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Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	9 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2013	Jul. 31, 2013	Mar. 25, 2012
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Lee Enterprises, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0000058361
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-29
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2013
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		52,419,241
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 57,507,000

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 11,630	$ 13,920
Accounts receivable, net	63,881	67,925
Income taxes receivable	0	7,887
Inventories	6,277	7,271
Deferred income taxes	789	789
Other	6,219	6,241
Assets of discontinued operations	0	18,305
Total current assets	88,796	122,338
Investments:
Associated companies	40,693	42,201
Other	10,405	10,033
Total investments	51,098	52,234
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements	24,558	24,519
Buildings and improvements	188,091	188,048
Equipment	296,623	298,300
Construction in process	4,541	2,369
Property, plant and equipment, gross	513,813	513,236
Less accumulated depreciation	339,131	328,866
Property and equipment, net	174,682	184,370
Goodwill	243,729	243,729
Other intangible assets, net	418,382	447,017
Postretirement assets, net	8,516	7,551
Other	3,827	3,897
Total assets	989,030	1,061,136
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	11,988	11,982
Accounts payable	18,499	22,434
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	35,647	38,509
Income taxes payable	689	0
Unearned revenue	33,848	34,850
Liabilities of discontinued operations	0	2,536
Total current liabilities	100,671	110,311
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	847,385	914,244
Pension obligations	61,122	68,636
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	7,803	7,160
Deferred income taxes	61,968	60,140
Income taxes payable	6,240	6,062
Other	6,470	8,639
Total liabilities	1,091,659	1,175,192
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Serial convertible preferred stock, no par value; authorized 500 shares; none issued	0	0
Common Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Additional paid-in capital	242,303	241,039
Accumulated deficit	(332,388)	(342,760)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	(13,715)	(13,435)
Total stockholders' deficit	(103,276)	(114,633)
Non-controlling interests	647	577
Total deficit	(102,629)	(114,056)
Total liabilities and deficit	989,030	1,061,136
Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	524	523
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	$ 0	$ 0

Consolidated Balance Sheet Parentheticals (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0	$ 0
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	52,296,000	52,291,000
Common Class B [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 2.00	$ 2.00
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	30,000,000	30,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	0	0

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012
Operating revenue:
Advertising and marketing services	$ 113,636	$ 120,546	$ 349,345	$ 370,263
Subscription	43,583	42,098	133,609	128,909
Other	9,800	9,101	29,323	28,305
Total operating revenue	167,019	171,745	512,277	527,477
Operating expenses:
Compensation	62,340	67,975	192,505	205,738
Newsprint and ink	10,471	12,366	33,357	38,600
Other operating expenses	53,461	51,317	160,929	157,138
Depreciation	5,215	5,811	16,146	17,755
Amortization of intangible assets	9,542	10,438	28,635	31,982
Workforce adjustments	945	2,404	2,260	3,171
Total operating expenses	141,974	150,311	433,832	454,384
Equity in earnings of associated companies	1,893	1,762	6,671	6,003
Operating income	26,938	23,196	85,116	79,096
Non-operating income (expense):
Financial income	134	3	219	113
Financial expense	(21,991)	(24,468)	(68,390)	(57,533)
Debt financing costs	(468)	(42)	(557)	(2,780)
Other, net	520	0	7,466	0
Total non-operating expense, net	(21,805)	(24,507)	(61,262)	(60,200)
Income (loss) before reorganization costs and income taxes	5,133	(1,311)	23,854	18,896
Reorganization costs	0	(250)	0	37,617
Income (loss) before income taxes	5,133	(1,061)	23,854	(18,721)
Income tax expense (benefit)	3,165	(119)	11,805	(6,002)
Income (loss) from continuing operations	1,968	(942)	12,049	(12,719)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	(412)	(1,247)	(553)
Net income (loss)	1,968	(1,354)	10,802	(13,272)
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(173)	(119)	(430)	(272)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	1,795	(1,473)	10,372	(13,544)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(93)	152	(280)	456
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	1,702	(1,321)	10,092	(13,088)
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 1,795	$ (1,061)	$ 11,619	$ (12,991)
Basic:
Continuing operations	$ 0.03	$ (0.02)	$ 0.22	$ (0.27)
Discontinued operations	0.00	(0.01)	(0.02)	(0.01)
Earnings Per Share, Basic	0.03	(0.03)	0.20	(0.28)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.03	(0.02)	0.22	(0.27)
Discontinued operations	0.00	(0.01)	(0.02)	(0.01)
Diluted	$ 0.03	$ (0.03)	$ 0.20	$ (0.28)

Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)	9 Months Ended
Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012
Net income (loss)	$ 10,802,000	$ (13,272,000)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(1,247,000)	(553,000)
Income (loss) from continuing operations	12,049,000	(12,719,000)
Adjustments to reconcile net income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations:
Depreciation and amortization	44,781,000	49,737,000
Amortization (accretion) of debt present value adjustment	3,932,000	2,557,000
Stock compensation expense	1,109,000	802,000
Distributions greater than earnings of MNI	1,342,000	347,000
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	2,022,000	(16,092,000)
Debt financing costs	527,000	2,805,000
Reorganization costs	0	37,617,000
Gain on Sale of Investments	(7,093,000)	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in receivables	4,044,000	1,964,000
Decrease in inventories and other	409,000	644,000
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, compensation and other accrued liabilities and unearned revenue	(6,946,000)	1,444,000
Decrease in pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	(8,310,000)	(5,164,000)
Change in income taxes receivable or payable	9,423,000	9,930,000
Other, net	(1,237,000)	(2,006,000)
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations	56,052,000	71,866,000
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities of continuing operations:
Purchases of property and equipment	(6,835,000)	(4,612,000)
Decrease in restricted cash	0	4,972,000
Proceeds from sales of assets	7,615,000	1,546,000
Distributions greater (less) than current earnings of TNI	166,000	910,000
Other, net	(330,000)	(500,000)
Net Ccsh provided by investing activities of continuing operations	616,000	2,316,000
Cash provided by (required for) financing activities of continuing operations:
Proceeds from long-term debt	94,000,000	1,004,795,000
Payments on long-term debt	(166,350,000)	(1,055,305,000)
Debt financing and reorganization costs paid	(766,000)	(31,334,000)
Common stock transactions net	21,000	0
Net cash required for financing activities of continuing operations	(73,095,000)	(81,844,000)
Net cash provided by (required for) discontinued operations
Operating activities	(552,000)	27,000
Investing activities	14,689,000	3,256,000
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	(2,290,000)	(4,379,000)
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of period	13,920,000	23,555,000
End of period	$ 11,630,000	$ 19,176,000

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
Basis of Presentation	Jun. 30, 2013
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	BASIS OF PRESENTATION The Consolidated Financial Statements included herein are unaudited. In the opinion of management, these financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring items) necessary to present fairly the financial position of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of June 30, 2013 and their results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in the Company's 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Because of seasonal and other factors, the results of operations for the 13 weeks and 39 weeks ended June 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. Certain amounts as previously reported have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation. See Notes 2 and 4. References to “we”, “our”, “us” and the like throughout the Consolidated Financial Statements refer to the Company. References to “2013”, “2012” and the like refer to the fiscal years ended the last Sunday in September. The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”), and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. On December 12, 2011, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries filed voluntary, prepackaged petitions in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (the "Bankruptcy Court") for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (the "U.S. Bankruptcy Code") (collectively, the "Chapter 11 Proceedings"). Our interests in TNI and MNI were not included in the filings. During the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we, and certain of our subsidiaries, continued to operate as "debtors in possession" under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. In general, as debtors-in-possession, we were authorized under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to continue to operate as an ongoing business, but were not to engage in transactions outside the ordinary course of business without the prior approval of the Bankruptcy Court. On January 23, 2012, the Bankruptcy Court approved our Second Amended Joint Prepackaged Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and on January 30, 2012 (the "Effective Date") the Company emerged from the Chapter 11 Proceedings. On the Effective Date, the Plan became effective and the transactions contemplated by the Plan were consummated. Implementation of the Plan resulted primarily in a comprehensive refinancing of our debt. The Chapter 11 Proceedings did not adversely affect employees, vendors, contractors, customers or any aspect of Company operations. Stockholders retained their interest in the Company, subject to modest dilution. See Notes 5 and 12.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for organization, consolidation and basis of presentation of financial statements disclosure.

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+ Details

Discontinued Operations

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Discontinued Operations [Abstract]

Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In March 2013, we sold The Garden Island newspaper and digital operations in Lihue, HI for $2,000,000 in cash, plus an adjustment for working capital. The transaction resulted in a loss of $2,170,000, after income taxes, and was recorded in discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the 13 weeks ended March 31, 2013. Operating results of The Garden Island have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Assets and liabilities of the The Garden Island at February 28, 2013 are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	February 28 2013

Current assets	433
Property and equipment, net	770
Goodwill	500
Other intangible assets, net	4,025
Current liabilities	(271	)
Assets, net	5,457

In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000 in cash, plus an adjustment for working capital. The transaction resulted in a gain of $1,167,000, after income taxes, and was recorded in discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the 13 weeks ended December 30, 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Assets and liabilities of the North County Times at September 30, 2012 are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012

Current assets	2,093
Property and equipment, net	5,158
Goodwill	3,042
Other intangible assets, net	1,920
Current liabilities	(1,714	)
Assets, net	10,499

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:



	13 Weeks Ended		39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Operating revenue	7,563		1,321		23,650
Costs and expenses	(8,197	)	(1,697	)	(24,501	)
Gain on sale of the North County Times	—		1,800		—
Loss on sale of The Garden Island	—		(3,340	)	—

Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(634	)	(1,916	)	(851	)
Income tax benefit	(222	)	(669	)	(298	)
Net loss	(412	)	(1,247	)	(553	)

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the facts and circumstances leading to the completed or expected disposal, manner and timing of disposal, the gain (loss) recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain (loss), amounts of revenues and pretax profit or loss reported in discontinued operations, the segment in which the disposal group was reported, and the classification (whether sold or classified as held for sale) and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group. Includes all disposal groups, including those classified as components of the entity (discontinued operations).

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+ Details

Investments in Associated Companies

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Investments In Associated Companies [Abstract]

Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block]

INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

TNI Partners

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

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

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:



	13 Weeks Ended		40 Weeks Ended	39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	June 24 2012	June 30 2013	June 24 2012

Operating revenue	14,644	14,155	48,110	45,878
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	12,300	11,986	39,051	37,926
Workforce adjustments	—	33	—	(31	)
Operating income	2,344	2,136	9,059	7,983

Company's 50% share of operating income	1,172	1,068	4,530	3,992
Less amortization of intangible assets	155	181	517	542
Equity in earnings of TNI	1,017	887	4,013	3,450

Certain assets utilized by TNI are owned by Star Publishing and Citizen. Star Publishing's 50% share of TNI depreciation and certain general and administrative expenses (income) associated with its share of the operation and administration of TNI are reported as operating expenses (benefit) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). These amounts totaled $(173,000) and $(128,000) in the 13 weeks ended June 30, 2013 and June 24, 2012, respectively, $(449,000) in the 40 weeks ended June 30, 2013 and $(440,000) in the 39 weeks ended June 24, 2012.

Annual amortization of intangible assets is estimated to be $418,000 in each of the 52 week periods ending June 2014, June 2015, June 2016, June 2017 and June 2018.

Madison Newspapers, Inc.

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

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:



	13 Weeks Ended			39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	June 24 2012		June 30 2013	June 24 2012

Operating revenue	16,046	17,215		50,084	52,845
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	12,773	13,993		40,450	43,440
Workforce adjustments	74	(6	)	63	22
Depreciation and amortization	383	424		1,147	1,271
Operating income	2,816	2,804		8,424	8,112

Net income	1,754	1,748		5,249	5,106

Equity in earnings of MNI	876	874		2,658	2,553

- Definition

The entire disclosure for equity method investments and joint ventures. Equity method investments are investments that give the investor the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of an investee. Joint ventures are entities owned and operated by a small group of businesses as a separate and specific business or project for the mutual benefit of the members of the group.

+ References + Details

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows:



	39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013

Goodwill, gross amount	1,536,000
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)
Goodwill, beginning of period, as previously reported	247,271
Goodwill allocated to discontinued operations	(3,542	)
Goodwill, beginning of period, as reclassified	243,729
Goodwill, end of period	243,729

Identified intangible assets consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	September 30 2012

Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,605	28,605
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	855,773	855,773
Less accumulated amortization	466,000	437,366
	389,773	418,407
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,520	28,519
	4	5
	418,382	447,017

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Annual amortization of intangible assets for the 52 week periods ending June 2014, June 2015, June 2016, June 2017 and June 2018 is estimated to be $38,000,000, $37,804,000, $36,674,000, $35,434,000 and $35,048,000, respectively.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss.

+ References + Details

Debt

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Debt [Abstract]

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]


	DEBT

As discussed more fully below (and certain capitalized terms used below defined), in January 2012, in conjunction with the effectiveness of the Plan, we refinanced all of our debt. The Plan refinanced our then-existing credit agreement and extended the April 2012 maturity in a structure of first and second lien debt with the existing lenders ("Lenders"). We also amended the Pulitzer Notes, and extended the April 2012 maturity with the existing Noteholders. In May 2013, we again refinanced the remaining balance of the Pulitzer Notes.

1^st Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a credit agreement (the “1^st Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “1^st Lien Lenders”). The 1^st Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $689,510,000, and a new $40,000,000 revolving credit facility under which we have not drawn. The revolving credit facility also supports issuance of letters of credit.

Interest Payments

Debt under the 1^stLien Agreement bears interest, at our option, at either a base rate or an adjusted Eurodollar rate (“LIBOR”), plus an applicable margin. The base rate for the facility is the greater of (a) the prime lending rate of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas at such time; (b) 0.5% in excess of the overnight federal funds rate at such time; or (c) 30 day LIBOR plus 1.0%. LIBOR loans are subject to a minimum rate of 1.25%. The applicable margin for term loan base rate loans is 5.25%, and 6.25% for LIBOR loans. The applicable margin for revolving credit facility base rate loans is 4.5%, and is 5.5% for LIBOR loans. At June 30, 2013, all borrowing under the 1^st Lien Agreement is based on LIBOR at a total rate of 7.5%.

Principal Payments

At June 30, 2013, the balance outstanding under the term loan is $618,500,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding or reduce commitments under the 1^st Lien Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments.

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

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

2013 payments made under the 1^st Lien Agreement, and required to be made for the remainder of the year, are summarized as follows:



	13 Weeks Ended			13 Weeks Ending
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 30 2012	March 31 2013	June 30 2013	September 29 2013

Mandatory	2,500	2,500	3,000	3,000
Voluntary	9,750	15,350	2,260	—
Asset sales	7,750	—	240	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	20,000	17,850	5,500	3,000

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



	13 Weeks Ended		14 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	March 25 2012	June 24 2012	September 30 2012

Mandatory	—	2,500	2,500
Voluntary	12,600	3,850	3,000
Asset sales	2,410	150	650
Excess cash flow	—	—	—
	15,010	6,500	6,150

There were no net principal payments made in 2012 under the previous credit agreement.

Security

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

The Credit Parties have also granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted mortgages covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 1^st Lien Agreement. Assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, TNI and our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI are excluded.

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

Covenants and Other Matters

The 1^st Lien Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for financing of its type. These financial covenants include a maximum total leverage ratio, as defined. The total leverage ratio is designed to assess the leverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall leverage position due to the lower leverage of Pulitzer. It is based primarily on the sum of the principal amount of debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement, plus debt under the 2^nd Lien Agreement, as discussed more fully below, which totals $793,500,000 at June 30, 2013, plus letters of credit and certain other factors, divided by a measure of trailing 12 month operating results, which includes distributions from MNI and other elements, but excludes the operating results of Pulitzer.

Our actual total leverage ratio at June 30, 2013 under the 1^st Lien Agreement was 6.26:1 Our maximum total leverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 10.0:1 at June 30, 2013 to 9.1:1 in December 2015. On a consolidated basis, using the definitions in the 1^st Lien Agreement, our leverage ratio is 5.25:1 at June 30, 2013. This consolidated measure is not the subject of a covenant in any of our debt agreements.

The 1^st Lien Agreement also includes a minimum interest expense coverage ratio, as defined, which is based on the sum of interest expense, as defined, incurred under the 1^st Lien Agreement and 2^nd Lien Agreement, divided by the same measure of trailing 12 month operating results discussed above. The interest expense coverage ratio is similarly designed to assess the interest coverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall interest coverage position. Our actual interest expense coverage ratio at June 30, 2013 was 1.66:1. Our minimum interest expense coverage ratio covenant is 1.08:1 at June 30, 2013.

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

2^nd Lien Agreement

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

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

Principal Payments and Redemption

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

From January 30, 2013 until January 30, 2014, the 2^nd Lien Agreement may be redeemed at 102% of the principal amount, at 101% thereafter until January 30, 2015 and at 100% thereafter until the April 2017 final maturity. Terms of the 1st Lien Agreement also restrict principal payments under the 2nd Lien Agreement.

Security

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

The 2^ndLien Credit Parties have also granted a second priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted second lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 2^nd Lien Agreement. Assets of TNI and our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the 2^nd Lien Lenders upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes and any successor debt.

The 2^nd Lien Lenders were granted a second priority security interest in our ownership interest in TNI under the New Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

Covenants and Other Matters

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

2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock valued at $9,576,000 based on the closing stock price of $1.42 on the date of issuance, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders also received $8,750,000 in the form of non-cash fees, which were added to and included in the principal amount of the second lien term loan.

Pulitzer Notes

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

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

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

The Pulitzer Notes carried an interest rate at 10.55%, which increased 0.75% to 11.3% in January 2013 and was to increase in January of each year thereafter. Due to the increasing interest rate, interest on the Pulitzer Notes was charged to expense using a calculated effective interest rate during the period.

In May 2013, we refinanced the $94,000,000 remaining balance of the Pulitzer Notes (the “New Pulitzer Notes”) with a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (“Berkshire”). The New Pulitzer Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 9.0%, payable quarterly. Pulitzer is a co-borrower under the the New Pulitzer Notes, which eliminates the former Guaranty Agreement made by Pulitzer under the Pulitzer Notes.

Principal Payments

At June 30, 2013, the balance of the New Pulitzer Notes is $80,000,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding under the New Pulitzer Notes at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty (except as noted below), upon proper notice, and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. The New Pulitzer Notes provide for mandatory scheduled prepayments totaling $6,400,000 annually, beginning in 2014.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the New Pulitzer Notes under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The New Pulitzer Notes also require us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other New Pulitzer Notes payments prior to the final maturity in April 2017.

The New Pulitzer Notes are subject to a 5% redemption premium if 100% of the remaining balance of the New Pulitzer Notes is again refinanced by lenders, the majority of which are not holders of the New Pulitzer Notes at the time of such refinancing. This redemption premium is not otherwise applicable to any of the types of payments noted above.

2013 payments made under the New Pulitzer Notes and Pulitzer Notes are summarized below. No payments are required to be made for the remainder of the year under the New Pulitzer Notes.



	13 Weeks Ended			13 Weeks Ending
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 30 2012	March 31 2013	June 30 2013	September 29 2013

Mandatory	3,800	2,600	—	—
Voluntary	—	1,500	14,000	—
Asset sales	5,200	1,900	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	9,000	6,000	14,000	—

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



		13 Weeks Ended		14 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 25 2011	March 25 2012	June 24 2012	September 30 2012

Prior to 2012 refinancing	500	—	—	—
Pursuant to the Plan, net	10,145	1,500	—	—
Mandatory	—	1,400	—	—
Voluntary	—	8,955	3,000	4,000
Asset sales	—	—	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	10,645	11,855	3,000	4,000

Security

Obligations under the New Pulitzer Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by Pulitzer's existing and future subsidiaries other than PD LLC and TNI. The New Pulitzer Notes are also secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by Pulitzer's subsidiaries including the 50% ownership interest in TNI. Also, Pulitzer, certain of its subsidiaries and PD LLC granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of its tangible and intangible assets, excluding the assets of Star Publishing leased to, or used in the operations or business of, TNI and granted deeds of trust covering certain real estate in the St. Louis area, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the New Pulitzer Notes.

Covenants and Other Matters

The New Pulitzer Notes contain certain covenants and conditions including the maintenance, by Pulitzer, of minimum trailing 12 month EBITDA (minimum of $25,200,000 beginning June 30, 2013), as defined in the New Pulitzer Notes Agreement, and limitations on capital expenditures and the incurrence of other debt.

Further, the New Pulitzer Notes have limitations or restrictions on distributions, loans, advances, investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers. Such covenants require that substantially all future cash flows of Pulitzer are required to be directed first toward repayment of the New Pulitzer Notes, interest due under the 2nd Lien Agreement, or accumulation of cash collateral and that cash flows of Pulitzer are largely segregated from those of the Credit Parties.

Intercreditor Agreements

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

Other

Cash payments to the Lenders, Noteholders and legal and professional fees related to the Plan totaled $38,628,000, of which $6,273,000 was paid in 2011, and the remainder of which was paid in 2012. $720,000 of such costs were charged to expense in 2011. In addition, previously capitalized financing costs of $4,514,000 at September 25, 2011 were charged to expense in 2012 as debt financing costs prior to consummation of the Plan, with the remainder classified as reorganization costs in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) upon consummation of the Plan.

Debt under the Plan was considered compromised. As a result, the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes were recorded at their respective present values, which resulted in a discount to the stated principal amount totaling $23,709,000. We used the effective rates of the respective debt agreements to discount the debt to its present value. In determining the effective rates, we considered all cash outflows of the respective debt agreements including: mandatory principal payments, interest payments, fees paid to lenders in connection with the refinancing as well as, in the case of the 2^nd Lien Agreement, Common Stock issued. The present value is being amortized as a non-cash component of financial expense over the terms of the related debt.

The refinancing of the Pulitzer Notes with the New Pulitzer Notes resulted in the acceleration of $1,565,000 of the present value adjustment discussed above, which was partially offset by eliminating deferred interest expense of $1,189,000, and the net amount of which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended June 30, 2013. Expenses related to the issuance of the New Pulitzer Notes are capitalized as debt issuance costs and will be amortized until April 2017.

Amortization of the present value adjustment and other costs totaled $4,085,000 in 2012. Amortization of such costs is estimated to total $6,681,000 in 2013, $4,779,000 in 2014, $4,742,000 in 2015, $2,297,000 in 2016 and $1,125,000 in 2017.

As a result of the Plan, we recognized $37,765,000 of reorganization costs in the 2012 Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The components of reorganization costs are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)

Fees paid in cash to lenders, attorneys and others	38,628
Unamortized loan fees from previous debt agreements	1,740
Fair value of stock granted to 2^nd Lien Lenders	9,576
Noncash fees paid in the form of additional debt	12,250
Present value adjustment	(23,709	)
	38,485

Charged to expense in 2012	37,765
Charged to expense in 2011 as other non-operating expense	720

Debt is summarized as follows:



					Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013		September 30 2012		June 30 2013

Revolving credit facility	—		—		6.75
1^st Lien Agreement	618,500		661,850		7.50
2^ndLien Agreement	175,000		175,000		15.00
New Pulitzer Notes	80,000		—		9.00
Pulitzer Notes	—		109,000		—
Unamortized present value adjustment	(14,127	)	(19,624	)
	859,373		926,226
Less current maturities of long-term debt	16,775		17,400
Current amount of present value adjustment	(4,787	)	(5,418	)
Total long-term debt	847,385		914,244

At June 30, 2013, our weighted average cost of debt was 9.1%.

Aggregate maturities of debt total $3,000,000 for the remainder of 2013, $19,150,000 in 2014, $19,900,000 in 2015, $595,650,000 in 2016 and $235,800,000 in 2017.

Liquidity

At June 30, 2013, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $29,942,000 available for future use under our revolving credit facility. Including cash, our liquidity at June 30, 2013 totals $41,572,000. This liquidity amount excludes any future cash flows. We expect all interest and principal payments due in the next twelve months will be satisfied by our continuing cash flows, which will allow us to maintain an adequate level of liquidity.

At June 30, 2013, the principal amount of our outstanding debt totals $873,500,000, approximately $20 million less than the amount projected for September 2014 under the Plan. Lower cash balances and asset sales have contributed to the improvement in debt repayment compared to the Plan.

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

Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at June 30, 2013.

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

- Definition

The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants.

+ References + Details

Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployement Obligations

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Pension Postretirement And Postemployment Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]

PENSION, POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT DEFINED BENEFIT PLANS

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

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

We use a fiscal year end measurement date for all of our pension and postretirement medical plan obligations.

The net periodic cost (benefit) components of our pension and postretirement medical plans are as follows:



PENSION PLANS	13 Weeks Ended				39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013		June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the period	54		7		162		21
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	1,882		1,994		5,646		5,982
Expected return on plan assets	(2,459	)	(2,223	)	(7,377	)	(6,669	)
Amortization of net loss	572		593		1,716		1,779
Amortization of prior service benefit	(34	)	(34	)	(102	)	(102	)
	15		337		45		1,011

POSTRETIREMENT MEDICAL PLANS	13 Weeks Ended				39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013		June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the period	182		182		546		546
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	281		277		843		831
Expected return on plan assets	(368	)	(532	)	(1,104	)	(1,596	)
Amortization of net gain	(331	)	(613	)	(993	)	(1,839	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(365	)	(365	)	(1,095	)	(1,095	)
	(601	)	(1,051	)	(1,803	)	(3,153	)

Based on our forecast at June 30, 2013, we do not expect to contribute to our pension plans for the remainder of 2013. Based on our forecast at June 30, 2013, we do not expect to make significant contributions to our postretirement plans for the remainder of 2013.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for pension and other postretirement benefits.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/topic&trid=2235017

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Implementation Guide (Q and A)
-Number FAS88
-Paragraph 63
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph b
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 106
-Paragraph 518
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph a
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 03-2
-Paragraph 8
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Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 87
-Paragraph 264
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-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph q
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-Number 132R
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-Subparagraph h
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-Number 132R
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-Number 132R
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 158
-Paragraph 7, 21, 22
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

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-Number FAS106-2
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-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
-Number 30
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Income Taxes

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes includes deferred taxes and is based upon estimated annual effective tax rates in the tax jurisdictions in which we operate. Such annualization of effective tax rates can cause distortion in quarterly tax rates.

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



	13 Weeks Ended				39 Weeks Ended
(Percent of Income Before Income Taxes)	June 30 2013		June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	35.0		(35.0	)	35.0		(35.0	)
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax effect	3.5		(3.3	)	3.4		(3.3	)
Dividends received deductions and credits	(8.4	)	5.9		(5.9	)	(3.0	)
Domestic production deduction	3.4		—		3.4		—
Reorganization costs	—		4.0		—		4.9
Valuation allowance	(1.8	)	—		4.2		(0.5	)
Resolution of tax matters	5.0		22.8		2.6		4.2
Deferred income tax rate adjustments	22.1		(3.0	)	4.8		(1.6	)
Other	2.9		(2.6	)	2.0		2.2
	61.7		(11.2	)	49.5		(32.1	)

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

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
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-Section 50
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 136, 172
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph h
-Article 4

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Earnings per Common Share

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Earnings Loss Per Common Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Text Block]

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

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



	13 Weeks Ended			39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	June 30 2013	June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	1,795	(1,061	)	11,619		(12,991	)
Discontinued operations	—	(412	)	(1,247	)	(553	)
	1,795	(1,473	)	10,372		(13,544	)

Weighted average common shares	52,325	51,731		52,305		48,733
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	500	—		500		—
Basic average common shares	51,825	51,731		51,805		48,733
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	213	—		107		—
Diluted average common shares	52,038	51,731		51,912		48,733

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.03	(0.02	)	0.22		(0.27	)
Discontinued operations	—	(0.01	)	(0.02	)	(0.01	)
	0.03	(0.03	)	0.20		(0.28	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.03	(0.02	)	0.22		(0.27	)
Discontinued operations	—	(0.01	)	(0.02	)	(0.01	)
	0.03	(0.03	)	0.20		(0.28	)

For the 13 weeks ended June 30, 2013 and June 24, 2012, the anti-dilutive weighted average shares not considered in the computation of diluted earnings (loss) per common share are 1,705,000 and 2,695,000, respectively. For the 39 weeks ended June 30, 2013 and June 24, 2012, the anti-dilutive weighted average shares not considered in the computation of diluted earnings per common share are 2,971,000 and 2,085,000, respectively.

Stock Ownership Plans

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Stock Ownership Plans [Abstract]

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]

STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS

A summary of stock option activity during the 39 weeks ended June 30, 2013 follows:



(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value

Outstanding, September 30, 2012	3,102		3.18
Granted	51		1.20
Exercised	(18	)	1.13
Cancelled	(281	)	5.67
Outstanding, June 30, 2013	2,854		2.91	7.6	1,211

Exercisable, June 30, 2013	1,487		4.18	6.8	328

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested stock options as of June 30, 2013 is $1,091,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.

Restricted Common Stock

The table summarizes restricted Common Stock activity during the 39 weeks ended June 30, 2013.



(Thousands of Shares, Except Per Share Data)	Shares	Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

Outstanding, September 30, 2012	500	1.31
Outstanding, June 30, 2013	500	1.31

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested restricted Common Stock at June 30, 2013 is $454,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.1 years.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 50
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6406099&loc=d3e25284-112666

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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)
-Number Topic 14

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 123R
-Paragraph 64, 65, A240
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 93-6
-Paragraph 53
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Fair Value Measurements

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification ("FASB ASC") Topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy of fair value measurements based on whether the inputs to those measurements are observable or unobservable which consists of the following levels:

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

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

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

The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate value. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. Investments totaling $8,774,000, including our 17% ownership of the nonvoting common stock of TCT, are carried at cost. The fair value of floating rate debt cannot be determined as an active market for such debt does not exist. Our fixed rate debt at June 30, 2013 consists of the $175,000,000 principal amount under the 2^nd Lien Agreement and $80,000,000 principal amount of New Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully in Note 5, which are not traded on an active market and are held by a small group of investors and Berkshire, respectively. We are unable, as of June 30, 2013, to determine the fair value of such debt. The value, if determined, may be more or less than the carrying amount. The determination of the amount of the Herald Value (as discussed more fully in Note 11) is based on an estimate of fair value using both market and income-based approaches.

The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets:



(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	September 30 2012

Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

In December 2012, we recognized a gain of $7,093,000 from a distribution related to the partial sale of assets in a private equity investment.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7578670&loc=d3e19207-110258

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 15B
-Subparagraph a, b
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 133
-Paragraph 44A, 44B
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 159
-Paragraph 17-22, 27, 28
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 15A
-Subparagraph a-d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
-Paragraph 32, 33, 34
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies	Jun. 30, 2013
Commitments And Contingent Liabilities [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES Redemption of PD LLC Minority Interest In February 2009, in conjunction with the Notes Amendment, PD LLC redeemed the 5% interest in PD LLC and STL Distribution Services LLC ("DS LLC") owned by The Herald Publishing Company, LLC ("Herald") pursuant to a Redemption Agreement and adopted conforming amendments to the Operating Agreement. As a result, the value of Herald's former interest (the “Herald Value”) will be settled, based on a calculation of 10% of the fair market value of PD LLC and DS LLC at the time of settlement, less the balance, as adjusted, of the Pulitzer Notes or the equivalent successor debt, if any. We recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2009 as an estimate of the amount of the Herald Value to be disbursed. In 2011, we reduced the liability related to the Herald Value to $300,000 based on the current estimate of fair value. In April 2013, we received notice of Herald's intent to redeem the Herald Value. The actual amount of the Herald Value will be based on a valuation of PD LLC and DS LLC as of March 31, 2013. Cash settlement of the Herald Value is limited by the terms of the 1st Lien Agreement. The redemption of Herald's interest in PD LLC and DS LLC may generate significant tax benefits to us as a consequence of the resulting increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by PD LLC and DS LLC and the related depreciation and amortization deductions. The increase in basis to be amortized for income tax purposes over a 15 year period beginning in February 2009 is approximately $258,000,000. Income Taxes We file income tax returns with the IRS and various state tax jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to routine audits by those agencies and those audits may result in proposed adjustments. We have considered the alternative interpretations that may be assumed by the various taxing agencies, believe our positions taken regarding our filings are valid, and that adequate tax liabilities have been recorded to resolve such matters. However, the actual outcome cannot be determined with certainty and the difference could be material, either positively or negatively, to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the periods in which such matters are ultimately determined. We do not believe the final resolution of such matters will be material to our consolidated financial position or cash flows. We have various income tax examinations ongoing which are at different stages of completion, but generally our income tax returns have been audited or closed to audit through 2009. Legal Proceedings In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs seek relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and request punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In July 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, we filed a motion to reverse the class action ruling, which was granted in part and denied in part. A motion to reconsider certification of the remaining class claims is currently pending before the trial court. The Company denies the allegations of employee status, consistent with our past practices and industry standards, and will continue to vigorously contest the action, which is not covered by insurance. At this time we are unable to predict whether the ultimate economic outcome, if any, could have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole. We are involved in a variety of other legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these other matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these other legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 20
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.25)
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-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6394976&loc=d3e25287-109308

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 14
-Paragraph 3
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 5
-Paragraph 9, 10, 11, 12
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Common Stock and Class B Common Stock	9 Months Ended
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock	Jun. 30, 2013
Common Stock And Class B Common Stock [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Text Block]	COMMON STOCK Under the Plan, the par value of our Common Stock was changed from $2.00 per share to $0.01 per share effective January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over-the-counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock was allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, after completing our debt refinancing, the NYSE notified us that we were again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. In January 2013, the NYSE notified us that we had returned to full compliance with all continued listing standards.

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of an entity's stock, including par or stated value per share, number and dollar amount of share subscriptions, shares authorized, shares issued, shares outstanding, number and dollar amount of shares held in an employee trust, dividend per share, total dividends, share conversion features, par value plus additional paid in capital, the value of treasury stock and other information necessary to a fair presentation, and EPS information. Stock by class includes common, convertible, and preferred stocks which are not redeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Includes preferred stock with redemption features that are solely within the control of the issuer and mandatorily redeemable stock if redemption is required to occur only upon liquidation or termination of the reporting entity. If more than one issue is outstanding, state the title of each issue and the corresponding dollar amount; dollar amount of any shares subscribed but unissued and the deduction of subscriptions receivable there from; number of shares authorized, issued, and outstanding.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6959260&loc=d3e187085-122770

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 480
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=14643745&loc=d3e177068-122764

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21506-112644

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Paragraph 10
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21553-112644

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21475-112644

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(d),(e))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6403732&loc=d3e21300-112643

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.28,29)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21521-112644

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
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-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21484-112644

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21538-112644

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21488-112644

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 30
-Article 5

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 150
-Paragraph 9
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 29
-Article 5

+ Details

Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	9 Months Ended
Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Jun. 30, 2013
Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]	IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS In 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an amendment to an existing accounting standard, which provides entities an option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether further impairment testing on indefinite-lived intangible assets is necessary. Specifically, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test. If an entity believes, as a result of its qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative impairment test is required. Otherwise, no further testing is required. This guidance is effective for annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012, and early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this amendment in 2013 did not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of changes in accounting principles, including adoption of new accounting pronouncements, that describes the new methods, amount and effects on financial statement line items.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6801783&loc=d3e22580-107794

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Direct Effects of a Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6510796

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 13
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Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Indirect Effects of a Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6515603

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6801783&loc=d3e22583-107794

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.10-01.(b)(6))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6958853&loc=d3e46468-122699

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6801783&loc=d3e22499-107794

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Accounting Change
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6503790

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 12
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6372559&loc=d3e725-108305

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507316

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Retrospective Application
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6523989

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 154
-Paragraph 2, 17, 18
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 01
-Paragraph b
-Subparagraph 6
-Article 10

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
-Number 28
-Paragraph 23, 24
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Discontinued Operations (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

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

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:



	13 Weeks Ended		39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Operating revenue	7,563		1,321		23,650
Costs and expenses	(8,197	)	(1,697	)	(24,501	)
Gain on sale of the North County Times	—		1,800		—
Loss on sale of The Garden Island	—		(3,340	)	—

Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(634	)	(1,916	)	(851	)
Income tax benefit	(222	)	(669	)	(298	)
Net loss	(412	)	(1,247	)	(553	)

The Garden Island [Member]

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

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

Assets and liabilities of the The Garden Island at February 28, 2013 are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	February 28 2013

Current assets	433
Property and equipment, net	770
Goodwill	500
Other intangible assets, net	4,025
Current liabilities	(271	)
Assets, net	5,457

North County Times [Member]

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

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

Assets and liabilities of the North County Times at September 30, 2012 are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012

Current assets	2,093
Property and equipment, net	5,158
Goodwill	3,042
Other intangible assets, net	1,920
Current liabilities	(1,714	)
Assets, net	10,499

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of disposal groups, which may include the gain (loss) recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain (loss), amounts of revenues and pretax profit or loss reported in discontinued operations, the classification and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group, and the segment in which the disposal group was reported. Also may include the amount of adjustments to amounts previously reported in discontinued operations such as resolution of contingencies arising from the disposal transaction or the operations of the component prior to disposal.

+ References + Details

Investments in Associated Companies (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:



	13 Weeks Ended		40 Weeks Ended	39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	June 24 2012	June 30 2013	June 24 2012

Operating revenue	14,644	14,155	48,110	45,878
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	12,300	11,986	39,051	37,926
Workforce adjustments	—	33	—	(31	)
Operating income	2,344	2,136	9,059	7,983

Company's 50% share of operating income	1,172	1,068	4,530	3,992
Less amortization of intangible assets	155	181	517	542
Equity in earnings of TNI	1,017	887	4,013	3,450

Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:



	13 Weeks Ended			39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	June 24 2012		June 30 2013	June 24 2012

Operating revenue	16,046	17,215		50,084	52,845
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	12,773	13,993		40,450	43,440
Workforce adjustments	74	(6	)	63	22
Depreciation and amortization	383	424		1,147	1,271
Operating income	2,816	2,804		8,424	8,112

Net income	1,754	1,748		5,249	5,106

Equity in earnings of MNI	876	874		2,658	2,553

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Goodwill [Line Items]

Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows:



	39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013

Goodwill, gross amount	1,536,000
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)
Goodwill, beginning of period, as previously reported	247,271
Goodwill allocated to discontinued operations	(3,542	)
Goodwill, beginning of period, as reclassified	243,729
Goodwill, end of period	243,729

Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

Identified intangible assets consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	September 30 2012

Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,605	28,605
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	855,773	855,773
Less accumulated amortization	466,000	437,366
	389,773	418,407
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,520	28,519
	4	5
	418,382	447,017

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of goodwill by reportable segment and in total which includes a rollforward schedule.

+ References + Details

Debt (Tables)

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

1st Lien Agreement [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

2013 payments made under the 1^st Lien Agreement, and required to be made for the remainder of the year, are summarized as follows:



	13 Weeks Ended			13 Weeks Ending
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 30 2012	March 31 2013	June 30 2013	September 29 2013

Mandatory	2,500	2,500	3,000	3,000
Voluntary	9,750	15,350	2,260	—
Asset sales	7,750	—	240	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	20,000	17,850	5,500	3,000

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



	13 Weeks Ended		14 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	March 25 2012	June 24 2012	September 30 2012

Mandatory	—	2,500	2,500
Voluntary	12,600	3,850	3,000
Asset sales	2,410	150	650
Excess cash flow	—	—	—
	15,010	6,500	6,150

Pulitzer Notes [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

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



		13 Weeks Ended		14 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 25 2011	March 25 2012	June 24 2012	September 30 2012

Prior to 2012 refinancing	500	—	—	—
Pursuant to the Plan, net	10,145	1,500	—	—
Mandatory	—	1,400	—	—
Voluntary	—	8,955	3,000	4,000
Asset sales	—	—	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	10,645	11,855	3,000	4,000

013 payments made under the New Pulitzer Notes and Pulitzer Notes are summarized below. No payments are required to be made for the remainder of the year under the New Pulitzer Notes.



	13 Weeks Ended			13 Weeks Ending
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 30 2012	March 31 2013	June 30 2013	September 29 2013

Mandatory	3,800	2,600	—	—
Voluntary	—	1,500	14,000	—
Asset sales	5,200	1,900	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	9,000	6,000	14,000	—

Debt Schedule Of Debt Outstanding (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

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

Debt is summarized as follows:



					Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013		September 30 2012		June 30 2013

Revolving credit facility	—		—		6.75
1^st Lien Agreement	618,500		661,850		7.50
2^ndLien Agreement	175,000		175,000		15.00
New Pulitzer Notes	80,000		—		9.00
Pulitzer Notes	—		109,000		—
Unamortized present value adjustment	(14,127	)	(19,624	)
	859,373		926,226
Less current maturities of long-term debt	16,775		17,400
Current amount of present value adjustment	(4,787	)	(5,418	)
Total long-term debt	847,385		914,244

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of long-debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. These are debt arrangements that originally required repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 470
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6479336&loc=d3e64711-112823

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
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-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21475-112644

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(e),(f))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-SubTopic 30
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
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-Paragraph 1A
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28541-108399

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21506-112644

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
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-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28551-108399

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
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-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21521-112644

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 22
-Article 5

+ Details

Debt Reorganization Cost (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Reorganization Costs [Table Text Block]

The components of reorganization costs are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)

Fees paid in cash to lenders, attorneys and others	38,628
Unamortized loan fees from previous debt agreements	1,740
Fair value of stock granted to 2^nd Lien Lenders	9,576
Noncash fees paid in the form of additional debt	12,250
Present value adjustment	(23,709	)
	38,485

Charged to expense in 2012	37,765
Charged to expense in 2011 as other non-operating expense	720

Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployement Obligations (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Pension Postretirement And Postemployment Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

The net periodic cost (benefit) components of our pension and postretirement medical plans are as follows:



PENSION PLANS	13 Weeks Ended				39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013		June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the period	54		7		162		21
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	1,882		1,994		5,646		5,982
Expected return on plan assets	(2,459	)	(2,223	)	(7,377	)	(6,669	)
Amortization of net loss	572		593		1,716		1,779
Amortization of prior service benefit	(34	)	(34	)	(102	)	(102	)
	15		337		45		1,011

POSTRETIREMENT MEDICAL PLANS	13 Weeks Ended				39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013		June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the period	182		182		546		546
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	281		277		843		831
Expected return on plan assets	(368	)	(532	)	(1,104	)	(1,596	)
Amortization of net gain	(331	)	(613	)	(993	)	(1,839	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(365	)	(365	)	(1,095	)	(1,095	)
	(601	)	(1,051	)	(1,803	)	(3,153	)

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of one or more of the entity's defined benefit pension plans or one or more other defined benefit postretirement plans, separately for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans including the entity's schedule of fair value of plan assets for defined benefit or other postretirement plans.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e2439-114920

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e2417-114920

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e2410-114920

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 55
-Paragraph 17
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21916443&loc=d3e4179-114921

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 158
-Paragraph 4, 7, 16, 20, 21
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5, 6, 7
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Income Taxes (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

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



	13 Weeks Ended				39 Weeks Ended
(Percent of Income Before Income Taxes)	June 30 2013		June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	35.0		(35.0	)	35.0		(35.0	)
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax effect	3.5		(3.3	)	3.4		(3.3	)
Dividends received deductions and credits	(8.4	)	5.9		(5.9	)	(3.0	)
Domestic production deduction	3.4		—		3.4		—
Reorganization costs	—		4.0		—		4.9
Valuation allowance	(1.8	)	—		4.2		(0.5	)
Resolution of tax matters	5.0		22.8		2.6		4.2
Deferred income tax rate adjustments	22.1		(3.0	)	4.8		(1.6	)
Other	2.9		(2.6	)	2.0		2.2
	61.7		(11.2	)	49.5		(32.1	)

Earnings per Common Share (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

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

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



	13 Weeks Ended			39 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	June 30 2013	June 24 2012		June 30 2013		June 24 2012

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	1,795	(1,061	)	11,619		(12,991	)
Discontinued operations	—	(412	)	(1,247	)	(553	)
	1,795	(1,473	)	10,372		(13,544	)

Weighted average common shares	52,325	51,731		52,305		48,733
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	500	—		500		—
Basic average common shares	51,825	51,731		51,805		48,733
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	213	—		107		—
Diluted average common shares	52,038	51,731		51,912		48,733

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.03	(0.02	)	0.22		(0.27	)
Discontinued operations	—	(0.01	)	(0.02	)	(0.01	)
	0.03	(0.03	)	0.20		(0.28	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.03	(0.02	)	0.22		(0.27	)
Discontinued operations	—	(0.01	)	(0.02	)	(0.01	)
	0.03	(0.03	)	0.20		(0.28	)

Stock Ownership Plans (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Restricted Stock [Member]

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

Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]

The table summarizes restricted Common Stock activity during the 39 weeks ended June 30, 2013.



(Thousands of Shares, Except Per Share Data)	Shares	Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

Outstanding, September 30, 2012	500	1.31
Outstanding, June 30, 2013	500	1.31

Stock Options [Member]

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

Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]

A summary of stock option activity during the 39 weeks ended June 30, 2013 follows:



(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value

Outstanding, September 30, 2012	3,102		3.18
Granted	51		1.20
Exercised	(18	)	1.13
Cancelled	(281	)	5.67
Outstanding, June 30, 2013	2,854		2.91	7.6	1,211

Exercisable, June 30, 2013	1,487		4.18	6.8	328

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of components of a stock option or other award plan under which equity-based compensation is awarded to employees, typically comprised of the amount of unearned compensation (deferred compensation cost), compensation expense, and changes in the quantity and fair value of the shares (or other type of equity) granted, exercised, forfeited, and issued and outstanding pertaining to that plan. Disclosure may also include nature and general terms of such arrangements that existed during the period and potential effects of those arrangements on shareholders, effect of compensation cost arising from equity-based payment arrangements on the income statement, method of estimating the fair value of the goods or services received, or the fair value of the equity instruments granted, during the period, cash flow effects resulting from equity-based payment arrangements and, for registrants that accelerate vesting of out of the money share options, reasons for the decision to accelerate.

+ References + Details

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

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

The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets:



(Thousands of Dollars)	June 30 2013	September 30 2012

Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

- Definition

Tabular disclosure related to assets and liabilities by class, including financial instruments measured at fair value that are classified in shareholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring and/or nonrecurring basis in periods after initial recognition. Disclosures include, but are not limited to: (a) the fair value measurements recorded and the reasons for the measurements and (b) the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements are categorized in their entirety (levels 1, 2, 3) as well as transfers between levels 1 and 2.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7578670&loc=d3e19279-110258

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (a,b,bb)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7578670&loc=d3e19207-110258

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2C
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7578670&loc=SL7498348-110258

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7578670&loc=d3e19190-110258

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
-Paragraph 32
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
-Paragraph 33
-Subparagraph a, b
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
-Paragraph 6
-Footnote 4
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Basis of Presentation Schedule of Less than 100% Subsidiaries (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
INN Partners [Member]
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	82.50%

Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Feb. 28, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue			$ 7,563,000	$ 1,321,000	$ 23,650,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Expense			(8,197,000)	(1,697,000)	(24,501,000)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax			(634,000)	(1,916,000)	(851,000)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation			(222,000)	(669,000)	(298,000)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest			(412,000)	(1,247,000)	(553,000)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill								$ (3,542,000)
North County Times [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Contract Price Of Disposal Group							$ 11,950,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax		$ 1,167,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax			0	1,800,000	0
Disposal Group, Inicluding Discontinued Operation, Current Assets								2,093,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net								5,158,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill								3,042,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Net								1,920,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Current Liabilities								(1,714,000)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Net Assets								$ 10,499,000
The Garden Island [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Contract Price Of Disposal Group							$ 2,000,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	$ 2,170,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax			$ 0	$ (3,340,000)	$ 0
Disposal Group, Inicluding Discontinued Operation, Current Assets						$ 433,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net						770,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill						500,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Net						4,025,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Current Liabilities						(271,000)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Net Assets						$ 5,457,000

Investments in Associated Companies Summarized Financial Information (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity in earnings of associated companies	$ 1,893,000	$ 1,762,000	$ 6,671,000	$ 6,003,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Share of TNI Operating Expenses	(173,000,000)	(128,000,000)	(449,000,000)	(440,000,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	14,644,000	14,155,000	48,110,000	45,878,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments	12,300,000	11,986,000	39,051,000	37,926,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	0	33,000	0	(31,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	2,344,000	2,136,000	9,059,000	7,983,000
Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Before Amortization	1,172,000	1,068,000	4,530,000	3,992,000
Amortization Of Intangible Assets- TNI	155,000	181,000	517,000	542,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	1,017,000	887,000	4,013,000	3,450,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	418,000		418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	418,000		418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	418,000		418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	418,000		418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	418,000		418,000
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	16,046,000	17,215,000	50,084,000	52,845,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments	12,773,000	13,993,000	40,450,000	43,440,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	74,000	(6,000)	63,000	22,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Depreciation And Amortization	383,000	424,000	1,147,000	1,271,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	2,816,000	2,804,000	8,424,000	8,112,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	1,754,000	1,748,000	5,249,000	5,106,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	$ 876,000	$ 874,000	$ 2,658,000	$ 2,553,000

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill (Details)	Sep. 30, 2012 USD ($)
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross	$ 1,536,000,000
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	(1,288,729,000)
Goodwill, Previously Reported	247,271,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill	$ (3,542,000)

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Mastheads	$ 28,605,000	$ 28,605,000
Other intangible assets, net	418,382,000	447,017,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	38,000,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	37,804,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	36,674,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	35,434,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	35,048,000
Customer Lists [Member]
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	855,773,000	855,773,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	466,000,000	437,366,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	389,773,000	418,407,000
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	28,524,000	28,524,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	28,520,000	28,519,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 4,000	$ 5,000

Debt Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	2 Months Ended	3 Months Ended								4 Months Ended	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jan. 30, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Jan. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Sep. 29, 2013	May 01, 2013	Jan. 01, 2013	May 01, 2000
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Present Value Discount	$ 23,709,000										$ 23,709,000
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate				9.10%								9.10%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount				$ 859,373,000			$ 926,226					$ 859,373,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year				3,000,000								3,000,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two				19,150,000								19,150,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three				19,900,000								19,900,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four				595,650,000								595,650,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five				235,800,000								235,800,000
Unamortized Loan Commitment and Origination Fees and Unamortized Discounts or Premiums				(14,127,000)			(19,624)					(14,127,000)
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	12,250,000										12,250,000
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities				16,775,000			17,400					16,775,000
Unamortized Present Value Discount- Current Portion				(4,787,000)			(5,418)					(4,787,000)
Long-term Debt				847,385,000			914,244					847,385,000
Liquidity				41,572,000								41,572,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt												166,350,000	$ 1,055,305,000
Debt, Principal Amount				873,500,000								873,500,000
Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount				$ 0			0					$ 0
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				6.75%								6.75%
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	689,510,000										689,510,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End				7.50%								7.50%
Description of Collateral, Subsidiary Ownership Percentage												50.00%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount				$ 618,500,000			661,850					$ 618,500,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two				11,000,000								11,000,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three				12,750,000								12,750,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four				13,500,000								13,500,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five				$ 3,375,000								$ 3,375,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				7.50%								7.50%
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 3,000,000	$ 5,500,000	$ 17,850,000	$ 20,000,000	6,150,000	$ 6,500,000	$ 15,010,000
Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	40,000,000										40,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity				29,942,000								$ 29,942,000
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 175,000,000										$ 175,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued in Refinancing	6,743,640										6,743,640
Fair Value Of Stock Issued In Refinancing	$ 9,576,000										$ 9,576,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount				$ 175,000,000			175,000					$ 175,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	15.00%			15.00%							15.00%	15.00%
Debt Instrument, Payment Terms												0
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis	13.00%										13.00%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	$ 8,750,000										$ 8,750,000
Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount		$ 186,000,000															$ 306,000,000
Long Term Debt, Principal Payments	5,000,000	$ 120,000,000						10,145,000			15,145,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	$ 126,355,000			$ 0			109,000				$ 126,355,000	$ 0
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	10.55%			0.00%							10.55%	0.00%				11.30%
Long Term Debt, Annual Interest Rate Increase	0.75%										0.75%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	$ 3,500,000										$ 3,500,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt					6,000,000	9,000,000	4,000,000	3,000,000	11,855,000	$ 10,645,000
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount															$ 94,000,000
Present Value Discount				$ (1,565,000)								$ (1,565,000)
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount				$ 80,000,000			0					$ 80,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	9.00%			9.00%							9.00%	9.00%
Repayments of Long-term Debt			0	$ 14,000,000
Accrued Deferred Interest				$ (1,189,000)								$ (1,189,000)
Federal Funds Rate [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate				0.50%								0.50%
Interest Rate Margin				5.25%								5.25%
Federal Funds Rate [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate				0.50%								0.50%
Interest Rate Margin				4.50%								4.50%
Prime Lending Rate [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate				0.00%								0.00%
Interest Rate Margin				5.25%								5.25%
Prime Lending Rate [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate Margin				6.25%								6.25%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate				1.00%								1.00%
Base Interest Rate- Minimum 30 Day LIBOR				1.25%								1.25%
Interest Rate Margin				6.25%								6.25%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate				1.00%								1.00%
Interest Rate Margin				5.50%								5.50%
January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] \| 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage				101.00%								101.00%
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			3,000,000	$ 3,000,000	2,500,000	2,500,000	2,500,000	2,500,000	0
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt					$ 2,600,000	$ 3,800,000	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1,400,000	$ 0
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 0	$ 0										$ 6,400,000

Debt Schedule of Payments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Sep. 29, 2013
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt									$ 166,350	$ 1,055,305
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	$ 3,000	$ 5,500	$ 17,850	$ 20,000	$ 6,150	$ 6,500	$ 15,010
Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			6,000	9,000	4,000	3,000	11,855	$ 10,645
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	14,000
Previous Pulitzer Notes [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt					0	0	0	500
Debt Payments Under Reorganization Plan [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt					0	0	1,500	10,145
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	3,000	3,000	2,500	2,500	2,500	2,500	0
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			2,600	3,800	0	0	1,400	0
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	0									$ 6,400
Voluntary Payment [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	2,260	15,350	9,750	3,000	3,850	12,600
Voluntary Payment [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			1,500	0	4,000	3,000	8,955	0
Voluntary Payment [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	14,000
Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	240	0	7,750	650	150	2,410
Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			1,900	5,200	0	0	0	0
Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	0
Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0		0	0	0	0	0
Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] \| Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	$ 0	$ 0
January 30, 2013 to January 29, 2014 [Member] \| 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage		102.00%							102.00%
January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] \| 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage		101.00%							101.00%
January 30, 2015 to April 2017 [Member] \| 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage		100.00%							100.00%

Debt Schedule of Debt Covenants (Details)	Dec. 27, 2015	Jun. 30, 2013 USD ($)
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Debt Covenants, Maximum Capital Expenditures		$ 20,000,000
Lee Legacy [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Debt Covenants, Total Debt		$ 793,500,000
1st Lien Agreement [Member] \| Lee Legacy [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Leverage Ratio		6.3
Covenant Limitation, Leverage Ratio	9.1	10.0
Consolidated Leverage Ratio		5.25
Interest Coverage Ratio		1.66
Covenant Limitation, Interest Coverage Ratio		1.08
Pulitzer Notes [Member] \| Pulitzer [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Minimum EBITDA Covenant Limitation		$ 25,200,000
January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] \| 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage		101.00%

Debt Schedule Of Financing Fees (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		15 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
Debt Schedule Of Financing Fees (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jan. 30, 2012
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Payments of Financing Costs			$ 6,273,000	$ 766,000	$ 31,334,000			$ 38,628,000	$ 38,628,000
Amortization of Debt Issue Costs- Refinance								1,740,000
Chapter 11 Expenses							$ 720,000
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense		$ 4,514,000			4,514,000
Present Value Discount										$ (23,709,000)
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Current Fiscal Year	$ 4,085,000			4,085,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Next Fiscal Year	6,681,000			6,681,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 3	4,779,000			4,779,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 4	4,742,000			4,742,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 5	2,297,000			2,297,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 6	1,125,000			1,125,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount										$ 12,250,000
Reorganization costs	$ 0	$ (250,000)	$ 720,000	$ 0	$ 37,617,000	$ 37,765,000		$ 38,485,000
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Refinancing Cost, Common Stock Value, Per Share										$ 1.42
Fair Value Of Stock Issued In Refinancing										$ 9,576,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount										$ 8,750,000

Debt S-3 Filing (Details)	9 Months Ended
Debt S-3 Filing (Details)	Jun. 30, 2013 USD ($)
S-3 Filing [Line Items]
Registration Statement- Maximum Amount	$ 750,000,000
Registration Statement- Minimum Public Float	$ 75,000,000

Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployement Obligations (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	$ 54,000	$ 7,000	$ 162,000	$ 21,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,882,000	1,994,000	5,646,000	5,982,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	(2,459,000)	(2,223,000)	(7,377,000)	(6,669,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	572,000	593,000	1,716,000	1,779,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	(34,000)	(34,000)	(102,000)	(102,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	15,000	337,000	45,000	1,011,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year	0		0
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	182	182	546,000	546
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	281	277	843,000	831
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	(368)	(532)	(1,104,000)	(1,596)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	(331)	(613)	(993,000)	(1,839)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	(365)	(365)	(1,095,000)	(1,095)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	$ (601)	$ (1,051)	$ (1,803,000)	$ (3,153)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate	35.00%	(35.00%)	35.00%	(35.00%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes	3.50%	(3.30%)	3.40%	(3.30%)
Income Tax Reconciliation, Deductions, Dividends	$ 0.084	$ (0.059)	$ 0.059	$ 0.030
Income Tax Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities	$ 0.034	$ 0.000	$ 0.034	$ 0.000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Chapter 11 Proceedings	0.00%	4.00%	0.00%	4.90%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance	(1.80%)	0.00%	4.20%	(0.50%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements, Domestic	5.00%	22.80%	2.60%	4.20%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Other	22.10%	(3.00%)	4.80%	(1.60%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments	2.90%	(2.60%)	2.00%	2.20%
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	61.70%	(11.20%)	49.50%	(32.10%)

Earnings per Common Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 1,795	$ (1,061)	$ 11,619	$ (12,991)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	(412)	(1,247)	(553)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 1,795	$ (1,473)	$ 10,372	$ (13,544)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract]
Weighted Average Common Shares	52,325,000	51,731,000	52,305,000	48,733,000
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	500,000	0	500,000	0
Basic average common shares	51,825,000	51,731,000	51,805,000	48,733,000
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment	213,000	0	107,000	0
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	52,038,000	51,731,000	51,912,000	48,733,000
Continuing operations	$ 0.03	$ (0.02)	$ 0.22	$ (0.27)
Discontinued operations	0.00	(0.01)	(0.02)	(0.01)
Earnings Per Share, Basic	0.03	(0.03)	0.20	(0.28)
Continuing operations	0.03	(0.02)	0.22	(0.27)
Discontinued operations	0.00	(0.01)	(0.02)	(0.01)
Diluted	$ 0.03	$ (0.03)	$ 0.20	$ (0.28)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	1,705,000	2,695,000	2,971,000	2,085,000

Stock Ownership Plans (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013 USD ($) $ / shares shares	Jun. 30, 2013 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number \| shares		500
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number \| shares	500	500
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares		$ 1,310
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares	$ 1,310	$ 1,310
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options \| $	$ 454,000	$ 454,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	2 years 1 month 6 days
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross \| shares		51
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares		$ 1.20
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period \| shares		(18)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares	$ 1.13	$ 1.13
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period \| shares		(281)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number \| shares	2,854	2,854
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number \| shares	1,487	1,487
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares		$ 5.67
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares	$ 2.91	2.91
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price \| $ / shares	$ 4.18	$ 4.18
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term		7 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term		6 years 9 months 18 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value \| $	$ 1,211,000	$ 1,211,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value \| $	328,000	328,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options \| $	$ 1,091,000	$ 1,091,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition		1 year 6 months 2 days

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Gain on Sale of Investments	$ 7,093,000	$ 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 300,000	$ 300,000	$ 2,300,000

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements Not Practicable (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Jan. 30, 2012
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments	$ 8,774,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	859,373,000	$ 926,226
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	674,500,000
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	175,000,000
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	80,000,000	0
Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	$ 0	$ 109,000	$ 126,355,000

- Definition

This item represents a financial instrument (as defined) for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value. Such disclosure may be for an individual financial instrument or a class of financial instruments.

+ References + Details

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2009	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 24, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Pulitzer Step Up Tax Benefit- Amortization Period	15 years
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed	5.00%
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input	10.00%
Hearld Value- Increase in Amortizable Tax Basis				$ 258,000,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure		$ 300,000	$ 300,000	$ 2,300,000

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

Common Stock and Class B Common Stock NYSE Requirements (Details)	Jun. 30, 2013 USD ($) $ / shares
NYSE Listing Requirements [Line Items]
Price Per Share- NYSE Listing Requirement \| $ / shares	$ 1
Minimum Market Capitalization- NYSE Listing \| $	$ 50,000,000

Label	Element	Value
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice	$ 3.18
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber	3,102,000