As of November 12, 2013, 58,077,031 shares of the registrants common stock were outstanding.
Management believes that the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (which include normal recurring adjustments) that, in the opinion of management, are necessary to present fairly the Companys consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 30, 2012, included in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
On September 27, 2013, the Company filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (the Bankruptcy Code), case number 13-12503. The Company will continue to operate the business as debtor-in possession under the jurisdiction of the United States Bankruptcy Court of Delaware (the Bankruptcy Court) and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the United States Bankruptcy Code and orders of the Bankruptcy Court, (see Note 2).
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes continuity of operations, realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. The Company has experienced declining same stores revenue and profitability over the past several years, has incurred significant recurring losses from continuing operations and has a net capital deficiency. Further, the RSA (as described in Note 2 below) requires the Company to file a voluntary petition seeking to reorganize under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. The ability of the Company, both during and after the Chapter 11 proceedings, to continue as a going concern is contingent upon, among other things; (i) the ability of the Company to generate cash from operations and to maintain adequate cash on hand; (ii) the resolution of the uncertainty as to the amount of claims that will be allowed; (iii) the ability of the Company to confirm its reorganization plan in the Chapter 11 proceedings and obtain any financing which may be required to emerge from bankruptcy protection; and (iv) the Companys ability to achieve profitability. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to successfully achieve these objectives in order to continue as a going concern. The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
On August 27, 2013, the Company entered into a management agreement (the Local Media Management Agreement) with Local Media Group Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a subsidiary of Newcastle Investment Corp. (Local Media Parent), to manage the operations of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. (Local Media). The Company has determined that the Local Media Management Agreement results in Local Media being a variable interest entity (VIE) and the Company has the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the entity therefore the Company will consolidate Local Medias financial position and results of operations. On September 3, 2013, the Local Media Parent completed its acquisition of thirty three publications from Dow Jones & Co. Local Medias results of operations have been included in the Companys consolidated result of operations beginning on September 3, 2013. Local Media is not part of the bankruptcy filing and will continue to operate in the ordinary course of business. Refer to Note 5, Variable Interest Entity for additional information.
The Companys operating segments (Large Community Newspapers, Small Community Newspapers, Directories, and Local Media) are aggregated into one reportable business segment.
The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 are outlined below.
(1) This accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component is included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost. See Note 14.
The following table presents reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013.
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries commenced voluntary chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in the Bankruptcy Court on September 27, 2013. Concurrent with the bankruptcy filing, the Company filed and requested confirmation of a joint prepackaged plan of reorganization (the Plan). On September 4, 2013, the Company entered into a restructuring support agreement (RSA) with Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent (the Administrative Agent) and certain of the lenders under the Companys 2007 Credit Facility, including Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) and its affiliates.
Pursuant to its RSA, the Company solicited votes on the Plan from holders of claims under the Companys 2007 Credit Facility and certain related interest rate swaps. The Plan was accepted by the only impaired class of creditors entitled to vote on it. Specifically, 79 out of the 80 holders of secured debt entitled to vote holding an aggregate amount of $1,199,317 (representing 99.99% of the total secured debt) voted to accept the Plan. No creditors voted to reject the Plan.
Pension, trade and all other unsecured creditors of the Company would not be impaired under the prepackaged Plan, and their votes were not solicited. The Companys common stock would be canceled under the Plan, and holders of secured debt would have the option of receiving a cash distribution equal to 40% of their claims, or stock in New Media, a new holding company that will own the Company and Local Media, as described below.
The Plan proposes a restructuring of the Company pursuant to a pre-packaged restructuring under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code whereby each Creditor (as defined below) has the option of exchanging its holdings in the Outstanding Debt (as defined below) for either its pro rata share of cash or common stock in a new holding company (such common stock, New Media Common Stock, and such holding company from and after the effective date, New Media) with ownership interests in the reorganized Company (such reorganized Company, New GateHouse). New Media is an entity that is unrelated to the Company and currently is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Newcastle.
New Media intends to distribute a portion of its estimated EBITDA (as defined in the Plan) less (i) cash taxes; (ii) interest expense; (iii) principal payments under the Financing (as defined below), (iv) capital expenditures; and (v) changes in net working capital to its shareholders and reinvest the remainder for general corporate purposes which may include accretive acquisitions.
(a) Indebtedness under the 2007 Credit Facility, consisting of a Revolving Credit Facility, a Term Loan Facility, a Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility and an Incremental Term Loan Facility (collectively, the 2007 Credit Facility Claims). The 2007 Credit Facility Claims consisted of a (i) Revolving Credit Facility of $0 and $0 at December 30, 2012 and September 30, 2013, respectively, (ii) Term Loan Facility of $658,281 and $654,554 at December 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013, respectively, (iii) Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility of $245,627 and $244,236 at December 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013, respectively and (iv) Incremental Term Loan Facility of $270,190 and $268,660 at December 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013, respectively.
(b) Swap Liability, including (i) $100,000 notional amount executed February 27, 2007, (ii) $250,000 notional amount executed April 4, 2007, (iii) $200,000 notional amount executed April 13, 2007 and (iv) $75,000 notional amount executed September 18, 2007. As of December 31, 2012 and September 29, 2013, the carrying value of the Swap Liability totaled $45,724 and $28,440, respectively.
ii. (a) 100% of New Media Common Stock (subject to dilution as discussed herein) and (B) 100% of the Net Proceeds (as defined below), if any (collectively, the New Media Equity Option).
Creditors that do not make an election during the Solicitation Period (as defined below) with respect to their claims will be deemed to have elected the Cash-Out Option.
(b) Pension, trade and all other unsecured claims will be unimpaired by the Plan.
(c) Holders of equity interests in the Company, including warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests (Existing Equity Holders), would be cancelled, and Existing Equity Holders will receive 10-year warrants, collectively representing the right to acquire, in the aggregate, equity equal to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of New Media (subject to dilution) as of the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date), with the strike price per share for such warrants calculated based on a total equity value of New Media prior to the Local Media Contribution (as defined below) of $1,200,000 as of the Effective Date. New Media Warrants will not have the benefit of antidilution protections, other than customary protections including for stock splits and stock dividends. Existing equity interests will be cancelled under the Plan.
In connection with the Plan, Newcastle (Plan Sponsor) (or its designated affiliates) has offered to purchase, in cash, an amount equal to 40% of the sum of (a) $1,167,450 of principal of the claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (b) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (c) all amounts due under and subject to the terms of the interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (for the avoidance of doubt, excluding any default interest) on the Effective Date of the Plan. The Cash-Out Offer will be coterminous with the Solicitation Period (as defined below).
As of the Effective Date of the Plan, New Media will enter into a registration rights agreement with certain holders of the Outstanding Debt that received 10% or more of the New Media Common Stock, to provide customary registration rights.
Instead of the Cash-Out Offer, each Creditor may elect to receive in satisfaction of its claims, a pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the Net Proceeds (as defined below), if any. Following the completion of the restructuring, New Media will use commercially reasonable efforts, based on market conditions and other factors, to list New Media Common Stock (the Listing) and may raise additional equity capital in connection with or subsequent to the Listing. New Media intends to seek the Listing on the New York Stock Exchange. For the avoidance of doubt, the Listing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan. Under the Plan, New Media will not impose any transfer restrictions on New Media Common Stock.
On November 6, 2013 the Bankruptcy Court held a hearing and entered an order (the Confirmation Order) confirming the Plan.
The Company will use commercially reasonable efforts based on market conditions and other factors, to raise up to $165,000 of new debt, including a $150,000 facility to fund distributions and other payments under the Plan (the Financing). The distribution will be made to holders of New Media Common Stock, including Plan Sponsor (or its designated affiliates) on account of the Cash-Out Offer, on the Effective Date (the Net Proceeds). The Financing will not be a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the Plan.
The Plan Sponsor acquired Local Media, a publisher of weekly newspaper publications, on September 3, 2013. Subject to the terms of the Plan, the Plan Sponsor will contribute Local Media Parent and assign its rights under the related stock purchase agreement to New Media on the Effective Date (the Local Media Contribution) in exchange for shares of common stock of New Media (and at Plan Sponsors option, $50), collectively equal in value to the cost of the Local Media Acquisition (as adjusted pursuant to the Plan) based upon the equity value of New Media as of the Effective Date prior to the contribution.
On the effective date, New Media will enter into a management agreement with an affiliate of the Plan Sponsor (the Manager) pursuant to which the Manager will manage the operations of New Media. The annual management fee will be 1.50% of New Medias gross equity as set forth in the Management Agreement.
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the restructuring shall include a full release from liability of the Company, Plan Sponsor, the Administrative Agent, the Creditors, and all current and former direct and indirect members, partners, subsidiaries, affiliates, funds, managers, managing members, officers, directors, employees, advisors, principals, attorneys, professionals, accountants, investment bankers, consultants, agents, and other representatives (including their respective members, partners, subsidiaries, affiliates, funds, managers, managing members, officers, directors, employees, advisors, principals, attorneys, professionals, accountants, investment bankers, consultants, agents, and other representatives) by the Company, Plan Sponsor and the Creditors from any claims or causes of action related to or arising out of the Company, the Outstanding Debt or the Restructuring on or prior to the Effective Date, except for any claims and causes of action for fraud, gross negligence or willful misconduct.
The confirmation order has (a) not been reversed, stayed, modified, or amended, and (b) the time to appeal or seek certiorari has expired and (i) no appeal or petition for certiorari has been timely taken, or (ii) any appeal or petition for certiorari has been fully resolved, denied, resulted in no modification, or has otherwise been dismissed with prejudice.
On November 6, 2013, the Bankruptcy Court confirmed the Plan.
On September 4, 2013 the Plan Sponsor and the Company entered into an investment commitment letter in connection with the restructuring, pursuant to which Plan Sponsor agreed to purchase the Cash-Out Offer claims, described above. The investment commitment letter provides that, on account of the claims purchased in the Cash-Out Offer on the Effective Date of the Plan, Plan Sponsor will receive its pro rata share of (a) New Media Common Stock and (b) Net Proceeds, if any, net of transaction expenses associated with transactions under the Plan.
In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 852, Reorganizations (ASC 852) the Company has segregated the liabilities subject to compromise in its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The amount of Liabilities subject to compromise represents the Company and certain of its subsidiaries who filed bankruptcy (the Debtors) estimate, where an estimate is determinable, of known or potential pre-petition claims to be addressed in connection with the bankruptcy proceedings. Such liabilities are reported at the Debtors current estimate, where an estimate is determinable, of the allowed claim amount, even though they may be settled for lesser amounts. These claims remain subject to future adjustments, which may result from: negotiations; actions of the Bankruptcy Court; disputed claims; rejection of contracts and unexpired leases; the determination as to the value of any collateral securing claims; proofs of claims; or other events. Refer to Note 2 for additional information.
In accordance with ASC 852 the Company has segregated reorganization items related to the Plan in its Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
For the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013, the Company paid approximately $6,854 for reorganization items.
On September 3, 2013, Local Media Parent acquired Local Media. The Company entered into a management and advisory agreement with Local Media Parent, which was assigned to Local Media, to manage the operations of Local Media. In return, the Company will receive compensation including an annual fee and will be eligible to earn an annual incentive pay out equal to 12.5% of the EBITDA of Local Media in excess of budget. Although Local Media Parent currently owns 100.0% of the equity of Local Media, the Company manages the daily operations of Local Media. The Company has determined that the management and advisory agreement results in Local Media being a VIE and the Company has the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the entity. As a result, the Company is the primary beneficiary and therefore has consolidated Local Medias financial position and results of operations. As 100% of Local Media is owned by Local Media Parent, the net income (loss) of Local Media is reflected in noncontrolling interest.
The Company has accounted for the consolidation of Local Media under the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their fair values. The transaction costs were incurred by Newcastle not GateHouse. The net assets, including goodwill of Local Media have been recorded in the condensed consolidated balance sheet at their estimated fair value in accordance with ASC 805. The value allocated in consolidating Local Media, was approximately $83,701 and $1,910 of acquisition related costs were recognized. Local Media Parent contributed $55,823 of equity and Local Media entered into a long-term debt agreement for $33,000. Local Media consists of eight daily and fifteen weekly newspapers as well as ten shopper publications, serving areas of New York, Massachusetts, California, Pennsylvania, Oregon and New Hampshire. The results of operations for The Local Media have been included in the Companys consolidated financial statements.
The Company obtained third party independent appraisals to assist in the determination of the fair values of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. The property, plant and equipment appraisal included an analysis of recent comparable sales and offerings of land parcels in each of the subjects markets. The appraised value is supported with consideration and use of standard accepted appraisal practices and valuation procedures. The appraiser used the three basic approaches to value: the Cost Approach (used for equipment where an active secondary market is not available and building improvements), the Direct Sales Comparison (Market) Approach (used for land and equipment where an active secondary market is available) and the Income Approach (used for intangible assets). These approaches used are based on the cost to reproduce assets, market exchanges for comparable assets and the capitalization of income. Useful lives range from 1 to 7 years for personal property and 17 to 38 years for real property.
The appraisal utilized a relief from royalty method, an income approach, to determine the fair value of mastheads. Key assumptions utilized in this valuation include revenue projections, a royalty rate of 1.5%, long term growth rate of 0%, tax rate of 39.2% and discount rate of 25.0%. Based on estimated discount rates, attrition levels and other available data, the advertiser and subscriber relationships were determined to have a fair value of $0.
Trade accounts receivable, having an estimated fair value of $13,427, were included in the acquired assets. The gross contractual amount of these receivables was $14,937 and the contractual cash flows not expected to be collected was estimated at $1,510 as of the acquisition date.
Local Media accounted for inventory using a weighted cost methodology, which was deemed to approximate fair value. The FIFO valuation method is used and is consistent with the Companys inventory valuation. The difference between the weighted average and FIFO methodology does not have a material effect on the results of operations.
From the date of acquisition through September 29, 2013 Local Media had Revenues of $12,043 million and a net loss of $865.
For tax purposes, the amount of goodwill that is expected to be deductible is $462 as of September 3, 2013.
The estimated fair values are preliminary pending the finalization of the valuation.
The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated statement of operations information for 2013, set forth below, presents the results of operations as if the consolidation of the newspapers from Local Media had occurred on January 2, 2012. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated statement of operations information for 2012, set forth below, presents the results of operations as if the consolidation of the Local Media had occurred on January 2, 2012. These amounts are not necessarily indicative of future results or actual results that would have been achieved had the acquisitions occurred as of the beginning of such period.
The table below summarizes the assets and liabilities of the consolidated VIE (Local Media) as of September 29, 2013. As of December 30, 2012 the balances were zero, as the VIE was not consolidated until September 3, 2013.
The Company recognized compensation cost for share-based payments of $0, $23, $25 and $71 during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013and September 30, 2012, respectively. As of September 29, 2013, all compensation cost for share-based payments have been recognized.
Under the GateHouse Media, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the RSG Plan), 266,795 RSGs were granted to Company directors, management and employees, 42,535 of which were both granted and forfeited during the year ended December 31, 2008. An additional 100,000 RSGs were granted to Company management during the year ended December 31, 2009. The majority of the RSGs issued under the RSG Plan vest in increments of one-third on each of the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date. In the event a grantee of an RSG is terminated by the Company without cause, a number of unvested RSGs immediately vest that would have vested under the normal vesting period on the next succeeding anniversary date following such termination. In the event an RSG grantees employment with the Company is terminated without cause within twelve months after a change in control (as defined in the applicable award agreement), all unvested RSGs become immediately vested at the termination date. During the period prior to the lapse and removal of the vesting restrictions, a grantee of an RSG will have all of the rights of a stockholder, including without limitation, the right to vote and the right to receive all dividends or other distributions. As a result, the RSGs are reflected as outstanding common stock and the unvested RSGs have been excluded from the calculation of basic earnings per share. With respect to Company employees, the value of the RSGs on the date of issuance is recognized as employee compensation expense over the vesting period or through the grantees eligible retirement date, if shorter, with an increase to additional paid-in-capital.
As of September 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, there were 0 and 25,424 RSGs, respectively, issued and outstanding with a weighted average grant date fair value of $0.00 and $6.04, respectively. As of September 29, 2013, the aggregate intrinsic value of unvested RSGs was $0. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, the aggregate fair value of vested RSGs was $1.
Certain amounts in the prior period unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation.
Over the past several years, and in furtherance of the Companys cost reduction and cash flow preservation plans the Company has engaged in a series of individual restructuring programs, designed primarily to right size the Companys employee base, consolidate facilities and improve its operations. These initiatives impact all of the Companys geographic regions and are often influenced by the terms of union contracts within each region. All costs related to these programs, which primarily reflect severance expense, are accrued at the time of announcement.
Information related to restructuring program activity during the twelve months ended December 30, 2012 and the nine months ended September 29, 2013 is outlined below.
(2) Included above are amounts that were initially recognized in integration and reorganization and were subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the affected operations ceased.
The restructuring reserve balance as of September 29, 2013, for all programs was $597, which is expected to be paid out over the next twelve months.
The following table summarizes the costs incurred and cash paid in connection with these restructuring programs for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012.
Other costs primarily included costs to consolidate operations.
Included above are amounts that were initially recognized in integration and reorganization and were subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations expense at the time the affected operations ceased.
The weighted average amortization periods for amortizable intangible assets are 4.4 years for noncompete agreements, 16.7 years for advertiser relationships, 13.8 years for customer relationships, 17.2 years for subscriber relationships, 10.0 years for trade names and 15.0 years for publication rights.
During the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized its management structure to align with its publication types. The fair value of goodwill was allocated to each of the new reporting units: Small Community Newspapers, Large Daily Newspapers and Metro Newspapers. The Company determined that impairment indicators were present for the Metro Newspaper reporting unit, which had a goodwill balance of $216. As of April 1, 2012 the Company performed a Step 1 analysis for this reporting unit and determined that its carrying value exceeded fair value. As a result of the Step 2 analysis, the entire $216 of goodwill was impaired and this amount was subsequently reclassified to discontinued operations, see Note 18. The fair value of this reporting unit for impairment testing purposes was estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of this reporting unit. The Company performed further analysis of this reporting units intangible and long-lived assets and determined that impairments of these assets were not present.
As of April 1, 2012, a review of impairment indicators was performed for the Companys other reporting units and it was determined that financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the June 26, 2011 impairment test and it was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of July 1, 2012, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units and no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the market price of the Companys common stock and fair value of the Companys debt) plus an estimated control premium.
As of September 30, 2012, December 30, 2012 and March 31, 2013, a review of impairment indicators was performed with the Company noting that its financial results and forecast had not changed materially since the July 1, 2012 impairment test and its market capitalization exceeded its consolidated carrying value. It was determined no indicators of impairment were present.
As part of the annual impairment assessment, as of June 30, 2013, the fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current market conditions, the Company determined that recent transactions provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units and no impairment indicators were identified. Additionally, the estimated fair value exceeded carrying value for all mastheads. The total Companys estimate of fair value was reconciled to its then market capitalization (based upon the market price of the Companys common stock and fair value of the Companys debt) plus an estimated control premium.
The bankruptcy filing was considered a triggering event for the non amortizable intangibles and the Company performed a valuation analysis to determine if an impairment existed as of September 29, 2013. The fair values of the Companys reporting units for goodwill and newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows, recent industry transaction multiples and using estimates, judgments and assumptions that management believed were appropriate in the circumstances and were consistent with the terms of the Plan. The estimates and judgments used in the assessment included multiples for revenue and EBITDA, the weighted average cost of capital and the terminal growth rate. Given the current bankruptcy Plan, the Company determined that discounted cash flows provided the best estimate of the fair value of its reporting units. The estimated fair value of the Large Daily reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and Step 2 of the analysis was not necessary. The Small Community reporting unit failed the Step 1 goodwill impairment analysis. The Company performed Step 2 of the analysis using consistent assumptions, as discussed above, and determined an impairment was not present for this reporting unit. The estimated fair value of each reporting units mastheads exceeded their carrying values, using consistent assumptions as discussed above. The masthead fair value was estimated using the relief from royalty valuation method.
The Company considered the impairment analysis for goodwill and mastheads to be an indicator of impairment under ASC 360, and performed an analysis of its undiscounted cash flows for amortizable intangibles. For any groups where the carrying value exceeded the undiscounted cash flows a discounted cash flow analysis was performed to determine the amount of the impairment. Key assumptions within this analysis included earnings projections, discount rates, attrition rates, long term growth rates, and effective tax rate that the Company considers appropriate. Earnings projections reflected continued declines in print advertising revenue of 5.0% to 9.0% per year, which is expected to moderate in later years, growth in circulation revenue of up to 2.0% per year, and expense declines of up to 4.0% per year. Discount rates ranged from 14.5% to 17.0%, attrition rates ranged from 5.0% to 7.5%, the long term growth rate was 0% and the effective tax rate was 39.15%. The resulting cash flows were reconciled to the projections supporting the Plan.
Due to reductions in the Companys operating projections during the third quarter in conjunction with the bankruptcy process, an impairment charge of $68,573 was recognized for advertiser relationships within the Companys Metro and Small Community reporting units, an impairment charge of $19,149 was recognized for subscriber relationships within the Companys Metro and Small Community reporting units, an impairment charge of $2,077 was recognized for customer relationships within the Companys Metro reporting unit and an impairment charge of $1,800 was recognized for trade names and publication rights within the Directories business unit. Refer to Note 16 Fair Value Measurement for additional information on the impairment charge.
The newspaper industry and the Company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, the Company may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
Facility to refinance existing indebtedness and for working capital and other general corporate purposes, including, without limitation, financing acquisitions permitted under the 2007 Credit Facility. The 2007 Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in: (a) all present and future capital stock or other membership, equity, ownership or profits interest of Operating and all of its direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries; (b) 65% of the voting stock (and 100% of the nonvoting stock) of all present and future first-tier foreign subsidiaries; and (c) substantially all of the tangible and intangible assets of Holdco, Operating and their present and future direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries. In addition, the loans and other obligations of the Borrowers under the 2007 Credit Facility are guaranteed, subject to specified limitations, by Holdco, Operating and their present and future direct and indirect domestic restricted subsidiaries.
Borrowings under the 2007 Credit Facility bear interest, at the borrowers option, equal to the LIBOR Rate for a LIBOR Rate Loan (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility), or the Alternate Base Rate for an Alternate Base Rate Loan (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility), plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin for the LIBOR Rate term loans and Alternate Base Rate term loans, as amended by the First Amendment (defined below), are 2.00% and 1.00%, respectively. The applicable margin for revolving loans is adjusted quarterly based upon Holdcos Total Leverage (defined as the ratio of Holdcos Consolidated Indebtedness (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) on the last day of the preceding quarter to Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) for the four fiscal quarters ending on the date of determination). The applicable margin ranges from 1.50% to 2.00%, in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans and, 0.50% to 1.00% in the case of Alternate Base Rate Loans. Under the revolving credit facility, GateHouse Media will also pay a quarterly commitment fee on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility ranging from 0.25% to 0.50% based on the same ratio of Consolidated Indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDA and a quarterly fee equal to the applicable margin for LIBOR Rate Loans on the aggregate amount of outstanding letters of credit. In addition, GateHouse Media will be required to pay a ticking fee at the rate of 0.50% of the aggregate unfunded amount available to be borrowed under the delayed draw term facility.
No principal payments are due on the term loan facilities or the revolving credit facility until the applicable maturity date. The Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities in an amount equal to 50.0% of Holdcos Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) earned during the previous fiscal year, except that no prepayments are required if the Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) is less than or equal to 6.0 to 1.0 at the end of such fiscal year. In addition, the Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with asset disposition proceeds in excess of specified amounts to the extent necessary to cause Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio to be less than or equal to 6.25 to 1.00, and with cash insurance proceeds and condemnation or expropriation awards, in excess of specified amounts, subject, in each case, to reinvestment rights. The Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with the net proceeds of equity issuances by GateHouse Media in an amount equal to the lesser of (a) the amount by which 50.0% of the net cash proceeds exceeds the amount (if any) required to repay any credit facilities of GateHouse Media or (b) the amount of proceeds required to reduce Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio to 6.0 to 1.0. The Borrowers are also required to prepay borrowings under the term loan facilities with 100% of the proceeds of debt issuances (with specified exceptions), except that no prepayment is required if Holdcos Total Leverage Ratio is less than 6.0 to 1.0. If the term loan facilities have been paid in full, mandatory prepayments are applied to the repayment of borrowings under the swingline facility and revolving credit facilities and the cash collateralization of letters of credit.
The 2007 Credit Facility contains a financial covenant that requires Holdco to maintain a Total Leverage Ratio of less than or equal to 6.5 to 1.0 at any time an extension of credit is outstanding under the revolving credit facility. The 2007 Credit Facility contains affirmative and negative covenants applicable to Holdco, Operating and their restricted subsidiaries customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions, including restrictions on their ability to incur indebtedness (which GateHouse Media is generally permitted to incur so long as it satisfies an incurrence test that requires it to maintain a pro forma Total Leverage Ratio of less than 6.5 to 1.0), create liens on assets, engage in certain lines of business, engage in mergers or consolidations, dispose of assets, make investments or acquisitions, engage in transactions with affiliates, enter into sale leaseback transactions, enter into negative pledges or pay dividends or make other restricted payments, except that Holdco is permitted to (a) make restricted payments (including quarterly dividends) so long as, after giving effect to any such restricted payment, Holdco and its subsidiaries have a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility) equal to or greater than 1.0 to 1.0 and would be able to incur an additional $1.00 of debt under the incurrence test referred to above and (b) make restricted payments of proceeds of asset dispositions to GateHouse Media to the extent such proceeds are not required to prepay loans under the 2007 Credit Facility and/or cash collateralize letter of credit obligations and such proceeds are used to prepay borrowings under acquisition credit facilities of GateHouse Media. The 2007 Credit Facility also permits the borrowers, in certain limited circumstances, to designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries which are not subject to the covenant restrictions in the 2007 Credit Facility. The 2007 Credit Facility contains customary events of default, including defaults based on a failure to pay principal, reimbursement obligations, interest, fees or other obligations, subject to specified grace periods; any material inaccuracy of a representation or warranty; breach of covenant; failure to pay other indebtedness and cross-accelerations; a Change of Control (as defined in the 2007 Credit Facility); events of bankruptcy and insolvency; material judgments; failure to meet certain requirements with respect to ERISA; and impairment of collateral. There were no extensions of credit outstanding under the revolving credit portion of the facility at September 29, 2013 and, therefore, the Company was not required to be in compliance with the Total Leverage Ratio covenant at such time.
On May 7, 2007, the Borrowers entered into the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility (the First Amendment). The First Amendment provided an incremental term loan facility under the 2007 Credit Facility in the amount of $275,000. As amended by the First Amendment, the 2007 Credit Facility includes $1,195,000 of term loan facilities and $40,000 of a revolving credit facility. The incremental term loan facility amortizes at the same rate and matures on the same date as the existing term loan facilities under the 2007 Credit Facility. Interest on the incremental term loan facility accrues at a rate per annum equal to, at the option of the borrower, (a) adjusted LIBOR plus a margin equal to (i) 2.00%, if the corporate family ratings and corporate credit ratings of Operating by Moodys Investors Service Inc. and Standard & Poors Rating Services, are at least B1, and B+, respectively, in each case with stable outlook or (ii) 2.25%, otherwise, as was the case as of September 29, 2013, or (b) the greater of the prime rate set by Wells Fargo Bank, or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50%, plus a margin 1.00% lower than that applicable to adjusted LIBOR-based loans. Any voluntary or mandatory repayment of the First Amendment term loans made with the proceeds of a new term loan entered into for the primary purpose of benefiting from a margin that is less than the margin applicable as a result of the First Amendment will be subject to a 1.00% prepayment premium. The First Amendment term loans are subject to a most favored nation interest provision that grants the First Amendment term loans an interest rate margin that is 0.25% less than the highest margin of any future term loan borrowings under the 2007 Credit Facility.
On September 4, 2013, the Company entered into the Fourth Amendment to the Credit Facility (the Fourth Amendment). Pursuant to the terms of the Fourth Amendment, the Company obtained the following improvement in terms: a clarified and expanded definition of Eligible Assignee; an increase in the base amount in the formula used to calculate the Permitted Investments basket from $35,000 to a base of $50,000; the removal of the requirement that the Companys annual financial statements not have a going concern or like qualification to the audit; the removal of a cross default from any Secured Hedging Agreement to the 2007 Credit Facility; the removal of a Bankruptcy Default, as defined therein, arising from actions in furtherance of or indicating consent to the specified actions; and a waiver of any prior Default or Event of Default, as defined therein.
In consideration of the changes described above, the Company agreed to pay each of the lenders party to the Fourth Amendment that timely executed and delivered its signature to the Fourth Amendment and the RSA, an amendment fee equal to 3.5% multiplied by the aggregate outstanding amount of the Loans held (including through trades pending settlement) by such lender, unless waived in writing. Newcastle and certain other lenders elected to waive their amendment fee pursuant to the Fourth Amendment. Newcastle indemnified other Lenders with respect to their entry into the Fourth Amendment, subject to the limitations set forth in the Fourth Amendment for a total amendment fee paid of approximately $6,790.
As required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, on March 26, 2013 and March 15, 2012, the Company made principal payments of $6,648 and $4,600, respectively, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the fiscal years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively. As of September 29, 2013, a total of $1,167,450 was outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility: $654,554 was outstanding under the term loan facility, $244,236 was outstanding under the delayed draw term loan facility, $268,660 was outstanding under the incremental term loan facility and no amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility.
On August 27, 2013, the Company entered into the Local Media Management Agreement with Local Media Parent. Pursuant to the Local Media Management Agreement, the Company manages the business conducted by Local Media and its subsidiaries, as well as the day-to-day operations of Local Media and its subsidiaries. The Company determined that Local Media is a VIE with the Company having control as a primary beneficiary. As a result of such determination, as of September 3, 2013 the Company is required to consolidate the results of the Local Media with the Companys results. The Company does not have any equity interest in Local Media.
Certain of Local Medias subsidiaries (together, the Borrowers) and Local Media entered into a Credit Agreement, dated as of September 3, 2013, with a syndicate of financial institutions with Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent (the Local Media Credit Facility).
The Local Media Credit Facility provided for: (a) a $33,000 term loan facility that matures on September 4, 2018; and (b) a $10,000 revolving credit facility (subject to the activation condition that Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC, as lead arranger, assigns the revolving loan commitment to an unaffiliated lender), with a $3,000 sub-facility for letters of credit and a $4,000 sub-facility for swing loans, that matures on September 4, 2018. The revolving credit facility was activated on October 25, 2013. The Borrowers used the proceeds of the Local Media Credit Facility to (a) fund a portion of the acquisition of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Local Media Acquisition), (b) provide for working capital and other general corporate purposes of the Borrowers and (c) fund certain fees, costs and expenses associated with the transactions contemplated by the Local Media Credit Facility and consummation of the Local Media Acquisition. The Local Media Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in all assets of the Borrowers and Local Media. In addition, the loans and other obligations of the Borrowers under the Local Media Credit Facility are guaranteed by Local Media LLC.
Borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility bear interest, at the borrowers option, equal to the LIBOR Rate (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) plus 6.5% per annum for a LIBOR Rate Loan (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility), or the Base Rate (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) plus 5.5% per annum for a Base Rate Loan (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility). Under the revolving credit facility, the Borrowers will also pay a monthly commitment fee of 0.75% per annum on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility and a fee of 6.0% on the aggregate amount of outstanding letters of credit.
No principal payments are due on the revolving credit facility until the maturity date. Principal payments are due on the term loan facility as follows: (a) $203 at the end of each fiscal quarter beginning with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2013 until the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2015; and (b) $406 beginning with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2015 and at the end of each fiscal quarter thereafter. The Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility in an amount equal to: (i) 100% of Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) earned during the any fiscal quarter if the Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) of Local Media and the Borrowers as of the end of such fiscal quarter was greater than or equal to 2.0 to 1.0; (ii) 50% of Excess Cash Flow earned during the any fiscal quarter if the Leverage Ratio of Local Media and the Borrowers as of the end of such fiscal quarter was less than 2.0 to 1.0 and greater than or equal to 1.75 to 1.0; and (iii) 0% of Excess Cash Flow earned during the any fiscal quarter if the Leverage Ratio of Local Media and the Borrowers as of the end of such fiscal quarter was less than 1.75 to 1.0, in each case subject to an annual audit adjustment. In addition, the Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility with (A) net cash proceeds of asset dispositions, (B) 100% of Extraordinary Receipts (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility), (C) net cash proceeds of funded indebtedness (other than indebtedness permitted by the Local Media Credit Facility); and (D) 100% of all Specified Equity Contributions (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) to Local Media.
agreements for similar transactions, including, but not limited to, restrictions on their ability to incur indebtedness, create liens on assets, engage in certain lines of business, engage in mergers or consolidations, dispose of assets, make investments or acquisitions, engage in transactions with affiliates, pay dividends or make other restricted payments. The Local Media Credit Facility contains customary events of default, including, but not limited to, defaults based on a failure to pay principal, reimbursement obligations, interest, fees or other obligations, subject to specified grace periods; any material inaccuracy of a representation or warranty; breach of covenant; failure to pay other indebtedness; a Change of Control (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility); events of bankruptcy and insolvency; material judgments; failure to meet certain requirements with respect to ERISA; and impairment of collateral. As of September 29, 2013 Local Media was in compliance with the applicable covenants.
As of September 29, 2013, Local Media is in compliance with all of the covenants and obligations under the Local Media Credit Facility. The revolving credit facility was activated on October 25, 2013.
On September 27, 2013, the Debtors commenced voluntary chapter 11 proceedings (the Chapter 11 Cases) under the Bankruptcy Code in the Bankruptcy Court. Concurrently with the commencement of the Chapter 11 Cases, the Debtors have filed and requested confirmation of the Plan.
The Debtors solicited votes of holders of claims under the 2007 Credit Facility and certain interest rate swaps secured thereunder (collectively, the Secured Debt), including certain affiliates of the Debtors. The Plan was accepted by the only impaired class of creditors entitled to vote on the Plan. Specifically, 79 out of the 80 holders of Secured Debt entitled to vote holding an aggregate amount of $1,199,317 (representing 99.99% of the total Secured Debt) voted to accept the Plan. No creditors voted to reject the Plan.
Pension, trade and all other unsecured claims of the Company would not be impaired under the Plan and their votes were not solicited. The Companys common stock would be canceled under the Plan.
The Debtors intend to continue to operate their businesses without interruption as debtors-in-possession under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code and the orders of the Bankruptcy Court. Pursuant to the Plan, the Debtors do not need, nor intend to obtain debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing during the Chapter 11 Cases. The Bankruptcy Court confirmed the plan on November 6, 2013.
The Companys long-term debt is recorded at cost and is not actively traded. As of September 29, 2013, the fair value of the Companys long-term debt under the 2007 Credit Facility was estimated at approximately $467,850. The Companys fair value estimate is based on the allowed claims presented to the Bankruptcy Court multiplied by the 40% Cash-Out Offer. The 40% Cash-Out Offer price, using allowed claim amounts, was determined by management to represent the current price a market participant would be willing to pay to transfer the underlying liability at the measurement date because of the very short amount of time between the measurement date and the Cash-Out Offer settlement date. The Companys long-term debt under the 2007 Credit Facility is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
The fair value of long-term debt under the Local Media Credit Facility was estimated at $33,000 as of September 29, 2013, based on discounted future contractual cash flows and a market interest rate adjusted for necessary risks, including the Companys own credit risk as there are no rates currently observable in publically traded debt markets of risk with similar terms and average maturities. Accordingly, the Companys long term debt under the Local Media Credit Facility is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
In order to reduce such risks, the Company primarily uses interest rate swap agreements to change floating-rate long-term debt to fixed-rate long-term debt. This type of hedge is intended to qualify as a cash-flow hedge under FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815). For these instruments, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders Equity (Deficit) and recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the same period in which the hedged transaction impacts earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative is immediately recognized in earnings.
The reorganization process resulted in the hedging relationship being discontinued as it was not probable that the forecasted transaction will occur according to the original strategy, any related amounts previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net were recognized into earnings in the nine months ended September 29, 2013. The derivative liability balances have been classified as liabilities subject to compromise and are reflected at their fair value at the amount of, the anticipated allowed claim. The remaining amount of other comprehensive income, $16,011 net of $10,302 of tax, was recognized through earnings as of September 27, 2013 and $26,313 was classified as interest expense.
(1) During the quarter ended September 29, 2013, the Company recognized $2,041 in reorganization items, net to adjust the fair value of derivatives to the allowed claim.
On June 23, 2005, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $300,000, which matured in June 2012, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company received interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.135%, with settlements occurring monthly. On February 20, 2006, the Company redesignated the same interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. At December 31, 2006, the swap no longer qualified as an effective hedge. Therefore, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income has been reclassified into earnings over the life of the hedged item. On January 1, 2007, the Company redesignated the same interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. On August 18, 2008, the Company terminated the swap and entered into a settlement agreement with Goldman Sachs in the aggregate amount of $18,947, which also includes the termination of the swap having a notional value of $270,000. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive income was reclassified into earnings over the remaining life of the item previously hedged. As of September 29, 2013, all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income have been reclassified into earnings.
In connection with financing obtained in 2006, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $270,000, which matured in July 2011, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company received interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and paid a fixed rate of 5.359%, with settlements occurring monthly. On January 1, 2007, the swap was redesignated. Therefore, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income has been reclassified into earnings over the life of the hedged item. On August 18, 2008, the Company terminated the swap and entered into a settlement agreement with Goldman Sachs in the aggregate amount of $18,947 which also includes the termination of the swap having a notional value of $300,000. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive income was reclassified into earnings over the remaining life of the item previously hedged. As of September 29, 2013, all amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income have been reclassified into earnings.
In connection with the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $100,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.14%, with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $434, of which $0 was recognized through earnings, an increase $765 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $331 was recognized in reorganization items. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $2,835, of which $0 was recognized through earnings, an increase of $3,166 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $331 was recognized in reorganization items.
In connection with the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $250,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.971%, with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $1,043, of which an increase of $1 was recognized through earnings, an increase of $1,842 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $800 was recognized in reorganization items. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $6,837, of which an increase of $2 was recognized through earnings, an increase of $7,635 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $800 was recognized in reorganization items.
In connection with the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $200,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.079% with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $855, of which a decrease of $5 was recognized through earnings, an increase of $1,515 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $655 was recognized in reorganization items. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $5,597, of which a decrease of $16 was recognized through earnings, an increase of $6,268 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $655 was recognized in reorganization items.
In connection with the First Amendment to the 2007 Credit Facility, the Company entered into and designated an interest rate swap based on a notional amount of $75,000 maturing September 2014, as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, the Company receives interest equivalent to one month LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 4.941% with settlements occurring monthly. During the three months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $281, of which $0 was recognized through earnings, an increase of $536 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $255 was recognized in reorganization items. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, the fair value of the swap increased by $2,015, of which $0 was recognized through earnings, an increase of$2,270 was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, and a decrease of $255 was recognized in reorganization items.
The aggregate amount of unrealized loss related to derivative instruments recognized in other comprehensive loss as of September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012 was $0 and $51,517, respectively.
As of September 29, 2013, Fortress and its affiliates beneficially owned approximately 39.6% of the Companys outstanding common stock.
Affiliates of Fortress own $639,233 of the $1,167,450 outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, as of September 29, 2013. These amounts were purchased on arms length terms in secondary market transactions.
On August 27, 2013, the Company entered into the Local Media Management Agreement with Local Media Parent, to manage the operations of Local Media. Local Media Parent is a subsidiary of Newcastle (an affiliate of Fortress).
On September 4, 2013, the Company entered into a restructuring support agreement with Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent and certain of the lenders under the Companys 2007 Credit Facility, including Newcastle Investment Corp and its affiliates.
On September 4, 2013, Newcastle and GateHouse also entered into an Investment Commitment Letter (the Investment Commitment Letter), effective September 3, 2013.
The Restructuring Support Agreement and the Investment Commitment Letter relate to the restructuring (the Restructuring) of the obligations of GateHouse under the 2007 Credit Facility debt and under certain interest rate swaps secured thereunder (collectively, the Outstanding Debt) and GateHouses equity pursuant to a prepackaged Plan (the Plan) under chapter 11 of title 11 of the United States Code (the Bankruptcy Code).
As of the date of the Restructuring Support Agreement and the Investment Commitment Letter, Newcastle and its affiliates held approximately 52% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility (Loans), including certain amounts still pending trade settlement. Other Participating Lenders held approximately 59.8% of the remaining principal amount of the Loans (i.e., the amount excluding Loans held by Newcastle and its affiliates, approximately 48%), including certain amounts still pending trade settlement. Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Restructuring Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
Equity interests in GateHouse, including warrants, rights and options to acquire such equity interests (collectively, the Existing Equity Interests) would be cancelled, and the holders of Existing Equity Interests would receive 10-year warrants, collectively representing the right to acquire, in the aggregate, 5% of the common stock of New Media Common Stock (subject to dilution) as of the Effective Date, with the strike price for such warrants calculated based on a total equity value of New Media, prior to contribution of Local Media, of $1,200,000.
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. The Company considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. The Company concluded that during the nine months ended September 29, 2013, a net increase to the valuation allowance of $49,164 would be necessary to offset additional deferred tax assets. Of this amount, an $77,007 increase was recognized through the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), a $28,194 decrease was recognized through accumulated other comprehensive loss, and a $351 increase was recognized through discontinued operations.
For the nine months ended September 29, 2013, the expected federal tax benefit at 34% is $58,310. The difference between the expected tax and the effective benefit of $10,878 is primarily attributable to the tax effect of the federal valuation allowance of $57,931, the tax effect of the termination of derivative agreements of $(10,302), return to provision adjustments of $(540), the tax effect related to non-deductible expenses of $258, and deferred tax benefits that expired of $85.
The Company and its subsidiaries file a U.S. federal consolidated income tax return. The U.S. federal and state statute of limitations generally remains open for the 2010 tax year and beyond.
In accordance with ASC 740, the Company recognizes penalties and interest relating to uncertain tax positions in the provision for income taxes. As of September 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $4,677 and $4,677, respectively. The Company did not record significant amounts of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits for the periods ending September 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012. The Company does not expect significant changes in unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.
The following provides information on the pension plan and postretirement medical and life insurance plans for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012.
During the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012, the Company recognized a total of $90, $91, $270 and $275 in pension and postretirement benefit expense, respectively.
As of September 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Company intended to dispose of various assets which are classified as held for sale on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet in accordance with ASC 360.
During the twelve months ended December 30, 2012 the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $2,128 related to property, plant and equipment and certain intangible assets which were classified as held for sale, refer to Note 16 for fair value measurement discussion. No such impairment charges were recorded during the nine months ended September 29, 2013.
(1) The fair value of the Companys interest-rate swaps is determined using a discounted cash flow method and the following significant inputs: the remaining term of the swap (ranging between 11 and 11.5 months at September 29, 2013), the notional amount of the swap (ranging from $75,000 to $250,000), discount rates interpolated based on the one month LIBOR swap curves, the rate on the fixed leg of the swap (ranging from 4.94% to 5.14%), and a credit value adjustment to consider the likelihood of the Companys nonperformance. The pricing model used is consistently applied and reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives as described above. In determining an appropriate spread to reflect its credit standing, the Company considers credit default swap pricing on debt with similar credit risks and maturities. Therefore, the Companys interest-rate swaps are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. An increase in the one month LIBOR and/or an increase in the credit default swap price would result in a decrease to fair value. A decrease in the one month LIBOR curve and/or a decrease in the credit default swap price would result in an increase to fair value.
(2) The Company recognized $2,041 in reorganization items, net to adjust the fair value of derivatives to the allowed claim. The derivative liability is included in liabilities subject to compromise on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at the allowed claim amount of $28,440.
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments only in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). During the quarter ended April 1, 2012, goodwill was written down to implied fair value using Level 3 inputs. The valuation techniques and significant inputs and assumptions utilized to measure fair value are discussed in Note 9.
During the quarter ended September 29, 2013, certain intangible assets were written down to their implied fair value using Level 3 inputs. The valuation techniques and significant inputs and assumptions utilized to measure fair value are discussed in Note 9. The fair value of select advertiser relationships was $19,120, subscriber relationships $5,310, customer relationships $270, trade names was $270, and publication rights was $0 at September 29, 2013.
During the quarter ended September 29, 2013, the Company consolidated the assets and liabilities of Local Media under the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their fair value. Property plant and equipment was valued using Level 2 inputs and mastheads and goodwill were valued using Level 3 inputs. Refer to Note 5 for discussion of the valuation techniques and significant inputs and assumptions utilized and the fair value recognized.
Refer to Note 10 for the discussion on the fair value of the Companys total long-term debt.
During the twelve months ended December 30, 2012, the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $2,128 related to property, plant and equipment and certain intangible assets which were classified as held for sale. The Company used assessed values and current market data, Level 2 inputs, to determine the fair value.
The Company becomes involved from time to time in claims and lawsuits incidental to the ordinary course of its business, including with respect to matters such as libel, invasion of privacy, intellectual property infringement, wrongful termination actions, and complaints alleging employment discrimination. In addition, the Company is involved from time to time in governmental and administrative proceedings concerning employment, labor, environmental and other claims. Insurance coverage maintained by the Company mitigates potential loss for certain of these matters. Historically, such claims and proceedings have not had a material effect upon the Companys condensed consolidated results of operations or financial condition. While the Company is unable to predict the ultimate outcome of any currently outstanding legal actions, it is the opinion of the Companys management that it is a remote possibility that the disposition of these matters would have a material adverse effect upon the Companys condensed consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.
Restricted cash at September 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, in the aggregate amount of $6,467 for both periods, is used to collateralize standby letters of credit in the name of the Companys insurers in accordance with certain insurance policies and as cash collateral for certain business operations.
In May 2013, the Company disposed of a non wholly owned subsidiary in Chicago, Illinois. As a result, the asset, liability and noncontrolling interest carrying amounts of this subsidiary were derecognized. A loss of $1,146 was recognized in discontinued operations.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company entered into an agreement to sell 22 publications in Suburban Chicago, Illinois for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $2,800. As a result, an impairment loss of $1,922 is included in loss from discontinued operations on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Additionally, an impairment loss of $206 is included in loss from discontinued operations net of income taxes on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 related to previously discontinued operations.
The net revenue during the nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012 for the aforementioned discontinued operations and previously discontinued operations was $394 and $8,560, respectively. Loss, net of income taxes of $0, during the nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012 for the aforementioned discontinued operations and previously discontinued operations was $1,034 and $2,093, respectively. The loss from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest during the nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012 was $55 and $410, respectively.
The financial statements below represent the condensed combined financial statements of the Debtors. Effective September 29, 2013, the non-debtor entities are accounted for as non-consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying Debtor-In-Possession financial information. Local Media, a VIE that is owned entirely by Local Media Parent, is the only non-debtor entity with material financial activity. The Local Media net loss is included in net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in the GateHouse Media, Inc and subsidiaries Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and noncontrolling interest on the GateHouse Media, Inc and subsidiaries Balance Sheet.
Forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could lead actual results to be materially different from those described in the forward-looking statements. We can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include, but are not limited to, the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified by us under the heading Risk Factors and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2012. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Except to the extent required by law, we expressly disclaim any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.
We are one of the largest publishers of locally based print and online media in the United States as measured by number of daily publications. Our business model is to be the preeminent provider of local content and advertising in the small and midsize markets we serve. Our portfolio of products, including the acquisition of Dow Jones Local Media Group, Inc. (Local Media), which includes 435 community publications, 353 related websites, 329 mobile sites and six yellow page directories, serves over 128,000 business advertising accounts and reaches approximately 10 million people on a weekly basis.
six yellow page directories, with a distribution of approximately 488,000, that covers a population of approximately 1.2 million people.
Since 1998, we have acquired 416 daily and weekly newspapers and shoppers and launched numerous new products. We generate revenues from advertising, circulation and commercial printing. Advertising revenue is recognized upon publication of the advertisements. Circulation revenue from subscribers, which is billed to customers at the beginning of the subscription period, is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related subscription. The revenue for commercial printing is recognized upon delivery of the printed product to our customers. Directory revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the period in which the corresponding directory is distributed and in use in the market, which is typically 12 months.
On May 9, 2005, FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC (Fortress), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with the Company pursuant to which a wholly-owned subsidiary of FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC merged with and into the Company (the Merger). The Merger was effective on June 6, 2005, thus at the time making FIF III Liberty Holdings LLC our principal and controlling stockholder at that time. As of September 29, 2013, Fortress beneficially owned approximately 39.6% of our outstanding common stock.
On September 27, 2013, we filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, case number 13-12503. On November 6, 2013 the bankruptcy court confirmed the restructuring plan, as discussed below. We will continue to operate the business as debtor-in possession under the jurisdiction of the United States Bankruptcy Court of Delaware (the Bankruptcy Court) and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the United States Bankruptcy Code and orders of the Bankruptcy Court.
On August 27, 2013, we entered into a management agreement (the Local Media Management Agreement) with Local Media Parent to manage the operations of Local Media. We have determined that the Local Media Management Agreement results in Local Media being a variable interest entity (VIE) and we have consolidated Local Medias financial position and results of operations from September 3, 2013. On September 3, 2013, Local Media Parent completed its acquisition of thirty three publications from News Corp Inc. Local Media is not part of the bankruptcy filing and will continue to operate in the ordinary course of business.
The newspaper industry and our company have experienced declining same store revenue and profitability over the past several years. These trends have eliminated the availability to us of additional borrowings under our 2007 Credit Facility. As a result, we previously implemented plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow. This includes the suspension of the payment of cash dividends, the continued implementation of cost reduction and restructuring programs, and the sale of non-core assets. We believe these initiatives will provide the financial resources necessary to invest in the business and ensure our future success and provide sufficient cash flow to enable us to meet our commitments for the next year.
We periodically perform testing for impairment of goodwill and newspaper mastheads in which the fair value of our reporting units for goodwill impairment testing and individual newspaper mastheads were estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows and recent industry transaction multiples, using estimates, judgments and assumptions, that we believe were appropriate in the circumstances. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on estimates of future cash flow and market transaction multiples, we may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.
and subject us to more restrictive covenants than our existing debt arrangements. Additional downgrades in our credit ratings could further increase our borrowing cost, subject us to more onerous borrowing terms and reduce or eliminate our borrowing flexibility in the future.
On September 4, 2013, we and our affiliated debtors (the Debtors) announced that we, the Administrative Agent (as defined below), Newcastle Investment Corp. (Newcastle) and other lenders (the Participating Lenders) under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among certain affiliates of us, the Lenders from time to time party thereto and Cortland Products Corp., as administrative agent (the Administrative Agent), dated February 27, 2007 (the 2007 Credit Facility) entered into the Restructuring Support Agreement, effective September 3, 2013, as may be amended, supplemented or modified from time to time (the Support Agreement), in which the parties agreed to support, subject to the terms and conditions of the Support Agreement, the restructuring of our company (the Restructuring) pursuant to the consummation of a pre-packaged plan under Chapter 11 of title 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (the Plan). The Support Agreement relates to the Restructuring of our obligations under the 2007 Credit Facility and certain interest rate swaps secured thereunder (collectively, the Outstanding Debt) and our equity pursuant to the Plan.
The Plan, once effective, will discharge claims and interests against us primarily through the (a) issuance of shares of common stock in a new holding company, New Media Investment Group Inc. (New Media, and such common stock, Common Stock) and/or payment of cash to holders of claims in connection with the 2007 Credit Facility and related interest rate swaps, (b) reinstatement of certain claims, (c) entry into the Management Agreement (as defined below), (d) issuance of warrants by New Media to existing equity holders in us (Existing Equity Holders) and (e) entry into the New Credit Facilities (as defined below), if any, the net proceeds of which will go to holders that elect to receive New Media Common Stock, and entry into the New Undrawn Commitments (as defined below).
Pursuant to the Restructuring, Newcastle offered to purchase the Outstanding Debt claims in cash and at 40% of (i) $1.2 billion of principal of claims under the 2007 Credit Facility, plus (ii) accrued and unpaid interest at the applicable contract non-default rate with respect thereto, plus (iii) all amounts, excluding any default interest, arising from transactions in connection with interest rate swaps secured under the 2007 Credit Facility (the Cash-Out Offer) on the effective date of the Plan (the Effective Date). The holders of the Outstanding Debt have the option of receiving, in satisfaction of their Outstanding Debt, their pro rata share of the (i) Cash-Out Offer and/or (ii) New Media Common Stock and the net proceeds, if any, of a potential new debt facility (the New Credit Facilities). Newcastle will receive its pro rata share of New Media Common Stock and the net proceeds of the New Credit Facilities, if any, for all Outstanding Debt it holds, including Outstanding Debt purchased in the Cash-Out Offer. We intend to pay all pensions, trade and all other unsecured claims in full.
As of September 19, 2013, Newcastle held approximately 52.2% of the principal amount currently outstanding under the 2007 Credit Facility and the other Participating Lenders held approximately 28.7% of such principal amount (in each case, including certain amounts still pending trade settlement). Additional holders of Outstanding Debt may join the Restructuring Support Agreement in the future as Participating Lenders.
On September 20, 2013, we commenced a pre-packaged solicitation of the Plan (the Solicitation). Under the Support Agreement, each of the Participating Lenders agreed to (a) support and take any reasonable action in furtherance of the Restructuring, (b) timely vote their Outstanding Debt to accept the Plan and not change or withdraw such vote, (c) support approval of the Disclosure Statement and confirmation of the Plan, as well as certain relief to be requested by Debtors from the Bankruptcy Court, (d) refrain from taking any action inconsistent with the confirmation or consummation of the Plan, and (e) not propose, support, solicit or participate in the formulation of any plan other than the Plan. Holders of Outstanding Debt sufficient to meet the requisite threshold of 67% in amount and majority in number (calculated without including any insider) necessary for acceptance of the Plan under the Bankruptcy Code (Bankruptcy Threshold Creditors) voted to accept the Plan in the Solicitation. 100% of the holders of the Outstanding Debt voted to accept the Plan under the terms of the Support Agreement. As a result, Debtors commenced Chapter 11 cases and sought approval of the disclosure statement for the Plan (the Disclosure Statement) and confirmation of the Plan therein. The Plan was confirmed by the Court on November 6, 2013.
The Companys operating segments (Large Community Newspapers, Small Community Newspapers, Directories and Local Media) are aggregated into one reportable business segment.
A summary of our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 of our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 30, 2012, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Due to the bankruptcy filing, we have applied debtor-in-possession accounting as described in FASB ASC Topic 852, Reorganizations (ASC 852). There have been no other changes in critical accounting policies in the current year from those described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2012.
The following table summarizes our historical results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012.
Revenue. Total revenue for the three months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $6.0 million, or 5.0%, to $126.0 million from $120.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. The increase in total revenue was comprised of a $1.1 million, or 1.4%, decrease in advertising revenue which was offset by a $3.7 million, or 11.1%, increase in circulation revenue and a $3.4 million, or 51.7%, increase in commercial printing and other revenue. Advertising revenue includes an additional $5.8 million from Local Media in 2013 while total company excluding Local Media (Gatehouse Standalone ) declines were $6.9 million or 8.7%. Advertising revenue declines were primarily driven by declines on the print side of our business in the local retail and classified categories, which were partially offset by growth in digital advertising. The local retail print declines reflect both secular pressures and a continuing uncertain and weak economic environment. These secular trends and economic conditions have also led to a decline in our print circulation volumes which have been primarily offset by price increases in certain locations. Our circulation revenue was also impacted by approximately $0.5 million for a net to gross accounting change at two of our larger locations. The increase in circulation revenue was primarily due to circulation revenue from Local Media of $3.7 million. The increase in commercial printing and other revenue was primarily due to commercial printing and other revenue from Local Media of $2.5 million as well as increases in our small business marketing services within GateHouse Media Ventures.
Operating Costs. Operating costs for the three months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $4.5 million, or 6.8%, to $70.8 million from $66.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. The increase in operating costs was primarily due to operating costs of Local Media of $7.9 million, which was partially offset by a decrease in GateHouse Standalone compensation expenses, newsprint expenses, and professional and consulting fees of $1.5 million, $1.3 million, and $1.0 million, respectively. These decreases are the result of permanent cost reductions as we continue to work to consolidate operations and improve the productivity of our labor force.
Selling, General and Administrative. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $7.5 million, or 21.5%, to $42.5 million from $35.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to selling, general and administrative expenses of Local Media of $4.4 million and an increase in GateHouse Standalone outside services and compensation expenses of $2.9 million and $0.2 million. The increase in outside services is primarily from legal expenses of $2.6 million related to reorganization costs.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $0.9 million to $10.7 million from $9.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. Depreciation and amortization expense increased due to depreciation expense of Local Media of $0.9 million.
Integration and Reorganization Costs. During the three months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012, we recorded integration and reorganization costs of $0.4 million and $1.6 million, respectively, primarily resulting from severance costs related to the continued consolidation of our operations resulting from our ongoing implementation of our plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. During the three months ended September 29, 2013 we incurred a charge of $91.6 million related to the impairment on our advertiser relationships, subscriber relationships, customer relationships and other intangible assets due to reductions in our operating projections within our various reporting units. There were no such charges during the three months ended September 30, 2012.
Interest Expense. Interest expense for the three months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $26.1 million to $40.6 million from $14.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012, which primarily resulted from the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income related to the write off of the derivative instruments due to the termination of the swap agreements of $26.3 million.
Reorganization Costs, Net. During the three months ended September 29, 2013, we recorded reorganization costs, net of $9.8 million, which was comprised of credit agreement amendment fees of $6.8 million, the adjustment of the fair value of the swaps to the allowed claim value in the amount of $2.0 million, the write-off of deferred financing costs of $1.0 million, and bankruptcy fees of $0.1 million.
Income Tax Benefit. Income tax benefit for the three months ended September 29, 2013 was $10.9 million compared to $0.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. The change of $10.5 million was primarily due to the tax effect of the current years termination of derivative agreements.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations. Net loss from continuing operations for the three months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012 was $130.0 million and $7.7 million, respectively. Our net loss from continuing operations increased due to the factors noted above.
Revenue. Total revenue for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 decreased by $7.0 million, or 1.9%, to $356.2 million from $363.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. The decrease in total revenue was comprised of a $16.4 million, or 6.7%, decrease in advertising revenue which was offset by a $4.0 million, or 4.2%, increase in circulation revenue and a $5.4 million, or 28.4%, increase in commercial printing and other revenue. Advertising revenue includes $5.8 million from Local Media in 2013 while Gatehouse Standalone declines were $22.3 million or 9.1%. Advertising revenue declines were primarily driven by declines on the print side of our business in the local retail and classified categories, which were partially offset by growth in digital advertising. The local retail print declines reflect both secular pressures and a continuing uncertain and weak economic environment. These secular trends and economic conditions have also led to a decline in our print circulation volumes which have been slightly offset by price increases in certain locations. Our circulation revenue was also impacted by approximately $1.4 million for a net to gross accounting change at two of our larger locations. The increase in circulation revenue was primarily due to circulation revenue from Local Media of $3.7 million. The increase in commercial printing and other revenue was primarily due to commercial printing and other revenue from growth of our small business marketing services within GateHouse Media Ventures combined with Local Media commercial print and other revenue of $2.5 million.
Operating Costs. Operating costs for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 decreased by $1.8 million, or 0.9%, to $200.8 million from $202.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. The decrease in operating costs was primarily due to a decrease in Gatehouse Standalone compensation expenses, newsprint expenses, professional and consulting fees, supplies, travel expenses, and repairs and maintenance expenses of $5.6 million, $3.5 million, $3.1 million, $0.8 million, $0.4 million, and $0.4 million, respectively. These decreases in operating costs were partially offset by operating costs of Local Media of $7.9 million and an increase in outside services of $4.5 million. These decreases are the result of permanent cost reductions as we continue to work to consolidate operations and improve the productivity of our labor force.
Selling, General and Administrative. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $14.2 million, or 13.3%, to $121.3 million from $107.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.
The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to an increase in GateHouse Standalone outside services, compensation expenses, and professional and consulting fees of $8.6 million, $0.8 million, and $0.5 million, respectively. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses also includes selling, general and administrative expenses of Local Media of $4.4 million. The increase in outside services is primarily from legal expenses of $6.5 million related to reorganization costs.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $0.4 million to $30.4 million from $30.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Depreciation and amortization expense increased due to depreciation expense of Local Media of $0.9 million, which was offset by a reduction in depreciation expense due to the sale and disposal of assets.
Integration and Reorganization Costs. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012, we recorded integration and reorganization costs of $1.4 million and $3.5 million, respectively, primarily resulting from severance costs related to the continued consolidation of our operations resulting from our ongoing implementation of our plans to reduce costs and preserve cash flow.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013 we incurred a charge of $91.6 million related to the impairment on our advertiser relationships, subscriber, customer relationships and other intangible assets relationships due to reductions in our operating projections within our various reporting units. There were no such charges during the nine months ended September 30, 2012.
Interest Expense. Interest expense for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 increased by $26.0 million to $69.5 million from $43.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012, which primarily resulted from the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income related to the write off of the derivative instruments due to the termination of the swap agreements of $26.3 million.
(Gain) Loss on Derivative Instruments. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we recorded a net gain on derivative instruments of $1.6 million, which was comprised of reclassifications of accumulated other comprehensive income amortization related to swaps terminated in 2008 that were partially offset by the impact of the ineffectiveness of our remaining swap agreements. The accumulated other comprehensive income reclassification for swaps terminated in 2008 was fully amortized in 2012 and the 2013 loss on derivative instruments relates only to the ineffectiveness of our remaining swaps.
Reorganization Costs, Net. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, we recorded reorganization costs, net of $9.8 million, which was comprised of credit agreement amendment fees of $6.8 million, the adjustment of the fair value of the swaps to the allowed claim value in the amount of $2.0 million, the write-off of deferred financing costs of $1.0 million, and bankruptcy fees of $0.1 million.
Income Tax Benefit. Income tax benefit for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 was $10.9 million compared to $0.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. The change of $10.6 million was primarily due to the tax effect of the current years termination of derivative agreements.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations. Net loss from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012 was $160.6 million and $23.2 million, respectively. Our net loss from continuing operations increased due to the factors noted above.
As required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, on March 26, 2013 and March 15, 2012, we made a principal payment of $6.6 million and $4.6 million, respectively, which represented 50% of our Excess Cash Flow (as defined under the 2007 Credit Facility) related to the fiscal years ended December 30, 2012 and January 1, 2012, respectively.
Our 2007 Credit Facility imposes upon us certain financial and operating covenants, including, among others, requirements that we satisfy certain financial tests, including a total leverage ratio if there are outstanding extensions of credit under the revolving facility, a minimum fixed charge ratio, and restrictions on our ability to incur debt, pay dividends or take certain other corporate actions. As of September 29, 2013 we were in compliance with all applicable covenants. Although we are currently in compliance with all of our covenants and obligations under the 2007 Credit Facility, due to restrictive covenants and conditions within this facility, we currently do not have the ability to draw upon the revolving credit facility portion of the 2007 Credit Facility for any immediate short-term funding needs or to incur additional long-term debt.
Future compliance with our financial and operating covenants will depend on the future performance of the business and our ability to curtail the negative revenue trends experience and our ability to address other risks and challenges set forth herein and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2012. We believe that we have adequate capital resources and liquidity to meet our current working capital needs, borrowing obligations and all required capital expenditures for at least the next twelve months.
The Local Media Credit Facility provided for: (a) a $33 million term loan facility that matures on September 4, 2018; and (b) a $10 million revolving credit facility (subject to the activation condition that Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC (CS), as lead arranger, assigns the revolving loan commitment to an unaffiliated lender), with a $3 million sub-facility for letters of credit and a $4 million sub-facility for swing loans, that matures on September 4, 2018. On October 25, 2013, CS assigned the revolving loan commitment to Capital One Business Corp and the revolving credit facility was activated.
Borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility bear interest, at the borrowers option, equal to the LIBOR Rate (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) plus 6.5% per annum for a LIBOR Rate Loan (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility), or the Base Rate (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility) plus 5.5% per annum for a Base Rate Loan (as defined in the Local Media Credit Facility). Under the revolving credit facility, the Borrowers will also pay a monthly commitment fee of 0.75% per annum on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility and a fee of 6.0% on the aggregate amount of outstanding letters of credit. No principal payments are due on the revolving credit facility until the maturity date. Principal payments are due on the term loan facility as follows: (a) $203,125 at the end of each fiscal quarter beginning with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2013 until the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2015; and (b) $406,250 beginning with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2015 and at the end of each fiscal quarter thereafter. The Borrowers are required to prepay borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility in amounts and under circumstances as set forth in the Local Media Credit Facility.
The Local Media Credit Facility imposes upon Local Media certain financial and operating covenants, including, among others, requirements that Local Media satisfy certain financial tests, including a total leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, and restriction on Local Medias ability to incur debt, pay dividends or take other corporate actions. As of September 29, 2013, Local Media was in compliance with all applicable covenants and could draw on the revolving facility if it chose to do so.
The discussion of our cash flows that follows is based on our historical cash flows for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 and September 30, 2012.
Cash Flows from Operating Activities. Net cash used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 was $9.7 million, a decrease of $33.9 million when compared to $24.2 million of cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This $33.9 million decrease was the result of an increase in net loss of $136.4 million and an increase in cash provided by working capital of $8.2 million, which was offset by an increase in non-cash charges of $110.7 million.
The $8.2 million increase in cash provided by working capital for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 when compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2012 is primarily attributable to an increase in prepaid, account receivable and accrued expenses.
The $110.7 million increase in non-cash charges primarily consisted of an increase in impairment of long-lived assets of $89.5 million, an increase in non-cash interest expense related to the termination of derivative instruments of $26.3 million, non-cash reorganization cost, net of $3.0 million, an increase in loss on derivative instruments of $1.7 million, and an increase in loss on sale of assets of $1.6 million. These increases were partially offset by an increase in the tax benefit of $10.3 million related to the termination of derivative agreements, a decrease in pension and other postretirement benefit obligations of $0.4 million, a decrease in depreciation and amortization of $0.3 million, a decrease in goodwill impairment included in discontinued operations of $0.2 million, and a decrease in amortization of deferred financing costs of $0.2 million.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities. Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 was $2.5 million. During the nine months ended September 29, 2013, we used $3.2 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $0.7 million we received from the sale of publications and other assets.
Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $2.0 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we used $2.8 million for capital expenditures, which was offset by $0.8 million we received from the sale of real property and insurance proceeds.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities. Net cash used by financing activities for the nine months ended September 29, 2013 was $2.5 million. The net cash provided by financing activities resulted from additional paid-in capital of $4.1 million related to the VIE Local Media which was offset by a $6.6 million repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended.
Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $4.6 million due to a repayment under the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended.
The discussion that follows highlights significant changes in our financial position and working capital from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013.
Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable increased $8.4 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, due to $14.3 million addition related to Local Media during the first nine months of 2013, which was partially offset by the timing of cash collections and lower revenue recognized in the 2013 nine month period compared to 2012.
Inventory. Inventory increased $1.1 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, which primarily relates to the Local Media consolidation during the first nine months of 2013.
Prepaid Expenses. Prepaid expenses increased $2.1 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, which primarily relates to the Local Media consolidation during the first nine months of 2013.
Property, Plant, and Equipment. Property, plant, and equipment increased $62.1 million during the period from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, of which $73.8 million relates to the Local Media consolidation in the third quarter of 2013 and $3.2 million that was used for capital expenditures. These increases in property, plant, and equipment were partially offset by $12.9 of depreciation and $1.9 million related to assets sold and discontinued operations.
Intangible Assets. Intangible assets decreased $105.1 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, of which $91.6 million relates to an impairment charge, $17.5 relates to amortization and $0.1 million relates to discontinued operations, which was offset by $4.1 million from the Local Media consolidation in the third quarter of 2013.
Current Portion of Long-term Debt. Current portion of long-term debt decreased $6.0 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, due to a $6.6 million principal payment as required by the 2007 Credit Facility, as amended, which represented 50% of the Excess Cash Flow related to the fiscal year ended December 30, 2012, which was offset by $0.6 million in borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility.
Accounts Payable. Accounts payable increased $2.6 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, of which $1.3 million relates to Local Media consolidation during the first nine months of 2013 and $1.9 million primarily relates to the timing of vendor payments, which was partially offset by $0.7 million from the disposal of a non wholly owned subsidiary in Chicago, Illinois.
Accrued Expenses. Accrued expenses increased $8.8 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, which primarily resulted from $5.4 million from the consolidation of Local Media during the first nine months of 2013 and $3.1 million due to payroll related expenses.
Accrued Interest. Accrued interest decreased $4.5 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, which primarily resulted from a reclassification of the 2007 Credit Facility and derivative instrument accrued interest to liabilities subject to compromise in connection with the bankruptcy filing.
Long-term Debt. Long-term debt decreased $1,135.1 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, of which $1,167.5 million resulted from a reclassification of the 2007 Credit Facility to liabilities subject to compromise in connection with the bankruptcy filing, which was offset by $32.4 million in borrowings under the Local Media Credit Facility.
Derivative Instruments. Derivative instrument liability decreased $45.7 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, of which $19.3 million was due to changes in the fair value measurement of our interest rate swaps and $28.4 million resulted from a reclassification of the derivative instrument liability to liabilities subject to compromise in connection with the bankruptcy filing, which was offset by an increase in the fair value of the derivative instruments of $2.0 million.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. Accumulated other comprehensive loss decreased $35.4 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, of which $26.3 million resulted from a release of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to the termination of the derivative agreements and $19.3 resulted from the change in fair value of the interest rate swaps. These decreases were offset by an increase in the tax benefit of $10.3 million related to the termination of derivative agreements.
Accumulated Deficit. Accumulated deficit increased $160.8 million from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013, due to a net loss.
On or around September 4, 2013, GateHouse and certain Lenders (including Newcastle) constituting the Required Lenders under the 2007 Credit Agreement entered into Amendment Agreement to the 2007 Credit Agreement effective September 3, 2013 (Credit Amendment). Pursuant to the terms of the Credit Amendment, GateHouse obtained the following improvement in terms: a clarified and expanded definition of Eligible Assignee; an increase in the base amount in the formula used to calculate the Permitted Investments basket from $35 million to a base of $50 million; the removal of the requirement that GateHouses annual financial statements not have a going concern or like qualification to the audit; the removal of a cross default from any Secured Hedging Agreement to the 2007 Credit Agreement; the removal of a Bankruptcy Default, as defined therein, arising from actions in furtherance of or indicating consent to the specified actions; and a waiver of any prior Default or Event of Default, as defined therein, including without limitation from the negotiation, entry into, or performance of the Restructuring Support Agreement or the Investment Commitment Letter.
In consideration of the changes described above, GateHouse agreed to pay each of the Lenders party to the Credit Amendment that timely executed and delivered its signature to the Credit Amendment and the Restructuring Support Agreement, an amendment fee equal to 3.5% multiplied by the aggregate outstanding amount of the Loans held (including through trades pending settlement) by such Lender, unless waived in writing. Newcastle and certain other Lenders elected to waive their amendment fee pursuant to the Credit Amendment. Newcastle indemnified other Lenders with respect to their entry into the Credit Amendment, subject to the limitations set forth in the Credit Amendment.
The bankruptcy filing on September 27, 2013, was a termination event under our interest rate swap agreements.
No other material changes were made to our contractual commitments during the period from December 30, 2012 to September 29, 2013.
We use Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of our core operating performance, which is evidenced by the publishing and delivery of news and other media and excludes certain expenses that may not be indicative of our core business operating results. We consider the unrealized (gain) loss on derivative instruments and the loss on early extinguishment of debt to be financing related costs associated with interest expense or amortization of financing fees. Accordingly, we exclude financing related costs such as the early extinguishment of debt because they represent the write-off of deferred financing costs and we believe these non-cash write-offs are similar to interest expense and amortization of financing fees, which by definition are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. Additionally, the non-cash gains (losses) on derivative contracts, which are related to interest rate swap agreements to manage interest rate risk, are financing costs associated with interest expense. Such charges are incidental to, but not reflective of, our core operating performance and it is appropriate to exclude charges related to financing activities such as the early extinguishment of debt and the unrealized (gain) loss on derivative instruments which, depending on the nature of the financing arrangement, would have otherwise been amortized over the period of the related agreement and does not require a current cash settlement.
(a) Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended September 29, 2013 included net expenses of $14,777, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $14,777 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $14,735, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(392), integration and reorganization costs of $422 and a $9 loss on the sale of assets.
(b) Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended September 30, 2012 included net expenses of $3,205, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $3,205 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $1,417, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(188), integration and reorganization costs of $1,597 and a $379 loss on the sale of assets.
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $428 from our discontinued operations.
(c) Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended September 29, 2013 included net expenses of $22,419, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $22,419 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $20,807, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(820), integration and reorganization costs of $1,380 and a $1,053 loss on the sale of assets.
(d) Adjusted EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 included net expenses of $7,684, which are one-time in nature or non-cash compensation. Included in these net expenses of $7,684 is non-cash compensation and other expense of $4,125, non-cash portion of postretirement benefits expense of $(432), integration and reorganization costs of $3,457 and a $534 loss on the sale of assets.
Adjusted EBITDA also does not include $593 from our discontinued operations.
During the nine month period ended September 29, 2013, there were no material changes to the quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk that were presented in Item 7A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2012.
See Index to Exhibits on page 46 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.