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Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Nov. 30, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Lee Enterprises, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0000058361
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-28
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 28, 2014
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		53,759,748
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 224,932,644

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 16,704	$ 17,562
Accounts receivable, net	62,343	63,215
Income taxes receivable	620	6,634
Inventories	6,655	6,409
Deferred income taxes	1,228	2,017
Other	8,585	8,488
Total current assets	96,135	104,325
Investments:
Associated companies	37,790	39,489
Other	10,661	10,558
Total investments	48,451	50,047
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements	23,645	23,626
Buildings and improvements	180,570	184,838
Equipment	292,209	299,828
Construction in process	4,548	2,868
Property, plant and equipment, gross	500,972	511,160
Less accumulated depreciation	343,601	342,247
Property and equipment, net	157,371	168,913
Goodwill	243,729	243,729
Other intangible assets, net	212,657	242,184
Postretirement assets, net	14,136	14,956
Other	38,796	3,551
Total assets	811,275	827,705
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	31,400	14,371
Accounts payable	27,245	22,448
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	24,348	28,493
Accrued Interest	4,812	9,074
Unearned revenue	30,903	32,605
Total current liabilities	118,708	106,991
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	773,350	820,187
Pension obligations	50,170	30,583
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	10,359	7,253
Deferred income taxes	14,766	21,224
Income taxes payable	5,097	5,257
Other	16,369	5,900
Total liabilities	988,819	997,395
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	245,323	242,537
Accumulated deficit	(414,282)	(421,077)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	(9,831)	7,666
Total stockholders' deficit	(177,544)	(169,690)
Non-controlling interests	709	660
Total deficit	(178,253)	(170,350)
Total liabilities and deficit	811,275	827,705
Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	537	524
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	$ 0	$ 0

Consolidated Balance Sheet Parentheticals (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 4,526	$ 4,501
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0	$ 0
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	53,747,000	52,434,000
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. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating revenue:
Advertising	$ 442,001,000	$ 460,540,000	$ 495,563,000
Subscription	176,826,000	177,056,000	173,971,000
Other	37,870,000	37,144,000	37,387,000
Total operating revenue	656,697,000	674,740,000	706,921,000
Operating expenses:
Compensation	243,054,000	254,831,000	274,427,000
Newsprint and ink	37,994,000	43,481,000	51,635,000
Other operating expenses	219,329,000	213,021,000	213,502,000
Depreciation	20,920,000	21,302,000	23,495,000
Amortization of intangible assets	27,591,000	34,225,000	41,696,000
Impairment of intangible and other assets	2,980,000	171,094,000	1,388,000
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment	(1,338,000)	110,000	(52,000)
Workforce adjustments	1,265,000	2,680,000	4,640,000
Total operating expenses	551,795,000	740,744,000	610,731,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	8,297,000	8,685,000	7,231,000
Operating income (loss)	113,199,000	(57,319,000)	103,421,000
Non-operating income (expense):
Financial income	385,000	300,000	236,000
Interest expense	(79,724,000)	(89,447,000)	(83,078,000)
Debt financing costs	(22,927,000)	(646,000)	(2,823,000)
Other, net	3,028,000	7,889,000	(2,533,000)
Total non-operating expense, net	(99,238,000)	(81,904,000)	(88,198,000)
Income (loss) before reorganization costs and income taxes	13,961,000	(139,223,000)	15,223,000
Reorganization costs	0	0	37,765,000
Income (loss) before income taxes	13,961,000	(139,223,000)	(22,542,000)
Income tax expense (benefit)	6,290,000	(62,745,000)	(9,161,000)
Income (loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	7,671,000	(76,478,000)	(13,381,000)
Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax	0	(1,246,000)	(2,918,000)
Net income (loss)	7,671,000	(77,724,000)	(16,299,000)
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(876,000)	(593,000)	(399,000)
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	6,795,000	(78,317,000)	(16,698,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	(17,497,000)	21,101,000	(7,348,000)
Comprehensive loss	(10,702,000)	(57,216,000)	(24,046,000)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent	$ 6,795,000	$ (77,071,000)	$ (13,780,000)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ 0.13	$ (1.49)	$ (0.28)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	0.00	(0.02)	(0.06)
Basic	0.13	(1.51)	(0.34)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	0.13	(1.49)	(0.28)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	0.00	(0.02)	(0.06)
Diluted	$ 0.13	$ (1.51)	$ (0.34)

Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income (loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ 7,671,000	$ (76,478,000)	$ (13,381,000)
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities:
Net income (loss)	7,671,000	(77,724,000)	(16,299,000)
Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax	0	(1,246,000)	(2,918,000)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	47,173,000	55,637,000	65,139,000
Impairment of intangible and other assets	2,980,000	171,094,000	1,388,000
Amortization (accretion) of debt present value adjustment	2,394,000	5,117,000	3,919,000
Stock compensation expense	1,481,000	1,261,000	1,080,000
Distributions greater than current earnings of MNI	1,366,000	1,742,000	700,000
Deferred income tax benefit	6,425,000	(54,807,000)	(779,000)
Debt financing costs	22,927,000	594,000	2,823,000
Reorganization costs	0	0	37,765,000
Gain on Sale of Investments	0	(7,093,000)	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in receivables	872,000	4,710,000	1,085,000
Decrease in inventories and other	217,000	904,000	1,942,000
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and unearned revenue	(5,315,000)	(2,280,000)	358,000
Decrease in pension, postretirement and post employment benefits	(6,078,000)	(9,602,000)	(8,898,000)
Change in income taxes receivable or payable	5,854,000	1,117,000	(9,078,000)
Other, net	(5,892,000)	(1,849,000)	(4,026,000)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations	82,075,000	90,067,000	80,037,000
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(13,661,000)	(9,740,000)	(7,843,000)
Decrease in restricted cash	(441,000)	0	4,972,000
Proceeds from sales of assets	4,485,000	7,802,000	1,353,000
Distributions greater than current earnings of TNI	333,000	972,000	1,156,000
Other, net	0	(330,000)	(422,000)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations	(9,284,000)	(1,296,000)	(784,000)
Cash provided by (required for) financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	805,000,000	94,000,000	1,004,795,000
Payments on long-term debt	(847,750,000)	(192,350,000)	(1,065,455,000)
Debt financing and reorganization costs paid	(31,587,000)	(1,071,000)	(32,408,000)
Common stock transactions net	688,000	103,000	0
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations	(73,649,000)	(99,318,000)	(93,068,000)
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations	0	(552,000)	661,000
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations	0	14,741,000	3,519,000
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	(858,000)	3,642,000	(9,635,000)
Cash and cash equivalents:
End of period	$ 16,704,000	$ 17,562,000	$ 13,920,000

Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	52,434	52,434
Beginning balance at Sep. 29, 2013	$ (170,350)		$ 524	$ 242,537	$ (421,077)	$ 7,666
Par Value Change- Common Stock Shares		0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax						(29,591)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax						$ 12,094
Net Income (Loss)	7,671				7,671
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ 876				$ (876)
Change In Par Value			0	0
Share-based Compensation				1,494
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues			$ 13	$ 1,292
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues		1,313
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	53,747	53,747

Discontinued Operations

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Discontinues Operations [Abstract]

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

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

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

In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000 in cash, plus an adjustment for working capital. The transaction resulted in a gain of $1,168,000, after income taxes, and was recorded in discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the 13 weeks ended December 30, 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2013		2012

Operating revenue	1,321		31,416
Costs and expenses	(1,697	)	(36,093	)
Gain on sale of the North County Times	1,801		—
Loss on sale of The Garden Island	(3,340	)	—

Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(1,915	)	(4,677	)
Income tax benefit	(669	)	(1,759	)
Net loss	(1,246	)	(2,918	)

- 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

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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Publisher FASB
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-Publisher FASB
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6892542&loc=d3e1012-107759

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-Publisher FASB
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-Publisher FASB
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+ Details

Investments in Associated Companies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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 subscription activities 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 28 2014	September 29 2013

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents	176	231
Accounts receivable, net	4,749	5,096
Inventories	1,582	735
Other current assets	125	125
Investments and other assets	78	13
Total assets	6,710	6,200

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	2,160	1,800
Unearned revenue	3,036	3,273
Total liabilities	5,196	5,073
Members' equity	1,514	1,127
Total liabilities and members' equity	6,710	6,200

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013	2012
	52 Weeks		53 Weeks	52 Weeks
Operating revenue:
Advertising and marketing services	36,957		40,166	39,267
Subscription	17,525		18,248	17,452
Other	3,410		3,576	2,324
Total operating revenue	57,892		61,990	59,043
Operating expenses:
Compensation	18,505		19,799	20,050
Newsprint and ink	8,123		9,626	10,695
Other operating expenses	20,672		20,971	18,823
Workforce adjustments	(71	)	—	(31	)
Net income	10,663		11,594	9,506

Company's 50% share	5,331		5,797	4,753
Less amortization of intangible assets	418		621	723
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,913		5,176	4,030

Summarized cash flows of TNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012
	52 Weeks		53 Weeks		52 Weeks

Net income	10,663		11,594		9,506
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities	(442	)	1,351		(589	)
Cash required for financing activities	(10,276	)	(12,851	)	(8,875	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(55	)	94		42
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of year	231		137		95
End of year	176		231		137

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 $(60,000), $(488,000),and $(522,000), in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Fees for editorial services provided to TNI by Star Publishing totaled $5,908,000, $6,041,000, and $5,994,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

At September 28, 2014, the carrying value of the Company's 50% investment in TNI is $18,146,000. 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 $5,390,000, 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 $418,000 in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.

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 28 2014	September 29 2013

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents	12,245	12,552
Accounts receivable, net	5,794	6,295
Other current assets	2,656	2,584
Current assets	20,695	21,431
Investments and other assets	2,871	2,871
Property and equipment, net	6,758	7,231
Goodwill and other intangible assets	26,118	26,616
Total assets	56,442	58,149

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	3,502	3,611
Unearned revenue	5,226	4,887
Deferred income taxes	8,425	7,630
Total liabilities	17,153	16,128
Stockholders' equity	39,289	42,021
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	56,442	58,149

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014	2013	2012
	52 Weeks	52 Weeks	53 Weeks
Operating revenue:
Advertising and marketing services	44,357	46,373	51.019
Subscription	21,578	17,421	17,173
Other	1,543	1,674	1,966
Total operating revenue	67,478	65,468	70,158
Operating expenses:
Compensation	21,750	23,282	25,486
Newsprint and ink	5,166	5,871	6,927
Other operating expenses	28,477	24,046	25,568
Workforce adjustments	244	308	546
Depreciation and amortization	1,626	1,530	1,689
Total operating expenses	57,263	55,037	60,216
Operating income	10,215	10,431	9,942
Non-operating income, net	408	415	312
Income before income taxes	10,623	10,846	10,254
Income tax expense	3,855	3,895	3,785
Net income	6,768	6,951	6,469

Equity in earnings of MNI	3,384	3,509	3,201

Summarized cash flows of MNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012
	52 Weeks		52 Weeks		53 Weeks

Net income	6,768		6,951		6,469
Cash provided by operating activities	9,448		8,643		10,641
Cash required for investing activities	(255	)	(155	)	(379	)
Cash required for financing activities	(9,500	)	(11,500	)	(6,800	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(307	)	(3,012	)	3,462
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of year	12,552		15,564		12,102
End of year	12,245		12,552		15,564

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 $7,050,000, $7,346,000 and $8,098,000, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

At September 28, 2014, the carrying value of the Company's 50% investment in MNI is $19,644,000.

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013

Goodwill, gross amount	1,532,458		1,532,458
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)	(1,288,729	)
Goodwill, end of year	243,729		243,729

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Non-amortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	25,102	27,038
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	686,732	686,732
Less accumulated amortization	499,178	471,589
	187,554	215,143
Non-compete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,523	28,521
	1	3
	212,657	242,184

In 2014 and 2012, we performed a qualitative analysis to test our goodwill for impairment and concluded that the likelihood of an impairment was less than 50%. In 2013, we performed additional quantitative analysis of the carrying value of our goodwill and concluded the implied fair value of goodwill was in excess of its carrying value. As a result no goodwill impairment was recorded.

In 2014 and 2013, due to continuing revenue declines, we recorded non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of non-amortized intangible assets. In 2013 we determined that the cash flows from amortizable intangible assets were not sufficient to recover their carrying values. As a result, we recorded non-cash charges to reduce the carrying values of such assets to fair value. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2014, 2013 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)	2014	2013	2012

Continuing operations:
Non-amortized intangible assets	1,936	1,567	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	169,041	—
Property and equipment	1,044	486	1,388
	2,980	171,094	1,388

Discontinued operations	—	—	3,606

Annual amortization of intangible assets for the years ending September 2015 to September 2019 is estimated to be $27,185,000, $26,059,000, $25,030,000, $16,653,000, and $15,972,000, 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. 28, 2014

Debt [Abstract]

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]

DEBT

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, as discussed more fully below (and certain capitalized terms used below defined), and extended the April 2012 maturity with the existing Noteholders.

In May 2013, we again refinanced the $94,000,000 remaining balance of the Pulitzer Notes (the “New Pulitzer Notes”).

On March 31, 2014, we completed a comprehensive refinancing of our remaining debt, exclusive of the New Pulitzer Notes (the “2014 Refinancing”), which includes the following:


•	$400,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 9.5% Senior Secured Notes (the “Notes”), pursuant to an Indenture dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Indenture”) among the Company, certain subsidiaries party thereto from time to time (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”), U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (the "Notes Trustee"), and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Collateral Agent;

•

$250,000,000 first lien term loan (the "1st Lien Term Loan") and $40,000,000 revolving facility (the "Revolving Facility") under a First Lien Credit Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (together, the “1^st Lien Credit Facility”) among the Company, the lenders party thereto from time to time (the “1^st Lien Lenders”), and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent; and


•	$150,000,000 second lien term loan under a Second Lien Loan Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “ 2^nd Lien Term Loan”) among the Company, the lenders party thereto from time to time (the “2^nd Lien Lenders”), and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent.

The Notes, 1^st Lien Credit Facility and 2^nd Lien Term Loan enabled us to repay in full, including accrued interest, and terminate, on March 31, 2014: (i) the remaining principal balance of $593,000,000 under our previous 1^st lien agreement, and related subsidiary guaranty, security and pledge agreements, intercompany subordination and intercreditor agreements; and (ii) the remaining principal balance of $175,000,000 under our previous 2^ndlien agreement, and related subsidiary guaranty, security and pledge agreements, intercompany subordination and intercreditor agreements. We also used the proceeds of the refinancing to pay fees and expenses totaling $30,931,000 related to the 2014 Refinancing.

Notes

The Notes are senior secured obligations of the Company and mature on March 15, 2022. The Notes were sold pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Interest

The Notes require payment of interest semiannually on March 15 and September 15 of each year, at a fixed annual rate of 9.5%. Interest on the Notes accrues from March 31, 2014.

Redemption

We may redeem some, or all, of the principal amount of the Notes at any time on or after March 15, 2018 as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 15, 2018	104.75
March 15, 2019	102.375
March 15, 2020	100

We may also redeem up to 35% of the Notes prior to March 15, 2017 at 109.5% of the principal amount using the proceeds of certain future equity offerings.

If we sell certain of our assets or experience specific types of changes of control, we must, subject to certain exceptions, offer to purchase the Notes. Any redemption of the Notes must also satisfy any accrued and unpaid interest thereon.

Security

The Notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior secured basis by each of our material domestic subsidiaries in which the Company holds a direct or indirect interest of more than 50% and which guaranty indebtedness for borrowed money, including the 1^st Lien Credit Facility. Material domestic subsidiaries of the Company that are currently excluded from such subsidiary guarantee obligations under the Notes are MNI, except as noted below, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Pulitzer Inc. ("Pulitzer"), its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Pulitzer Subsidiaries”) and TNI.

At such time as the New Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below, are satisfied, including any successor debt (the “Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date”), the Notes will also be guaranteed, on a second-priority basis, by Pulitzer and each Pulitzer Subsidiary that guarantees the indebtedness under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan or other borrowings incurred by the Company or any subsidiary guarantor.

The Notes and the subsidiary guarantees are secured, subject to certain exceptions, priorities and limitations in the various agreements, by a lien on all property and assets of the Company and each subsidiary guarantor, other than the capital stock of MNI and any property and assets of MNI, Pulitzer, each Pulitzer Subsidiary and TNI (the “Lee Legacy Collateral”), on a first-priority basis, equally and ratably with all of the Company’s and the subsidiary guarantors’ existing and future obligations under the 1^st Lien Credit Facility, pursuant to a Security Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Notes Security Agreement”) among the Company and the subsidiary guarantors (collectively, the “Notes Assignors”) and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas.

Certain of the Notes Assignors, separately, have granted first lien mortgages or deeds of trust, covering their material real estate and improvements for the benefit of the holders of the Notes.

Also, the Notes are secured, subject to certain exceptions, priorities and limitations in the various agreements, by first priority security interests in the capital stock of, and other equity interests owned by the Notes Assignors pursuant to the Notes Security Agreement.

Prior to the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date, none of the property and assets of Pulitzer and the Pulitzer Subsidiaries (collectively, the “Pulitzer Collateral”) will be pledged to secure the Notes or the subsidiary guarantees. The Pulitzer Collateral includes the 50% interest in TNI owned by Star Publishing, but excludes any tangible and intangible assets owned by Star Publishing that are used by TNI in the conduct of its business. After the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date, the Notes and the subsidiary guarantees will be secured, subject to permitted liens, by a lien on the Pulitzer Collateral owned by each of the Pulitzer Subsidiaries that become subsidiary guarantors on a second-priority basis, equally and ratably with all of the Company’s and the subsidiary guarantors’ existing and future obligations under the 1^st Lien Credit Facility and certain other indebtedness for borrowed money incurred by the Company or any subsidiary guarantor.

The rights of the Notes Trustee and the 1^st Lien Lenders with respect to the Lee Legacy Collateral are subject to:


•	A Pari Passu Intercreditor Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Pari Passu Intercreditor Agreement”) among the Company, the other Grantors party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas; and


•	A Junior Intercreditor Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Junior Intercreditor Agreement”) among the Company, the other Grantors party hereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas and Wilmington Trust, National Association.

Covenants and Other Matters

The Indenture contains certain of the restrictive covenants in the 1^st Lien Credit Facility, as discussed more fully below, and limitations on our use of the Pulitzer Subsidiaries’ cash flows. However, many of these covenants will cease to apply if the Notes are rated investment grade by either Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or Standard & Poor’s Ratings Group and there is no default or event of default under the Indenture.

1^st Lien Credit Facility

The 1^st Lien Credit Facility consists of the $250,000,000 1^st Lien Term Loan that matures in March 2019 and the $40,000,000 Revolving Facility that matures in December 2018. The 1^st Lien Credit Facility documents the primary terms of the 1^st Lien Term Loan and the Revolving Facility. The Revolving Facility may be used for working capital and general corporate purposes (including letters of credit). At September 28, 2014, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $27,605,000 available for future use under the Revolving Facility.

Interest

Interest on the 1^st Lien Term Loan, which has a principal balance of $226,750,000 at September 28, 2014, accrues at either (at our option) LIBOR plus 6.25% (with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%) or at a base rate equal to highest of (i) the prime rate at the time, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or (iii) one month LIBOR plus 1.0%, plus 5.25% (with a base rate floor of 2.0%), and is payable quarterly, beginning in June 2014.

The 1^st Lien Term Loan was funded with original issue discount of 2.0%, or $5,000,000, which will be amortized as interest expense over the life of the 1^st Lien Term Loan.

Interest on the Revolving Facility, which has a principal balance of $5,000,000 at September 28, 2014, accrues at either (at our option) LIBOR plus 5.5%, or at a base rate equal to highest of (i) the prime rate at the time, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or (iii) one month LIBOR plus 1.0%, plus 4.5%.

Principal Payments

Quarterly principal payments of $6,250,000 are required under the 1^st Lien Term Loan, with other payments made either voluntarily, based on 90% of excess cash flow, as defined, or proceeds from asset sales, as defined. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding or reduce commitments under the 1^st Lien Credit Facility at any time without premium or penalty, upon proper notice and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments.

2014 payments made under the 1^st Lien Term Loan or previous 1st lien agreement, are summarized as follows:



				13 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 29 2013	March 30 2014	June 29 2014	September 28 2014

Mandatory	3,000	3,000	6,250	6,250
Voluntary	3,350	5,500	10,750	—
Asset sales	150	1,500	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	6,500	10,000	17,000	6,250

2013 payments made under the previous 1^stlien agreement are summarized as follows:



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

Mandatory	2,500	2,500	3,000	3,000
Voluntary	9,750	15,350	2,260	6,000
Asset sales	7,750	—	240	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	20,000	17,850	5,500	9,000

Security

The 1^st Lien Credit Facility is secured, subject to certain priorities and limitations in the various agreements, by perfected security interests in substantially all the assets of the Company and guaranteed by the Subsidiary Guarantors (together with the Company, the “1^st Lien Assignors”), pursuant to a First Lien Guarantee and Collateral Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “1^st Lien Guarantee and Collateral Agreement”) among the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (the "1^st Lien Collateral Agent"), on a first-priority basis, equally and ratably with all of the Company’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ existing and future obligations under the Notes. The 1^st Lien Assignors’ pledged assets include, among other things, equipment, inventory, accounts receivables, depository accounts, intellectual property and certain of their other tangible and intangible assets (excluding the assets of Pulitzer, the Pulitzer Subsidiaries, and TNI and the capital stock or assets of MNI).

Under the 1^st Lien Credit Facility, certain of the 1^st Lien Assignors, separately, have granted first lien mortgages or deeds of trust, subject to all relevant terms and conditions of the applicable intercreditor agreements, covering certain real estate and improvements, to the 1^st Lien Lenders (excluding the real estate of Pulitzer, the Pulitzer Subsidiaries, TNI and MNI).

The 1^st Lien Credit Facility is also secured by a pledge of interests in all of the capital stock of and other equity interests owned by the 1^st Lien Assignors (excluding the capital stock and equity interests held by Pulitzer and the Pulitzer Subsidiaries, as well as the capital stock and equity interest of MNI and TNI, respectively).

The rights of the 1^st Lien Collateral Agent with respect to the Lee Legacy Collateral are subject to:


•	The Pari Passu Intercreditor Agreement;


•	The Junior Intercreditor Agreement; and


•	An Intercompany Subordination Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “1^st Lien Intercompany Subordination Agreement”) among the Company, Subsidiary Guarantors, Pulitzer, Pulitzer Subsidiaries and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 1^st Lien Credit Facility requires that we comply with certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for financing of this nature, including maintenance of a maximum total leverage ratio, which is only applicable to the Revolving Facility.

The 1^st Lien Credit Facility restricts us from paying dividends on our Common Stock and generally restricts us from repurchasing Common Stock, unless in each case no default shall have occurred and we have satisfied certain financial measurements. Further, the 1^st Lien Credit Facility restricts or limits, among other things, subject to certain exceptions, the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to: (i) incur indebtedness, (ii) enter into mergers, acquisitions and asset sales, (iii) incur or create liens and (iv) enter into transactions with certain affiliates. The 1^st Lien Credit Facility contains various representations and warranties and may be terminated upon occurrence of certain events of default. The 1^st Lien Credit Facility also contains cross-default provisions tied to the terms of each of the Indenture, 2^nd Lien Term Loan and New Pulitzer Notes.

2^nd Lien Term Loan

The 2^nd Lien Term Loan, which has a balance of $150,000,000 at September 28, 2014, bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 12.0%, payable quarterly, and matures in December 2022.

Principal Payments

There are no scheduled mandatory amortization payments required under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan.

Under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan, excess cash flows of Pulitzer and the Pulitzer Subsidiaries, as defined and subject to certain other conditions, must be used, (i) first, to repay the outstanding amount of the New Pulitzer Notes and (ii) second, (a) at any time after the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date but prior to March 31, 2017, to make an offer to the 2^nd Lien Lenders (which offer the 2^nd Lien Lenders may accept or reject), to pay amounts under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan at par and (b) at any time after the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date and on or after March 31, 2017, to pay such amounts under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan at par.

The definition of excess cash flows of Pulitzer includes a deduction for interest costs incurred under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan after the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date. In addition, other changes to settlement of certain intercompany costs between the Company and Pulitzer will also be effected after the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date, with the net result being a reduction in the excess cash flows of Pulitzer from historical levels.

After the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date, subject to certain other conditions in the 2^nd Lien Term Loan, the balance of the 2^nd Lien Term Loan can, or will be, reduced at par from proceeds from asset sales by Pulitzer or the Pulitzer Subsidiaries.

Voluntary payments under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan are otherwise subject to call premiums as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 31, 2014	112
March 31, 2017	106
March 31, 2018	103
March 31, 2019	100

Security

The 2^nd Lien Term Loan is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Company, Subsidiary Guarantors, Pulitzer and the Pulitzer Subsidiaries (collectively, the “2^nd Lien Assignors”), other than MNI and TNI, pursuant to a Second Lien Guarantee and Collateral Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “2^nd Lien Guarantee and Collateral Agreement”) among the 2^nd Lien Assignors and Wilmington Trust, National Association.

Under the 2^nd Lien Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, the 2^nd Lien Assignors have granted (i) second priority security interests, subject to certain priorities and limitations in the various agreements, on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, including the stock and other equity interests owned by the 2^nd Lien Assignors, and (ii) have 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 Term Loan. Assets of, or used in the operations or business of, TNI and our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI are excluded.

Assets of Pulitzer and the Pulitzer Subsidiaries, excluding assets of or assets used in the operations or business of, TNI, will become subject to (i) a first priority security interest in favor of the 2^nd Lien Lenders; and (ii) a second priority security interest in favor of the secured parties under the 1^st Lien Credit Facility, as applicable, upon the Pulitzer Debt Satisfaction Date.

The 2^nd Lien Guarantee and Collateral Agreement is subject to:


•	The Junior Intercreditor Agreement;

•

An Intercreditor Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 among The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., Wilmington Trust, National Association, Pulitzer and the Pulitzer Subsidiaries, as amended by the First Amendment to Intercreditor Agreement dated May 1, 2013, and as further amended by the Second Amendment to Intercreditor Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Second Amendment to Pulitzer Intercreditor Agreement”); and


•	An Intercompany Subordination Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Pulitzer Intercompany Subordination Agreement”) among the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors, Pulitzer, Pulitzer Subsidiaries and Wilmington Trust, National Association.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 2^nd Lien Term Loan requires that we comply with certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for financing of this nature, including the negative covenants under the 1^st Lien Credit Facility discussed above. The 2^nd Lien Term Loan contains various representations and warranties and may be terminated upon occurrence of certain events of default. The 2^nd Lien Term Loan also contains cross-default provisions tied to the terms of the Indenture, 1^st Lien Credit Facility and the New Pulitzer Notes.

In connection with the 2^nd Lien Term Loan, we entered into a Warrant Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Warrant Agreement”) between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association. Under the Warrant Agreement, certain affiliates or designees of the 2^nd Lien Lenders received on March 31, 2014 their pro rata share of warrants to purchase, in cash, an initial aggregate of 6,000,000 shares of Common Stock, subject to adjustment pursuant to anti-dilution provisions (the “Warrants”). The Warrants represent, when fully exercised, approximately 10.1% of shares of Common Stock outstanding at March 30, 2014 on a fully diluted basis. The exercise price of the Warrants is $4.19 per share.

The Warrant Agreement contains a cash settlement provision in the event of a change of control prior to March 31, 2018 as well as other provisions requiring the Warrants be measured at fair value and are included in other liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We will remeasure the liability to fair value each reporting period, with changes reported in other non-operating income (expense). The initial fair value of the Warrants was $16,930,000. At September 28, 2014, the fair value of the Warrants is $10,807,800.

In connection with the issuance of the Warrants, we entered into a Registration Rights Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (the “Registration Rights Agreement”). The Registration Rights Agreement requires, among other matters, that we use our commercially reasonable efforts to maintain the effectiveness for certain specified periods of a shelf registration statement related to the shares of Common Stock to be issued upon exercise of the Warrants.

New 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.

In May 2013, we refinanced the $94,000,000 remaining balance of the Pulitzer Notes (the “New Pulitzer Notes”) with BH Finance LLC ("Berkshire") a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

The New Pulitzer Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 9.0%, payable quarterly. Pulitzer is a co-borrower under the New Pulitzer Notes, which eliminated the former Guaranty Agreement made by Pulitzer under the Pulitzer Notes.

Principal Payments

At September 28, 2014, the balance of the New Pulitzer Notes is $23,000,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding under the New Pulitzer Notes at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty (except as noted below), upon proper notice, and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. The New Pulitzer Notes provide for mandatory scheduled prepayments totaling $6,400,000 annually, beginning in 2014.

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

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

2014 payments made under the New Pulitzer Notes are summarized below.



				13 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 29 2013	March 30 2014	June 29 2014	September 28 2014

Mandatory	6,400	—	—	—
Voluntary	1,600	10,000	13,000	9,000
Asset sales	—	—	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	8,000	10,000	13,000	9,000

2013 payments made under the New Pulitzer Notes or Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows:



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

Mandatory	3,800	2,600	—	—
Voluntary	—	1,500	14,000	17,000
Asset sales	5,200	1,900	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	9,000	6,000	14,000	17,000

Security

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

Covenants and Other Matters

The New Pulitzer Notes contain certain covenants and conditions including the maintenance, by Pulitzer, of minimum trailing 12 month EBITDA (minimum of $24,500,000 beginning September 28, 2014), as defined in the New Pulitzer Notes agreement, and limitations on capital expenditures and the incurrence of other debt. Our actual trailing 12 month EBITDA at September 28, 2014 is $42,884,000.

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

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

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



(Thousands of Dollars)

Unamortized loan fees from previous credit agreements	1,740
Fees paid in cash to lenders, attorneys and others	38,628
Non-cash fees paid in the form of additional debt	12,250
Fair value of stock granted to 2^nd Lien Lenders	9,576
Present value adjustment	(23,709	)
	38,485
Charged to expense in 2012	37,765
Charged to expense in 2011 as other non-operating expense	720

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

We incurred $30,931,000 of fees and expenses related to the 2014 Refinancing, including a $1,750,000 premium (1% of the principal amount) related to the redemption of the previous 2^nd lien agreement and $5,000,000 original issue discount on the 1^st Lien Term Loan. In addition, at the date of the 2014 Refinancing we had $10,549,000 of unamortized present value adjustments related to the previous 1^st lien agreement and previous 2^nd lien agreement. We also recognized original issue discount of $16,930,000 on the 2^nd Lien Term Loan related to the Warrants. Certain of the unamortized present value adjustments, the new fees and expenses and a portion of the value of the Warrants were charged to expense upon completion of the 2014 Refinancing while the remainder of such costs have been capitalized and are being amortized over the lives of the respective debt agreements. Debt financing costs are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)

Prepayment premium - previous 2^nd lien agreement		1,750
Unamortized loan fees from previous credit agreements		10,549
Fees paid in cash to arrangers, lenders, attorneys and others		24,181
Original issue discount - 1^st Lien Term Loan		5,000
Fair value of Warrants granted to 2nd Lien Lenders		16,930
		58,410

Charged to expense as a result of debt extinguishment		20,591
Capitalized debt financing costs		37,819

Amortization of debt financing costs totaled $2,145,000 in 2014. Amortization of such costs is estimated to total $4,218,000 in 2015, $4,426,000 in 2016, $4,455,000 in 2017, $4,537,000 in 2018 and $4,210,000 in 2019. At September 28, 2014 we have $36,486,000 of unamortized debt financing costs included in other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Debt is summarized as follows:



				Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013		September 28 2014

Revolving Facility	5,000	—		5.65
1st Lien Term Loan	226,750	—		7.25
Notes	400,000	—		9.50
2^ndLien Term Loan	150,000	—		12.00
New Pulitzer Notes	23,000	63,000		9.00
Previous credit agreements	—	784,500
Unamortized present value adjustment	—	(12,942	)
	804,750	834,558
Less current maturities of long-term debt	31,400	19,150
Current amount of present value adjustment	—	(4,779	)
Total long-term debt	773,350	820,187

At September 28, 2014, our weighted average cost of debt, excluding amortization of debt financing costs, is 9.3%.

Aggregate maturities of debt total $31,400,000 in 2015, $31,400,000 in 2016, $35,200,000 in 2017, $25,000,000 in 2018, $131,750,000 in 2019 and $550,000,000 thereafter.

Liquidity

At September 28, 2014, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $27,605,000 available for future use under our Revolving Facility. Including cash, our liquidity at September 28, 2014 totals $44,750,000. 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 cash flows, which will allow us to maintain an adequate level of liquidity. The Warrants, if and when exercised, would provide additional liquidity in an amount up to $25,140,000.

The 2014 Refinancing significantly enhances our debt maturity profile. Final maturities of our debt have been extended to dates extending from April 2017 through December 2022. As a result, refinancing risk has been substantially reduced for the next several years.

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

Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. The Notes, 1st Lien Credit Facility and 2nd Lien Term Loan have only limited affirmative covenants with which we are required to maintain compliance. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 28, 2014.

Pensions

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Pension Disclosure [Abstract]

Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]

PENSION PLANS

We have several non-contributory 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, substantially 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, hedge fund investments and cash.

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the year	156		216		30
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	7,996		7,529		7,975
Expected return on plan assets	(9,932	)	(9,838	)	(8,891	)
Amortization of net loss	423		2,287		2,370
Amortization of prior service benefit	(136	)	(136	)	(136	)
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	(1,493	)	58		1,348

Net periodic pension benefit of $56,000 is allocated to TNI in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013

Benefit obligation, beginning of year	175,771		201,219
Service cost	156		216
Interest cost	7,996		7,529
Actuarial loss (gain)	26,526		(22,155	)
Benefits paid	(11,252	)	(11,038	)
Benefit obligation, end of year	199,197		175,771
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year:	147,265		134,900
Actual return on plan assets	15,074		19,364
Benefits paid	(11,252	)	(11,038	)
Administrative expenses paid	(1,509	)	(1,977	)
Employer contributions	1,435		6,016
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	151,013		147,265
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	48,184		28,506

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Pension obligations	48,184		28,506
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(41,695	)	(19,091	)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(42,348	)	(19,880	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	653		789
	(41,695	)	(19,091	)

We expect to recognize $1,765,000 and $137,000 of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic pension cost in 2015.

The accumulated benefit obligation for the plans total $199,197,000 at September 28, 2014 and $175,771,000 at September 29, 2013. 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 $199,197,000, $199,197,000 and $151,013,000, respectively, at September 28, 2014.

Assumptions

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



(Percent)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Discount rate	4.2	4.7

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



(Percent)	2014	2013	2012

Discount rate	4.7	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.0	7.5	7.9

For 2015, the expected long-term return on plan assets is 6.75%. The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns, current market conditions and composition of plan assets.

In October 2014, the Society of Actuaries released new mortality tables. The new tables generally result in increases in life expectancy. We used the new mortality tables to value our pension and postretirement liabilities at September 28, 2014, which increased such liabilities, in total, by approximately $18,515,000, with a corresponding decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income in our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of that date.

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.

Our 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)	Policy Allocation	Actual Allocation
Asset Class	September 28 2014	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Equity securities	50	48	60
Debt securities	35	20	30
TIPS	5	4	4
Hedge fund investments	10	10	4
Cash and cash equivalents	—	18	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. At September 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, certain plan assets were in process of reallocation. In October 2014 and 2013, plan assets were within the policy allocation. In 2013, the policy allocation was amended to allow hedge fund investments.

Fair Value Measurements

The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 28, 2014 is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	27,213	—	—
Domestic equity securities	58,754	—	—
International equity securities	7,007	7,562	—
TIPS	6,498	—	—
Debt securities	11,690	17,769	—
Hedge fund investments	—	8,030	8,351

In 2014, in connection with the allocation to hedge funds and debt securities, certain of our plan assets were classified as Level 3. Following is a rollfoward of Level 3 plan assets in 2014:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 3

Balance, beginning of year	—
Purchases, issuances, sales, settlements	7,300
Unrealized gains	1,051
Balance, end of year	8,351

There were no purchases, sales or transfers of assets classified as Level 3 in 2013 or 2012.

Cash Flows

Based on our forecast at September 28, 2014, we expect to make contributions totaling $3,800,000 to our pension trust in 2015.

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



(Thousands of Dollars)

2015	11,581
2016	11,380
2017	11,436
2018	11,451
2019	11,466
2020-2024	56,934

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 $2,264,000 and $2,354,000 at September 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, respectively, of which $279,000 is included in compensation and other accrued liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 28, 2014.

Postretirement Obligations

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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. Plan assets may also be used to fund medical costs of certain active employees.

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the year	596		728		728
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	911		1,125		1,109
Expected return on plan assets	(1,483	)	(1,474	)	(2,129	)
Amortization of net actuarial gain	(1,819	)	(1,324	)	(2,451	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(1,459	)	(1,459	)	(1,459	)
Net periodic postretirement benefit	(3,254	)	(2,404	)	(4,202	)

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013

Benefit obligation, beginning of year	23,432		30,728
Service cost	596		728
Interest cost	911		1,125
Actuarial loss (gain)	2,298		(7,338	)
Benefits paid, net of premiums received	(1,905	)	(2,102	)
Medicare Part D subsidies	174		291
Benefit obligation, end of year	25,506		23,432
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	33,920		34,263
Actual return on plan assets	1,167		1,495
Employer contributions	597		679
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received	(1,731	)	(1,811	)
Benefits paid for active employees	(1,072	)	(706	)
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date	32,881		33,920
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets	(7,375	)	(10,488	)

The accumulated benefit obligation for plans with benefit obligations in excess of plan assets was $6,761,000 at September 28, 2014. These plans are unfunded.

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Non-current assets	14,136	14,956
Postretirement benefit obligations	6,761	4,468
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	27,250	34,214

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,394	21,899
Unrecognized prior service benefit	10,856	12,315
	27,250	34,214

We expect to recognize $1,443,000 and $1,459,000 of unrecognized net actuarial gain and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic postretirement benefit in 2015.

Assumptions

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



(Percent)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Discount rate	3.7	4.0
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	4.5

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

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



(Percent)	2014	2013	2012

Discount rate	4.0	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	4.5	5.75

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:



(Percent)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Health care cost trend rates	7.5	7.5
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	2018	2018

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 2014:



	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease

Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	36	(32	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	742	(673	)

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.

Our 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)	Policy Allocation	Actual Allocation
Asset Class	September 28 2014	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Equity securities	20	22	22
Debt securities	80	74	75
Cash and cash equivalents	—	4	4

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 28, 2014 is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	1,294	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,112	1,676	—
International equity securities	719	879	—
Debt securities	—	24,200	—

There were no purchases, sales or transfers of assets classified as Level 3 in 2014, 2013 or 2012.

Cash Flows

Based on our forecast at September 28, 2014, we do not expect to contribute to our postretirement plans in 2015.

The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (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 Modernization 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

2015	3,070	(220	)	2,850
2016	2,130	(220	)	1,910
2017	2,090	(210	)	1,880
2018	2,010	(200	)	1,810
2019	2,000	(210	)	1,790
2020-2024	9,010	(860	)	8,150

Litigation

Several plan changes implemented prior to 2012 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 $3,597,000 at September 28, 2014 and $2,785,000 at September 29, 2013.

Other Retirement Plans

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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 a non-qualified plan for employees whose incomes exceed qualified plan limits.

Retirement and compensation plan costs, including interest on deferred compensation costs, charged to continuing operations are $3,883,000 in 2014, $3,729,000 in 2013 and $3,533,000 in 2012.

Multiemployer Pension Plans

We contribute to three multiemployer defined benefit pension plans under the terms of collective-bargaining agreements ("CBAs") that cover certain of our union-represented employees. The risks of participating in these multiemployer plans are different from our company-sponsored plans in the following aspects:


•	We play no part in the management of the plan investments or any other aspect of plan administration;


•	Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers;


•	If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers; and


•	If we choose to stop participating in one or more multiemployer plans, we may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the unfunded status of the plan, referred to as "withdrawal liability".

Information related to these plans is outlined in the table below:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Zone Status September 30		Funding Improvement Plan/Rehabilitation Plan Status	Contributions
Pension Plan	2014	2013	Status	2014	2013	2012	Surcharge Imposed	Expiration Dates of CBAs

GCIU- Employer Retirement Fund 91-6024903/001	Red	Red	Implemented	257	238	234	No	10/31/2015
GCIU- Employer Retirement Fund 91-6024903/001								7/1/2017
CWA/ITU Negotiated Pension Plan 13-6212879/001	Red	Red	Implemented	113	121	132	No	5/13/2014
								12/31/2014
								4/1/2015
								8/31/2015
District No. 9, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Pension Trust 43-0736847/001	Green	Green	N/A	37	40	39	N/A	2/28/2015

Multiemployer plans in red zone status are generally less well funded than plans in green zone status.

Common Stock and Class B Common Stock	12 Months Ended
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock	Sep. 28, 2014
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. Holders of our previous 2^nd lien agreement 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. In connection with the 2nd Lien Term Loan, we entered into the Warrant Agreement. Under the Warrant Agreement, certain affiliates or designees of the 2nd Lien Lenders received on March 31, 2014 their pro rata share of Warrants to purchase, in cash, 6,000,000 shares of Common Stock, subject to adjustment pursuant to anti-dilution provisions. The Warrants represent, when fully exercised, approximately 10.1% of shares of Common Stock outstanding at March 30, 2014 on a fully diluted basis. The exercise price of the Warrants is $4.19 per share. The Warrant Agreement contains a cash settlement provision in the event of a change of control prior to March 31, 2018, as well as other provisions requiring the Warrants be measured at fair value and classified as other liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We remeasure the liability to fair value each reporting period, with changes reported in other non-operating income (expense). The initial fair value of the Warrants was $16,930,000. At September 28, 2014, the fair value of the Warrants is $10,807,800. In connection with the issuance of the Warrants, we entered into the Registration Rights Agreement. The Registration Rights Agreement requires, among other matters, that we use our commercially reasonable efforts to file and maintain the effectiveness for certain specified periods of a shelf registration statement covering the shares of Common Stock upon exercise of the Warrants. Under the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over-the-counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock was allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified us that we were again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. In January 2013, the NYSE notified us that we had returned to full compliance with all continued listing standards. 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 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 our Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (collectively “Common Shares”). Rights are attached to, and automatically trade with, our 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

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Section S99
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(d),(e))
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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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
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 10: 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 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
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Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
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+ Details

Stock Ownership Plans

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Stock Ownership Plans [Abstract]

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

STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS

Total non-cash stock compensation expense is $1,481,000, $1,261,000 and 1,080,000, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

At September 28, 2014, we have reserved 3,344,109 shares of Common Stock for issuance to employees under an incentive and nonstatutory stock option and restricted stock plan approved by stockholders. At September 28, 2014, 1,011,254 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)	2014		2013		2012

Under option, beginning of year	2,769		3,102		1,812
Granted	15		51		1,520
Exercised	(342	)	(62	)	—
Canceled	(109	)	(322	)	(230	)
Under option, end of year	2,333		2,769		3,102

Exercisable, end of year	1,786		1,791		1,298

Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows:



(Dollars)	2014	2013	2012

Granted	2.99	1.20	1.16
Exercised	2.01	1.65	—
Cancelled	10.98	5.18	—
Under option, end of year	2.70	2.94	3.18

The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2014, 2013 and 2012 option awards:



	2014	2013	2012

Volatility (Percent)	91	121	122
Risk-free interest rate (Percent)	1.24	0.68	0.76
Expected term (Years)	4.5	4.7	4.7
Estimated fair value (Dollars)	2.02	0.98	0.95

A summary of stock options outstanding at September 28, 2014 is as follows:



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

1 - 5	2,264	6.8	1.75	1,717	1.91
25 - 50	69	1.6	33.99	69	33.99
	2,333	6.6	2.70	1,786	3.15

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested stock options at September 28, 2014 is $324,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 0.7 years.

The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding at September 28, 2014 is $3,697,000.

Restricted Common Stock

A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows:



(Thousands of Shares)	2014		2013	2012

Outstanding, beginning of year	500		500	—
Granted	817		—	500
Forfeited	(26	)	—	—
Outstanding, end of year	1,291		500	500

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



(Dollars)	2014	2013	2012

Outstanding, beginning of year	1.31	1.31	—
Granted	3.61	—	1.31
Forfeited	3.61	—	—
Outstanding, end of year	2.72	1.31	1.31

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested restricted Common Stock at September 28, 2014 is $2,249,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years.

In December 2014, we issued 727,000 shares of restricted Common Stock to employees. The grant date fair value was $3.65 per share. All restrictions lapse in December 2017.

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 2014, 2013 or 2012.

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012

Current:
Federal	451		(7,915	)	(8,244	)
State	(571	)	(693	)	(2,210	)
Deferred	6,410		(54,806	)	(466	)
	6,290		(63,414	)	(10,920	)

Continuing operations	6,290		(62,745	)	(9,161	)
Discontinued operations	—		(669	)	(1,759	)
	6,290		(63,414	)	(10,920	)

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)	2014		2013		2012

Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	35.0		(35.0	)	(35.0	)
State income tax expense (benefit), net of federal tax impact	11.0		(2.6	)	(1.9	)
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates	(9.3	)	(0.8	)	(6.4	)
Domestic production deduction	—		0.4		2.1
Resolution of tax matters	3.6		0.1		(3.9	)
Non-deductible expenses	7.9		0.4		2.6
Valuation allowance	(4.5	)	(2.1	)	1.8
Warrant valuation	(15.1	)	—		—
Non-deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings	—		—		9.5
CODI tax attribute reduction	18.3		(4.8	)	(5.7	)
Other	(1.8	)	(0.7	)	(3.7	)
	45.1		(45.1	)	(40.6	)

Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(40,549	)	(46,242	)
Identified intangible assets	(54,819	)	(53,461	)
Long-term debt	(13,440	)	—
	(108,808	)	(99,703	)
Deferred income tax assets:
Investments	20,765		21,558
Long-term debt	—		45,945
Accrued compensation	5,182		5,056
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans	1,258		1,224
Pension and postretirement benefits	5,210		2,106
Net operating loss carryforwards	87,867		28,660
Accrued expenses	809		1,903
Other	618		468
	121,709		106,920
Valuation allowance	(26,439	)	(26,424	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(13,538	)	(19,207	)

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Current assets	1,228		2,017
Non-current liabilities	(14,766	)	(21,224	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(13,538	)	(19,207	)

A reconciliation of 2014 and 2013 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013

Balance, beginning of year	12,671		11,980
Decreases in tax positions for prior years	(1,592	)	(159	)
Increases in tax positions for the current year	3,580		1,948
Lapse in statute of limitations	(1,139	)	(1,098	)
Balance, end of year	13,520		12,671

Approximately $9,045,000 and $8,275,000 of the gross unrecognized tax benefit balances for 2014 and 2013, respectively, relate to state net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards which are netted against deferred taxes on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was $8,951,000 at September 28, 2014. 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, $385,000 at September 28, 2014 and $534,000 at September 29, 2013. There were no amounts provided for penalties at September 28, 2014 or September 29, 2013.

At September 28, 2014, we had approximately $1,008,948,000 of NOL carryforwards for state income tax purposes that expire between 2015 and 2034. Such NOL carryforwards result in a deferred income tax asset of $30,796,000 at September 28, 2014, substantially all of which is offset by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance not related to NOL carryforwards is $1,337,000 at September 28, 2014 and $2,131,000 at September 29, 2013.

2012 Federal NOL was carried back to 2010, resulting in a cash refund of $9,500,000, which was received in 2013. A Federal NOL based on 2013 results was carried back to 2011, resulting in a refund of $6,244,000. The refund was received in 2014.

In connection with the refinancing of debt under the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we realized substantial cancellation of debt income (“CODI”) for income tax purposes. This income was not immediately taxable for Federal income tax purposes because the CODI resulted from our reorganization under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. For Federal income tax reporting purposes, we were 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. The reduction in the basis of certain assets also resulted in reduced depreciation and amortization expense for income tax purposes beginning in 2013.

As a result of the reduction in the tax basis of debt noted above, we have been recognizing additional interest expense for income tax purposes, beginning in 2012. This additional interest expense was scheduled to be recognized through the maturity dates of the debt ending in 2017. The 2014 Refinancing resulted in all additional interest expense related to the CODI basis adjustment being deductible for income tax purposes in 2014. We expect to report a Federal NOL of approximately $163,000,000 for 2014, a substantial amount of which is due to this additional interest expense. This NOL results in a deferred income tax asset of $57,071,000, which is not offset by a valuation allowance because sufficient tax planning strategies are available to us before the expiration of the NOL in 2034.

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
Fair Value Measurements	Sep. 28, 2014
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. Investments totaling $8,774,000, including our 17% ownership of the non-voting common stock of TCT, are carried at cost. The fair value of floating rate debt, which consists of our 1^st Lien Term Loan, is $231,895,000, based on an average of private market price quotations. Our fixed rate debt consists of $400,000,000 principal amount of the Notes, $150,000,000 principal amount under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan and $23,000,000 principal amount of New Pulitzer Notes. At September 28, 2014, based on an average of private market price quotations, the fair values were $407,500,000 and $161,625,000 for the Notes and 2nd Lien Term Loan, respectively. The New Pulitzer Notes are held by a single investor, Berkshire. We are unable, as of September 28, 2014, to determine the fair value of the New Pulitzer Notes. The value, if determined, may be more or less than the carrying amount. As discussed more fully in Notes 5 and 9, we recorded a liability for the Warrants issued in connection with the Warrant Agreement. The liability was initially measured at its fair value. We will remeasure the liability to fair value each reporting period, with changes reported in other non-operating income (expense). The initial fair value of the Warrants was $16,930,000. At September 28, 2014, the fair value of the Warrants is $10,807,800. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, we reduced the carrying value of equipment no longer in use by $1,044,000, $486,000 and $1,388,000, 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 + Details

Earnings per Common Share

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013		2012

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	6,795		(77,071	)	(13,780	)
Discontinued operations	—		(1,246	)	(2,918	)
	6,795		(78,317	)	(16,698	)

Weighted average Common Stock	53,438		52,333		49,357
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(1,165	)	(500	)	(96	)
Basic average Common Stock	52,273		51,833		49,261
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	1,463		—		—
Diluted average Common Stock	53,736		51,833		49,261

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.13		(1.49	)	(0.28	)
Discontinued operations	—		(0.02	)	(0.06	)
	0.13		(1.51	)	(0.34	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.13		(1.49	)	(0.28	)
Discontinued operations	—		(0.02	)	(0.06	)
	0.13		(1.51	)	(0.34	)

For 2014, 2013 and 2012, we had 3,121,000, 1,700,000 and 2,334,000 weighted average shares, respectively, not considered in the computation of diluted earnings (loss) per common share because the exercise prices of the related stock options and Warrants were in excess of the fair market value of our Common Stock. No stock options were considered in the computation of loss per common share in 2013 or 2012.

Allowance For Doubtful Accounts

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013		2012

Balance, beginning of year	4,501		4,872		5,359
Additions charged to expense	1,754		1,481		1,441
Deductions from reserves	(1,729	)	(1,852	)	(1,928	)
Balance, end of year	4,526		4,501		4,872

- 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 + Details

Other Information

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Other Information [Text Block]

OTHER INFORMATION

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Compensation	11,187	12,606
Retirement plans	3,952	4,357
Other	9,209	11,530
	24,348	28,493

Cash payments are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014	2013	2012

Interest	81,363	84,479	72,131
Debt financing and reorganization costs	31,587	1,071	32,408
Income tax refunds, net of payments	6,022	9,126	1,140

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income taxes at September 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, is related to pension and postretirement benefits.

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies	Sep. 28, 2014
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 2019 and thereafter are $2,592,000, $2,252,000, $2,010,000, $1,945,000, $918,000 and $2,202,000, respectively. Total operating lease expense is $3,276,000, $3,581,000 and $3,731,000, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Capital Expenditures At September 28, 2014, we had construction and equipment purchase commitments totaling approximately $1,549,000. Redemption of PD LLC Minority Interest In February 2009, in conjunction with the Notes Amendment, PD LLC redeemed the 5% interest in PD LLC and STL Distribution Services LLC ("DS LLC") owned by The Herald Publishing Company, LLC ("Herald") pursuant to a Redemption Agreement and adopted conforming amendments to the Operating Agreement. As a result, the value of Herald's former interest (the “Herald Value”) was to be settled, based on a calculation of 10% of the fair market value of PD LLC and DS LLC at the time of settlement, less the balance, as adjusted, of the Pulitzer Notes or the equivalent successor debt, if any. We recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2009 as an estimate of the amount of the Herald Value to be disbursed. In 2011, we reduced the liability related to the Herald Value to $300,000 based on the current estimate of fair value. In 2014, we issued 100,000 shares of Common Stock in full satisfaction of the Herald Value. Such shares had a fair value of $298,000 on the date of issuance. The redemption of Herald's interest in PD LLC and DS LLC may generate significant tax benefits to us as a consequence of the resulting increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by PD LLC and DS LLC and the related depreciation and amortization deductions. The increase in basis to be amortized for income tax purposes over a 15 year period beginning in February 2009 is approximately $258,000,000. Income Taxes 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 2009. Legal Proceedings In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs sought relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and requested punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, a motion to decertify the class was filed, which was granted as to plaintiffs' minimum wage, overtime, unreimbursed meal, and unreimbursed rest period claims. In July 2014 we reached a settlement with the plaintiffs, which remains subject to court approval, and recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2014. 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.

Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards (Notes)	12 Months Ended
Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards (Notes)	Sep. 28, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]	IMPACT OF RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS In 2013, FASB issued an amendment to an existing accounting standard, which requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("AOCI") by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified in its entirety in the same reporting period. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. This guidance does not change the current requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in the financial statements and is effective beginning in 2014. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

- Definition

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

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507316

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

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28359718&loc=d3e22583-107794

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Indirect Effects of a Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6515603

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28359718&loc=d3e22580-107794

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.10-01.(b)(6))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27015980&loc=d3e46468-122699

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Accounting Change
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6503790

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28359718&loc=d3e22499-107794

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Retrospective Application
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6523989

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 13
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6372559&loc=d3e765-108305

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 12
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6372559&loc=d3e725-108305

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 01
-Paragraph b
-Subparagraph 6
-Article 10

+ Details

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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

2014

Operating revenue	177,385	154,093		163,125		162,094

Income (loss) from continuing operations	12,102	1,705		(9,511	)	3,375
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	—	—		—		—
Net income (loss)	12,102	1,705		(9,511	)	3,375

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	11,892	1,486		(9,746	)	3,162

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.23	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06
Discontinued operations	—	—		—		—
	0.23	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.22	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06
Discontinued operations	—	—		—		—
	0.22	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06

2013

Operating revenue	184,656	160,603		167,019		162,462

Income (loss) from continuing operations	13,652	(3,562	)	1,968		(88,536	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	1,046	(2,293	)	—		1
Net income (loss)	14,698	(5,855	)	1,968		(88,535	)

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,580	(5,995	)	1,795		(88,697	)

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.26	(0.07	)	0.03		(1.71	)
Discontinued operations	0.02	(0.04	)	—		—
	0.28	(0.12	)	0.03		(1.71	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.26	(0.07	)	0.03		(1.71	)
Discontinued operations	0.02	(0.04	)	—		—
	0.28	(0.12	)	0.03		(1.71	)

Results of operations for the September quarter of 2014 and 2013 include non-cash impairment charges of $2,644,000 and $171,094,000, respectively.

Basis of Presentation Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Minority Interest Policy [Policy Text Block]

Minority Interest

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

Uninsured Risks Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 $5,820,000 at September 28, 2014 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.

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, 50% interest in MNI and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. (“TownNews”). TNI and MNI are accounted for under the equity method.

Fiscal Year

All of our enterprises use period accounting with the fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. 2014 and 2013 include 52 weeks of business operations for the Company and MNI and 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. TNI has 52 weeks of operations in 2014 and 2012 and a 53rd week of business operations in 2013.

Subsequent Events

We have evaluated subsequent events through December 12, 2014. No events have occurred subsequent to September 28, 2014 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, and reductions in the value 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 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013 are less than replacement cost by $2,761,000 and $3,087,000, respectively.

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

First-in, first-out	2,297	2,219
Last-in, first-out	2,404	2,278
	4,701	4,497

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 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, capitalized interest is 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	15 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	11 - 33
Non-compete and consulting agreements	15

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

We analyze goodwill and other non-amortized 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. Fair value is allocated to our assets and liabilities to determine an implied goodwill fair value. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the book value of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.

Should we determine that a non-amortized 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.

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.

The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us and represent a Level 3 fair value measurement. 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 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.

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. See Note 4.

Minority Interest

Minority interest in earnings of TownNews 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 platform. Subscription revenue is recorded over the print or digital subscription term or as 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 advertising placed in our own publications and digital platforms, 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, when applicable, 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 Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 715, Retirement Plans.

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are provided using the asset and 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 valued based on the closing market price in an active market 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.

Hedge funds consist of a long/short equity fund and a diversified fund of funds. These 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, which is determined using multiple approaches including by quoted market prices and by private market quotations. Such investments are classified as Level 2 and Level 3.

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.

Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities ("TIPS") consist of low yield mutual funds and are valued by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1.

Stock Compensation and Warrants

We have several active 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.

We also have 6,000,000 warrants outstanding to purchase shares of our Common Stock. Warrants are recorded at fair value determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing formula. See Notes 5, 9 and 12.

Uninsured Risks

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.

Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Fiscal Year

Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Subsequent Events

Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Revenue Recognition

Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Advertising Costs

Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

First-in, first-out	2,297	2,219
Last-in, first-out	2,404	2,278
	4,701	4,497

Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Other Investments

Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Discontinued Operations

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.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets



	Years

Customer lists	15 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	11 - 33
Non-compete and consulting agreements	15

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 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, capitalized interest is not significant.

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

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.

Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities ("TIPS") consist of low yield mutual funds and are valued by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1.

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.

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

Basis of Presentation

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

Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Income Taxes

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 28 2014	September 29 2013

First-in, first-out	2,297	2,219
Last-in, first-out	2,404	2,278
	4,701	4,497

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.

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

Stock Compensation and Warrants

Basis of Presentation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Basis of Presentation [Abstract]

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

Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

First-in, first-out	2,297	2,219
Last-in, first-out	2,404	2,278
	4,701	4,497

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	15 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	11 - 33
Non-compete and consulting agreements	15

Discontinued Operations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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

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

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2013		2012

Operating revenue	1,321		31,416
Costs and expenses	(1,697	)	(36,093	)
Gain on sale of the North County Times	1,801		—
Loss on sale of The Garden Island	(3,340	)	—

Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(1,915	)	(4,677	)
Income tax benefit	(669	)	(1,759	)
Net loss	(1,246	)	(2,918	)

- 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. 28, 2014

Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents	176	231
Accounts receivable, net	4,749	5,096
Inventories	1,582	735
Other current assets	125	125
Investments and other assets	78	13
Total assets	6,710	6,200

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	2,160	1,800
Unearned revenue	3,036	3,273
Total liabilities	5,196	5,073
Members' equity	1,514	1,127
Total liabilities and members' equity	6,710	6,200

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013	2012
	52 Weeks		53 Weeks	52 Weeks
Operating revenue:
Advertising and marketing services	36,957		40,166	39,267
Subscription	17,525		18,248	17,452
Other	3,410		3,576	2,324
Total operating revenue	57,892		61,990	59,043
Operating expenses:
Compensation	18,505		19,799	20,050
Newsprint and ink	8,123		9,626	10,695
Other operating expenses	20,672		20,971	18,823
Workforce adjustments	(71	)	—	(31	)
Net income	10,663		11,594	9,506

Company's 50% share	5,331		5,797	4,753
Less amortization of intangible assets	418		621	723
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,913		5,176	4,030

Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block]

Summarized cash flows of TNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012
	52 Weeks		53 Weeks		52 Weeks

Net income	10,663		11,594		9,506
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities	(442	)	1,351		(589	)
Cash required for financing activities	(10,276	)	(12,851	)	(8,875	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(55	)	94		42
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of year	231		137		95
End of year	176		231		137

Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents	12,245	12,552
Accounts receivable, net	5,794	6,295
Other current assets	2,656	2,584
Current assets	20,695	21,431
Investments and other assets	2,871	2,871
Property and equipment, net	6,758	7,231
Goodwill and other intangible assets	26,118	26,616
Total assets	56,442	58,149

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	3,502	3,611
Unearned revenue	5,226	4,887
Deferred income taxes	8,425	7,630
Total liabilities	17,153	16,128
Stockholders' equity	39,289	42,021
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	56,442	58,149

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014	2013	2012
	52 Weeks	52 Weeks	53 Weeks
Operating revenue:
Advertising and marketing services	44,357	46,373	51.019
Subscription	21,578	17,421	17,173
Other	1,543	1,674	1,966
Total operating revenue	67,478	65,468	70,158
Operating expenses:
Compensation	21,750	23,282	25,486
Newsprint and ink	5,166	5,871	6,927
Other operating expenses	28,477	24,046	25,568
Workforce adjustments	244	308	546
Depreciation and amortization	1,626	1,530	1,689
Total operating expenses	57,263	55,037	60,216
Operating income	10,215	10,431	9,942
Non-operating income, net	408	415	312
Income before income taxes	10,623	10,846	10,254
Income tax expense	3,855	3,895	3,785
Net income	6,768	6,951	6,469

Equity in earnings of MNI	3,384	3,509	3,201

Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block]

Summarized cash flows of MNI are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012
	52 Weeks		52 Weeks		53 Weeks

Net income	6,768		6,951		6,469
Cash provided by operating activities	9,448		8,643		10,641
Cash required for investing activities	(255	)	(155	)	(379	)
Cash required for financing activities	(9,500	)	(11,500	)	(6,800	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(307	)	(3,012	)	3,462
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of year	12,552		15,564		12,102
End of year	12,245		12,552		15,564

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013

Goodwill, gross amount	1,532,458		1,532,458
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)	(1,288,729	)
Goodwill, end of year	243,729		243,729

Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Non-amortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	25,102	27,038
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	686,732	686,732
Less accumulated amortization	499,178	471,589
	187,554	215,143
Non-compete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,523	28,521
	1	3
	212,657	242,184

Asset Impairment Charges [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014	2013	2012

Continuing operations:
Non-amortized intangible assets	1,936	1,567	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	169,041	—
Property and equipment	1,044	486	1,388
	2,980	171,094	1,388

Discontinued operations	—	—	3,606

Debt Schedule Of Debt Payments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Reorganization Costs [Table Text Block]

The components of reorganization costs are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)

Unamortized loan fees from previous credit agreements	1,740
Fees paid in cash to lenders, attorneys and others	38,628
Non-cash fees paid in the form of additional debt	12,250
Fair value of stock granted to 2^nd Lien Lenders	9,576
Present value adjustment	(23,709	)
	38,485
Charged to expense in 2012	37,765
Charged to expense in 2011 as other non-operating expense	720

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

Debt is summarized as follows:



				Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013		September 28 2014

Revolving Facility	5,000	—		5.65
1st Lien Term Loan	226,750	—		7.25
Notes	400,000	—		9.50
2^ndLien Term Loan	150,000	—		12.00
New Pulitzer Notes	23,000	63,000		9.00
Previous credit agreements	—	784,500
Unamortized present value adjustment	—	(12,942	)
	804,750	834,558
Less current maturities of long-term debt	31,400	19,150
Current amount of present value adjustment	—	(4,779	)
Total long-term debt	773,350	820,187

We may redeem some, or all, of the principal amount of the Notes at any time on or after March 15, 2018 as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 15, 2018	104.75
March 15, 2019	102.375
March 15, 2020	100

Voluntary payments under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan are otherwise subject to call premiums as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 31, 2014	112
March 31, 2017	106
March 31, 2018	103
March 31, 2019	100

1st Lien Agreement [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

2014 payments made under the 1^st Lien Term Loan or previous 1st lien agreement, are summarized as follows:



				13 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 29 2013	March 30 2014	June 29 2014	September 28 2014

Mandatory	3,000	3,000	6,250	6,250
Voluntary	3,350	5,500	10,750	—
Asset sales	150	1,500	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	6,500	10,000	17,000	6,250

2013 payments made under the previous 1^stlien agreement are summarized as follows:



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

Mandatory	2,500	2,500	3,000	3,000
Voluntary	9,750	15,350	2,260	6,000
Asset sales	7,750	—	240	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	20,000	17,850	5,500	9,000

New Pulitzer Notes [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

2014 payments made under the New Pulitzer Notes are summarized below.



				13 Weeks Ended
(Thousands of Dollars)	December 29 2013	March 30 2014	June 29 2014	September 28 2014

Mandatory	6,400	—	—	—
Voluntary	1,600	10,000	13,000	9,000
Asset sales	—	—	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	8,000	10,000	13,000	9,000

Pulitzer Notes [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

2013 payments made under the New Pulitzer Notes or Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows:



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

Mandatory	3,800	2,600	—	—
Voluntary	—	1,500	14,000	17,000
Asset sales	5,200	1,900	—	—
Excess cash flow	—	—	—	—
	9,000	6,000	14,000	17,000

- 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 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21475-112644

Reference 3: 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 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=26873400&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 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21506-112644

Reference 8: 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 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

Debt Debt Call Provisions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

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

Debt is summarized as follows:



				Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013		September 28 2014

Revolving Facility	5,000	—		5.65
1st Lien Term Loan	226,750	—		7.25
Notes	400,000	—		9.50
2^ndLien Term Loan	150,000	—		12.00
New Pulitzer Notes	23,000	63,000		9.00
Previous credit agreements	—	784,500
Unamortized present value adjustment	—	(12,942	)
	804,750	834,558
Less current maturities of long-term debt	31,400	19,150
Current amount of present value adjustment	—	(4,779	)
Total long-term debt	773,350	820,187

We may redeem some, or all, of the principal amount of the Notes at any time on or after March 15, 2018 as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 15, 2018	104.75
March 15, 2019	102.375
March 15, 2020	100

Voluntary payments under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan are otherwise subject to call premiums as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 31, 2014	112
March 31, 2017	106
March 31, 2018	103
March 31, 2019	100

- Definition

+ References

+ Details

Debt Schedule of Debt Financing Costs (Tables) - USD ($)

12 Months Ended

15 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]

Refinancing Costs Table [Table Text Block]

Debt financing costs are summarized as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)

Prepayment premium - previous 2^nd lien agreement		1,750
Unamortized loan fees from previous credit agreements		10,549
Fees paid in cash to arrangers, lenders, attorneys and others		24,181
Original issue discount - 1^st Lien Term Loan		5,000
Fair value of Warrants granted to 2nd Lien Lenders		16,930
		58,410

Charged to expense as a result of debt extinguishment		20,591
Capitalized debt financing costs		37,819

Amortization of Debt Issue Costs- Refinance

$ 10,549,000

$ 4,514,000

$ 1,740,000

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

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)

2015	11,581
2016	11,380
2017	11,436
2018	11,451
2019	11,466
2020-2024	56,934

Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)	Policy Allocation	Actual Allocation
Asset Class	September 28 2014	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Equity securities	50	48	60
Debt securities	35	20	30
TIPS	5	4	4
Hedge fund investments	10	10	4
Cash and cash equivalents	—	18	2

Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Discount rate	4.2	4.7

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



(Percent)	2014	2013	2012

Discount rate	4.7	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.0	7.5	7.9

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

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



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the year	156		216		30
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	7,996		7,529		7,975
Expected return on plan assets	(9,932	)	(9,838	)	(8,891	)
Amortization of net loss	423		2,287		2,370
Amortization of prior service benefit	(136	)	(136	)	(136	)
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	(1,493	)	58		1,348

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)	2014		2013

Benefit obligation, beginning of year	175,771		201,219
Service cost	156		216
Interest cost	7,996		7,529
Actuarial loss (gain)	26,526		(22,155	)
Benefits paid	(11,252	)	(11,038	)
Benefit obligation, end of year	199,197		175,771
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year:	147,265		134,900
Actual return on plan assets	15,074		19,364
Benefits paid	(11,252	)	(11,038	)
Administrative expenses paid	(1,509	)	(1,977	)
Employer contributions	1,435		6,016
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	151,013		147,265
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	48,184		28,506

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 28 2014		September 29 2013

Pension obligations	48,184		28,506
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(41,695	)	(19,091	)

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

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(42,348	)	(19,880	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	653		789
	(41,695	)	(19,091	)

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

The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 28, 2014 is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	27,213	—	—
Domestic equity securities	58,754	—	—
International equity securities	7,007	7,562	—
TIPS	6,498	—	—
Debt securities	11,690	17,769	—
Hedge fund investments	—	8,030	8,351

Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

Following is a rollfoward of Level 3 plan assets in 2014:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 3

Balance, beginning of year	—
Purchases, issuances, sales, settlements	7,300
Unrealized gains	1,051
Balance, end of year	8,351

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

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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 (benefit) components for our postretirement plans are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012

Service cost for benefits earned during the year	596		728		728
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	911		1,125		1,109
Expected return on plan assets	(1,483	)	(1,474	)	(2,129	)
Amortization of net actuarial gain	(1,819	)	(1,324	)	(2,451	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(1,459	)	(1,459	)	(1,459	)
Net periodic postretirement benefit	(3,254	)	(2,404	)	(4,202	)

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)	2014		2013

Benefit obligation, beginning of year	23,432		30,728
Service cost	596		728
Interest cost	911		1,125
Actuarial loss (gain)	2,298		(7,338	)
Benefits paid, net of premiums received	(1,905	)	(2,102	)
Medicare Part D subsidies	174		291
Benefit obligation, end of year	25,506		23,432
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	33,920		34,263
Actual return on plan assets	1,167		1,495
Employer contributions	597		679
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received	(1,731	)	(1,811	)
Benefits paid for active employees	(1,072	)	(706	)
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date	32,881		33,920
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets	(7,375	)	(10,488	)

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 28 2014	September 29 2013

Non-current assets	14,136	14,956
Postretirement benefit obligations	6,761	4,468
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	27,250	34,214

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 28 2014	September 29 2013

Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,394	21,899
Unrecognized prior service benefit	10,856	12,315
	27,250	34,214

Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Discount rate	3.7	4.0
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	4.5

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



(Percent)	2014	2013	2012

Discount rate	4.0	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	4.5	5.75

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

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:



(Percent)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Health care cost trend rates	7.5	7.5
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	2018	2018

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 2014:



	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease

Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	36	(32	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	742	(673	)

Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

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



(Percent)	Policy Allocation	Actual Allocation
Asset Class	September 28 2014	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Equity securities	20	22	22
Debt securities	80	74	75
Cash and cash equivalents	—	4	4

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

The fair value hierarchy of postretirement assets at September 28, 2014 is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents	1,294	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,112	1,676	—
International equity securities	719	879	—
Debt securities	—	24,200	—

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

2015	3,070	(220	)	2,850
2016	2,130	(220	)	1,910
2017	2,090	(210	)	1,880
2018	2,010	(200	)	1,810
2019	2,000	(210	)	1,790
2020-2024	9,010	(860	)	8,150

Other Retirement Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block]

these plans is outlined in the table below:



(Thousands of Dollars)	Zone Status September 30		Funding Improvement Plan/Rehabilitation Plan Status	Contributions
Pension Plan	2014	2013	Status	2014	2013	2012	Surcharge Imposed	Expiration Dates of CBAs

GCIU- Employer Retirement Fund 91-6024903/001	Red	Red	Implemented	257	238	234	No	10/31/2015
GCIU- Employer Retirement Fund 91-6024903/001								7/1/2017
CWA/ITU Negotiated Pension Plan 13-6212879/001	Red	Red	Implemented	113	121	132	No	5/13/2014
								12/31/2014
								4/1/2015
								8/31/2015
District No. 9, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Pension Trust 43-0736847/001	Green	Green	N/A	37	40	39	N/A	2/28/2015

Stock Ownership Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013		2012

Under option, beginning of year	2,769		3,102		1,812
Granted	15		51		1,520
Exercised	(342	)	(62	)	—
Canceled	(109	)	(322	)	(230	)
Under option, end of year	2,333		2,769		3,102

Exercisable, end of year	1,786		1,791		1,298

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)	2014	2013	2012

Granted	2.99	1.20	1.16
Exercised	2.01	1.65	—
Cancelled	10.98	5.18	—
Under option, end of year	2.70	2.94	3.18

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

The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2014, 2013 and 2012 option awards:



	2014	2013	2012

Volatility (Percent)	91	121	122
Risk-free interest rate (Percent)	1.24	0.68	0.76
Expected term (Years)	4.5	4.7	4.7
Estimated fair value (Dollars)	2.02	0.98	0.95

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 28, 2014 is as follows:



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

1 - 5	2,264	6.8	1.75	1,717	1.91
25 - 50	69	1.6	33.99	69	33.99
	2,333	6.6	2.70	1,786	3.15

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)	2014		2013	2012

Outstanding, beginning of year	500		500	—
Granted	817		—	500
Forfeited	(26	)	—	—
Outstanding, end of year	1,291		500	500

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)	2014	2013	2012

Outstanding, beginning of year	1.31	1.31	—
Granted	3.61	—	1.31
Forfeited	3.61	—	—
Outstanding, end of year	2.72	1.31	1.31

Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013		2012

Current:
Federal	451		(7,915	)	(8,244	)
State	(571	)	(693	)	(2,210	)
Deferred	6,410		(54,806	)	(466	)
	6,290		(63,414	)	(10,920	)

Continuing operations	6,290		(62,745	)	(9,161	)
Discontinued operations	—		(669	)	(1,759	)
	6,290		(63,414	)	(10,920	)

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)	2014		2013		2012

Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	35.0		(35.0	)	(35.0	)
State income tax expense (benefit), net of federal tax impact	11.0		(2.6	)	(1.9	)
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates	(9.3	)	(0.8	)	(6.4	)
Domestic production deduction	—		0.4		2.1
Resolution of tax matters	3.6		0.1		(3.9	)
Non-deductible expenses	7.9		0.4		2.6
Valuation allowance	(4.5	)	(2.1	)	1.8
Warrant valuation	(15.1	)	—		—
Non-deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings	—		—		9.5
CODI tax attribute reduction	18.3		(4.8	)	(5.7	)
Other	(1.8	)	(0.7	)	(3.7	)
	45.1		(45.1	)	(40.6	)

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

Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(40,549	)	(46,242	)
Identified intangible assets	(54,819	)	(53,461	)
Long-term debt	(13,440	)	—
	(108,808	)	(99,703	)
Deferred income tax assets:
Investments	20,765		21,558
Long-term debt	—		45,945
Accrued compensation	5,182		5,056
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans	1,258		1,224
Pension and postretirement benefits	5,210		2,106
Net operating loss carryforwards	87,867		28,660
Accrued expenses	809		1,903
Other	618		468
	121,709		106,920
Valuation allowance	(26,439	)	(26,424	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(13,538	)	(19,207	)

Deferred Tax Asset/Liability Classification [Table Text Block]

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014		September 29 2013

Current assets	1,228		2,017
Non-current liabilities	(14,766	)	(21,224	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(13,538	)	(19,207	)

Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]

A reconciliation of 2014 and 2013 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014		2013

Balance, beginning of year	12,671		11,980
Decreases in tax positions for prior years	(1,592	)	(159	)
Increases in tax positions for the current year	3,580		1,948
Lapse in statute of limitations	(1,139	)	(1,098	)
Balance, end of year	13,520		12,671

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	Sep. 28, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]

Earnings per Common Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013		2012

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	6,795		(77,071	)	(13,780	)
Discontinued operations	—		(1,246	)	(2,918	)
	6,795		(78,317	)	(16,698	)

Weighted average Common Stock	53,438		52,333		49,357
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(1,165	)	(500	)	(96	)
Basic average Common Stock	52,273		51,833		49,261
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	1,463		—		—
Diluted average Common Stock	53,736		51,833		49,261

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.13		(1.49	)	(0.28	)
Discontinued operations	—		(0.02	)	(0.06	)
	0.13		(1.51	)	(0.34	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.13		(1.49	)	(0.28	)
Discontinued operations	—		(0.02	)	(0.06	)
	0.13		(1.51	)	(0.34	)

Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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)	2014		2013		2012

Balance, beginning of year	4,501		4,872		5,359
Additions charged to expense	1,754		1,481		1,441
Deductions from reserves	(1,729	)	(1,852	)	(1,928	)
Balance, end of year	4,526		4,501		4,872

Other Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:



(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013

Compensation	11,187	12,606
Retirement plans	3,952	4,357
Other	9,209	11,530
	24,348	28,493

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

Cash payments are as follows:



(Thousands of Dollars)	2014	2013	2012

Interest	81,363	84,479	72,131
Debt financing and reorganization costs	31,587	1,071	32,408
Income tax refunds, net of payments	6,022	9,126	1,140

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

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

2014

Operating revenue	177,385	154,093		163,125		162,094

Income (loss) from continuing operations	12,102	1,705		(9,511	)	3,375
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	—	—		—		—
Net income (loss)	12,102	1,705		(9,511	)	3,375

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	11,892	1,486		(9,746	)	3,162

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.23	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06
Discontinued operations	—	—		—		—
	0.23	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.22	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06
Discontinued operations	—	—		—		—
	0.22	0.03		(0.19	)	0.06

2013

Operating revenue	184,656	160,603		167,019		162,462

Income (loss) from continuing operations	13,652	(3,562	)	1,968		(88,536	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	1,046	(2,293	)	—		1
Net income (loss)	14,698	(5,855	)	1,968		(88,535	)

Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,580	(5,995	)	1,795		(88,697	)

Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.26	(0.07	)	0.03		(1.71	)
Discontinued operations	0.02	(0.04	)	—		—
	0.28	(0.12	)	0.03		(1.71	)

Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.26	(0.07	)	0.03		(1.71	)
Discontinued operations	0.02	(0.04	)	—		—
	0.28	(0.12	)	0.03		(1.71	)

Debt Schedule of Debt Instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2014

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

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

Debt is summarized as follows:



				Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 28 2014	September 29 2013		September 28 2014

Revolving Facility	5,000	—		5.65
1st Lien Term Loan	226,750	—		7.25
Notes	400,000	—		9.50
2^ndLien Term Loan	150,000	—		12.00
New Pulitzer Notes	23,000	63,000		9.00
Previous credit agreements	—	784,500
Unamortized present value adjustment	—	(12,942	)
	804,750	834,558
Less current maturities of long-term debt	31,400	19,150
Current amount of present value adjustment	—	(4,779	)
Total long-term debt	773,350	820,187

We may redeem some, or all, of the principal amount of the Notes at any time on or after March 15, 2018 as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 15, 2018	104.75
March 15, 2019	102.375
March 15, 2020	100

Voluntary payments under the 2^nd Lien Term Loan are otherwise subject to call premiums as follows:



Period Beginning	Percentage of Principal Amount

March 31, 2014	112
March 31, 2017	106
March 31, 2018	103
March 31, 2019	100

- Definition

+ References

+ Details

Basis of Presentation (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Basis of Presentation (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Inventory, LIFO Reserve	$ 2,761,000	$ 3,087,000
FIFO Inventory Amount	2,297,000	2,219,000
LIFO Inventory Amount	2,404,000	2,278,000
Newsprint Inventory	$ 4,701,000	$ 4,497,000
Buildings and improvements low-end	5 years
Buildings and improvements high-end	54 years
Printing presses and insertion equipment low-end	3 years
Printing presses and insertion equipment high-end	28 years
Other low-end	3 years
Other high-end	20 years
Customer Lists [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Intangible Assets Useful Life - Minimum	15 years
Intangible Assets Useful Life - Maximum	23 years
Subscriber Lists [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Intangible Assets Useful Life - Minimum	11 years
Intangible Assets Useful Life - Maximum	33 years
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	15 years

Basis of Presentation Schedule of Less than 100% Subsidiaries (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014
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 ($)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Feb. 28, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue				$ 1,321,000	$ 31,416,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Expense				(1,697,000)	(36,093,000)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax				(1,915,000)	(4,677,000)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation			$ 0	(669,000)	(1,759,000)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest				(1,246,000)	(2,918,000)
The Garden Island [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Contract Price Of Disposal Group						$ 2,000,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	$ 2,170,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax				(3,340,000)	0
North County Times [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Contract Price Of Disposal Group							$ 11,950,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax		$ 1,168,000
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax				$ 1,801,000	$ 0

Investments in Associated Companies Summarized Financial Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity in earnings of associated companies	$ 8,297,000	$ 8,685,000	$ 7,231,000
Associated companies	37,790,000	39,489,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Advertising Revenue	36,957,000	40,166,000	39,267,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Subscription Revenue	17,525,000	18,248,000	17,452,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Revenue	3,410,000	3,576,000	2,324,000
Equity method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash and cash equivalents	176,000	231,000	137,000	$ 95,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Accounts Receivable, Net	4,749,000	5,096,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Inventory	1,582,000	735,000
Equity Method Investments, Summarized Financial Information, Other Current Assets	125,000	125,000
Share of TNI Operating Expenses	(60,000)	(488,000)	(522,000)
Editorial Fees	5,908,000	6,041,000	5,994,000,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	57,892,000	61,990,000	59,043,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Compensation Expense	18,505,000	19,799,000	20,050,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Newsprint and Ink Expense	8,123,000	9,626,000	10,695,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Operating Expenses	20,672,000	20,971,000	18,823,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	(71,000)	0	(31,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	10,663,000	11,594,000	9,506,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash provided by operating activities	(442,000)	1,351,000	(589,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash required for Financing Activities	(10,276,000)	(12,851,000)	(8,875,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(55,000)	94,000	42,000
Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Before Amortization	5,331,000	5,797,000	4,753,000
Amortization Of Intangible Assets- TNI	418,000	621,000	723,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	4,913,000	5,176,000	4,030,000
Associated companies	18,146,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	418,000
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	78,000	13,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	6,710,000	6,200,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	2,160,000	1,800,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities	3,036,000	3,273,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities	5,196,000	5,073,000
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	1,514,000	1,127,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	6,710,000	6,200,000
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Advertising Revenue	44,357,000	46,373,000	51,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Subscription Revenue	21,578,000	17,421,000	17,173,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Revenue	1,543,000	1,674,000	1,966,000
Equity method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash and cash equivalents	12,245,000	12,552,000	15,564,000	$ 12,102,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Accounts Receivable, Net	5,794,000	6,295,000
Equity Method Investments, Summarized Financial Information, Other Current Assets	2,656,000	2,584,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets	20,695,000	21,431,000
Editorial Fees	7,050,000	7,346,000	8,098,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	67,478,000	65,468,000	70,158,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Compensation Expense	21,750,000	23,282,000	25,486,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Newsprint and Ink Expense	5,166,000	5,871,000	6,927,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Operating Expenses	28,477,000	24,046,000	25,568,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	244,000	308,000	546,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Depreciation And Amortization	1,626,000	1,530,000	1,689,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Sales	57,263,000	55,037,000	60,216,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	10,215,000	10,431,000	9,942,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Nonoperating Income, net	408,000	415,000	312,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Pretax Income	10,623,000	10,846,000	10,254,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Tax Expense	3,855,000	3,895,000	3,785,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	6,768,000	6,951,000	6,469,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash provided by operating activities	9,448,000	8,643,000	10,641,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash Provided By Investing Activities	(255,000)	(155,000)	(379,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cash required for Financing Activities	(9,500,000)	(11,500,000)	(6,800,000)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(307,000)	(3,012,000)	3,462,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	3,384,000	3,509,000	$ 3,201,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets	2,871,000	2,871,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, PPE	6,758,000	7,231,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Goodwill and other intangible assets	26,118,000	26,616,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	56,442,000	58,149,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	3,502,000	3,611,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Unearned Revenue	5,226,000	4,887,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Deferred income taxes	8,425,000	7,630,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities	17,153,000	16,128,000
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	39,289,000	42,021,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	$ 56,442,000	$ 58,149,000
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	$ 12,366,000,000
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	$ 5,390,000

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross	$ 1,532,458	$ 1,532,458
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	$ (1,288,729)	$ (1,288,729)

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Mastheads	$ 25,102,000	$ 27,038,000
Other intangible assets, net	212,657,000	242,184,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	27,185,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	26,059,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	25,030,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	16,653,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	15,972,000
Customer Lists [Member]
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	686,732,000	686,732,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	499,178,000	471,589,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	187,554,000	215,143,000
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	28,523,000	28,521,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 1,000	$ 3,000

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Asset Impairment Charges (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Asset Impairment Charges [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Impairment Losses			$ 1,936,000	$ 1,567,000	$ 0
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived			0	169,041,000	0
Tangible Asset Impairment Charges			1,044,000	486,000	1,388,000
Impairment of intangible and other assets	$ 2,644,000	$ 171,094,000	2,980,000	171,094,000	1,388,000
Impairment Of Goodwill And Other Assets (Including Equity Method Investments)			2,980,000	171,094,000	1,388,000
Asset Impairments- Discontinued Operations			$ 0	$ 0	$ 3,606,000

Debt Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	2 Months Ended	3 Months Ended									4 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			15 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
	Jan. 30, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009	Sep. 28, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Jan. 30, 2012	Jun. 29, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2014	May 01, 2013	May 01, 2000
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense			$ 36,486,000											$ 36,486,000
Payments of Financing Costs														31,587,000	$ 1,071,000	$ 32,408,000		$ 38,628,000
Reorganization costs											$ 720,000			$ 0	0	37,765,000
Present Value Discount	$ 23,709,000											$ 23,709,000
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate			9.30%											9.30%
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months			$ 31,400,000											$ 31,400,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			804,750,000				$ 834,558,000							804,750,000	834,558,000
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid														31,587,000	1,071,000	32,408,000
Refinancing fee, Prepayment Penalty														1,750,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two			31,400,000											31,400,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three			35,200,000											35,200,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four			25,000,000											25,000,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five			131,750,000											131,750,000
Unamortized Loan Commitment and Origination Fees and Unamortized Discounts or Premiums			0				(12,942,000)							0	(12,942,000)
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	12,250,000											12,250,000							$ 5,000,000
Amortization of Debt Issue Costs- Refinance														10,549,000	4,514,000		$ 1,740,000
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities			31,400,000				19,150,000							31,400,000	19,150,000
Unamortized Present Value Discount- Current Portion			0				(4,779,000)							0	(4,779,000)
Long-term Debt			773,350,000				820,187,000							773,350,000	820,187,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five			550,000,000											550,000,000
Liquidity			$ 44,750,000											44,750,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt														$ 847,750,000	192,350,000	$ 1,065,455,000
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding			6,000,000											6,000,000
Investment Warrants, Exercise Price														$ 4.19
Warrant liability fair value								$ 10,807,800	$ 16,930,000										16,930,000
Amortization of Financing Costs														$ 2,145,000
Future Liquidity- Warrant Exercise Proceeds														25,140,000
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount			$ 400,000,000											$ 400,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End			9.50%											9.50%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			$ 400,000,000				0							$ 400,000,000	0
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			9.50%											9.50%
New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount			$ 250,000,000											$ 250,000,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			$ 226,750,000				0							226,750,000	0
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid														$ 30,931,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			7.25%											7.25%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount																			5,000,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 6,250,000										$ 17,000,000
Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount			40,000,000											$ 40,000,000
New Second Lien Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount			$ 150,000,000											$ 150,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End			12.00%											12.00%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			$ 150,000,000				0							$ 150,000,000	0
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			12.00%											12.00%
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis			10.00%											10.00%
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding			6,000,000											6,000,000
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount																			593,000,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt				$ 5,500,000	$ 10,000,000	$ 6,500,000	9,000,000		17,850,000	$ 20,000,000
Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			$ 5,000,000				0							$ 5,000,000	0
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			5.65%											5.65%
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity			$ 27,605,000											$ 27,605,000
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair Value Of Stock Issued In Refinancing	9,576,000											9,576,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount																			$ 175,000,000
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis			13.00%											13.00%
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding			6,743,640											6,743,640
Previous Credit Agreement- Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Reorganization costs															37,765,000
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
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	$ 3,500,000											$ 3,500,000
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Covenant EBITDA														$ 42,884,000
Present Value Discount			$ (1,565,000)											(1,565,000)
Debt Instrument, Face Amount																				$ 94,000,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			$ 23,000,000				63,000,000							$ 23,000,000	63,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	9.00%		9.00%									9.00%		9.00%
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 9,000,000	13,000,000	10,000,000	8,000,000	17,000,000	14,000,000	6,000,000	9,000,000
Accrued Deferred Interest			(1,189,000)											$ (1,189,000)
Previous Credit Agreements [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			$ 0				784,500,000							$ 0	$ 784,500,000
Federal Funds Rate [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate			0.50%											0.50%
Interest Rate Margin			5.25%											5.25%
Federal Funds Rate [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate Margin			4.50%											4.50%
Prime Lending Rate [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate			2.00%											2.00%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate			1.00%											1.00%
Interest Rate Margin			6.25%											6.25%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base Interest Rate			0.50%											0.50%
30 Day LIBOR [Member] \| Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate Margin			5.50%											5.50%
Until March 31, 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														11200.00%
March 16, 2018 through March 15, 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														10475.00%
Prior to March 15, 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														109.50%
March 15, 2019 through March 14, 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														10237.50%
After March 15, 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														10000.00%
March 31, 2017 through March 31, 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														10600.00%
March 31, 2018 through March 31, 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														10300.00%
After March 31, 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed														10000.00%
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 6,250,000										$ 6,250,000
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt				3,000,000	3,000,000	3,000,000	3,000,000		2,500,000	2,500,000
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal			6,250,000
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 6,400,000	$ 0	$ 0	$ 2,600,000	$ 3,800,000
Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Available-for-sale Securities														$ 6,400,000

Debt Schedule of Payments (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Debt Schedule of Payments (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jun. 29, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	$ 131,750,000									$ 131,750,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt										$ 847,750,000	$ 192,350,000	$ 1,065,455,000
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt		$ 5,500,000	$ 10,000,000	$ 6,500,000	$ 9,000,000		$ 17,850,000	$ 20,000,000
New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	6,250,000								$ 17,000,000
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	9,000,000	13,000,000	10,000,000	8,000,000	17,000,000	$ 14,000,000	6,000,000	9,000,000
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt		3,000,000	3,000,000	3,000,000	3,000,000		2,500,000	2,500,000
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	6,250,000								6,250,000
Mandatory Payment [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	0	0	6,400,000	0	0	2,600,000	3,800,000
Voluntary Payment [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt		2,260,000	5,500,000	3,350,000	6,000,000		15,350,000	9,750,000
Voluntary Payment [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0								10,750,000
Voluntary Payment [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	9,000,000	13,000,000	10,000,000	1,600,000	17,000,000	14,000,000	1,500,000	0
Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt		240,000	1,500,000	150,000	0		0	7,750,000
Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0								0
Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	0	0	0	0	0	1,900,000	5,200,000
Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] \| 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt		0	0	0	0		0	0
Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] \| New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0								$ 0
Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] \| New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Debt Schedule of Debt Covenants (Details)	12 Months Ended
Debt Schedule of Debt Covenants (Details)	Sep. 28, 2014 USD ($)
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Covenant EBITDA	$ 42,884,000
Pulitzer Notes [Member] \| Pulitzer [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Minimum EBITDA Covenant Limitation	$ 24,500,000

Debt Schedule Of Financing Fees (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			15 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
Debt Schedule Of Financing Fees (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Jan. 30, 2012
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid		$ 31,587,000	$ 1,071,000	$ 32,408,000
Refinancing fee, Prepayment Penalty		1,750,000
Payments of Financing Costs		31,587,000	1,071,000	32,408,000		$ 38,628,000
Financing Costs Paid Pursuant to a Plan				6,273,000
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense		36,486,000
Present Value Discount										$ 23,709,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Next Fiscal Year		4,218,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 2		4,426,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 3		4,455,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 4		4,537,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 5		4,210,000
Amortization of Debt Issue Costs- Refinance		10,549,000	4,514,000		$ 1,740,000
Refinancing Costs- Cash Fees Paid		24,181,000			$ 38,628,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount							$ 5,000,000			12,250,000
Reorganization costs	$ 720,000	0	$ 0	$ 37,765,000
Warrant liability fair value							16,930,000	$ 10,807,800	$ 16,930,000
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt		20,591,000
Deferred Finance Costs, Gross							37,819,000
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Fair Value Of Stock Issued In Refinancing										$ 9,576,000
New 1st Lien Term Loan [Member]
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid		$ 30,931,000
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount							$ 5,000,000

Pensions (Details) - USD ($)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Pensions (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2015	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 26, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value			$ 8,351,000	$ 0
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases			7,300,000
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Period Increase (Decrease)			1,051,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months			$ 12,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate			5.00%	4.00%		4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate			4.00%	5.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax		$ 1,765,000	$ (42,348,000)	$ (19,880,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent			48,184,000	28,506,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation			199,197,000	175,771,000	$ 201,219,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation				175,771,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost			156,000	216,000	30,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost			7,996,000	7,529,000	7,975,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)			26,526,000	(22,155,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid			(11,252,000)	(11,038,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses			(1,509,000)	(1,977,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer		3,800,000	1,435,000	6,016,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets			(9,932,000)	(9,838,000)	(8,891,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)			(136,000)	(136,000)	(136,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			(1,493,000)	58,000	1,348,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			151,013,000	147,265,000	$ 134,900,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets			15,074,000	19,364,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan			48,184,000	28,506,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax			(41,695,000)	(19,091,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax		$ (137,000)	653,000	789,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax			$ (41,695,000)	$ (19,091,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets	0.00%		7.00%	8.00%		8.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two			$ 11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three			11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four			11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five			11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter			57,000
Change in PBO due to new mortality tables			$ 18,515,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			48.00%	60.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			5000.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			20.00%	30.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			3500.00%
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			$ 11,689,763.000
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			17,769,314.000
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
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| US Treasury Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			500.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| US Treasury Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			$ 6,497,735.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| US Treasury Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| US Treasury Securities [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			$ 0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			10.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			1000.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Hedge Funds [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			$ 0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Hedge Funds [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			8,030,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Hedge Funds [Member] \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			$ 8,351,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			18.00%	2.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			0.00%
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			$ 27,213,275.000
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
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
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months			$ 3,070,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate			4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate			4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax			$ 16,394,000	$ 21,899,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent			6,761,000	4,468,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation			25,506,000	23,432,000	$ 30,728,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost			596,000	728,000	728,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost			911,000	1,125,000	1,109,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)			2,298,000	(7,338,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid			(1,905,000)	(2,102,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer			597,000	679,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets			(1,483,000)	(1,474,000)	(2,129,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)			(1,459,000)	(1,459,000)	(1,459,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			(3,254,000)	(2,404,000)	(4,202,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets			32,881,000	33,920,000	$ 34,263,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets			1,167,000	1,495,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan			(7,375,000)	(10,488,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax			27,250,000	34,214,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax			10,856,000	12,315,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax			$ 27,250,000	$ 34,214,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets			5.00%	5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two			$ 2,130,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three			2,090,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four			2,010,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five			2,000,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter			$ 9,010,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			22.00%	22.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			2000.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations			74.00%	75.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			8000.00%
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
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			24,200,084.000
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
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			4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations			0.00%
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			$ 1,294,408.000
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
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
Other Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan			2,264,000	$ 2,354,000
Funded Status of Other Plans Recognized In Other Liabilities			279,000
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			58,754,401.000
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			0.000
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
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			4,111,852.000
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			1,676,480.000
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
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			7,007,160.000
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			7,561,877.000
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
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			719,162.000
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			879,405.000
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

Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployement Obligations (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation	$ 6,761,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	156,000	$ 216,000	$ 30,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	7,996,000	7,529,000	7,975,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	9,932,000	9,838,000	8,891,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	(423,000)	2,287,000	2,370,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	136,000	136,000	136,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	(1,493,000)	58,000	1,348,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	596,000	728,000	728,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	911,000	1,125,000	1,109,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	1,483,000	1,474,000	2,129,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	1,819,000	(1,324,000)	(2,451,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	1,459,000	1,459,000	1,459,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	$ (3,254,000)	$ (2,404,000)	$ (4,202,000)

Postretirement Obligations (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Postretirement Obligations (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net Actuarial Gains/Losses, Amortization Next Twelve Months	$ 1,443,000
Postretirement assets, net	14,136,000	$ 14,956,000
Prior Service Cost, Amortization Next Twelve Months	1,459,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	3,070,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Next Twelve Months	(220,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Next Twelve Months	2,850,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components	$ 36,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year	7.50%	7.50%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	$ 16,394,000	$ 21,899,000
Postretirement assets, net	14,136,000	14,956,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	6,761,000	4,468,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	25,506,000	23,432,000	$ 30,728,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	596,000	728,000	728,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	911,000	1,125,000	1,109,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	(1,483,000)	(1,474,000)	(2,129,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	(1,819,000)	1,324,000	2,451,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	(1,459,000)	(1,459,000)	(1,459,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	(3,254,000)	(2,404,000)	(4,202,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)	2,298,000	(7,338,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	(1,905,000)	(2,102,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid For Non-Participants	(1,072,000)	(706,000)
Prescription Drug Benefit, Effect of Subsidy on Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost	174,000	291,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	32,881,000	33,920,000	$ 34,263,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets	1,167,000	1,495,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	597,000	679,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Net Of Subsidy	(1,731,000)	(1,811,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	(7,375,000)	(10,488,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	27,250,000	34,214,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax	10,856,000	12,315,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax	$ 27,250,000	$ 34,214,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Expected Long-term Return on Assets	4.50%	4.50%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets	5.00%	5.00%	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	2018	2018
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components	$ (32,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation	742,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation	(673,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	2,130,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Two	(220,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 2	1,910,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	2,090,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Three	(210,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 3	1,880,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	2,010,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Four	(200,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 4	1,810,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	2,000,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Five	(210,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 5	1,790,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	9,010,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, after Year Five	(860,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, After Year 5	8,150,000
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, Target Plan Asset Allocations	2000.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	22.00%	22.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations	8000.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	74.00%	75.00%
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
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	24,200,084.000
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
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] \| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations	0.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	4.00%	4.00%
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	$ 1,294,408.000
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
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
LTD Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	3,597,000	$ 2,785,000
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	4,111,852.000
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	1,676,480.000
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
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	719,162.000
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	879,405.000
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

Other Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Other Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items]
Cost Related to Other Retirement Plans	$ 3,883,000	$ 3,729,000	$ 3,533,000
GCIU- Employer Retirement Fund [Member] \| Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items]
Pension Contributions	257,000	238,000	234,000
CWA/ITU Negotiated Pension Plan [Member] \| Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items]
Pension Contributions	113,000	121,000	132,000
District No. 9 Pension Trust [Member] \| Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items]
Pension Contributions	$ 37,000	$ 40,000	$ 39,000

Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items]
Warrant liability fair value		$ 16,930,000	$ 10,807,800	$ 16,930,000
Sunset Level Provisions	5,600,000
Investment Warrants, Exercise Price	$ 4.19
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding	6,000,000
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 Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis	13.00%
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding	6,743,640
New Second Lien Loan [Member]
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items]
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis	10.00%
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding	6,000,000

Common Stock and Class B Common Stock Preferred Share Purchase Rights (Details)	Sep. 28, 2014 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%

Stock Ownership Plans (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Stock Ownership Plans (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock compensation expense		$ 1,481,000	$ 1,261,000	$ 1,080,000
Restricted Shares Issued, Subsequent Event	727,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number		3,344,109
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant		1,011,254
Fair Value Per Share- Restricted Stock Award- Subsequent Event	$ 3.65
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		$ 3,610.00	$ 0.00	$ 1,310
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period		26,000	0	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number		1,291,000	500,000	500,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross		817,000	0	500,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	2,720	$ 1,310	$ 1,310	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 2,720	1,310	1,310
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options		$ 2,249,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition		1 year 8 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 4,000	0	0
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		$ 2.99	$ 1.20	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate		0.00%	0.00%	12200.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period		109,000	(322,000)	(230,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number		2,333,000	2,769,000	3,102,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross		15,000	51,000	1,520,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period		342,000	(62,000)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number		1,786,000	1,791,000	1,298,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	2.70	$ 2.94	$ 3.18
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price		10.98	5.18	$ 0.00
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		2.70	$ 2.94	$ 3.18
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 3.15
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value		$ 3,697,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options		$ 324,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition		8 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate		0.00%	0.00%	76.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value		$ 2.02	$ 0.98	$ 0.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 2.01	$ 1.65	$ 0.00
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term		4 years 6 months	4 years 8 months 12 days	4 years 8 months 12 days
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		2,263,815
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number		1,717,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	1.75
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 1.75
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 1.91
Exercise Price Range- 25-50 [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		69,040
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number		69,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 33.99
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 33.99
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 33.99

Stock Ownership Plans Stock Option Valuation Assumption (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
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	8 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	4 years 6 months	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%	12200.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate	0.00%	0.00%	76.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 2.02	$ 0.98	$ 0.95
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	1 year 8 months 12 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	6 years 7 months 6 days
Exercise Price Range- 25-50 [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	1 year 7 months 6 days

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Deferred income taxes	$ 1,228,000	$ 2,017,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	8,951,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	13,520,000	12,671,000	$ 11,980,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions	(1,592,000)	(159,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions	3,580,000	1,948,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations	(1,139,000)	(1,098,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment	(40,549,000)	(46,242,000)
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 451,000	$ (7,915,000)	$ (8,244,000)
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	11.00%	(3.00%)	(2.00%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Unconsolidated Subsidiary	(9.00%)	(1.00%)	(6.00%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities	0.00%	0.00%	2.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements	4.00%	0.00%	(4.00%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Other, Percent	8.00%	0.00%	3.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance	(5.00%)	(2.00%)	2.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Percent	(15.00%)	0.00%	0.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Chapter 11 Proceedings	0.00%	0.00%	10.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Other	18.00%	(5.00%)	(6.00%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments	(2.00%)	(1.00%)	(4.00%)
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	45.00%	(45.00%)	(41.00%)
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (571,000)	$ (693,000)	$ (2,210,000)
Deferred Tax Expense, Continuing and Discontinued Operations	6,410,000	(54,806,000)	(466,000)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Including Continuing and Discontinued Operations	6,290,000	(63,414,000)	(10,920,000)
Income tax expense (benefit)	6,290,000	(62,745,000)	(9,161,000)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation	0	(669,000)	$ (1,759,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets	(54,819,000)	(53,461,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	(108,808,000)	(99,703,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Debt	0	45,945,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation	5,182,000	5,056,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Allowance For Doubtful Accounts	1,258,000	1,224,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits	5,210,000	2,106,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local	87,867,000	28,660,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Other	809,000	1,903,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Investments	20,765,000	21,558,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	618,000	468,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	121,709,000	106,920,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	(26,439,000)	(26,424,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(13,538,000)	(19,207,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	(14,766,000)	(21,224,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued	385,000	534,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards	1,008,948,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards	30,796,000
Valuation Allowance Not Related To Operating Loss Carryforwards	1,337,000	2,131,000
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds	6,244,000	$ 9,500,000
Federal Net Operating Loss	163,000,000
Deferred Tax Asset- Federal NOL	$ 57,071,000

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	May 01, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments	$ 8,774,000
Tangible Asset Impairment Charges	1,044,000	$ 486,000	$ 1,388,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	804,750,000	834,558,000
Warrant liability fair value				$ 16,930,000	$ 10,807,800		$ 16,930,000
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	231,895,000
Senior Notes [Member] [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	407,500,000
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	161,625,000
Senior Notes [Member] [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	400,000,000
New Second Lien Loan [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	150,000,000	0
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	150,000,000
New Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	$ 23,000,000	$ 63,000,000
Debt Instrument, Face Amount						$ 94,000,000

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements Not Practicable (Details)	Sep. 28, 2014 USD ($)
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments	$ 8,774,000

Earnings per Common Share (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
Earnings per Common Share (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 28, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent									$ 6,795,000	$ (77,071,000)	$ (13,780,000)
Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1,000	$ 0	$ (2,293,000)	$ 1,046,000	0	(1,246,000)	(2,918,000)
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 3,162,000	$ (9,746,000)	$ 1,486,000	$ 11,892,000	$ (88,697,000)	$ 1,795,000	$ (5,995,000)	$ 14,580,000	$ 6,795,000	$ (78,317,000)	$ (16,698,000)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract]
Weighted Average Common Shares									53,438,000	52,333,000	49,357,000
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock									(1,165,000)	(500,000)	(96,000)
Basic average common shares									52,273,000	51,833,000	49,261,000
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment									1,463,000	0	0
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted									53,736,000	51,833,000	49,261,000
Basic	$ 0.06	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03	$ 0.23	$ (1.71)	$ 0.03	$ (0.12)	$ 0.28	$ 0.13	$ (1.51)	$ (0.34)
Diluted	$ 0.06	(0.19)	0.03	0.22	(1.71)	0.03	(0.12)	0.28	0.13	$ (1.51)	$ (0.34)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	3,121,000									1,700,000	2,334,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ 0.06	(0.19)	0.03	0.23	(1.71)	0.03	(0.07)	0.26	0.13	$ (1.49)	$ (0.28)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	(0.04)	0.02	0.00	(0.02)	(0.06)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	0.06	(0.19)	0.03	0.22	(1.71)	0.03	(0.07)	0.26	0.13	(1.49)	(0.28)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ (0.04)	$ 0.02	$ 0.00	$ (0.02)	$ (0.06)

Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 4,501	$ 4,872	$ 5,359
Provision for Doubtful Accounts	1,754	1,481	1,441
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Recoveries	(1,729)	(1,852)	(1,928)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 4,526	$ 4,501	$ 4,872

Other Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Salaries, Current	$ 11,187	$ 12,606
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current	3,952	4,357
Other Liabilities	9,209	11,530
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	$ 24,348	$ 28,493

Other Information Supplemental Cash Payment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Interest Paid	$ 81,363	$ 84,479	$ 72,131
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid	31,587	1,071	32,408
Income Taxes Paid, Net	$ 6,022	$ 9,126	$ 1,140

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2009	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense		$ 3,276,000	$ 3,581,000	$ 3,731,000
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed	5.00%
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input	10.00%
Pulitzer Step Up Tax Benefit- Amortization Period	15 years
Hearld Value- Increase in Amortizable Tax Basis					$ 258,000,000
Loss Contingency, Loss in Period		$ 2,300,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure			$ 300,000		$ 2,300,000
Herald Value Settlement- Shares		100,000
Herald Value Settlement		$ 298,000

Commitments and Contingencies Operating Lease (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	$ 3,000,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	2,252,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	2,010,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	1,945,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	918,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	2,000,000
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 3,276,000	$ 3,581,000	$ 3,731,000

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 28, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Impairment of intangible and other assets	$ 2,644,000				$ 171,094,000					$ 2,980,000	$ 171,094,000	$ 1,388,000
Reorganization costs									$ 720,000	0	0	37,765,000
Revenues	162,094,000	$ 163,125,000	$ 154,093,000	$ 177,385,000	162,462,000	$ 167,019,000	$ 160,603,000	$ 184,656,000		656,697,000	674,740,000	706,921,000
Income (loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	3,375,000	(9,511,000)	1,705,000	12,102,000	(88,536,000)	1,968,000	(3,562,000)	13,652,000		7,671,000	(76,478,000)	(13,381,000)
Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax	0	0	0	0	1,000	0	(2,293,000)	1,046,000		0	(1,246,000)	(2,918,000)
Net Income (Loss)	3,375,000	(9,511,000)	1,705,000	12,102,000	(88,535,000)	1,968,000	(5,855,000)	14,698,000		7,671,000	(77,724,000)	(16,299,000)
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 3,162,000	$ (9,746,000)	$ 1,486,000	$ 11,892,000	$ (88,697,000)	$ 1,795,000	$ (5,995,000)	$ 14,580,000		$ 6,795,000	$ (78,317,000)	$ (16,698,000)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ 0.06	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03	$ 0.23	$ (1.71)	$ 0.03	$ (0.07)	$ 0.26		$ 0.13	$ (1.49)	$ (0.28)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	(0.04)	0.02		0.00	(0.02)	(0.06)
Basic	0.06	(0.19)	0.03	0.23	(1.71)	0.03	(0.12)	0.28		0.13	(1.51)	(0.34)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	0.06	(0.19)	0.03	0.22	(1.71)	0.03	(0.07)	0.26		0.13	(1.49)	(0.28)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	(0.04)	0.02		0.00	(0.02)	(0.06)
Diluted	$ 0.06	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03	$ 0.22	$ (1.71)	$ 0.03	$ (0.12)	$ 0.28		$ 0.13	$ (1.51)	$ (0.34)

Label	Element	Value
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding	52,291,000
Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	$ 523,000
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	537,000
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	89,915,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues	1,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues	74,000
Change In Par Value	lee_ChangeInParValue	0
Change In Par Value	lee_ChangeInParValue	(89,466,000)
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	241,039,000
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	140,887,000
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	245,323,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues	237,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues	9,606,000
Share-based Compensation	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation	1,080,000
Share-based Compensation	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation	1,261,000
Change In Par Value	lee_ChangeInParValue	89,466,000
Change In Par Value	lee_ChangeInParValue	0
Retained Earnings [Member]
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(326,062,000)
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(342,760,000)
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(414,282,000)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(593,000)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(399,000)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_ProfitLoss	(77,724,000)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_ProfitLoss	(16,299,000)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax	us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossPensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansAdjustmentBeforeTax	(12,455,000)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax	us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossPensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansAdjustmentBeforeTax	35,764,000
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(6,086,000)
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(13,435,000)
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest	(9,831,000)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTax	(14,663,000)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTax	$ 5,106,000
Common Stock [Member]
Par Value Change- Common Stock Shares	lee_ParValueChangeCommonStockShares	0
Par Value Change- Common Stock Shares	lee_ParValueChangeCommonStockShares	0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues	143,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues	7,333,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding	52,291,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding	44,958,000
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber	0
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber	1,812,000