duxbury |
Free Weekly | ||||
Fall River |
OJornal www.ojournal.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Falmouth |
Falmouth Bulletin www.wickedlocal.com/falmouth |
Free Weekly | ||||
Framingham |
Framingham Tab www.wickedlocal.com/framingham |
Free Weekly | ||||
Gloucester | Cape Ann Beacon | Free Weekly | ||||
Needham |
Needham Times www.wickedlocal.com/needham |
Free Weekly | ||||
Newburyport |
The Newburyport Current www.wickedlocal.com/newburyport |
Free Weekly | ||||
Newton |
Newton Tab www.wickedlocal.com/newton |
Free Weekly | ||||
North Attleborough |
The North Attleborough Free Press www.wickedlocal.com/northattleborough |
Free Weekly | ||||
Randolph |
Randolph Herald www.wickedlocal.com/randolph |
Free Weekly | ||||
Raynham |
Raynham Call www.wickedlocal.com/raynham |
Free Weekly | ||||
Salem |
Salem Gazette www.wickedlocal.com/salem |
Free Weekly | ||||
Sandwich | Sandwich Broadsider | Free Weekly | ||||
Stoneham |
Stoneham Sun www.wickedlocal.com/stoneham |
Free Weekly | ||||
Wilmington |
Wilmington Advocate www.wickedlocal.com/wilmington |
Free Weekly | ||||
Woburn |
Woburn Advocate www.wickedlocal.com/woburn |
Free Weekly | ||||
Fall River | South Coast Life | Shopper | ||||
Taunton | Yellow Jacket | Shopper | ||||
Avon | www.wickedlocal.com/avon | On-line Only | ||||
Bellingham | www.wickedlocal.com/bellingham | On-line Only | ||||
Berkley | www.wickedlocal.com/berkley | On-line Only | ||||
Boxborough | www.wickedlocal.com/boxborough | On-line Only | ||||
Brewster | www.wickedlocal.com/brewster | On-line Only | ||||
Brockton | www.wickedlocal.com/brockton | On-line Only | ||||
Chatham | www.wickedlocal.com/chatham | On-line Only | ||||
Dennis | www.wickedlocal.com/dennis | On-line Only | ||||
Dighton | www.wickedlocal.com/dighton | On-line Only | ||||
East Bridgewater | www.wickedlocal.com/bridgewatereast | On-line Only | ||||
Eastham | www.wickedlocal.com/eastham | On-line Only | ||||
Essex | www.wickedlocal.com/essex | On-line Only | ||||
Fall River | www.wickedlocal.com/fall-river | On-line Only | ||||
Foxborough | www.wickedlocal.com/foxborough | On-line Only | ||||
Gloucester | www.wickedlocal.com/gloucester | On-line Only | ||||
Hanson | www.wickedlocal.com/hanson | On-line Only | ||||
Hopedale | www.wickedlocal.com/hopedale | On-line Only | ||||
Hull | www.wickedlocal.com/hull | On-line Only |
12
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation Type |
|||
Lakeville | www.wickedlocal.com/lakeville | On-line Only | ||||
Lancaster | www.wickedlocal.com/lancaster | On-line Only | ||||
Manchester | www.wickedlocal.com/manchester | On-line Only | ||||
Mashpee | www.wickedlocal.com/mashpee | On-line Only | ||||
Mattapoisett | www.wickedlocal.com/mattapoisett | On-line Only | ||||
Medway | www.wickedlocal.com/medway | On-line Only | ||||
Mendon | www.wickedlocal.com/mendon | On-line Only | ||||
Middleborough | www.wickedlocal.com/middleborough | On-line Only | ||||
Middleton | www.wickedlocal.com/middleton | On-line Only | ||||
Milford | www.wickedlocal.com/milford | On-line Only | ||||
Millis | www.wickedlocal.com/millis | On-line Only | ||||
Milton | www.wickedlocal.com/milton | On-line Only | ||||
Nantucket | www.wickedlocal.com/nantucket | On-line Only | ||||
Norfolk | www.wickedlocal.com/norfolk | On-line Only | ||||
North Boston | www.wickedlocal.com/northofboston | On-line Only | ||||
Orleans | www.wickedlocal.com/orleans | On-line Only | ||||
Plainville | www.wickedlocal.com/plainville | On-line Only | ||||
Plympton | www.wickedlocal.com/plympton | On-line Only | ||||
Quincy | www.wickedlocal.com/quincy | On-line Only | ||||
Rehoboth | www.wickedlocal.com/rehoboth | On-line Only | ||||
Rochester | www.wickedlocal.com/rochester | On-line Only | ||||
Rockport | www.wickedlocal.com/rockport | On-line Only | ||||
Sandwich | www.wickedlocal.com/sandwich | On-line Only | ||||
Sherborn | www.wickedlocal.com/sherborn | On-line Only | ||||
Somerset | www.wickedlocal.com/somerset | On-line Only | ||||
Southborough | www.wickedlocal.com/southborough | On-line Only | ||||
Stow | www.wickedlocal.com/stow | On-line Only | ||||
Swansea | www.wickedlocal.com/swansea | On-line Only | ||||
Taunton | www.wickedlocal.com/taunton | On-line Only | ||||
Topsfield | www.wickedlocal.com/topsfield | On-line Only | ||||
Truro | www.wickedlocal.com/truro | On-line Only | ||||
Upton | www.wickedlocal.com/upton | On-line Only | ||||
Wellfleet | www.wickedlocal.com/wellfleet | On-line Only | ||||
Wenham | www.wickedlocal.com/wenham | On-line Only | ||||
West Bridgewater | www.wickedlocal.com/bridgewaterwest | On-line Only | ||||
West Port | www.wickedlocal.com/westport | On-line Only | ||||
Whitman | www.wickedlocal.com/whitman | On-line Only | ||||
Wrentham | www.wickedlocal.com/wrentham | On-line Only | ||||
Yarmouth | www.wickedlocal.com/yarmouth | On-line Only | ||||
New York | Canandaigua | Daily Messenger | Daily | |||
www.mpnnow.com | ||||||
www.mpnnow.com/commercialprinting | ||||||
Newark/Palmyra | Wayne Post | Paid Weekly | ||||
www.waynepost.com | ||||||
Brighton/Pittsford | Brighton-Pittsford Post www.brightonpittsfordpost.com | Free Weekly | ||||
Canandaigua | Canandaigua Community Post | Free Weekly | ||||
Fairport | Fairport-ER Post | Free Weekly | ||||
www.fairport-erpost.com | ||||||
Gates/Chili | Gates-Chili Post | Free Weekly | ||||
www.gateschilipost.com | ||||||
Greece | Greece Post | Free Weekly | ||||
www.greecepost.com | ||||||
Henrietta | Henrietta Post | Free Weekly | ||||
www.henriettapost.com |
13
14
State |
City |
Masthead |
Circulation
|
|||
Utica |
Utica Observer-Dispatch www.uticaod.com |
Daily | ||||
Hamilton | Mid-York Weekly | Free Weekly | ||||
Utica | The Pennysaver | Free Weekly | ||||
Herkimer | Your Valley | Shopper | ||||
Rome | Rome Pennysave | Shopper | ||||
Ohio |
Canton |
The Repository www.cantonrep.com |
Daily | |||
Dover/New Philadelphia |
The Times-Reporter www.timesreporter.com |
Daily | ||||
Massillon |
The Independent www.indeonline.com |
Daily | ||||
Green |
The Suburbanite www.thesuburbanite.com |
Free Weekly | ||||
Canton | Stark Values | Shopper | ||||
Dover/New Philadelphia | TMC-ExTRa | Shopper | ||||
Connecticut |
Norwich |
The Bulletin www.norwichbulletin.com |
Daily | |||
Norwich | Bulletin Deals | Shopper |
15