UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

  þ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the Quarterly Period ended September 30, 2015

 

or

 

  ¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from                      to

 

Commission file number 1-11588

 

Saga Communications, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   38-3042953
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)
     
73 Kercheval Avenue   48236
Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan   (Zip Code)
 (Address of principal executive offices)    

 

(313) 886-7070

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No ¨

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer ¨   Accelerated filer  þ   Non-accelerated filer ¨   Smaller Reporting Company ¨
        (Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)
   

 

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

 

The number of shares of the registrant’s Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, and Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, outstanding as of November 3, 2015 was 4,968,644 and 843,034, respectively.

 

  

 

 

INDEX

 

    Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION   3
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)   3
Condensed consolidated balance sheets — September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014   3
Condensed consolidated statements of income — Three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014   4
Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows —Nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014   5
Notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements   6
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   18
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk   30
Item 4. Controls and Procedures   31
PART II OTHER INFORMATION   31
Item 1. Legal Proceedings   31
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds   31
Item 6. Exhibits   32
Signatures   33
EX-31.1    
EX-31.2    
EX-32    
EX-101 INSTANCE DOCUMENT    
EX-101 SCHEMA DOCUMENT    
EX-101 CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT    
EX-101 LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT    
EX-101 PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT    
EX-101 DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT    

 

 2 

 

 

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

   September 30,   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
   (Unaudited)   (Note) 
   (In thousands) 
Assets          
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $18,866   $17,907 
Accounts receivable, net   20,384    20,661 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   5,458    2,957 
Barter transactions   1,510    1,217 
Deferred income taxes   167    845 
Total current assets   46,385    43,587 
Property and equipment   167,183    161,602 
Less accumulated depreciation   108,186    106,415 
Net property and equipment   58,997    55,187 
Other assets:          
Broadcast licenses, net   88,901    86,762 
Goodwill   2,854    326 
Other intangibles, deferred costs and investments, net   7,025    6,182 
   $204,162   $192,044 
           
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity          
Current liabilities:          
Accounts payable  $2,574   $2,133 
Payroll and payroll taxes   8,533    6,788 
Other accrued expenses   3,813    2,756 
Barter transactions   1,555    1,356 
Total current liabilities   16,475    13,033 
Deferred income taxes   26,068    23,786 
Long-term debt   36,365    36,078 
Other liabilities   3,370    3,902 
Total liabilities   82,278    76,799 
Commitments and contingencies          
Stockholders’ equity:          
Common stock   74    72 
Additional paid-in capital   56,826    52,496 
Retained earnings   97,410    91,178 
Treasury stock   (32,426)   (28,501)
Total stockholders’ equity   121,884    115,245 
   $204,162   $192,044 

 

Note: The balance sheet at December 31, 2014 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements.

 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 3 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   September 30,   September 30, 
   2015   2014   2015   2014 
   (Unaudited) 
   (In thousands, except per share data) 
Net operating revenue  $33,831   $34,373   $97,250   $97,627 
Station operating expense   24,324    26,366    71,400    72,812 
Corporate general and administrative   2,577    2,307    7,642    6,580 
Other operating expense, net   433        447     
Operating income   6,497    5,700    17,761    18,235 
Interest expense   229    268    714    812 
Write-off of debt issuance costs   557        557     
Other (income) expense, net       7    (417)   (38)
Income tax provision   2,599    2,180    7,190    7,000 
Net income  $3,112   $3,245   $9,717   $10,461 
Earnings per share:                    
Basic earnings per share  $.54   $.56   $1.68   $1.82 
Diluted earnings per share  $.53   $.56   $1.67   $1.80 
Weighted average common shares   5,724    5,699    5,708    5,696 
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares   5,752    5,742    5,749    5,751 
                     
Dividends declared per share  $.20   $.20   $.60   $.40 

 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 4 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

   Nine Months Ended 
   September 30, 
   2015   2014 
   (Unaudited) 
   (In thousands) 
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Cash provided by operating activities  $19,348   $20,971 
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Acquisition of property and equipment   (4,427)   (3,801)
Acquisition of broadcast properties   (11,632)   (884)
Proceeds from insurance claim   777     
Other investing activities       32 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities   (15,282)   (4,653)
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Cash dividends paid   (2,323)   (1,150)
Payments on long-term debt   (35,000)   (5,000)
Borrowings on long-term debt   35,287     
Purchase of treasury shares   (909)    
Other financing activities   (162)   244 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities   (3,107)   (5,906)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents   959    10,412 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   17,907    17,628 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $18,866   $28,040 

 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 5 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for annual financial statements.

 

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments of a normal, recurring nature considered necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position as of September 30, 2015 and the results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. Results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2015.

 

For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Saga Communications, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

The Company has evaluated events and transactions occurring subsequent to the balance sheet date of September 30, 2015, for items that should potentially be recognized in these financial statements or discussed within the notes to the financial statements.

 

Earnings Per Share Information

 

Earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating security. The Company has participating securities related to restricted stock units, granted under the Company’s Second Amended and Restated 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan, that earn dividends on an equal basis with common shares. In applying the two-class method, earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities.

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

  

Three Months Ended 

September 30,

  

Nine Months Ended 

September 30,

 
   2015   2014   2015   2014 
   (In thousands, except per share data) 
Numerator:                    
Net income  $3,112   $3,245   $9,717   $10,461 
Less: Net income allocated to unvested participating securities   46    28    144    91 
Net income available to common stockholders  $3,066   $3,217   $9,573   $10,370 
                     
Denominator:                    
Denominator for basic earnings per share — weighted average shares   5,724    5,699    5,708    5,696 
Effect of dilutive securities:                    
Common stock equivalents   28    43    41    55 
Denominator for diluted earnings per share — adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions   5,752    5,742    5,749    5,751 
Basic earnings per share:  $.54   $.56   $1.68   $1.82 
Diluted earnings per share:  $.53   $.56   $1.67   $1.80 

 

 6 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

The number of stock options outstanding that had an antidilutive effect on our earnings per share calculation, and therefore have been excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation, was 0 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 59,000 and 45,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively. The actual effect of these shares, if any, on the diluted earnings per share calculation will vary significantly depending on the fluctuation in the stock price. 

 

Financial Instruments

 

Our financial instruments are comprised of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and long-term debt. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short maturities. The carrying value of long-term debt approximates fair value as it carries interest rates that either fluctuate with the euro-dollar rate, prime rate or have been reset at the prevailing market rate at September 30, 2015.

 

Income Taxes

 

Our effective tax rate is higher than the federal statutory rate as a result of the inclusion of state taxes in the income tax amount.

 

Time Brokerage Agreements/Local Marketing Agreements

 

 We have entered into Time Brokerage Agreements (“TBA’s”) or Local Marketing Agreements (“LMA’s”) in certain markets. In a typical TBA/LMA, the FCC licensee of a station makes available, for a fee, blocks of air time on its station to another party that supplies programming to be broadcast during that air time and sells their own commercial advertising announcements during the time periods specified. Revenue and expenses related to TBA’s/LMA’s are included in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain reclassifications have been made in the presentation of investing activities and financing activities in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine-months ended September 30, 2014 in order to conform to the presentation for the nine-months ended September 30, 2015.  The reclassifications did not change our total net cash used in investing activities or the total net cash used in financing activities for the nine-months ended September 30, 2014.

 

2. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-05, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other – Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40), Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement” (“ASU 2015-05”), with new guidance on whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license and the accounting for such an arrangement. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the software license element of the arrangement should be accounted for consistently with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the agreement should be accounted for as a service contract. ASU 2015-05 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-03, “Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30), Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”), and in August 2015 the FAS issued ASU 2015-15, Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements. These ASUs require debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt consistent with debt discounts. The presentation and subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs associated with line of credit, may be presented as an asset and amortized ratably over the term of the line of credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are outstanding borrowings on the arrangement. We currently present deferred financing costs related to our line of credit within Other assets.  ASU 2015-03 and ASU 2015-15 are effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted and are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In February 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810), Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis” (“ASU 2015-02”), which amends the consolidation requirements in ASC 810, primarily related to limited partnerships and VIEs. ASU 2015-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our consolidated financial statements.

 

 7 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

In January 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-01, “Income Statement-Extraordinary and Unusual Items” (“ASU 2015-01”), which simplifies income statement presentation by eliminating the need to determine whether to classify an item as an extraordinary item. ASU 2015-01 is effective for the first interim period within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-15, “Disclosure of Uncertainties About an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern” (“ASU 2014-15”), which requires management to evaluate, at each annual and interim reporting period, whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and provide related disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for the first interim period within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”), which provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue resulting from contracts with customers and will supersede virtually all of the current revenue recognition guidance under GAAP. ASU 2014-09 is effective for the first interim period within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  In July 2015, the FASB made a decision to defer the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year and permit early adoption as of the original effective date. As a result, the standard is effective for us for fiscal and interim periods beginning January 1, 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

 

3. Intangible Assets

 

We evaluate our FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment annually as of October 1st or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. FCC licenses are evaluated for impairment at the market level using a direct method. If the carrying amount of FCC licenses is greater than their estimated fair value in a given market, the carrying amount of FCC licenses in that market is reduced to its estimated fair value. If the carrying amount of goodwill in a reporting unit is greater than the implied value of goodwill determined by completing a hypothetical purchase price allocation using estimated fair value of the reporting unit, the carrying amount of goodwill in that reporting unit is reduced to its implied value.

 

Intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method. Favorable lease agreements are amortized over the lives of the leases ranging from four to twenty-six years. Other intangibles are amortized over one to eleven years.

 

4. Common Stock and Treasury Stock

 

The following summarizes information relating to the number of shares of our common stock issued in connection with stock transactions through September 30, 2015:

 

   Common Stock Issued 
   Class A   Class B 
   (Shares in thousands) 
Balance, January 1, 2014   6,409    816 
Exercised options   7     
Conversion of shares   3    (3)
Issuance of restricted stock   27    30 
Balance, December 31, 2014   6,446    843 
Exercised options   93    32 
Conversion of shares   32    (32)
Forfeitures of restricted stock   (2)    
Balance, September 30, 2015   6,569    843 

 

 8 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

We have a Stock Buy-Back Program to allow us to purchase up to $75.8 million of our Class A Common Stock. As of September 30, 2015 we have remaining authorization of $25.4 million for future repurchases of our Class A Common Stock.

 

5. Acquisitions and Dispositions

 

We actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisition of additional broadcast properties. The consolidated statements of income include the operating results of the acquired stations from their respective dates of acquisition. All acquisitions were accounted for as purchases and, accordingly, the total purchase consideration was allocated to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition dates. The excess of the consideration paid over the estimated fair value of net assets acquired have been recorded as goodwill. The Company accounts for acquisition under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations.

 

Management assigned fair values to the acquired property and equipment through a combination of cost and market approaches based upon each specific asset’s replacement cost, with a provision for depreciation, and to the acquired intangibles, primarily an FCC license, based on the Greenfield valuation methodology, a discounted cash flow approach. 

 

Pending Acquisition

 

On November 2, 2015, we entered into an agreement to acquire an FM radio station (WLVQ) from Wilks Broadcast – Columbus, LLC, serving the Columbus, Ohio market for $13,000,000. This transaction is subject to FCC approval and we expect to close on this acquisition in the first quarter 2016. We plan to operate this station under a LMA on or before November 16, 2015.

 

2015 Acquisitions

 

On July 13, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Manchester, New Hampshire market for approximately $45,000.

 

On August 1, 2015 we acquired two AM and three FM stations and one FM translator (WSVA-AM, WHBG-AM, WQPO-FM, WJDV-FM, WTGD-FM and W221CF-FX) from M. Belmont VerStandig, Inc., serving the Harrisonburg, Virginia market for approximately $10,131,000, which included $128,000 in transactional costs. Cash was utilized to fund the acquisition. Management attributes the goodwill recognized in the acquisition to the power of the existing brands in the Harrisonburg, Virginia market as well as the synergies and growth opportunities expected through the combination with the Company’s existing stations.

 

On August 26, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Asheville, North Carolina market for approximately $125,000.

 

On September 1, 2015 we acquired two FM stations (WSIG-FM and WBOP-FM) from Gamma Broadcasting, LLC, serving the Harrisonburg, Virginia market for approximately $1,558,000, which included $92,000 in transactional costs. Cash was utilized to fund the acquisition. FCC multiple ownership rules prohibit us from owning both of these stations. In order to satisfy the multiple ownership requirements and receive FCC approval for this acquisition, we simultaneously donated WBOP-FM to Liberty University, Inc, a charitable organization. In exchange for donating WBOP-FM, including the Station, the FCC License and the Assets, we received an FM Translator W267BA, the FM Translator Assets, and the FM Translator FCC license. We incurred a loss of $400,000 as a result of this donation. This loss is recorded in other operating (income), expense, net on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and reported in cash flows from operating activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Management attributes the goodwill recognized in the acquisition to the power of the existing brands in the Harrisonburg, Virginia market as well as the synergies and growth opportunities expected through the combination with the Company’s existing stations.

 

 9 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

2014 Acquisitions and Dispositions

 

 On January 31, 2014 we acquired one FM station (WFIZ-FM) and three FM Translators serving the Ithaca, New York market for approximately $720,000.

 

 On February 28, 2014 we acquired an FM translator serving the Jonesboro, Arkansas market for approximately $35,000.

 

On May 9, 2014 we acquired an FM translator serving the Clarksville, Tennessee market for approximately $30,000.

 

On May 14, 2014 we acquired an FM translator serving the Portland, Maine market for approximately $44,750.

 

On May 16, 2014 we acquired two FM translators serving the Asheville, North Carolina market for approximately $100,000.

 

On June 16, 2014 we acquired an FM translator serving the Des Moines, Iowa market for approximately $87,500.

 

On November 4, 2014 we acquired an LPTV servicing the Victoria, Texas market for approximately $18,500.

 

On December 2, 2014 we sold the Michigan Radio Network, the Michigan Farm Network, the Minnesota News Network and the Minnesota Farm Network, for approximately $1,640,000. The net assets of these networks approximated $430,000, and as such recognized a gain of approximately $1,210,000 that is included in Other operating (income) expense in our 2014 Consolidated Statements of Income. The proforma results of operations for the sale of these networks is not material to our financial statements and as such are not presented. These radio networks have historically been presented within our radio segment. The radio networks did not meet the criteria of discontinued operations.

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2015 and 2014 Acquisitions:

 

The following unaudited condensed balance sheets represent the estimated fair value assigned to the related assets and liabilities of the 2015 and 2014 acquisitions at their respective acquisition dates. The allocation of the purchase price for the 2015 acquisitions is preliminary at September 30, 2015.

 

 10 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

Saga Communications, Inc.

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2015 and 2014 Acquisitions

 

   Acquisitions in 
   2015   2014 
   (In thousands) 
Assets Acquired:          
Current assets  $976   $45 
Property and equipment   4,600    425 
Other assets:          
Broadcast licenses-Radio segment   2,098    219 
Broadcast licenses-Television segment       19 
Goodwill-Radio segment   2,528    325 
Goodwill-Television segment        
Other intangibles, deferred costs and investments   1,507    3 
Total other assets   6,133    566 
Total assets acquired   11,709    1,036 
Liabilities Assumed:          
Current liabilities   70     
Total liabilities assumed   70     
Net assets acquired  $11,639   $1,036 

 

Pro Forma Results of Operations for Acquisitions (Unaudited)

 

The following unaudited pro forma results of our operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 assume the 2015 acquisitions occurred as of January 1, 2014. The translators are start-up stations and therefore, have no pro forma revenue and expenses. The pro forma results give effect to certain adjustments, including depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, increased interest expense on acquisition debt and related income tax effects. The pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and do not purport to indicate the results of operations which would actually have occurred had the combinations been in effect on the dates indicated or which may occur in the future.

 

 11 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

  

Three Months Ended

September 30,

  

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

 
   2015   2014   2015   2014 
   (In thousands, except per share data) 
Pro forma Consolidated Results of Operations                    
Net operating revenue  $34,243   $35,433   $99,723   $100,828 
Station operating expense   24,654    27,151    73,362    75,186 
Corporate general and administrative   2,577    2,307    7,642    6,580 
Other operating expenses, net   433        447     
Operating income   6,579    5,975    18,272    19,062 
Interest expense   229    268    714    812 
Write-off of debt issuance costs   557        557     
Other (income) expense, net       7    (417)   (38)
Income taxes   2,632    2,293    7,399    7,339 
Net income  $3,161   $3,407   $10,019   $10,949 
Basic earnings per share  $.55   $.60   $1.76   $1.92 
Diluted earnings per share  $.55   $.59   $1.74   $1.90 

 

  

Three Months Ended

September 30,

  

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

 
   2015   2014   2015   2014 
   (In thousands) 
Radio Broadcasting Segment                    
Net operating revenue  $28,948   $30,460   $84,302   $86,377 
Station operating expense   21,155    23,867    63,028    65,395 
Other operating expenses, net   400        414     
Operating income  $7,393   $6,593   $20,860   $20,982 

 

  

Three Months Ended

September 30,

  

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

 
   2015   2014   2015   2014 
   (In thousands) 
Television Broadcasting Segment                    
Net operating revenue  $5,295   $4,973   $15,421   $14,451 
Station operating expense   3,499    3,284    10,334    9,791 
Other operating expenses, net   33        33     
Operating income  $1,763   $1,689   $5,054   $4,660 

 

Reconciliation of pro forma segment operating income to pro forma consolidated operating income:

 

   Radio   Television  

Corporate

and Other

   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2015:                    
Net operating revenue  $28,948   $5,295   $   $34,243 
Station operating expense   21,155    3,499        24,654 
Corporate general and administrative           2,577    2,577 
Other operating expenses, net   400    33        433 
Operating income (loss)  $7,393   $1,763   $(2,577)  $6,579 

 

 12 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

   Radio   Television  

Corporate

and Other

   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014:                    
Net operating revenue  $30,460   $4,973   $   $35,433 
Station operating expense   23,867    3,284        27,151 
Corporate general and administrative           2,307    2,307 
Operating income (loss)  $6,593   $1,689   $(2,307)  $5,975 

 

   Radio   Television  

Corporate

and Other

   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015:                    
Net operating revenue  $84,302   $15,421   $   $99,723 
Station operating expense   63,028    10,334        73,362 
Corporate general and administrative           7,642    7,642 
Other operating expenses, net   414    33        447 
Operating income (loss)  $20,860   $5,054   $(7,642)  $18,272 

 

   Radio   Television  

Corporate

and Other

   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Nine Months Ended September 30,  2014:                    
Net operating revenue  $86,377   $14,451   $   $100,828 
Station operating expense   65,395    9,791        75,186 
Corporate general and administrative           6,580    6,580 
Operating income (loss)  $20,982   $4,660   $(6,580)  $19,062 

 

 13 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

6. Stock-Based Compensation

 

2005 Incentive Compensation Plan

 

On October 16, 2013 our stockholders approved the Second Amended and Restated Saga Communications, Inc. 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan (the “Second Restated 2005 Plan”). The 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan was first approved by stockholders in 2005 and replaced our 2003 Stock Option Plan (the “2003 Plan”). The 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan was re-approved by stockholders in 2010. The changes made in the Second Restated 2005 Plan (i) increases the number of authorized shares by 233,334 shares of Common Stock, (ii) extends the date for making awards to September 6, 2018, (iii) includes directors as participants, (iv) targets awards according to groupings of participants based on ranges of base salary of employees and/or retainers of directors, (v) requires participants to retain 50% of their net annual restricted stock awards during their employment or service as a director, and (vi) includes a clawback provision. The Second Restated 2005 Plan allows for the granting of restricted stock, restricted stock units, incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, and performance awards to eligible employees and non-employee directors.

 

The number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Second Restated 2005 Plan may not exceed 280,000 shares of Class B Common Stock, 900,000 shares of Class A Common Stock of which up to 620,000 shares of Class A Common Stock may be issued pursuant to incentive stock options and 280,000 Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of Class B Common Stock. Awards denominated in Class A Common Stock may be granted to any employee or director under the Second Restated 2005 Plan. However, awards denominated in Class B Common Stock may only be granted to Edward K. Christian, President, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and the holder of 100% of the outstanding Class B Common Stock of the Company. Stock options granted under the Second Restated 2005 Plan may be for terms not exceeding ten years from the date of grant and may not be exercised at a price which is less than 100% of the fair market value of shares at the date of grant.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

All stock options granted were fully vested and expensed at December 31, 2012, therefore there was no compensation expense related to stock options for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively. 

 

The following summarizes the stock option transactions for the 2005 and 2003 Plans for the nine months ended September 30, 2015:

 

           Weighted Average     
       Weighted   Remaining   Aggregate 
   Number of   Average   Contractual Term   Intrinsic 
   Options   Exercise Price   (Years)   Value 
Outstanding at January 1, 2015   213,170   $31.79    1.2   $2,519,147 
Exercised   (125,354)   27.09           
Expired   (58,781)   43.47           
Outstanding at September 30, 2015   29,035   $28.47    1.6   $149,240 
Exercisable at September 30, 2015   29,035   $28.47    1.6   $149,240 

 

 14 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

The following summarizes the restricted stock transactions for the nine months ended September 30, 2015:

 

       Weighted
Average
 
       Grant Date
Fair
 
   Shares   Value 
Outstanding at January 1, 2015   89,832   $41.20 
Vested   (3,002)   45.56 
Forfeited   (1,982)   43.62 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2015   84,848   $40.99 

 

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, we had $373,000, $1,200,000, $193,000 and $572,000, respectively, of total compensation expense related to restricted stock-based compensation arrangements. This expense is included in corporate general and administrative expenses in our results of operations. The associated tax benefit recognized for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, was $149,000, $480,000, $77,000 and $229,000, respectively.

 

7. Long-Term Debt

 

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

 

   September 30,   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
   (In thousands) 
     
Credit Facility:          
Revolving Credit Facility  $35,287   $ 
Old Credit Agreement:          
Term Loan       30,000 
Revolving credit       5,000 
Secured debt of affiliate   1,078    1,078 
    36,365    36,078 
Amounts payable within one year        
   $36,365   $36,078 

 

On August 18, 2015, we entered into a new credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., The Huntington National Bank, Citizens Bank, National Association and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC. In connection with the execution of the Credit Facility, the credit agreement in place at June 30, 2015 (the “Old Credit Agreement”) was terminated, and all outstanding amounts were paid in full. The Credit Facility consists of a $100 million five-year revolving facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) and matures on August 18, 2020.

 

We have pledged substantially all of our assets (excluding our FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility and each of our subsidiaries has guaranteed the Credit Facility and has pledged substantially all of their assets (excluding their FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility.

 

The proceeds from the Credit Facility were used to repay all amounts outstanding on our Old Credit Agreement and pay transactional fees. The unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility is available for general corporate purposes, including working capital, capital expenditures, permitted acquisitions and related transaction expenses and permitted stock buybacks. We wrote-off unamortized debt issuance costs relating to the Old Credit Agreement of approximately $557,000, pre-tax, due to entering into this new agreement during the quarter ended September 30, 2015.

 

 15 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

Approximately $261,000 of transaction fees related to the Credit Facility were capitalized and are being amortized over the life of the Credit Facility. Those deferred debt costs are included in other assets, net in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

 

Interest rates under the Credit Facility are payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to LIBOR (0.25% at September 30, 2015), plus 1% to 2% or the base rate plus 0% to 1%. The spread over LIBOR and the base rate vary from time to time, depending upon our financial leverage. Letter of credit issued under the Credit Facility will be subject to a participation fee (which is equal to the interest rate applicable to Eurocurrency Loans, as defined in the Credit Agreement) payable to each of the Lenders and a fronting fee equal to 0.25% per annum payable to the issuing bank. We also pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.2% to 0.3% per annum on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility.

 

The Credit Facility contains a number of financial covenants (all of which we were in compliance with at September 30, 2015) which, among other things, require us to maintain specified financial ratios and impose certain limitations on us with respect to investments, additional indebtedness, dividends, distributions, guarantees, liens and encumbrances.

 

We had approximately $64 million of unused borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility at September 30, 2015.

 

Our Old Credit Agreement consisted of a $30 million term loan and a $90 million revolving loan maturing on May 31, 2018. Our indebtedness under the Old Credit Agreement was secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of our assets and of our subsidiaries, by a pledge of our subsidiaries’ stock and by a guarantee of our subsidiaries. The Old Credit Agreement was used for general corporate purposes, including working capital, capital expenditures, permitted acquisitions and related transaction expenses and permitted stock buybacks.

 

Interest rates under the Old Credit Agreement were payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to LIBOR (0.16925% at December 31, 2014), plus 1.25% to 2.25% or the base rate plus 0.25% to 1.25%. The spread over LIBOR and the base rate varied from time to time, depending upon our financial leverage. We also paid quarterly commitment fees of 0.25% to 0.35% per annum on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility under the Old Credit Agreement.

 

 The loan agreement of approximately $1.1 million of secured debt of affiliate was amended in April, 2014 to extend the due date of the loan for three years to mature on May 1, 2017.

 

8. Segment Information

 

We evaluate the operating performance of our markets individually. For purposes of business segment reporting, we have aligned operations with similar characteristics into two business segments: Radio and Television.

 

At September 30, 2015, the Radio segment includes twenty-four markets, which includes all ninety-eight of our radio stations and one radio information network. The Television segment includes two markets and consists of four television stations and five low power television (“LPTV”) stations. The Radio and Television segments derive their revenue from the sale of commercial broadcast inventory. The category “Corporate general and administrative” represents the income and expense not allocated to reportable segments.

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
       (In thousands)     
Three Months Ended September 30, 2015:                    
Net operating revenue  $28,536   $5,295   $   $33,831 
Station operating expense   20,825    3,499        24,324 
Corporate general and administrative           2,577    2,577 
Other operating expense   400    33        433 
Operating income (loss)  $7,311   $1,763   $(2,577)  $6,497 
Depreciation and amortization  $1,295   $347   $89   $1,731 

 

 16 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
       (In thousands)     
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014:                    
Net operating revenue  $29,400   $4,973   $   $34,373 
Station operating expense   23,082    3,284        26,366 
Corporate general and administrative           2,307    2,307 
Other operating expense                
Operating income (loss)  $6,318   $1,689   $(2,307)  $5,700 
Depreciation and amortization  $1,245   $350   $77   $1,672 

  

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
       (In thousands)     
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015:                    
Net operating revenue  $81,829   $15,421   $   $97,250 
Station operating expense   61,006    10,334        71,400 
Corporate general and administrative           7,642    7,642 
Other operating expense   414    33        447 
Operating income (loss)  $20,349   $5,054   $(7,642)  $17,761 
Depreciation and amortization  $3,676   $1,016   $234   $4,926 
Total assets  $151,708   $23,131   $29,323   $204,162 

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
       (In thousands)     
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014:                    
Net operating revenue  $83,176   $14,451   $   $97,627 
Station operating expense   63,021    9,791        72,812 
Corporate general and administrative           6,580    6,580 
Other operating expense                
Operating income (loss)  $20,155   $4,660   $(6,580)  $18,235 
Depreciation and amortization  $3,711   $1,041   $205   $4,957 
Total assets  $144,650   $22,242   $37,623   $204,515 

 

9. Litigation

 

The Company is subject to various outstanding claims which arise in the ordinary course of business and to other legal proceedings. Management anticipates that any potential liability of the Company, which may arise out of or with respect to these matters, will not materially affect the Company’s financial statements.

 

10. Other Income and Expense

 

During the second quarter of 2015, two transmitters in our Victoria, Texas market were significantly damaged by lightning. The Company’s insurance policy provided coverage for the replacement cost of the transmitters. The insurance settlement was finalized during the second quarter and the Company received cash proceeds of $777,000, resulting in a $417,000 gain. The gain on insurance settlement represents the difference between the replacement cost and carrying value of the transmitters. The gain is recorded in other (income) expense, net, in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

 17 

 

 

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

11. Subsequent Events

 

On September 2, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $1.2 million, which is recorded within Other accrued expenses as of September 30, 2015, was paid on October 2, 2015 to shareholders of record on September 14, 2015.

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Results of Operations

 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Saga Communications, Inc. and its subsidiaries contained elsewhere herein and the audited financial statements and Management Discussion and Analysis contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The following discussion is presented on both a consolidated and segment basis. Corporate general and administrative expenses, interest expense, other (income) expense, and income tax expense are managed on a consolidated basis and are reflected only in our discussion of consolidated results.

 

For purposes of business segment reporting, at September 30, 2015, we have aligned operations with similar characteristics into two business segments: Radio and Television. The Radio segment includes twenty-four markets, which includes all ninety-eight of our radio stations and one radio information network (“Network”). The Television segment includes two markets and consists of four television stations and five LPTV stations. The discussion of our operating performance focuses on segment operating income because we manage our segments primarily on operating income. Operating performance is evaluated for each individual market.

 

We use certain financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP) to assess our financial performance. For example, we evaluate the performance of our markets based on “station operating income” (operating income plus corporate general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, other operating (income) expenses, and impairment of intangible assets). Station operating income is generally recognized by the broadcasting industry as a measure of performance, is used by analysts who report on the performance of the broadcasting industry and it serves as an indicator of the market value of a group of stations. In addition, we use it to evaluate individual stations, market-level performance, overall operations and as a primary measure for incentive based compensation of executives and other members of management. Station operating income is not necessarily indicative of amounts that may be available to us for debt service requirements, other commitments, reinvestment or other discretionary uses. Station operating income is not a measure of liquidity or of performance in accordance with GAAP, and should be viewed as a supplement to, and not a substitute for our results of operations presented on a GAAP basis.

 

General

 

We are a broadcast company primarily engaged in acquiring, developing and operating broadcast properties. We actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisition of additional broadcast properties. We review acquisition opportunities on an ongoing basis. For additional information with respect to acquisitions, see “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below.

 

Recent Developments

 

Spectrum Auctions and Channel SharingThe FCC is seeking to make additional spectrum available to meet future wireless broadband needs. In February 2012, the U.S. Congress adopted legislation authorizing the FCC to conduct an incentive auction whereby television broadcasters could voluntarily relinquish their spectrum in exchange for consideration. In June 2014, the FCC released a Report and Order in which it adopted a framework for the auction.  Various court appeals of this Report and Order were denied in June 2015.  The FCC has released various orders and public notices which set forth procedures that the FCC will follow in the incentive auction and the subsequent “repacking” of broadcast television spectrum, establish opening prices for the reverse auction for television stations to relinquish their spectrum, and resolve various technical and other issues related to the incentive auction, the possible sharing of channels by television stations, and the repurposing of television spectrum for broadband use.  The FCC has announced March 29, 2016 as the commencement date for the incentive auction and has specified December 18, 2015 as the deadline for television broadcasters to file applications to participate in the auction. The reallocation of television spectrum for wireless broadband use will require many television stations to change channel or otherwise modify their technical facilities. The Company cannot predict the results of television spectrum reallocation efforts or their impact to its business. For additional information see “Item 1. Business – Other FCC Matters – Spectrum Auction and Channel Sharing” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Radio Segment

 

Our radio segment’s primary source of revenue is from the sale of advertising for broadcast on our stations. Depending on the format of a particular radio station, there are a predetermined number of advertisements available to be broadcast each hour.

 

 18 

 

 

Most advertising contracts are short-term and generally run for a few weeks only. The majority of our revenue is generated from local advertising, which is sold primarily by each radio markets’ sales staff. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, approximately 89% and 88%, respectively, of our radio segment’s gross revenue was from local advertising. To generate national advertising sales, we engage independent advertising sales representative firms that specialize in national sales for each of our broadcast markets.

 

Our revenue varies throughout the year. Advertising expenditures, our primary source of revenue, generally have been lowest during the winter months, which include the first quarter of each year. We expect a decrease in political advertising for 2015 due to the lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets as compared to prior year.

 

Our net operating revenue, station operating expense and operating income varies from market to market based upon the market’s rank or size which is based upon population and the available radio advertising revenue in that particular market.

 

The broadcasting industry, and advertising in general, are influenced by the state of the overall economy, including unemployment rates, inflation, energy prices and consumer interest rates. Our stations primarily broadcast in small to midsize markets. Historically, these markets have been more stable than major metropolitan markets during downturns in advertising spending, but may not experience increases in such spending as significant as those in major metropolitan markets in periods of economic improvement.

 

Our financial results are dependent on a number of factors, the most significant of which is our ability to generate advertising revenue through rates charged to advertisers. The rates a station is able to charge are, in large part, based on a station’s ability to attract audiences in the demographic groups targeted by its advertisers. In a number of our markets this is measured by periodic reports generated by independent national rating services. In the remainder of our markets it is measured by the results advertisers obtain through the actual running of an advertising schedule. Advertisers measure these results based on increased demand for their goods or services and/or actual revenues generated from such demand. Various factors affect the rate a station can charge, including the general strength of the local and national economies, population growth, ability to provide popular programming, local market competition, target marketing capability of radio compared to other advertising media and signal strength.

 

When we acquire and/or begin to operate a station or group of stations we generally increase programming and advertising and promotion expenses to increase our share of our target demographic audience. Our strategy sometimes requires levels of spending commensurate with the revenue levels we plan on achieving in two to five years. During periods of economic downturns, or when the level of advertising spending is flat or down across the industry, this strategy may result in the appearance that our cost of operations are increasing at a faster rate than our growth in revenues, until such time as we achieve our targeted levels of revenue for the acquired station or group of stations.

 

The number of advertisements that can be broadcast without jeopardizing listening levels (and the resulting ratings) is limited in part by the format of a particular radio station. Our stations strive to maximize revenue by constantly managing the number of commercials available for sale and adjusting prices based upon local market conditions and ratings. While there may be shifts from time to time in the number of advertisements broadcast during a particular time of day, the total number of advertisements broadcast on a particular station generally does not vary significantly from year to year. Any change in our revenue, with the exception of those instances where stations are acquired or sold, is generally the result of inventory sell out ratios and pricing adjustments, which are made to ensure that the station efficiently utilizes available inventory.

 

Our radio stations employ a variety of programming formats. We periodically perform market research, including music evaluations, focus groups and strategic vulnerability studies. Because reaching a large and demographically attractive audience is crucial to a station’s financial success, we endeavor to develop strong listener loyalty. Our stations also employ audience promotions to further develop and secure a loyal following. We believe that the diversification of formats on our radio stations helps to insulate us from the effects of changes in musical tastes of the public on any particular format.

 

The primary operating expenses involved in owning and operating radio stations are employee salaries, sales commissions, programming expenses, depreciation, and advertising and promotion expenses.

 

 19 

 

 

The radio broadcasting industry is subject to rapid technological change, evolving industry standards and the emergence of new media technologies and services. These new technologies and media are gaining advertising share against radio and other traditional media.

 

 We are continuing to expand our digital initiative to provide a seamless experience across numerous platforms to allow our listeners and viewers to connect with our products where and when they want. We have also opened up a new set of digital inventory in the form of targeted display advertising across 98% of the web. This gives our representatives an expanded menu of services to offer our clients while not impacting any of our on-air inventory. In addition to targeted display, we continue to offer an array of digital services that include online promotions, mobile messaging, and email marketing.

 

 In addition, we continue the rollout of HD Radio. HD Radio utilizes digital technology that provides improved sound quality over standard analog broadcasts and also allows for the delivery of additional channels of diversified programming or data streams in each radio market.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 and the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, our Columbus, Ohio; Des Moines, Iowa; Manchester, New Hampshire; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Norfolk, Virginia markets, when combined, represented approximately 35%, 34%, 34% and 34%, respectively, of our consolidated net operating revenue. An adverse change in any of these radio markets or our relative market position in those markets could have a significant impact on our operating results as a whole.

 

The following tables describe the percentage of our consolidated net operating revenue represented by each of these markets:

 

   Percentage of Consolidated   Percentage of Consolidated 
   Net Operating Revenue for   Net Operating Revenue 
   the Nine Months Ended   for the Years Ended 
   September 30,   December 31, 
   2015   2014   2014   2013 
Market:                    
Columbus, Ohio   7%   7%   7%   7%
Des Moines, Iowa   7%   6%   6%   7%
Manchester, New Hampshire   5%   5%   5%   5%
Milwaukee, Wisconsin   11%   11%   11%   10%
Norfolk, Virginia   5%   5%   5%   5%

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 and the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the radio stations in our five largest markets when combined, represented approximately 35%, 35%, 32% and 39%, respectively, of our consolidated station operating income. The following tables describe the percentage of our consolidated station operating income represented by each of these markets:

 

   Percentage of Consolidated   Percentage of Consolidated 
   Station Operating Income (*)   Station Operating Income (*) 
   for the Nine Months Ended   for the Years Ended 
   September 30,   December 31, 
   2015   2014   2014   2013 
Market:                    
Columbus, Ohio   8%   6%   7%   8%
Des Moines, Iowa   6%   6%   5%   5%
Manchester, New Hampshire   6%   8%   7%   8%
Milwaukee, Wisconsin   11%   9%   10%   11%
Norfolk, Virginia   4%   6%   3%   7%

 

 

* Operating income plus corporate general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, other operating (income) expenses, and impairment of intangible assets.

 

 20 

 

 

Television Segment

 

Our television segment’s primary source of revenue is from the sale of advertising for broadcast on our stations. The number of advertisements available for broadcast on our television stations is limited by network affiliation and syndicated programming agreements and, with respect to children’s programs, federal regulation. Our television stations’ local market managers determine the number of advertisements to be broadcast in locally produced programs only, which are primarily news programming and occasionally local sports or information shows.

 

Our net operating revenue, station operating expense and operating income vary from market to market based upon the market’s rank or size, which is based upon population, available television advertising revenue in that particular market, and the popularity of programming being broadcast.

 

Our financial results are dependent on a number of factors, the most significant of which is our ability to generate advertising revenue through rates charged to advertisers. The rates a station is able to charge are, in large part, based on a station’s ability to attract audiences in the demographic groups targeted by its advertisers, as measured principally by periodic reports by independent national rating services. Various factors affect the rate a station can charge, including the general strength of the local and national economies, population growth, ability to provide popular programming through locally produced news, sports and weather and as a result of syndication and network affiliation agreements, local market competition, the ability of television broadcasting to reach a mass appeal market compared to other advertising media, and signal strength including cable/satellite coverage, and government regulation and policies.

 

Our stations strive to maximize revenue by constantly adjusting prices for our commercial spots based upon local market conditions, advertising demands and ratings. While there may be shifts from time to time in the number of advertisements broadcast during a particular time of day, the total number of advertisements broadcast on a particular station generally does not vary significantly from year to year. Any change in our revenue, with the exception of those instances where stations are acquired or sold, is generally the result of pricing adjustments, which are made to ensure that the station efficiently utilizes available inventory.

 

Because audience ratings in the local market are crucial to a station’s financial success, we endeavor to develop strong viewer loyalty by providing locally produced news, weather and sports programming. We believe that this emphasis on the local market provides us with the viewer loyalty we are trying to achieve.

 

Most of our revenue is generated from local advertising, which is sold primarily by each television markets’ sales staff. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, approximately 85% and 83%, respectively, of our television segment’s gross revenue was from local advertising. To generate national advertising sales, we engage independent advertising sales representatives that specialize in national sales for each of our television markets.

 

Our revenue varies throughout the year. Advertising expenditures, our primary source of revenue, generally have been lowest during the winter months, which include the first quarter of each year. We expect a decrease in political advertising for 2015 due to the lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets as compared to prior year.

 

The primary operating expenses involved in owning and operating television stations are employee salaries, sales commissions, programming expenses, including news production and the cost of acquiring certain syndicated programming, depreciation and advertising and promotion expenses.

 

Our television market in Joplin, Missouri represented approximately 10%, 9%, 9% and 9%, respectively, of our net operating revenues, and approximately 13%, 13%, 13% and 12%, respectively, of our consolidated station operating income (operating income plus corporate general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, other operating (income) expenses, and impairment of intangible assets) for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 and the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

 21 

 

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2015 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2014

 

Results of Operations

 

The following tables summarize our results of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014.

 

Consolidated Results of Operations

 

   Three Months Ended         
   September 30,   $ Increase   % Increase 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   (Decrease) 
   (In thousands, except percentages and per share information) 
Net operating revenue  $33,831   $34,373   $(542)   (1.6)%
Station operating expense   24,324    26,366    (2,042)   (7.7)%
Corporate general and administrative   2,577    2,307    270    11.7%
Other operating expense   433        433    N/M 
Operating income   6,497    5,700    797    14.0%
Interest expense   229    268    (39)   (14.6)%
Write-off of debt issuance costs   557        557    N/M 
Other (income) expense, net       7    (7)   N/M 
Income tax provision   2,599    2,180    419    19.2%
Net income  $3,112   $3,245   $(133)   (4.1)%
Earnings per share (diluted)  $.53   $.56   $(.03)   (5.4)%

 

Radio Broadcasting Segment

 

   Three Months Ended         
   September 30,   $ Increase   % Increase 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   (Decrease) 
   (In thousands, except percentages) 
Net operating revenue  $28,536   $29,400   $(864)   (2.9)%
Station operating expense   20,825    23,082    (2,257)   (9.8)%
Other operating expense   400        400    N/M 
Operating income  $7,311   $6,318   $993    15.7%

 

Television Broadcasting Segment

 

   Three Months Ended         
   September 30,   $ Increase   % Increase 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   (Decrease) 
   (In thousands, except percentages) 
Net operating revenue  $5,295   $4,973   $322    6.5%
Station operating expense   3,499    3,284    215    6.6%
Other operating expense   33        33    N/M  
Operating income  $1,763   $1,689   $74    4.4%

 

 

N/M =      Not Meaningful

 

 22 

 

 

Reconciliation of segment operating income to consolidated operating income:

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2015:                    
Net operating revenue  $28,536   $5,295   $   $33,831 
Station operating expense   20,825    3,499        24,324 
Corporate general and administrative           2,577    2,577 
Other operating expense   400    33        433 
Operating income (loss)  $7,311   $1,763   $(2,577)  $6,497 

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014:                    
Net operating revenue  $29,400   $4,973   $   $34,373 
Station operating expense   23,082    3,284        26,366 
Corporate general and administrative           2,307    2,307 
Other operating expense                
Operating income (loss)  $6,318   $1,689   $(2,307)  $5,700 

 

Consolidated

 

For the three months ended September 30, 2015, consolidated net operating revenue was $33,831,000 compared with $34,373,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $542,000 or 1.6%. $455,000 of this decrease is attributable to stations we owned or operated for the comparable period in 2014 (“same station”). The decrease in same station revenue was primarily a result of a decrease in gross political revenue of $990,000 offset by an increase in gross retransmission revenue of approximately $476,000 from the third quarter of 2014. The decrease in gross political revenue was due to a lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets. The increase in gross retransmission revenue was due to increases in both of our television markets during the third quarter of 2015.

 

Station operating expense was $24,324,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2015, compared with $26,366,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $2,042,000 or 7.7%. The overall decrease was attributable to a decrease of $1,891,000 for those stations we owned and operated for the entire comparable period. The decrease in same station operating expense was primarily due to a decrease in ratings licensing agreements of $1,900,000.

 

Operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2015 was $6,497,000 compared to $5,700,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $797,000 or 14%. The increase was a result of the decrease in station operating expense offset by a decrease in net operating revenue, described above an increase in our corporate general and administrative expenses of $270,000 or 11.7% and an increase in other operating expense of $433,000, from the third quarter of 2014. The increase in corporate expenses is due to increases in non-cash compensation related to the amortization of restricted stock grants of $180,000, an increase in consulting fees of $175,000, offset by a decrease in legal expense of $111,000. The increase in other operating expenses is from the loss of $400,000 incurred from the donation of WBOP-FM to Liberty University, Inc., as discussed in Note 5 of the financial statements.

 

We generated net income of $3,112,000 ($.53 per share on a fully diluted basis) during the three months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $3,245,000 ($.56 per share on a fully diluted basis) for the three months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $133,000 or 4.1%. We had an increase in operating income of $797,000, as described above, and a decrease in interest expense of $39,000 offset by an increase in the write-off of debt issuance costs of $557,000 related to the new Credit Facility entered into during the third quarter of 2015 and an increase in income tax expense of $419,000.

 

 23 

 

 

Radio Segment

 

For the three months ended September 30, 2015, net operating revenue of the radio segment was $28,536,000 compared with $29,400,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, which represents a decrease of $864,000 or 2.9%. During 2015, we had a decline of approximately $777,000 or 2.7% in net revenue generated by radio stations that we owned or operated for the comparable period in 2014. The decrease in same station revenue was primarily attributable to the decrease in gross political revenue due to a lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets.

 

Station operating expense for the radio segment was $20,825,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2015, compared with $23,082,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $2,257,000 or 9.8%. The decrease in station operating expense for the radio segment represents primarily a decrease of approximately $2,106,000 in same station operating expense and a decrease of $151,000 in stations we did not own or operate for the comparable period in 2014. The decrease in radio same station is primarily a result of a decrease in ratings licensing agreements of $1,900,000, and a decrease in compensation costs of $135,000.

 

Operating income in the radio segment increased $993,000 or 15.7% to $7,311,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2015, from $6,318,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014. The increase was a result of the decrease in station operating expense partially offset by the decrease in net operating revenue as described above and the increase in other operating expenses due to the loss of $400,000 incurred from the donation of WBOP-FM to Liberty University, Inc.

 

Television Segment

 

For the three months ended September 30, 2015, net operating revenue of our television segment was $5,295,000 compared with $4,973,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $322,000 or 6.5% which was primarily related to an increase in gross retransmission revenue of $467,000, offset by a decrease in gross political revenue of $176,000. The decrease in gross political revenue was due to a lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets.

 

Station operating expense in the television segment for the three months ended September 30, 2015 was $3,499,000, compared with $3,284,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $215,000 or 6.6%. The increase is primarily related to an increase in retransmission fees.

 

Operating income in the television segment for the three months ended September 30, 2015 was $1,763,000 compared with $1,689,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $74,000 or 4.4%. The increase was a direct result of the increase in net operating revenue partially offset by the increase in station operating expense described above.

 

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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014

 

Results of Operations

 

The following tables summarize our results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014.

 

Consolidated Results of Operations

 

   Nine Months Ended         
   September 30,   $ Increase   % Increase 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   (Decrease) 
   (In thousands, except percentages and per share information) 
Net operating revenue  $97,250   $97,627   $(377)   (0.4)%
Station operating expense   71,400    72,812    (1,412)   (1.9)%
Corporate general and administrative   7,642    6,580    1,062    16.1%
Other operating expense   447        447    N/M 
Operating income   17,761    18,235    (474)   (2.6)%
Interest expense   714    812    (98)   (12.1)%
Write-off of debt issuance costs   557        557    N/M 
Other (income) expense, net   (417)   (38)   (379)   N/M 
Income tax provision   7,190    7,000    190    (2.7)%
Net income  $9,717   $10,461   $(744)   (7.1)%
Earnings per share (diluted)  $1.67   $1.80   $(.13)   (7.2)%

 

Radio Broadcasting Segment

 

   Nine Months Ended         
   September 30,   $ Increase   % Increase 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   (Decrease) 
   (In thousands, except percentages) 
Net operating revenue  $81,829   $83,176   $(1,347)   (1.6)%
Station operating expense   61,066    63,021    (1,955)   (3.1)%
Other operating expense   414        414    N/M 
Operating income  $20,349   $20,155   $194    (1.0)%

 

Television Broadcasting Segment

 

   Nine Months Ended         
   September 30,   $ Increase   % Increase 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   (Decrease) 
   (In thousands, except percentages) 
Net operating revenue  $15,421   $14,451   $970    6.7%
Station operating expense   10,334    9,791    543    5.6%
Other operating expense   33        33    N/M  
Operating income  $5,054   $4,660   $394    8.5%

 

 

N/M =        Not Meaningful

 

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Reconciliation of segment operating income to consolidated operating income:

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015:                    
Net operating revenue  $81,829   $15,421   $   $97,250 
Station operating expense   61,066    10,334        71,400 
Corporate general and administrative           7,642    7,642 
Other operating expense   414    33        447 
Operating income (loss)  $20,349   $5,054   $(7,642)  $17,761 

 

           Corporate     
   Radio   Television   and Other   Consolidated 
   (In thousands) 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014:                    
Net operating revenue  $83,176   $14,451   $   $97,627 
Station operating expense   63,021    9,791        72,812 
Corporate general and administrative           6,580    6,580 
Operating income (loss)  $20,155   $4,660   $(6,580)  $18,235 

 

Consolidated

 

For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, consolidated net operating revenue was $97,250,000 compared with $97,627,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $377,000 or less than 1%. We had an increase of approximately $741,000 generated by stations we owned or operated for the comparable period in 2014 (“same station”), offset by a decrease in net operating revenue of approximately $1,118,000 attributable to stations that we did not own or operate for the entire comparable period. The majority of increase in same station revenue was due to increases of gross retransmission revenue and gross interactive revenue of $1,184,000, and $441,000 respectively and a decrease in agency commissions of $318,000 from 2014. These improvements to net revenue were offset by a decrease in gross political revenue of $1,209,000 from 2014. The increase in gross retransmission revenue was due to increases in both of our television markets during 2015. Gross interactive revenue increased due to increases in our Clarksville, Tennessee, Columbus, Ohio, and Manchester, New Hampshire markets. The decrease in gross political revenue was due to a lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets.

 

Station operating expense was $71,400,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared with $72,812,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $1,412,000 or 1.9%. The overall decrease was attributable to a decrease of $90,000 for those stations we owned and operated for the entire comparable period and a decrease of $1,322,000 attributable to stations that we did not own or operate for the entire comparable period. The decrease in same station is primarily a result of a decrease in licensing agreements of $627,000, a decrease in compensation costs of $64,000 offset by an increase in retransmission expenses of $400,000, and an increase of $227,000 in local commissions.

 

Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $17,761,000 compared to $18,235,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $474,000 or 2.6%. The decrease was a result of the decrease in station operating expense offset by a decrease in net operating revenue, described above, an increase in our corporate general and administrative expenses of $1,062,000 or 16.1%, from 2014 and an increase in other operating expense of $447,000. The increase in corporate expenses is due to increases in non-cash compensation related to the amortization of restricted stock grants of $628,000, an increase in consulting fees of $294,000, an increase in accounting and auditing fees of $68,000 and an increase in travel expenses of $31,000. The increase in other operating expenses is from the loss of $400,000 incurred from the donation of WBOP-FM to Liberty University, Inc., as discussed in Note 5 of the financial statements.

 

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We generated net income of 9,717,000 ($1.67 per share on a fully diluted basis) during the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $10,461,000 ($1.80 per share on a fully diluted basis) for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $744,000 or 7.1%. We had a decrease in operating income of $474,000, as described above, an increase in the write-off of debt issuance costs of $557,000 due to the new Credit Facility entered into during the third quarter of 2015, an increase in income tax expense of $190,000 offset by a decrease in interest expense of $98,000 driven by a decrease in average debt outstanding and an increase in other income of $379,000 primarily attributable to a gain recognized from insurance proceeds related to lightning damage to two of our transmitters.

 

Radio Segment

 

For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, net operating revenue of the radio segment was $81,829,000 compared with $83,176,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, which represents a decrease of $1,347,000 or 1.6%. During 2015, we had a decline of approximately $229,000 or less than 1% in net revenue generated by radio stations that we owned or operated for the comparable period in 2014 and a decrease in net operating revenue of approximately $1,118,000 attributable to stations that we did not own or operate for the entire comparable period. The decrease in same station revenue was primarily attributable to the decrease in political revenue of $953,000, offset by an increase in interactive revenue of $446,000 and an increase in nonspot revenue of $276,000, The decrease in gross political revenue was due to a lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets. Gross interactive revenue increased due to increases in our Clarksville, Tennessee, Columbus, Ohio, and Manchester, New Hampshire markets.

 

Station operating expense for the radio segment was $61,066,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared with $63,021,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, a decrease of $1,955,000 or 3.1%. The overall decrease was attributable to a decrease of $633,000 for those stations we owned and operated for the entire comparable period and a decrease in station operating expense of approximately $1,322,000 attributable to stations that we did not own or operate for the entire comparable period. The decrease in same station is primarily a result of a decrease in ratings licensing agreements.

 

Operating income in the radio segment increased $194,000 or 1% to $20,349,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, from $20,155,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The increase was a result of the decrease in station operating expense, offset by the decrease in net operating revenue, as described above and an increase in other operating expense of $414,000. The increase in other operating expenses is from the loss of $400,000 incurred from the donation of WBOP-FM to Liberty University, Inc.

 

Television Segment

 

For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, net operating revenue of our television segment was $15,421,000 compared with $14,451,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $970,000 or 6.7% which was primarily related to gross retransmission revenue of $1,117,000 offset by a decrease of $256,000 in gross political revenue. The decrease in gross political revenue was due to a lower number of congressional, senatorial, gubernatorial and local elections in most of our markets.

 

Station operating expense in the television segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $10,334,000, compared with $9,791,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $543,000 or 5.6%. The increase is primarily a result of an increase in retransmission fees of $402,000, and an increase in compensation costs of $117,000.

 

Operating income in the television segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $5,054,000 compared with $4,660,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, an increase of $394,000 or 8.5%. The increase was a result of the increase in net operating revenue partially offset by the increase in station operating expense, described above.

 

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Forward-Looking Statements

 

Statements contained in this Form 10-Q that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, words such as “believes,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “plans,” “expects,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are made as of the date of this report or as otherwise indicated, based on current expectations. We undertake no obligation to update this information. A number of important factors could cause our actual results for 2015 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may prove to be incorrect and that may cause our actual results and experiences to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. The risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may affect our performance include our financial leverage and debt service requirements, dependence on key personnel, dependence on key stations, U.S. and local economic conditions, our ability to successfully integrate acquired stations, regulatory requirements, new technologies, natural disasters and terrorist attacks. We cannot be sure that we will be able to anticipate or respond timely to changes in any of these factors, which could adversely affect the operating results in one or more fiscal quarters. Results of operations in any past period should not be considered, in and of itself, indicative of the results to be expected for future periods. Fluctuations in operating results may also result in fluctuations in the price of our stock.

 

For a more complete description of the prominent risks and uncertainties inherent in our business, see Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Debt Arrangements and Debt Service Requirements

 

On August 18, 2015, we entered into a new credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with a group of banks. In connection with the execution of the Credit Facility, the credit agreement in place at June 30, 2015 (the “Old Credit Agreement”) was terminated, and all outstanding amounts were paid in full. The Credit Facility consists of a $100 million five-year revolving facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) and matures on August 18, 2020.

 

We have pledged substantially all of our assets (excluding our FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility and each of our subsidiaries has guaranteed the Credit Facility and has pledged substantially all of their assets (excluding their FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility.

 

The proceeds from the Credit Facility were used to repay all amounts outstanding on our Old Credit Agreement and pay transactional fees. The unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility is available for general corporate purposes, including working capital, capital expenditures, permitted acquisitions and related transaction expenses and permitted stock buybacks. We wrote-off unamortized debt issuance costs relating to the Old Credit Agreement of approximately $557 thousand, pre-tax, due to entering into this new agreement during the quarter ended September 30, 2015.

 

Approximately $261 thousand of transaction fees related to the Credit Facility were capitalized and are being amortized over the life of the Credit Facility. Those deferred debt costs are included in other assets, net in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

 

Interest rates under the Credit Facility are payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to LIBOR (0.25% at September 30, 2015), plus 1% to 2% or the base rate plus 0% to 1%. The spread over LIBOR and the base rate vary from time to time, depending upon our financial leverage. Letter of credit issued under the Credit Facility will be subject to a participation fee (which is equal to the interest rates applicable to Eurocurrency Loans, as defined in the Credit Agreement) payable to each of the Lenders and a fronting fee equal to 0.25% per annum payable to the issuing bank. We also pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.2% to 0.3% per annum on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility.

 

The Credit Facility contains a number of financial covenants (all of which we were in compliance with at September 30, 2015) which, among other things, require us to maintain specified financial ratios and impose certain limitations on us with respect to investments, additional indebtedness, dividends, distributions, guarantees, liens and encumbrances.

 

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We had approximately $64 million of unused borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility at September 30, 2015.

 

Our Old Credit Agreement consisted of a $30 million term loan and a $90 million revolving loan maturing on May 31, 2018. Our indebtedness under the Old Credit Agreement was secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of our assets and of our subsidiaries, by a pledge of our subsidiaries’ stock and by a guarantee of our subsidiaries. The Old Credit Agreement was used for general corporate purposes, including working capital, capital expenditures, permitted acquisitions and related transaction expenses and permitted stock buybacks.

 

Interest rates under the Old Credit Agreement were payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to LIBOR (0.16925% at December 31, 2014), plus 1.25% to 2.25% or the base rate plus 0.25% to 1.25%. The spread over LIBOR and the base rate varied from time to time, depending upon our financial leverage. We also paid quarterly commitment fees of 0.25% to 0.35% per annum on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility under the Old Credit Agreement.

 

In 2003, we entered into an agreement of understanding with Surtsey Media, LLC (“Surtsey Media”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Surtsey Productions, Inc., whereby we have guaranteed up to $1,250,000 of the debt incurred in closing the acquisition of a construction permit for KFJX-TV station in Pittsburg, Kansas, a full power Fox affiliate serving Joplin, Missouri. At September 30, 2015, there was $1,078,000 of debt outstanding under this agreement. The loan agreement was amended in April, 2014 to extend the due date of the loan for three years to mature on May 1, 2017. We do not have any recourse provision in connection with our guarantee that would enable us to recover any amounts paid under the guarantee. As a result, at September 30, 2015, we have recorded $1,078,000 in debt and $1,000,000 in intangible assets, primarily broadcast licenses. In consideration for the guarantee, Surtsey Media entered into various agreements with us relating to the stations.

 

Sources and Uses of Cash

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, we had net cash flows from operating activities of $19,348,000 and $20,971,000, respectively. We believe that cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet quarterly debt service requirements for interest and payments of principal under our Credit Facility. However, if such cash flow is not sufficient we may be required to sell additional equity securities, refinance our obligations or dispose of one or more of our properties in order to make such scheduled payments. There can be no assurance that we would be able to effect any such transactions on favorable terms, if at all.

 

Our capital expenditures, exclusive of acquisitions, for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 were $4,427,000 ($3,801,000 in 2014). We anticipate capital expenditures in 2015 to be approximately $5.5 – 6 million, which we expect to finance through funds generated from operations.

 

On March 25, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $1.2 million, was paid on April 17, 2015 to shareholders of record on April 6, 2015 and funded by cash on the Company’s balance sheet.

 

On June 10, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $1.2 million, was paid on July 10, 2015 to shareholders of record on June 22, 2015 and fund by cash on the Company’s balance sheet.

 

On September 2, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $1.2 million, was paid on October 2, 2015 to shareholders of record on September 14, 2015 and funded by cash on the Company’s balance sheet.

 

On August 1, 2015, we acquired two AM and three FM stations and one FM translator (WSVA-AM, WHBG-AM, WQPO-FM, WJDV-FM, WTGD-FM and W221CF- FX) from M. Belmont VerStandig, Inc., serving the Harrisonburg, Virginia market for approximately $10,131,000, which included $128,000 in transactional costs. Cash was utilized to fund the acquisition.

 

On September 1, 2015, we acquired two FM stations (WSIG-FM and WBOP-FM) from Gamma Broadcasting, LLC, serving the Harrisonburg, Virginia market for approximately $1,558,000, which included $92,000 in transactional costs. Cash was utilized to fund the acquisition. FCC multiple ownership rules prohibit us from owning both of these stations. In order to satisfy the multiple ownership requirements and receive FCC approval for this acquisition, we simultaneously donated WBOP-FM to Liberty University, Inc, a charitable organization. In exchange for donating WBOP-FM, including the Station, the FCC License and the Assets, we received an FM Translator W267BA, the FM Translator Assets, and the FM Translator FCC license.

 

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On November 2, 2015, we entered into an agreement to acquire an FM radio station (WLVQ) from Wilks Broadcast – Columbus, LLC, serving the Columbus, Ohio market for $13,000,000. This transaction is subject to FCC approval and we expect to close on this acquisition in the first quarter 2016. We plan to operate this station under a LMA on or before November 16, 2015. This acquisition will be financed through funds generated from operations, borrowings under the Credit Agreement, additional debt or equity financing, or a combination thereof.

 

We continue to actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisitions of additional broadcast properties.

 

We anticipate that any future acquisitions of radio and television stations and dividend payments will be financed through funds generated from operations, borrowings under the Credit Agreement, additional debt or equity financing, or a combination thereof. However, there can be no assurances that any such financing will be available on acceptable terms, if at all.

 

Summary Disclosures About Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

 

We have future cash obligations under various types of contracts, including the terms of our Credit Facility, operating leases, programming contracts, employment agreements, and other operating contracts. For additional information concerning our future cash obligations see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation — Summary Disclosures About Contractual Obligations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

With the exception of our new Credit Facility disclosed in Note 7 to the accompanying financial statements, there have been no material changes to such contracts/commitments during the nine months ended September 30, 2015. We anticipate that our contractual cash obligations will be financed through funds generated from operations or additional borrowings under the Credit Facility, or a combination thereof.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and related disclosures and contingencies. We evaluate estimates used in preparation of our financial statements on a continual basis. There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies that are described in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

Recent accounting pronouncements are described in Note 2 to the accompanying financial statements.

 

Inflation

 

The impact of inflation on our operations has not been significant to date. There can be no assurance that a high rate of inflation in the future would not have an adverse effect on our operations.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Refer to “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Market Risk and Risk Management Policies” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 for a complete discussion of our market risk. There have been no material changes to the market risk information included in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to cause the material information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to be recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms. There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2015, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

 

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is subject to various outstanding claims which arise in the ordinary course of business and to other legal proceedings. Management anticipates that any potential liability of the Company, which may arise out of or with respect to these matters, will not materially affect the Company’s financial statements.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

The following table summarizes our repurchases of our Class A Common Stock during the three months ended September 30, 2015. Shares repurchased during the quarter were from the retention of shares for cashless exercise of stock options and the payment of the withholding taxes related to those stock option exercises.

 

               Approximate 
           Total Number   Dollar 
           of   Value of 
           Shares   Shares 
           Purchased   that May Yet 
           as Part of   be 
   Total Number   Average Price   Publicly   Purchased 
   of Shares   Paid per   Announced   Under the 
Period  Purchased   Share   Program   Program(a) 
July 1 – July 31, 2015      $       $28,770,087 
August 1 – August 31, 2015      $       $28,770,087 
September 1 – September 30, 2015   94,757   $35.07       $25,447,212 
Total   94,757   $35.07       $25,447,212 

 

(a) We have a Stock Buy-Back Program which allows us to purchase our Class A Common Stock. In February 2013, our Board of Directors authorized an increase in the amount committed to the Buy-Back Program from $60 million to approximately $75.8 million.

 

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Item 6. Exhibits

 

31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

31.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

32   Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 and Rule 13-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
101.INS   XBRL Instance Document
     
101.SCH   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
     
101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
     
101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
     
101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
     
101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.  
   
Date: November 9, 2015  /s/ SAMUEL D. BUSH  
  Samuel D. Bush  
  Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)  
   
Date: November 9, 2015  /s/ CATHERINE A. BOBINSKI  
  Catherine A. Bobinski  
  Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and
Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)  

 

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