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Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Lee Enterprises, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0000058361
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2012
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	51,791,241
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float		$ 57,507,000

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 13,920	$ 23,555
Accounts receivable, net	68,190	69,307
Income taxes receivable	7,887	1,335
Inventories	7,454	7,060
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current	789	967
Deferred income taxes		967
Other	6,261	16,102
Assets of discontinued operations	9,171	17,415
Total current assets	113,672	135,741
Investments:
Associated companies	42,201	44,057
Restricted cash and investments	0	4,972
Other	10,033	9,199
Total investments	52,234	58,228
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements	24,535	24,547
Buildings and improvements	188,743	187,039
Equipment	299,905	301,281
Construction in process	2,567	2,852
Property, plant and equipment, gross	515,750	515,719
Less accumulated depreciation	330,531	313,678
Property and equipment, net	185,219	202,041
Goodwill	247,271	247,271
Other intangible assets, net	451,292	493,589
Postretirement assets, net	7,551	14,934
Other	3,897	6,444
Total assets	1,061,136	1,158,248
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	11,982	994,550
Accounts payable	22,978	26,796
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	38,559	33,991
Unearned revenue	35,078	35,365
Liabilities of discontinued operations	1,714	3,537
Total current liabilities	110,311	1,094,239
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	914,244	0
Pension obligations	68,636	73,518
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	7,160	6,104
Deferred income taxes	60,140	66,204
Income taxes payable	6,062	8,588
Other	8,639	10,489
Total liabilities	1,175,192	1,259,142
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	241,039	140,887
Accumulated deficit	(342,760)	(326,062)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	(13,435)	(6,086)
Total stockholders' deficit	(114,056)	(100,894)
Non-controlling interests	577	452
Total deficit	(114,633)	(101,346)
Total liabilities and deficit	1,061,136	1,158,248
Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	523	89,915
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	$ 0	$ 0

Consolidated Balance Sheet Parentheticals (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 4,890	$ 5,387
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0	$ 0
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 2.00
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	51,791,000	44,958,000
Common Class B [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 2.00	$ 2.00
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	30,000,000	30,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	0	0

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Operating revenue:
Advertising	$ 495,872,000	$ 517,348,000	$ 537,223,000
Circulation	174,747,000	172,245,000	171,155,000
Other	39,867,000	37,726,000	40,066,000
Total operating revenue	710,486,000	727,319,000	748,444,000
Operating expenses:
Compensation	276,379,000	283,527,000	298,873,000
Newsprint and ink	52,003,000	56,191,000	51,707,000
Other operating expenses	214,570,000	220,656,000	227,603,000
Depreciation	23,620,000	25,833,000	26,716,000
Amortization of intangible assets	42,297,000	44,473,000	45,208,000
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388,000	204,439,000	899,000
Workforce adjustments	4,640,000	3,922,000	1,199,000
Total operating expenses	614,897,000	839,041,000	652,205,000
Curtailment gains	0	16,137,000	45,012,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	7,231,000	6,151,000	7,746,000
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Operating income (loss)	102,820,000	(101,334,000)	148,997,000
Non-operating income (expense):
Financial income	236,000	296,000	411,000
Financial expense	(83,078,000)	(52,696,000)	(63,117,000)
Debt financing costs	(2,823,000)	(12,612,000)	(8,514,000)
Other, net	(2,533,000)	595,000	(1,172,000)
Total non-operating expense, net	(88,198,000)	(64,417,000)	(72,392,000)
Income (loss) before reorganization costs and income taxes	14,622,000	(165,751,000)	76,605,000
Reorganization costs	37,765,000	0	0
Loss before income taxes	(23,143,000)	(165,751,000)	76,605,000
Income tax benefit	(9,371,000)	(20,316,000)	29,308,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(13,772,000)	(145,435,000)	47,297,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Net loss	(16,299,000)	(146,681,000)	46,178,000
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(399,000)	(187,000)	(73,000)
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(16,698,000)	(146,868,000)	46,105,000
Other comprehensive income, net	(7,348,000)	(12,737,000)	(14,704,000)
Comprehensive loss	(24,046,000)	(159,605,000)	31,401,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent	$ (14,171,000)	$ (145,622,000)	$ 47,224,000
Loss per common share:
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.06
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	(0.05)	(0.03)	(0.03)
Basic	(0.34)	(3.27)	1.03
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	(0.29)	(3.25)	1.05
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	(0.05)	(0.03)	(0.02)
Diluted	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03

Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ (13,772,000)	$ (145,435,000)	$ 47,297,000
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities:
Net loss	(16,299,000)	(146,681,000)	46,178,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	65,917,000	70,306,000	71,924,000
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388,000	204,439,000	899,000
Curtailment gains	0	(16,137,000)	(45,012,000)
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Amortization (accretion) of debt present value adjustment	3,919,000	(547,000)	(621,000)
Stock compensation expense	1,080,000	1,287,000	1,974,000
Distributions greater than current earnings of MNI	700,000	347,000	334,000
Deferred income tax benefit	(779,000)	(25,910,000)	18,943,000
Debt financing costs	2,857,000	12,612,000	8,480,000
Reorganization costs	37,765,000	0	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in receivables	1,117,000	5,984,000	7,798,000
Decrease in inventories and other	1,981,000	4,583,000	3,190,000
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and unearned revenue	423,000	(6,752,000)	(6,553,000)
Decrease in pension, postretirement and post employment benefits	(8,898,000)	(5,690,000)	(3,261,000)
Change in income taxes receivable or payable	(9,078,000)	(5,748,000)	162,000
Other, net	(4,100,000)	(3,697,000)	(1,454,000)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations	80,520,000	101,542,000	104,100,000
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(8,040,000)	(7,479,000)	(8,835,000)
Decrease in restricted cash	4,972,000	4,651,000	(862,000)
Proceeds from sales of assets	1,353,000	1,811,000	2,324,000
Distributions greater than current earnings of TNI	1,156,000	1,818,000	(383,000)
Other, net	(422,000)	104,000	118,000
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations	(981,000)	905,000	(7,638,000)
Cash provided by (required for) financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	1,004,795,000	50,000,000	83,800,000
Payments on long-term debt	(1,065,455,000)	(137,330,000)	(170,545,000)
Debt financing and reorganization costs paid	(32,408,000)	(11,601,000)	(453,000)
Common stock transactions net	0	(205,000)	(166,000)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	(9,635,000)	4,133,000	11,517,000
Cash and cash equivalents:
End of period	13,920,000	23,555,000	19,422,000
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations	(93,068,000)	(99,136,000)	(87,364,000)
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations	178,000	1,062,000	3,034,000
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations	$ 3,716,000	$ (240,000)	$ (615,000)

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

Discontinued Operations

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Discontinues Operations [Abstract]

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

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

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

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

Operating revenue	27,852		28,785		32,203

Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(4,076	)	(2,011	)	(1,805	)
Income tax benefit	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
Net loss	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)

- 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).

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6360339&loc=d3e1361-107760

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6360339&loc=d3e1436-107760

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6360339&loc=d3e1510-107760

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6360339&loc=d3e1474-107760

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 45
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6892542&loc=d3e1020-107759

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 45
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6892542&loc=d3e957-107759

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 45
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6892542&loc=d3e1012-107759

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 360
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=8077374&loc=d3e2443-110228

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 360
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6391110&loc=d3e2941-110230

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 144
-Paragraph 43-48
-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

Investments in Associated Companies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]

INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

TNI Partners

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

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

Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

ASSETS

Current assets	8,029	7,857
Investments and other assets	13	32
Total assets	8,042	7,889

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities	5,601	6,136
Members' equity	2,441	1,753
Total liabilities and members' equity	8,042	7,889

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011	2010

Operating revenue	59,043		62,452	64,379
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	49,568		52,882	52,923
Workforce adjustments	(31	)	1,190	784
Operating income	9,506		8,380	10,672

Company's 50% share	4,753		4,190	5,336
Less amortization of intangible assets	723		1,092	1,156
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,030		3,098	4,180

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

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

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

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

Madison Newspapers, Inc.

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

Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

ASSETS

Current assets	24,613	22,287
Investments and other assets	29,986	30,484
Property and equipment, net	7,707	8,519
Total assets	62,306	61,290

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities	10,015	8,428
Other liabilities	6,720	5,960
Stockholders' equity	45,571	46,902
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	62,306	61,290

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Operating revenue	70,158	73,011	75,137
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	57,981	60,982	61,467
Workforce adjustments	546	530	296
Depreciation and amortization	1,689	2,227	2,372
Operating income	9,942	9,272	11,002

Net income	6,469	6,106	7,132

Equity in earnings of MNI	3,201	3,053	3,566

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

- 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

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,875	28,875
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	864,184	864,184
Less accumulated amortization	441,772	399,477
	422,412	464,707
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,519	28,517
	5	7
	451,292	493,589

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899
	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—
	1,388	216,339	899

Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391

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

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

- 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

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Debt [Abstract]

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]

DEBT

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

1^st Lien Agreement

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

Interest Payments

Debt under the 1^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 September 30, 2012, all borrowing under the 1^st Lien Agreement is based on LIBOR at a total rate of 7.5%.

Principal Payments

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

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)			2012

Mandatory			5,000
Voluntary			19,450
Asset sales			3,210
Excess cash flow			—
			27,660

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

Security

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

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

The revolving credit facility has a super-priority security interest over all of the collateral securing the term loan under the 1^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 $836,850,000 at September 30, 2012, plus letters of credit and certain other factors, divided by a measure of trailing 12 month operating results, which includes distributions from MNI and other elements, but excludes the operating results of Pulitzer.

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

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

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

2^nd Lien Agreement

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

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

Principal Payments and Redemption

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

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

Security

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

The 2^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, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded.

Covenants and Other Matters

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

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

Pulitzer Notes

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

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

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

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

Principal Payments

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)			2012

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

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

Security

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

Covenants and Other Matters

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

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

Intercreditor Agreements

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

Other

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

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

Debt is summarized as follows:



	Amount			Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011	September 30 2012

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

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

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

Liquidity

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

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

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

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

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

- 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

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

Current:
Federal	(8,244	)	4,604		8,673
State	(2,210	)	(55	)	833
Deferred	(466	)	(25,630	)	19,116
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

Continuing operations	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	29,308
Discontinued operations	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

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



(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes)	2012		2011		2010

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

Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

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

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

Current assets	789		967
Non-current liabilities	(60,140	)	(66,204	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012

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

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

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

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

- 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

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32559-109319

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 15
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32718-109319

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32639-109319

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32537-109319

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

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Earnings Loss Per Common Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Text Block]

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

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



(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224
Discontinued operations	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105

Weighted average Common Shares	49,357		44,912		44,902
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(96	)	(65	)	(347	)
Basic average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,555
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	—		—		400
Diluted average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,955

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

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

Stock Ownership Plans

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stock Ownership Plans [Abstract]

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

STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS

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

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

Stock Options

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

A summary of stock option activity is as follows:



(Thousands of Shares)	2012		2011		2010

Under option, beginning of year	1,812		940		1,009
Granted	1,520		1,105		—
Exercised	—		(15	)	—
Canceled	(230	)	(218	)	(69	)
Under option, end of year	3,102		1,812		940

Exercisable, end of year	1,298		552		423

Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows:



(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Granted	1.16	2.57	—
Under option, end of year	3.18	5.07	8.77

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



	2012	2011

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

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



(Dollars)	Options Outstanding			Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	Weighted Average Exercise Price	Number Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price

1 - 5	2,971,125	8.5	1.79	1,166,890	2.31
5 - 50	131,321	2.9	34.59	131,321	34.59
	3,102,446	8.2	3.18	1,298,211	5.58

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

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

Restricted Common Stock

A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows:



(Thousands of Shares)	2012	2011		2010

Outstanding, beginning of year	—	299		453
Granted	500	—		—
Vested	—	(297	)	(143	)
Forfeited	—	(2	)	(11	)
Outstanding, end of year	500	—		299

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



(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Outstanding, beginning of year	—	15.02	19.35
Granted	1.31	—	—
Vested	—	15.02	28.73
Forfeited	—	15.02	15.02
Outstanding, end of year	1.31	—	15.02

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

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

Stock Purchase Plans

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

- 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
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-SubTopic 50
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6406099&loc=d3e25284-112666

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-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
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-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 93-6
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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

Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Level 1	—	—
Level 2	—	—
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

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

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

- 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
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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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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 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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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	12 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies	Sep. 30, 2012
Commitments And Contingent Liabilities [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES Operating Leases We have operating lease commitments for certain of our office, production and distribution facilities. Management expects that in the normal course of business, existing leases will be renewed or replaced. Minimum lease payments during the five years ending September 2017 and thereafter are $3,534,000, $1,897,000, $1,647,000, $1,557,000, $1,246,000 and $4,302,000, respectively. Total operating lease expense is $4,135,000, $4,527,000 and $4,549,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Capital Expenditures At September 30, 2012, we had construction and equipment purchase commitments totaling approximately $900,000. Redemption of PD LLC Minority Interest In 2000, Pulitzer and The Herald Company Inc. (“Herald Inc.”) completed the transfer of their respective interests in the assets and operations of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and certain related businesses to a new joint venture, known as PD LLC. Pulitzer is the managing member of PD LLC. Under the terms of the related PD LLC Operating Agreement (the "Operating Agreement"), Pulitzer and another subsidiary held a 95% interest in the results of operations of PD LLC and The Herald Publishing Company, LLC (“Herald”), as successor to Herald Inc., held a 5% interest. Until February 2009, Herald's 5% interest was reported as minority interest in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) at historical cost, plus accumulated earnings since the acquisition of Pulitzer. The Operating Agreement provided Herald a one-time right to require PD LLC to redeem its interest in PD LLC, together with its interest, if any, in STL Distribution Services LLC ("DS LLC") (the “2010 Redemption”). We recorded the present value of the remaining amount of this potential liability in our Consolidated Balance Sheet in 2008, with the offset primarily to goodwill in the amount of $55,594,000, and the remainder recorded as a reduction of retained earnings. The present value of the 2010 Redemption in February 2009 was approximately $73,602,000. In February 2009, in conjunction with the Notes Amendment, PD LLC redeemed the 5% interest in PD LLC and DS LLC owned by Herald pursuant to a Redemption Agreement and adopted conforming amendments to the Operating Agreement. As a result, the value of Herald's former interest (the “Herald Value”) will be settled, at a date determined by Herald between April 2013 and April 2015, based on a calculation of 10% of the fair market value of PD LLC and DS LLC at the time of settlement, less the balance, as adjusted, of the Pulitzer Notes or the equivalent successor debt, if any. We recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2009 as an estimate of the amount of the Herald Value to be disbursed. In 2011, we reduced the liability related to the Herald Value to $300,000 based on the current estimate of fair value. The actual amount of the Herald Value will depend on such variables as future cash flows and indebtedness of PD LLC and DS LLC, market valuations of newspaper properties and the timing of the request for redemption. Cash settlement of the Herald Value is limited by the terms of our debt agreements. The Redemption Agreement also terminated Herald's right to exercise its rights under the 2010 Redemption. As a result, we reversed substantially all of our liability for the 2010 Redemption in 2009. The reversal reduced liabilities by $71,302,000 and increased comprehensive income by $58,521,000 and stockholders' equity by $68,824,000. The redemption of Herald's interest in PD LLC and DS LLC may generate significant tax benefits to us as a consequence of the resulting increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by PD LLC and DS LLC and the related depreciation and amortization deductions. The increase in basis to be amortized for income tax purposes over a 15 year period beginning in February 2009 is approximately $258,000,000. Pursuant to an Indemnity Agreement dated May 1, 2000 (the “Indemnity Agreement”) between Herald Inc. and Pulitzer, Herald agreed to indemnify Pulitzer for any payments that Pulitzer may make under the Guaranty Agreement. The Indemnity Agreement and related obligations of Herald to indemnify Pulitzer were also terminated pursuant to the Redemption Agreement. Income Taxes Commitments exclude unrecognized tax benefits to be recorded in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. We are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate amount or timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities for such matters. See Note 11. We file income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and various state tax jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to routine audits by those agencies, and those audits may result in proposed adjustments. We have considered the alternative interpretations that may be assumed by the various taxing agencies, believe our positions taken regarding our filings are valid, and that adequate tax liabilities have been recorded to resolve such matters. However, the actual outcome cannot be determined with certainty and the difference could be material, either positively or negatively, to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the periods in which such matters are ultimately determined. We do not believe the final resolution of such matters will be material to our consolidated financial position or cash flows. We have various income tax examinations ongoing and at various stages of completion, but generally our income tax returns have been audited or closed to audit through 2007. Legal Proceedings In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs seek relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and request punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In July 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, we filed a motion to reverse the class certification ruling. This motion is currently pending before the trial court. The Company denies the allegations of employee status, consistent with our past practices and industry standards, and will continue to vigorously contest the action, which is not covered by insurance. At this time we are unable to predict whether the ultimate economic outcome, if any, could have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole. We are involved in a variety of other legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these other matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these other legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 14
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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 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	12 Months Ended
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock	Sep. 30, 2012
Common Stock And Class B Common Stock [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Text Block]	COMMON STOCK, CLASS B COMMON STOCK AND PREFERRED SHARE PURCHASE RIGHTS Common Stock Under the Plan, the par value of our Common Stock was changed from $2.00 per share to $0.01 per share effective January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the NYSE listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over the counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock is allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified the Company that it was again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. At September 30, 2012, our average market capitalization also exceeds the $50,000,000 minimum required by the NYSE. However, the NYSE has not yet notified us that the Company has returned to compliance with the market capitalization standard. Continued listing is subject to ongoing reassessment by the NYSE. We are currently operating under an NYSE-approved plan and expect any issues to be successfully addressed within the time frames required under the NYSE rules. Class B Common Stock In 1986, one share of Class B Common Stock was issued as a dividend for each share of Common Stock held by stockholders of record at the time. The transfer of Class B Common Stock was restricted. As originally anticipated, the number of outstanding Class B shares has decreased over time through trading and reached the sunset level of 5,600,000 shares in March 2011. In March 2011, in accordance with the sunset provisions established in 1986, we effected conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock to Common Stock. As a result, all stockholders have one vote per share on all future matters. Class B shares formerly had ten votes per share. Preferred Share Purchase Rights In 1998, the Board of Directors adopted a Shareholder Rights Plan (the “Rights Plan”). Under the Rights Plan, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of one Preferred Share Purchase Right (“Right”) for each outstanding share of Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (collectively “Common Shares”) of the Company. Rights are attached to, and automatically trade with, the Company's Common Shares. In 2008, the Board of Directors approved an amendment to the Rights Plan. The amendment increased the beneficial ownership threshold to 25% from 20% for stockholders purchasing Common Stock for passive investment only and decreased the threshold to 15% for all other investors. In addition, the amendment extended the expiration of the Rights Plan to May 31, 2018 from May 31, 2008. Rights become exercisable only in the event that any person or group of affiliated persons other than a passive investor becomes a holder of 15% or more of our outstanding Common Shares, or commences a tender or exchange offer which, if consummated, would result in that person or group of affiliated persons owning at least 15% of our outstanding Common Shares. Once the Rights become exercisable, they entitle all other stockholders to purchase, by payment of a $150 exercise price, one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Participating Preferred Stock, subject to adjustment, with a value of twice the exercise price. In addition, at any time after a 15% position is acquired and prior to the acquisition of a 50% position, the Board of Directors may require, in whole or in part, each outstanding Right (other than Rights held by the acquiring person or group of affiliated persons) to be exchanged for one share of Common Stock or one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Preferred Stock. The Rights may be redeemed at a price of $0.001 per Right at any time prior to their expiration.

- 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

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
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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

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Section 50
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-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
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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 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 29
-Article 5

+ Details

Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

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

Fiscal Year

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

Subsequent Events

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

Accounting Estimates

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

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

Principles of Consolidation

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

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

Cash and Cash Equivalents

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

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

Accounts Receivable

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

Inventories

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

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

Other Investments

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

Property and Equipment

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



	Years

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

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

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

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

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



	Years

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Minority Interest

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

Revenue Recognition

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

Advertising Costs

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

Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

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

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

Income Taxes

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

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

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stock Compensation

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

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

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

Uninsured Risks

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

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

Discontinued Operations

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

Pensions

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Pension Disclosure [Abstract]

Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]

PENSION PLANS

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

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

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

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

Pension obligations	66,319		71,230
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(51,871	)	(51,459	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	926		1,063
	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

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

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

Assumptions

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



(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5

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



(Percent)	2012	2011	2010

Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.9	8.0	8.0
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5	3.5

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

Plan Assets

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

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

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



(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Equity securities	50-75	63	66
Debt securities	25-35	29	33
Private equity investments	0-12	—	—
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	1
Receivables, net	—	6	—

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

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

Fair Value Measurements

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	2,029	—	—
Receivables, net	8,117	—	—
Domestic equity securities	27,499	47,714	—
International equity securities	—	9,613	—
Debt securities	32,169	7,759	—

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

Cash Flows

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)

2013	11,421
2014	11,263
2015	11,277
2016	11,356
2017	11,430
2018-2022	57,603

Other Plans

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

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

Postretirement Obligations

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]

POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

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

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Noncurrent assets	7,551	14,934
Postretirement benefit obligations	4,016	2,877
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	30,344	42,379

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,570	27,145
Unrecognized prior service benefit	13,774	15,234
	30,344	42,379

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

Assumptions

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



(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	5.75

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

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



(Percent)	2012	2011	2010

Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	5.75	5.75	5.75

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:



(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

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

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

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



	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease

Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	53	(48	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	1,452	(1,306	)

Plan Assets

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

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

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



(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Equity securities	10-30	21	8
Debt securities	70-90	75	85
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	7
Receivables, net	—	2	—

Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines.

Fair Value Measurements

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	692	—	—
Receivables, net	803	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,385	2,069	—
International equity securities	—	671	—
Debt securities	—	25,643	—

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

Cash Flows

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	Gross Payments	Less Medicare Part D Subsidy		Net Payments

2013	3,280	(220	)	3,060
2014	3,080	(230	)	2,850
2015	2,980	(230	)	2,750
2016	2,960	(230	)	2,730
2017	2,900	(230	)	2,670
2018-2022	13,280	(1,100	)	12,180

2011 Changes to Plans

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

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

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

2010 Changes to Plans

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

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

Litigation

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

Postemployment Plan

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

- 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.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 03-2
-Paragraph 8
-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 87
-Paragraph 264
-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 q
-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 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph h
-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 132R
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph m
-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 132R
-Paragraph 5, 6, 7, 8
-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 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.

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Staff Position (FSP)
-Number FAS106-2
-Paragraph 20, 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.

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
-Number 30
-Paragraph 26
-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

Other Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
Other Retirement Plans	Sep. 30, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Retirement Plans [Text Block]	OTHER RETIREMENT PLANS Substantially all of our employees are eligible to participate in a qualified defined contribution retirement plan. We also have other retirement and compensation plans for executives and others. Company contributions under such plans were substantially reduced or eliminated in 2010. In 2011 certain of those contributions were reinstated. Retirement and compensation plan costs, including interest on deferred compensation costs, charged to continuing operations are $3,533,000 in 2012, $2,666,000 in 2011 and $1,894,000 in 2010.

Allowance For Doubtful Accounts

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Receivables [Abstract]

Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

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

- Definition

The entire disclosure for claims held for amounts due a entity, excluding financing receivables. Examples include, but are not limited to, trade accounts receivables, notes receivables, loans receivables. Includes disclosure for allowance for credit losses.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7512638&loc=d3e5066-111524

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.3,4)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 11
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7512638&loc=d3e5162-111524

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.(k))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7512638&loc=d3e5074-111524

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-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.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 3, 4
-Article 5

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Article 9

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph k
-Article 4

+ Details

Other Information

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Other Information [Text Block]

OTHER INFORMATION

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Compensation	12,556	10,207
Retirement plans	4,215	4,442
Interest	10,507	4,352
Other	11,281	14,990
	38,559	33,991

Cash payments are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

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

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

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)



	Quarter Ended
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data)	December	March		June		September

2012

Operating revenue	192,042	165,461		172,640		180,343

Net income (loss) from continuing operations	14,406	(26,373	)	(1,045	)	(761	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	218	(169	)	(309	)	(2,266	)
Net income (loss)	14,624	(26,542	)	(1,354	)	(3,027	)

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,554	(26,625	)	(1,473	)	(3,154	)

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.54	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)

2011

Operating revenue	199,485	171,562		180,457		175,815

Net income (loss) from continuing operations	18,747	(1,106	)	(155,067	)	(8,009	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	230	(343	)	(409	)	(724	)
Net income (loss)	18,977	(1,449	)	(155,476	)	(8,733	)

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	18,941	(1,472	)	(155,553	)	(8,784	)

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

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

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure may include a tabular presentation of financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income or loss before extraordinary items and earnings per share data. It also includes an indication if the information in the note is unaudited, comments on the aggregate effect of year-end adjustments, and an explanation of matters or transactions that affect comparability or are pertinent to an understanding of the information furnished.

+ References + Details

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

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

Basis of Presentation

Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Fiscal Year

Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Subsequent Events

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Accounting Estimates

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

Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Principles of Consolidation

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Cash and Cash Equivalents

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

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

Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Accounts Receivable

Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Inventories

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

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

Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Other Investments

Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Property and Equipment



	Years

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

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

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets



	Years

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

Minority Interest Policy [Policy Text Block]

Minority Interest

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

Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Revenue Recognition

Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Advertising Costs

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Income Taxes

Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

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

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

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

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

Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]

Stock Compensation

Uninsured Risks Policy [Policy Text Block]

Uninsured Risks

Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Discontinues Operations [Abstract]

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

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

Operating revenue	27,852		28,785		32,203

Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(4,076	)	(2,011	)	(1,805	)
Income tax benefit	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
Net loss	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)

- 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)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]

Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

ASSETS

Current assets	8,029	7,857
Investments and other assets	13	32
Total assets	8,042	7,889

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities	5,601	6,136
Members' equity	2,441	1,753
Total liabilities and members' equity	8,042	7,889

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block]

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011	2010

Operating revenue	59,043		62,452	64,379
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	49,568		52,882	52,923
Workforce adjustments	(31	)	1,190	784
Operating income	9,506		8,380	10,672

Company's 50% share	4,753		4,190	5,336
Less amortization of intangible assets	723		1,092	1,156
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,030		3,098	4,180

Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]

Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

ASSETS

Current assets	24,613	22,287
Investments and other assets	29,986	30,484
Property and equipment, net	7,707	8,519
Total assets	62,306	61,290

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities	10,015	8,428
Other liabilities	6,720	5,960
Stockholders' equity	45,571	46,902
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	62,306	61,290

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block]

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Operating revenue	70,158	73,011	75,137
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	57,981	60,982	61,467
Workforce adjustments	546	530	296
Depreciation and amortization	1,689	2,227	2,372
Operating income	9,942	9,272	11,002

Net income	6,469	6,106	7,132

Equity in earnings of MNI	3,201	3,053	3,566

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Goodwill [Line Items]

Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011

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

Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,875	28,875
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	864,184	864,184
Less accumulated amortization	441,772	399,477
	422,412	464,707
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,519	28,517
	5	7
	451,292	493,589

Asset Impairment Charges [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899
	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—
	1,388	216,339	899

Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391

- Definition

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

+ References + Details

Debt Schedule Of Debt Payments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

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

Debt is summarized as follows:



	Amount			Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011	September 30 2012

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

1st Lien Agreement [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)			2012

Mandatory			5,000
Voluntary			19,450
Asset sales			3,210
Excess cash flow			—
			27,660

Pulitzer Notes [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)			2012

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

- 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

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-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

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

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 55
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6584090&loc=d3e28878-108400

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-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 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1A
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28541-108399

Reference 8: 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

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28551-108399

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-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

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

Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

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

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

Current:
Federal	(8,244	)	4,604		8,673
State	(2,210	)	(55	)	833
Deferred	(466	)	(25,630	)	19,116
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

Continuing operations	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	29,308
Discontinued operations	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

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

The reasons for these differences are as follows:



(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes)	2012		2011		2010

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

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

Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

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

Deferred Tax Asset/Liability Classification [Table Text Block]

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

Current assets	789		967
Non-current liabilities	(60,140	)	(66,204	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012

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

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of tax positions taken in the tax returns filed or to be filed for which it is more likely than not that the tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities (i.e., uncertain tax positions) and other types of income tax contingencies, including: (1) the policy on classification of interest and penalties; (2) a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning and end of the period; the total amount(s) of: (3) unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate, and (4) interest and penalties recognized in each of the income statement and balance sheet; (5) for positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts unrecognized will significantly change within 12 months of the reporting date the: (i) nature of the uncertainty, (ii) nature of the event that could occur that would cause the change, and (iii) an estimate of the range of the reasonably possible change or a statement that an estimate of the range cannot be made; and (6) a description of tax years that remain subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions.

+ References + Details

Earnings per Common Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224
Discontinued operations	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105

Weighted average Common Shares	49,357		44,912		44,902
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(96	)	(65	)	(347	)
Basic average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,555
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	—		—		400
Diluted average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,955

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

Stock Ownership Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stock Options [Member]

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

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

A summary of stock option activity is as follows:



(Thousands of Shares)	2012		2011		2010

Under option, beginning of year	1,812		940		1,009
Granted	1,520		1,105		—
Exercised	—		(15	)	—
Canceled	(230	)	(218	)	(69	)
Under option, end of year	3,102		1,812		940

Exercisable, end of year	1,298		552		423

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

Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows:



(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Granted	1.16	2.57	—
Under option, end of year	3.18	5.07	8.77

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

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



	2012	2011

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

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

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



(Dollars)	Options Outstanding			Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	Weighted Average Exercise Price	Number Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price

1 - 5	2,971,125	8.5	1.79	1,166,890	2.31
5 - 50	131,321	2.9	34.59	131,321	34.59
	3,102,446	8.2	3.18	1,298,211	5.58

Restricted Stock [Member]

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

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

A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows:



(Thousands of Shares)	2012	2011		2010

Outstanding, beginning of year	—	299		453
Granted	500	—		—
Vested	—	(297	)	(143	)
Forfeited	—	(2	)	(11	)
Outstanding, end of year	500	—		299

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

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



(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

Outstanding, beginning of year	—	15.02	19.35
Granted	1.31	—	—
Vested	—	15.02	28.73
Forfeited	—	15.02	15.02
Outstanding, end of year	1.31	—	15.02

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Level 1	—	—
Level 2	—	—
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

- 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

Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]

The estimated useful lives are as follows:



	Years

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

Intangible Asset Useful Life Table [Table Text Block]

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



	Years

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

Pensions (Tables) - Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)

2013	11,421
2014	11,263
2015	11,277
2016	11,356
2017	11,430
2018-2022	57,603

Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Equity securities	50-75	63	66
Debt securities	25-35	29	33
Private equity investments	0-12	—	—
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	1
Receivables, net	—	6	—

Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5

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



(Percent)	2012	2011	2010

Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.9	8.0	8.0
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5	3.5

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

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

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

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

Pension obligations	66,319		71,230
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

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

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011

Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(51,871	)	(51,459	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	926		1,063
	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	2,029	—	—
Receivables, net	8,117	—	—
Domestic equity securities	27,499	47,714	—
International equity securities	—	9,613	—
Debt securities	32,169	7,759	—

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

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

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

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

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

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

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Noncurrent assets	7,551	14,934
Postretirement benefit obligations	4,016	2,877
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	30,344	42,379

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

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,570	27,145
Unrecognized prior service benefit	13,774	15,234
	30,344	42,379

Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	5.75

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



(Percent)	2012	2011	2010

Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	5.75	5.75	5.75

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

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:



(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

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

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

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



	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease

Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	53	(48	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	1,452	(1,306	)

Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Equity securities	10-30	21	8
Debt securities	70-90	75	85
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	7
Receivables, net	—	2	—

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	692	—	—
Receivables, net	803	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,385	2,069	—
International equity securities	—	671	—
Debt securities	—	25,643	—

Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	Gross Payments	Less Medicare Part D Subsidy		Net Payments

2013	3,280	(220	)	3,060
2014	3,080	(230	)	2,850
2015	2,980	(230	)	2,750
2016	2,960	(230	)	2,730
2017	2,900	(230	)	2,670
2018-2022	13,280	(1,100	)	12,180

Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Receivables [Abstract]

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010

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

Other Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011

Compensation	12,556	10,207
Retirement plans	4,215	4,442
Interest	10,507	4,352
Other	11,281	14,990
	38,559	33,991

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

Cash payments are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

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

Cash payments are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010

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

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]



	Quarter Ended
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data)	December	March		June		September

2012

Operating revenue	192,042	165,461		172,640		180,343

Net income (loss) from continuing operations	14,406	(26,373	)	(1,045	)	(761	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	218	(169	)	(309	)	(2,266	)
Net income (loss)	14,624	(26,542	)	(1,354	)	(3,027	)

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,554	(26,625	)	(1,473	)	(3,154	)

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.54	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)

2011

Operating revenue	199,485	171,562		180,457		175,815

Net income (loss) from continuing operations	18,747	(1,106	)	(155,067	)	(8,009	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	230	(343	)	(409	)	(724	)
Net income (loss)	18,977	(1,449	)	(155,476	)	(8,733	)

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	18,941	(1,472	)	(155,553	)	(8,784	)

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

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

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

- Definition

Overall income (loss) from a disposal group that is classified as a component of the entity, before income tax, reported as a separate component of income before extraordinary items. Includes the following (before income tax): income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, provision (or any reversals of earlier provisions) for loss on disposal, and adjustments of a prior period gain (loss) on disposal.

+ References + Details

- Definition

Tax effect allocated to a disposal group that is classified as a component of the entity reported as a separate component of income before extraordinary items. Includes the tax effects of the following: income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, provision (or any reversals of earlier provisions) for loss on disposal, and adjustments of a prior period gain (loss) on disposal.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 205
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (b),(c)
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 144
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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 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
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Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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+ Details

- Definition

Amount of income (loss) from a disposal group, net of income tax before extraordinary items allocable to noncontrolling interests. Includes, net of tax, income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, provision (or any reversals of earlier provisions) for loss on disposal, and adjustments of a prior period gain (loss) on disposal.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.12)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

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-SubTopic 10
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-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.14)
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-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Paragraph 13
-Article 7

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 29
-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
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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 15
-Article 5

+ Details

Investments in Associated Companies Summarized Financial Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity in earnings of associated companies	$ 7,231,000	$ 6,151,000	$ 7,746,000
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Associated companies	42,201,000	44,057,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets	8,029	7,857
Share of TNI Operating Expenses	(522,000)	76,000	291,000
Editorial Fees	5,994,000	7,043,000	7,510,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	59,043,000	62,452,000	64,379,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments	49,568,000	52,882,000	52,923,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	(31,000)	1,190,000	784,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	9,506,000	8,380,000	10,672,000
Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Before Amortization	4,753,000	4,190,000	5,336,000
Amortization Of Intangible Assets- TNI	723,000	1,092,000	1,156,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	4,030,000	3,098,000	4,180,000
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Associated companies	19,450,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	620,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	418,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets	13	32
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	8,042	7,889
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	5,601	6,136
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	2,441	1,753
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	8,042	7,889
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets	25,000	22,000
Editorial Fees	8,098,000	8,201,000	8,318,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	70,158,000	73,011,000	75,137,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments	57,981,000	60,982,000	61,467,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	546,000	530,000	296,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Depreciation And Amortization	1,689,000	2,227,000	2,372,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	9,942,000	9,272,000	11,002,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	6,469,000	6,106,000	7,132,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	3,201,000	3,053,000	$ 3,566,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets	30,000	30,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, PPE	8,000	9,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	62,000	61,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	10,015,000	8,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities	6,720,000	6,000
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	45,571,000	47,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	$ 62,306,000	$ 61,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Goodwill [Member] \| Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity	$ 12,366,000
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Member] \| Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity	$ 6,430,000

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

- Definition

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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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 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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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 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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-Paragraph 68
-Subparagraph l
-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
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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+ Details

- Definition

Loss recognized during the period that results from the write-down of goodwill after comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Goodwill is assessed at least annually for impairment.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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+ Details

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

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

Debt Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	2 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	4 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 30, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009	Dec. 25, 2011	Jan. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 29, 2013	Dec. 14, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	May 01, 2000
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate					9.20%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount					$ 926,226,000			$ 995,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two					17,400,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three					19,150,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four					19,900,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five					714,400,000
Unamortized Loan Commitment and Origination Fees and Unamortized Discounts or Premiums					(19,624,000)			0
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities					17,400,000			995,000
Unamortized Present Value Discount- Current Portion					(5,418,000)			0
Long-term Debt					914,244,000			0
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five					175,000,000
Liquidity					$ 43,862,000
Debt, Principal Amount							$ 919,100,000
Planned Principal Amount Of Debt						$ 939,000,000
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%
Description of Collateral, Subsidiary Ownership Percentage					50.00%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount					$ 661,850,000			0
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two					11,000,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three					12,750,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four					13,500,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five					$ 3,375,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage					7.50%
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
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
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 Instrument, Face Amount	$ 175,000,000			$ 175,000,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount					$ 175,000,000			0
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	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
Previous Credit Agreement- Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount					$ 0			569,000
Previous Credit Agreement- Revolver [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount					0			286,000
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			$ 126,355,000	$ 109,000,000			$ 139,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	10.55%			10.55%	10.55%
Long Term Debt, Annual Interest Rate Increase	0.75%			0.75%
Effective Rate Interest Expense					$ 871,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	$ 3,500,000			$ 3,500,000
Federal Funds Rate [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate					0.50%
Interest Rate Margin					5.25%
Federal Funds Rate [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate					0.50%
Interest Rate Margin					4.50%
Prime Lending Rate [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate					0.00%
Interest Rate Margin					5.25%
Prime Lending Rate [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate Margin					6.25%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate					1.00%
Base Interest Rate- Minimum 30 Day LIBOR					1.25%
Interest Rate Margin					6.25%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate					1.00%
Interest Rate Margin					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%
Lee Legacy [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Leverage Ratio					6.7

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

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

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

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

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	$ 3,264,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	4,917,000	$ 6,752,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions	(163,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions	(360,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations	(1,312,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current	789,000	967,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment	(40,684,000)	(29,170,000)
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (8,244,000)	$ 4,604,000	$ 8,673,000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate	(35.00%)	(35.00%)	35.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes	(1.90%)	(2.30%)	4.30%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses	0.00%	23.90%	0.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance	1.80%	1.00%	(0.10%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments	(1.10%)	0.60%	0.60%
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	(40.50%)	(12.30%)	38.20%
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (2,210,000)	$ (55,000)	$ 833,000
Deferred Tax Expense, Continuing and Discontinued Operations	(466,000)	(25,630,000)	19,116,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Including Continuing and Discontinued Operations	(10,920,000)	(21,081,000)	28,622,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations	(9,371,000)	(20,316,000)	29,308,000
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation	$ (1,549,000)	$ (765,000)	$ (686,000)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Unconsolidated Subsidiary	(6.20%)	(0.50%)	(1.40%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities	2.10%	(0.50%)	(0.80%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements	(3.90%)	0.50%	(3.50%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate	0.00%	0.00%	4.10%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Chapter 11 Proceedings	9.30%	0.00%	0.00%
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments	$ (11,651,000)	$ (6,576,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets	(50,472,000)	(45,472,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Debt	0	(997,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	(1,155,000)	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	(103,962,000)	(82,215,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Debt	33,682,000	0
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation	5,540,000	7,067,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Allowance For Doubtful Accounts	817,000	1,570,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits	5,569,000	5,305,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local	24,613,000	23,515,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Other	2,508,000	5,024,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	0	2,063,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	72,729,000	44,544,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	(28,118,000)	(27,566,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(59,351,000)	(65,237,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	(60,140,000)	(66,204,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued	710,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards	796,814,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards	24,613,000
Valuation Allowance Not Related To Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 3,613,000	$ 4,068,000

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

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

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

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

- 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

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

- Definition

+ References + Details

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

Commitments and Contingencies Operating Lease (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	$ 4,000,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	1,897,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	1,647,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	1,557,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	1,246,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	4,000,000
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	4,135,000	$ 4,527,000	$ 4,549,000
Contractual Obligation	$ 900,000

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. 24, 2012 USD ($) $ / shares
NYSE Listing Requirements [Line Items]
Price Per Share- NYSE Listing Requirement \| $ / shares	$ 1
Minimum Market Capitalization- NYSE Listing \| $	$ 50,000,000

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

- Definition

The price per share at which the preferred stock of an entity that has priority over common stock in the distribution of dividends and in the event of liquidation of the entity is redeemed or may be called at. The redemption features of this preferred stock are solely within the control of the issuer.

+ References + Details

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

Significant Accounting Policies Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2009	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Subsequent Event, Date		Dec. 14, 2012
Inventory, LIFO Reserve		$ 3,556,000	$ 3,895,000
FIFO Inventory Amount		2,848,000	2,595,000
LIFO Inventory Amount		2,723,000	2,719,000
Newsprint Inventory		$ 5,571,000	$ 5,314,000
Buildings Useful Life- Low End of Range		5 years
Building Useful Life- High End of Range		54 years
Press Equipment Useful Life- Low End of Range		3 years
Press Equipment Useful Life- High End of Range		28 years
Other PPE Useful Life- Low End Of Range		3 years
Other PPE Useful Life- High End Of Range		20 years
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed	5.00%
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input		10.00%
Customer Lists [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Life- Low End Of Range		7 years
Finite Lived Intagible Asset Useful Life- High End Of Range		23 years
Subscriber Lists [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Life- Low End Of Range		7 years
Finite Lived Intagible Asset Useful Life- High End Of Range		33 years
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		15 years

Pensions (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Pensions (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions			$ 398,000	$ 488,000	$ 497,000
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation	$ 1,426,000		1,426,000	$ 1,319,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	$ 11,000		$ 11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate			4.00%	5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%		4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax		$ 2,287,000	$ (51,871,000)	$ (51,459,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	$ 66,319,000		66,319,000	71,230,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	201,219,000		201,219,000	186,826,000	$ 178,179,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation				186,672,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	(30,000)		30,000	169,000	792,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	7,975,000		(7,975,000)	8,354,000	8,888,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)			17,268,000	12,299,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid			(10,880,000)	(11,584,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses			(1,472,000)	(1,428,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer		2,733,000	6,807,000	2,137,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments			0	(591,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets			(8,891,000)	(9,733,000)	(9,568,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	201,219,000		(2,370,000)	812,000	453,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)			(136,000)	(137,000)	(136,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments			0	0	(2,004,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			1,348,000	(535,000)	(1,575,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	134,900,000		134,900,000	115,596,000	$ 125,464,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets			24,849,000	1,007,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	66,319,000		66,319,000	71,230,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	(50,945,000)		(50,945,000)	(50,396,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax		$ (137,000)	926,000	1,063,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax			$ (50,945,000)	$ (50,396,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase				4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets		0.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase				4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	11,000		$ 11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	$ 58,000		$ 58,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			50.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			75.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	63.00%		63.00%	66.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			25.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			35.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	29.00%		29.00%	33.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 32,169,494.000		$ 32,169,494.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	7,759,444.000		7,759,444.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Other Investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			0.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			12.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	0.00%		0.00%	0.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%	1.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 2,028,505.000		$ 2,028,505.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	6.00%		6.00%	0.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 8,117,459.000		$ 8,117,459.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	$ 3,280,000		$ 3,280,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate		4.00%		5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%		4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax			$ 16,570,000	$ 27,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	$ 4,016,000		4,016,000	3,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	30,728,000		30,728,000	26,472,000	$ 50,482,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	(728,000)		728,000	927,000	361,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,109,000		(1,109,000)	1,600,000	2,971,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)			5,269,000	(2,311,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid			(2,965,000)	(2,922,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer			(690,000)	1,347,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments			0	(15,535,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets			(2,129,000)	(2,248,000)	(2,274,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)			2,451,000	(2,467,000)	(2,447,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)			(1,459,000)	(1,455,000)	(1,994,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments			0	(16,137,000)	(43,008,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			(4,202,000)	(19,780,000)	(46,391,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	34,263,000		34,263,000	38,529,000	$ 41,447,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets			2,127,000	19,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	(3,535,000)		(3,535,000)	(12,057,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	30,344,000		30,344,000	42,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax			13,774,000	15,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax			30,344,000	$ 42,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets		6.00%		6.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	3,080,000		3,080,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	2,980,000		2,980,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	2,960,000		2,960,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	2,900,000		2,900,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	$ 13,280,000		$ 13,280,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			10.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			30.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	21.00%		21.00%	8.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			70.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			90.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	75.00%		75.00%	85.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25,642,660.000		25,642,660.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%	7.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 691,905.000		$ 691,905.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%	0.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 802,801.000		$ 802,801.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	2,595,000		2,595,000	$ 2,654,000
Funded Status of Other Plans Recognized In Other Liabilities	279,000		279,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			56,000	$ 56,000	$ 122,000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	27,499,395.000		27,499,395.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	47,713,917.000		47,713,917.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] \| Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4,384,746.000		4,384,746.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] \| Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,068,890.000		2,068,890.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] \| Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	9,612,986.000		9,612,986.000
International Equity Securities [Member] \| Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] \| Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] \| Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	671,069.000		671,069.000
International Equity Securities [Member] \| Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000

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

Other Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Other Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items]
Cost Related to Other Retirement Plans	$ 3,533,000	$ 2,666,000	$ 1,894,000

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

Other Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Salaries, Current	$ 12,556	$ 10,207
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current	4,215	4,442
Interest Payable, Current	10,507	4,352
Other Liabilities	11,281	14,990
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	$ 38,559	$ 33,991

- Definition

Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations, excluding pension and other postretirement benefits, incurred through that date and payable for perquisites provided to employees pertaining to services received from them. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer).

+ References + Details

- Definition

Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of the obligations incurred through that date and payable for employees' services provided. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer).

+ References + Details

- Definition

Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of [accrued] interest payable on all forms of debt, including trade payables, that has been incurred and is unpaid. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer).

+ References + Details

Other Information Supplemental Cash Payment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Interest Paid	$ 72,131	$ 53,133	$ 65,791
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid	32,408	11,601	453
Income Taxes Paid, Net	$ 1,140	$ 10,462	$ 3,753

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

Label	Element	Value
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	$ (13,435,000)
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	0
Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	523,000
Retained Earnings [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(342,760,000)
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	$ 241,039,000
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber	1,009,000
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice	$ 19,350
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber	453,000