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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011

OR

 

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

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 000-26497

 

 

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)

 

LOGO

 

DELAWARE

(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF

INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)

 

77-0121400

(I.R.S. EMPLOYER

IDENTIFICATION NUMBER)

4880 SANTA ROSA ROAD

CAMARILLO, CALIFORNIA

(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL

EXECUTIVE OFFICES)

 

93012

( ZIP CODE)

REGISTRANT’S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (805) 987-0400

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

 

Name of the Exchange on which registered

Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share   The NASDAQ Global Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.    Yes  ¨    No  x

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

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

 


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Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

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

 

  Large accelerated filer    ¨     Accelerated filer   ¨
  Non-accelerated filer    ¨   (Do not check if Smaller Reporting Company)   Smaller Reporting Company   x

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

As of June 30, 2011, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $20,803,011 based on the closing sale price as reported on the NASDAQ Global Market.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class A

 

Outstanding at March 1, 2012

Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share   18,735,555 shares

Class B

 

Outstanding at March 1, 2012

Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share   5,553,696 shares

 

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

Document

  

Parts Into Which Incorporated

Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held June 22, 2012    Part III, Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14

 

 

 


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          PAGE  
   PART I   
Item 1.    Business      2   
Item 1A.    Risk Factors      16   
Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments      28   
Item 2.    Properties      28   
Item 3.    Legal Proceedings      29   
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures      29   
   PART II   
Item 5.    Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities      29   
Item 6.    Selected Financial Data      30   
Item 7.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations      33   
Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk      59   
Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data      61   
Item 9.    Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure      102   
Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures      102   
Item 9B.    Other Information      102   
   PART III   
Item 10.    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance      103   
Item 11.    Executive Compensation      103   
Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters      103   
Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence      103   
Item 14.    Principal Accounting Fees and Services      103   
   PART IV   
Item 15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules      103   
   Signatures      114   
   Exhibit Index      116   


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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

From time to time, in both written reports (such as this report) and oral statements, Salem Communications Corporation (“Salem” or the “company,” including references to Salem by “we,” “us” and “our”) makes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of federal and state securities laws. Disclosures that use words such as the company “believes,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “may” or “plans” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect the company’s current expectations and are based upon data available to the company at the time the statements are made. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. These risks, as well as other risks and uncertainties, are detailed in Salem’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements made in this report speak as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements made in this report. Any such forward-looking statements, whether made in this report or elsewhere, should be considered in context with the various disclosures made by Salem about its business. These projections or forward-looking statements fall under the safe harbors of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).

All metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”) rank information used in this report, excluding information concerning The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is from the Fall 2011 Radio Market Survey Schedule & Population Rankings published by The Arbitron Company (“Arbitron”). According to the Radio Market Survey, the population estimates used are based upon the 2010 U.S. Bureau Census estimates updated and projected to January 1, 2011 by Nielsen Claritas, Inc.

 

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PART I

 

ITEM 1. BUSINESS.

CORPORATE INFORMATION

Salem Communications Corporation (“Salem”) was formed in 1986 as a California corporation and reincorporated in Delaware in 1999. Salem is a domestic multi-media company with integrated business operations covering radio broadcasting, publishing and the Internet. Our programming is intended for audiences interested in Christian and conservative opinion content. We maintain a website at www.salem.cc. Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports are available free of charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable after those reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

BUSINESS STRATEGY

Our principal business strategy is to expand our abilities to produce and deliver compelling content as the interactive marketplace evolves so that we are positioned to be the market leader for audiences interested in Christian and family-themed programming and conservative news talk. We offer traditional radio and emerging media, including web-based offerings, magazine, and book publishing throughout the United States. We continually evaluate opportunities to improve our radio platform, invest in and build our Internet sites, and support our publishing operations. Our national presence in each of these mediums provides advertisers and programmers with a powerful integrated platform to reach our audiences.

We are fundamentally committed to programming and content emphasizing Christian values, conservative family themes and news. Our commitment to these values means that we may choose not to switch to other formats or pursue potentially more profitable business opportunities in response to changes in audience preferences.

Broadcast Programming Strategy

Our foundational business is the ownership and operation of radio stations in large metropolitan markets. We believe that we are the largest commercial U.S. radio broadcasting company delivering Christian and conservative opinion content as measured by our number of radio stations and audience coverage. Upon the close of all announced transactions, we will own and/or operate a national portfolio of 96 radio stations in 37 markets, including 59 stations in 22 of the top 25 markets, which consists of 27 FM stations and 69 AM stations. We are one of only three commercial radio broadcasters with radio stations in all of the top 10 markets. We are the seventh largest operator measured by number of stations overall and the third largest operator measured by number of stations in the top 25 markets. We also program the Family Talk™ Christian-themed talk format station on SiriusXM Channel 131.

Our broadcast business also includes Salem Radio Network® (“SRN”), a wholly owned national radio network syndicating music, news and talk programs to over approximately 2,000 affiliated radio stations, in addition to those stations that we own and operate. We also own and operate Salem Media Representatives® (“SMR”), a national advertising sales firm with offices in 12 U.S. cities, and SRN News Network (“SNN”), Salem Music Network (“SMN”), Solid Gospel Network (“SGN”), and Vista Media Representatives (“VMR”). Like SRN, SNN, SMN and SGN are radio networks that produce and distribute talk, news and music programming to numerous radio stations in the U.S., including some of our own stations. SMR and VMR sell commercial airtime to national advertisers on our radio stations and our networks, as well as for independent radio station affiliates.

Our broadcast business strategy is to assemble radio station clusters, defined as a group of radio stations operating within the same geographic market. We program our radio stations in formats that we believe target various demographic segments of the audience interested in Christian and family-themed programming and conservative news talk content. Several benefits are achievable when operating multiple radio stations in the same market. First, this clustering and programming strategy allows us to achieve greater access into each segment of our target market, and collectively our stations afford our clients a larger percentage of advertising time in that market. We offer advertisers multiple audiences and can bundle each radio station for advertising sales purposes when advantageous. Second, we realize several cost and operating efficiencies by consolidating sales, technical and administrative support and promotional function where possible. Finally, the addition of radio stations in our existing markets allows us to leverage our hands-on knowledge of that market to appeal to our listeners and advertisers.

We program our radio stations in five main formats. Through the strength of our Christian Teaching and Talk format, the influence of our News Talk format, the continued popularity of our Contemporary Christian Music format, and the roll-out of our Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk and Business formats, we believe that we are well-positioned to continually improve our leadership role in Christian and family-themed and conservative news talk radio.

 

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Christian Teaching and Talk. Christian Teaching and Talk is our foundational format. We currently program 39 of our radio stations in our Christian Teaching and Talk format, which is talk programming emphasizing Christian and family themes. Through this format, a listener can hear Bible teachings and sermons, as well as gain insight to questions related to daily life, such as raising children to religious legal rights in education and the workplace. This format serves as a learning resource and as a source of personal support for listeners nationwide. In response to our daily block programming, listeners often contact our programmers to ask questions, obtain materials on a subject matter or receive study guides based on what they have learned on the radio.

Block Programming. Our national station platform and focused programming strategy provides us with the ability to sell blocks of airtime to a variety of religious and charitable organizations that create compelling radio programs. Historically, more than 90% of our block programming partners renew their annual relationships with us. Based on these renewal rates, we believe that block programming provides a steady and consistent source of revenue and cash flows. Our top ten programmers have remained relatively constant and average nearly 25 years on-air. Programming revenue has comprised 35% to 41% of our total net broadcast revenue from 2007 through 2011.

News Talk. We currently program 25 of our radio stations in a News Talk format. Our research shows that our News Talk format is highly complementary to our core Christian Teaching and Talk format. As programmed by Salem, both of these formats express conservative views and family values. Our News Talk format also provides for the opportunity to leverage syndicated talk programming produced by our network, SRN. SRN’s nationally syndicated programs are distributed nationally through approximately 2,000 affiliate stations. The syndication of our programs through SRN allows us to reach listeners in markets where we do not own or operate stations.

Contemporary Christian Music- The FISH®. We currently program 11 radio stations in a Contemporary Christian Music (“CCM”) format, branded The FISH® in most markets. Through the CCM format, we are able to bring listeners the words of inspirational recording artists, set to upbeat contemporary music. Our music format is branded “Safe for the Whole Family®”, with sounds that all ages of listeners enjoy and lyrics that can be appreciated. The CCM genre continues to be popular. We believe that this listener base is underserved in terms of radio coverage, particularly in larger markets, and our stations fill an otherwise void in listener choices.

Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk. We currently program six of our radio stations in a Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk format. This format is similar to our core Christian Teaching and Talk format in that it broadcasts biblical and family-themed programming for our Spanish speaking audiences. However, most of the block programming on our Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk stations is local rather than national.

Business. We began offering business format stations in 2009, with additional markets added in 2010 and 2011. We currently program 10 of our stations in a business format. Our business format stations feature financial experts, business talk, and nationally recognized Bloomberg programming. The business format operates similar to our Christian Teaching and Talk format in that it features long-form block programming.

SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Our satellite radio station, SiriusXM Channel 131, is the exclusive Christian Teaching and Talk channel on SiriusXM, reaching the entire nation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Salem Web Network Online Media Strategy

Salem Web Network (“SWN”), our Internet business includes our websites providing Christian and conservative themed content, audio and video streaming, and other resources on the web. SWN’s national web portals include OnePlace.com, Christianity.com, Crosswalk.com, BibleStudyTools.com, GodTube.com, Townhall.com®, HotAir.com, WorshipHouse Media.com and Jesus.org. SWN’s content is also accessible through our radio station websites that feature content of interest to local listeners throughout the United States. SWN operates our radio station websites and Salem Consumer Products, a website offering books, DVD’s and editorial content developed by many of our on-air radio personalities that are available for purchase. The revenues generated from this segment are reported as Internet revenue on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Our online business strategy is to build a robust web-based platform designed for audiences interested in Christian and family-themed content and conservative news talk. The Internet continues to change the way in which media is delivered to audiences. Continual advancements with online search engines and social media sites provide consumers with numerous methods to locate

 

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specific information and content online. These advancements have also enabled a large number of individuals to create and publish content that may or may not be tailored to that specific consumer. Our talent, including our on-air personalities, provides web-based commentaries, programs, text, audio and video content that we believe to be knowledge based, credible and reliable. This highly specific web-based content provides our advertisers a unique and powerful way to reach their targeted audiences. We believe that our content is decidedly relevant and valuable with long-term advantages in providing advertisers a useful tool to match their advertisements with our audiences.

During 2011, we acquired WorshipHouse Media, an on-line church media and video ministry website, for $6.0 million. WorshipHouse Media offers users worship and small group resources, including movie illustrations, song tracks, worship backgrounds, small group video curriculum and worship software, to the majority of churches in America who face budget, time and in-house talent constraints. The site also includes WorshipHouseKids.com, which offers similar products designed to meet the needs of children’s ministry media in the church.

Salem PublishingPrinting Strategy

Our production and distribution of Christian and conservative content extends to print media through Salem Publishing™. Salem Publishing™ produces and distributes the following Christian and conservative opinion print magazines: Homecoming® The Magazine, YouthWorker Journal™, Singing News, FaithTalk Magazine, Preaching and Townhall Magazine™. Salem Publishing also includes Xulon Press™, a print-on-demand self-publishing service for Christian authors. The revenues generated from this segment are reported as publishing revenue on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Our publishing strategy mirrors that of our other segments, to build and maintain a distribution network targeting audiences interested in Christian and family-themed content as well as conservative news talk. Content from our print magazines is also available on branded websites for each publication.

Audience Growth

The continued success of our business is dependent upon our ability to reach a growing audience. We continually seek opportunities for growth by increasing the strength and number of our broadcast signals, increasing the number of page-views on our Internet platform and increasing the subscriber base of our magazines. To accomplish this, we produce content that we believe is both compelling and of high commercial value based on our market testing and fine-tuning. We rely on a combination of research, marketing, targeted promotions and live events to create visibility and brand awareness in each of our markets. By maximizing our audience share, we achieve higher ratings and page turns that can be converted into advertising revenues. To maximize results, we cross-promote our content on each of our media platforms to enhance our brand names and reach our targeted audiences. We believe that the growth of our media platform provides advertisers with effective methods to reach an expanding audience.

Technical Improvements

We rely on continued technical improvements to expand our broadcasting, Internet and publication footprint. We focus on identifying ways to improve our radio station broadcast signals so that they can reach as many listeners as possible, both during the day and at night. We have completed numerous enhancements to increase the coverage of our signals. During 2011, we expanded our satellite distribution platform to include the WEGENER® 6240 store-forward DVB Receiver and we launched numerous iPhone® applications including one for our BibleStudyTools.

Advertising Sales Professionals

We have assembled an effective, highly trained sales staff responsible for converting audience share into revenue. We operate with a focused, sales-oriented culture that rewards selling efforts through a commission and bonus compensation structure. We hire sales professionals for each of our markets, as well as for our Internet and publishing divisions that are capable of selling integrated or stand-alone advertisements. We provide our sales professionals with the resources necessary to compete effectively in the marketplace. We utilize various sales strategies to sell and market our platforms as stand-alone products or in combination with other offerings. We tailor our platform to meet each advertiser’s needs, including the geographic coverage area, event sponsorships and special features, Internet promotions, e-mail sponsorships, and /or print advertisements.

 

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Marketing Platform to National Advertisers

National companies often prefer to advertise across the United States as an efficient and cost effective way to reach all target audiences. Our advertisers can benefit by gaining access to our audiences through our national broadcasts, print magazines and our Internet portals. We operate a national platform of radio stations that reach more than 6.7 million listeners each week. Through SMR and VMR, we bundle and sell airtime on this national platform of radio stations, as well as Internet placements and/or print magazine space. We average approximately 86 million page views per month on our websites, produce 1.5 million print magazines each year and produce over 1 million books annually.

Significant Community Involvement

We believe that our ongoing active involvement and our significant relationships within the Christian community provide us with a unique competitive advantage to reach Christian audiences. Our proactive involvement in the Christian community in each of our markets significantly improves the marketability of our advertising space and broadcast airtime to advertisers targeting such communities. We believe that our public image reflects the lifestyle and viewpoints of the target demographic group that we serve. We regularly collaborate with organizations serving the Christian and family-themed audience and we sponsor and support events important to this group. Our sponsored events include listener rallies, speaking tours, pastor appreciation events and concerts such as our Celebrate Freedom® Music Festival and our Fishfest®. Events such as these connect us with our listeners and enable us to create an enhanced awareness and name recognition in our markets. Involvement leads to increased effectiveness in developing and improving our programming formats, leading to greater audience share and higher ratings over the long-term.

Corporate Structure

The management of our operations is decentralized. Our broadcast operations vice presidents are experienced radio broadcasters with expertise in sales, programming, marketing and production. Our broadcast operations vice presidents, some of whom are also station general managers, oversee several markets on a regional basis. We anticipate relying on this strategy of decentralization and encourage broadcast operations vice presidents to apply innovative techniques for improvement and growth of the operations they oversee which can be implemented in our other markets.

Our SWN and publishing operations vice presidents and general managers are located throughout the United States in offices in which our Internet and publishing entities operate. Like broadcasting, these operations are decentralized with each vice president encouraged to apply innovative techniques to the operations that they oversee.

Each of our business segments receives executive leadership and oversight from our corporate staff. Corporate staff members have experience and expertise in, among other things, accounting and finance, treasury, risk management, insurance, information technology, human resources, legal, engineering, real estate, strategic direction and other support functions designed to provide resources to local management. Corporate staff oversee placement and rate negotiations for our national block programs. Centralized oversight of this component of our revenue is necessary because our key block program customers purchase time in many of our radio markets.

Recent Events

On December 21, 2011, we completed the acquisition of KTEK-AM in Houston, Texas for $2.6 million, which includes $1.0 million of cash and $1.6 million netted against the unpaid portion of our note receivable. We began operating the station on March 5, 2010, pursuant to a long-term Time Brokerage Agreement (“TBA”). The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results of this entity as of the TBA date. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity as of the closing date. We previously sold the assets of KTEK-AM on March 28, 2008 for $7.8 million, which included $4.5 million in cash and $3.3 million in notes receivable of which we collected $1.8 million. Our 2011 purchase was partially funded by the unpaid portion of the note of $1.5 million.

On December 12, 2011, we redeemed $12.5 million of our 95/8% senior secured second lien notes due 2016 (the “95/8% Notes”) for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $62,000 of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On November 15, 2011, we completed the Second Amendment to our Senior Credit Facility, which is a revolving credit facility (“Revolver”) to among other things: (1) extend the maturity date from December 1, 2012 to December 1, 2014 (2) change the interest

 

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rate applicable to LIBOR or the Wells Fargo base rate plus a spread to be determined based on our leverage ratio, (3) allow us to borrow and repay unsecured indebtedness provided certain conditions are met and (4) include step-downs related to our leverage ratio covenant. We incurred $0.5 million in fees to complete this amendment, which are being amortized over the remaining term of the credit agreement. The applicable interest rate relating to the amended credit agreement is LIBOR plus a spread of 3.0% per annum or the Base Rate (as defined in the credit agreement) plus a spread of 1.25% per annum, which is adjusted based on our leverage ratio.

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into lines of credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors (the “Affiliate Lenders”). Pursuant to the agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million (together, the “Affiliate Lines of Credit “). The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit will bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum and (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the Credit Agreement referred to above plus 2% per annum and must be repaid within three months from the time that such amounts are borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit.

On September 6, 2011, we repurchased $5.0 million of our 95/8% Notes for $5.1 million, or at a price equal to 1027/8% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.3 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $26,000 of unamortized discount and $0.1 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On June 1, 2011, we redeemed $17.5 million of our 95/8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.5 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On March 28, 2011, we completed the acquisition of the Internet business, WorshipHouse Media, an on-line church media and video ministry website, for $6.0 million in cash. WorshipHouse Media offers users worship and small group resources, including movie illustrations, song tracks, worship backgrounds, small group video curriculum and worship software, to churches that may face budget, time and in-house talent constraints. The site also includes WorshipHouseKids.com, which offers similar products designed to meet the needs of children’s ministry media in the church. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $2.1 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us.

On March 14, 2011, we completed the acquisition of radio station WDDZ-AM, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, for $0.6 million in cash. We began operating the station as WBZS-AM upon the close of the transaction. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. On January 5, 2012, we entered into an asset purchase agreement (“APA”) to sell this radio station for $0.8 million.

On March 1, 2011, we completed the sale of radio station WAMD-AM in Aberdeen, Maryland resulting in a pre-tax loss of $0.2 million. The loss was recognized in September 2010 upon entering into the APA.

On February 25, 2011, we completed the sale of radio station KXMX-AM in Los Angeles, California for $12.0 million, including $11.0 million in cash and a $1.0 million promissory note. The $1.0 million promissory note has a three-year term, bearing interest at 7% compounded annually, due on February 25, 2016. The sale resulted in a pre-tax gain of $2.1 million.

On January 6, 2011, we completed the sale of radio station KKMO-AM in Seattle, Washington for $2.7 million resulting in a pre-tax gain of $2.4 million.

On January 3, 2011, we began programming radio station KVCE-AM, Highland Park, Texas pursuant to a long-term TBA.

 

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DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUSINESS

During the year ended December 31, 2011, we completed the following business acquisitions:

 

Acquisition Date

  

Description

   Total Cost  
          (Dollars in thousands)  

December 21, 2011

  

KTEK-AM, Alvin Texas

   $ 2,601   

March 28, 2011

  

WorshipHouse Media

     6,000   

March 14, 2011

  

WBZS-AM, Pawtucket, Rhode Island

     550   
     

 

 

 
      $ 9,151   
     

 

 

 

Radio Stations

Upon the close of all announced transactions, we will own and/or operate a national portfolio of 96 radio stations in 37 markets, consisting of 27 FM stations and 69 AM stations. The following table sets forth information about each of Salem’s stations, in order of market size:

 

Market(1)

  

MSA
Rank(2)

  

Station

Call Letters

  

Year
Acquired

  

Format

New York, NY

   1, 17(3)    WMCA-AM    1989    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WNYM-AM    1994    News Talk

Los Angeles, CA

   2    KKLA-FM    1985    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KRLA-AM    1998    News Talk
      KFSH-FM    2000    Contemporary Christian Music

Chicago, IL

   3    WYLL-AM    2001    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WIND-AM    2005    News Talk

San Francisco, CA

   4, 33(4)    KFAX-AM    1984    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KDOW-AM    2001    Business

Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

   5    KLTY-FM    1996    Contemporary Christian Music
      KWRD-FM    2000    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KSKY-AM    2000    News Talk
      KVCE-AM    Pending    Business
      KTNO_AM    2012    Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk

Houston-Galveston, TX

   6    KNTH-AM    1995    News Talk
      KKHT-FM    2005    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KTEK-AM    2011    Business

Philadelphia, PA

   7    WFIL-AM    1993    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WNTP-AM    1994    News Talk

Washington, D.C.

   8    WAVA-FM    1992    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WAVA-AM    2000    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WWRC-AM    2010    News Talk

Atlanta, GA

   9    WNIV-AM    2000    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WLTA-AM    2000    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WAFS-AM    2000    Business
      WFSH-FM    2000    Contemporary Christian Music
      WGKA-AM    2004    News Talk

Boston, MA

   10    WEZE-AM    1997    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WROL-AM    2001    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WWDJ-AM    2003    Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk

Detroit, MI

   11    WDTK-AM    2004    News Talk
      WLQV-AM    2006    Christian Teaching and Talk

Miami, FL

   12    WKAT-AM    2005    Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk
      WHIM-AM (formerly WMCU-AM)    2008    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WZAB-AM    2009    Business

Seattle-Tacoma, WA

   13    KGNW-AM    1986    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KLFE-AM (5)    1994    News Talk
      KNTS-AM(5)    1997    Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk
      KKOL-AM    1997    Business

Phoenix, AZ

   14    KKNT-AM    1996    News Talk

 

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      KPXQ-AM    1999    Christian Teaching and Talk

Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN

   15    KKMS-AM    1996    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KYCR-AM    1998    Business
      WWTC-AM    2001    News Talk

San Diego, CA

   16    KPRZ-AM    1987    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KCBQ-AM    2000    News Talk

Tampa, FL

   18    WTWD-AM(7)    2000    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WTBN-AM(7)    2001    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WGUL-AM    2005    News Talk

Denver-Boulder, CO

   19    KRKS-FM    1993    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KRKS-AM (6)    1994    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KNUS-AM    1996    News Talk
      KBJD-AM(6)    1999    Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk

Portland, OR

   22    KPDQ-FM    1986    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KPDQ-AM    1986    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KFIS-FM    2002    Contemporary Christian Music
      KRYP-FM    2005    Regional Mexican

Pittsburgh, PA

   24    WORD-FM    1993    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WPIT-AM    1993    Christian Teaching and Talk

Riverside-San Bernardino, CA

   25    KTIE-AM    2001    News Talk

Sacramento, CA

   26    KFIA-AM    1995    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KTKZ-AM    1997    News Talk
      KSAC-FM    2002    Business
      KKFS-FM    2006    Contemporary Christian Music

San Antonio, TX

   27    KSLR-AM    1994    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KLUP-AM    2000    News Talk

Cleveland, OH

   29    WHKW-AM    2000    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WFHM-FM    2001    Contemporary Christian Music
      WHK-AM    2005    News Talk

Orlando, FL

   33    WORL-AM    2006    News Talk
      WTLN-AM    2006    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WBZW-AM (formerly WHIM-AM)    2006    Business

Columbus, OH

   34    WRFD-AM    1987    Christian Teaching and Talk

Nashville, TN

   44    WBOZ-FM    2000    Southern Gospel
      WFFH-FM(8)    2002    Contemporary Christian Music
      WFFI-FM(8)    2002    Contemporary Christian Music

Louisville, KY

   53    WFIA-FM    1999    Christian Teaching and Talk
      WGTK-AM    2000    News Talk
      WFIA-AM    2001    Christian Teaching and Talk

Honolulu, HI

   63    KHNR-AM    2006    News Talk
      KAIM-FM    2000    Contemporary Christian Music
      KGU-AM    2000    Business
      KHCM-FM    2004    Country Music
      KHCM-AM    2000    Chinese
      KGU-AM (formerly KHUI-FM)    2004    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KKOL-FM (formerly KGMZ-FM)    2005    Oldies

Omaha, NE

   73    KGBI-FM    2005    Contemporary Christian Music
      KOTK-AM    2005    Spanish Christian Teaching and Talk
      KCRO-AM    2005    Christian Teaching and Talk

Sarasota-Bradenton, FL

   75    WLSS-AM    2005    News Talk

Colorado Springs, CO

   91    KGFT-FM    1996    Christian Teaching and Talk
      KBIQ-FM    1996    Contemporary Christian Music
      KZNT-AM    2003    News Talk

Oxnard-Ventura, CA

   118    KDAR-FM    1974    Christian Teaching and Talk

Youngstown-Warren, OH

   128    WHKZ-AM    2001    Christian Teaching and Talk

Warrenton, VA

      WKDL-AM    Pending    News Talk

 

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(1) Actual city of license may differ from metropolitan market served.
(2) “MSA” means metropolitan statistical area per the Fall 2011 Radio Market Survey Schedule and Population Rankings published by Arbitron, excluding the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
(3) This market includes the Nassau-Suffolk, NY Metro market, which independently has a MSA rank of 17.
(4) This market includes the San Jose, CA market, which independently has a MSA rank of 36.
(5) KNTS-AM is an expanded band AM station paired with KLFE-AM. The licenses for these stations include a condition requiring that one or the other be surrendered by July 15, 2009. However, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) is currently permitting these paired expanded band stations to continue to operate beyond the specified surrender date, pursuant to a special temporary authority (“STA”) granted by the FCC and a request for extension of that STA.
(6) KBJD-AM is an expanded band AM station paired with KRKS-AM, which licenses have not been renewed by the FCC. The original license for KBJD-AM includes a condition requiring that one or the other paired license be surrendered by February 20, 2006. However, the FCC is currently permitting these paired expanded band stations to continue to operate beyond their license expirations date pursuant to the pending license renewal applications for those stations, and to continue to operate beyond the specified surrender date pursuant to an STA granted by the FCC and a request for extension of that STA.
(7) WTBN-AM is simulcast with WTWD-AM, Tampa, FL.
(8) WFFH-FM is simulcast with WFFI-FM, Nashville, TN.

PROGRAM REVENUE. For the year ended December 31, 2011, we derived 24.0% and 17.5% of our net broadcast revenue, or $42.8 million and $31.2 million, respectively, from the sale of national and local block program time. We derive national program revenue from a programming customer base consisting primarily of geographically diverse, well-established non-profit religious and educational organizations that purchase time on stations in a large number of markets in the United States. National program producers typically purchase 13, 26 or 52-minute blocks of time on a Monday through Friday basis and may offer supplemental programming for weekend release. We obtain local program revenue from community organizations and churches that typically purchase for weekend releases and from local speakers who purchase daily releases. We believe our management has been successful in identifying and assisting quality local programs expand into national syndication.

ADVERTISING REVENUE. For the year ended December 31, 2011, we derived 35.5 % of our net broadcast revenue, or $63.4 million, from the sale of local spot advertising and 7.5% of our net broadcast revenue, or $13.4 million, from the sale of national spot advertising.

Salem Radio Network® and Salem Media Representatives

We own and operate SRN as part of our overall business strategy to develop a national network of affiliated radio stations anchored by our owned and operated radio stations in major markets. SRN, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, develops, produces and syndicates a broad range of programming specifically targeted to Christian and family-themed talk and music stations as well as general market News Talk stations. Currently, we have rights to several full-time satellite channels to deliver SRN programs to affiliates via satellite.

SRN has approximately 2,000 affiliate stations, in addition to our owned and operated stations, which broadcast one or more of the offered programming options. These programming options feature talk shows, news and music. The principal source of network revenue is from the sale of advertising time.

We own and operate SMR, a sales representation company specializing in placing national advertising on religious format radio stations. SRN and our radio stations each have relationships with SMR for the sale of available SRN spot advertising. SMR also contracts with individual radio stations to sell airtime to national advertisers desiring to include selected company stations in national buys covering multiple markets. We also operate VMR, a sales representation company specializing in placing national advertising on non-religious radio stations.

We recognize our advertising and commission revenue from radio stations as the spots air. SRN’s net revenue, including commission revenue for SMR and VMR, for the year ended December 31, 2011 was $14.7 million, or 8.2% of net broadcast revenue.

 

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Salem Web Network ™

We own and operate the following Christian and Conservative opinion websites:

Christian Content Websites:

BibleStudyTools.com is an online Bible website for verse search and in-depth studies of the Bible

OnePlace.com ™ is a provider of audio streaming for Christian ministries. Oneplace.com™ serves both as a complement to, and as an extension of, our block programming radio business. It serves more than 150 of our broadcast ministry partners, providing 30-day archived, on-demand audio streaming of more than 200 audio programs.

Crosswalk.com® offers biblically-based content on the web, and is built around four primary content areas—Faith, Family, Fun and Community. Each category is further subdivided into areas of interest including Bible study, devotionals, marriage, parenting, music, etc.

GodTube.com is a video sharing platform for Christian videos with faith-based, family friendly content.

CrossCards.com™ provides the online faith-based audience with e-greeting cards that offer messages of God’s love, inspiration, encouragement, etc.

LightSource.com provides video streaming and downloading for Christian ministries. It allows users to extend their ministry by reaching a worldwide audience.

Christianity.com is an online resource for Christian Bible Study and devotional content. As well as providing links to the best Christian articles on the web, Christianity.com also brings the reader material from major ministries such as A Love Worth Finding, Moody Church Hour, Living on the Edge and A New Beginning.

Jesus.org is a site with Biblical answers to questions about Jesus Christ, Faith, Salvation, Christianity and the early Church.

TheFISH.com™ is an online resource for digital delivery of Christian music. TheFISH.com™ also offers entertainment news and information of interest to Christian music listeners.

CCMmagazine.com is the interactive version of what was the Nashville-based CCM Magazine®, which provides information and insight on the Christian music scene.

WorshipHouseMedia.com is an on-line church media and video ministry website, including WorshipHouse Kids, which offers products designed to meet the needs of children’s ministry media in the church.

ChurchStaffing.com™ is a source of job search information for churches and church staff members in the area of personnel and staff relations. This site allows those seeking employment to submit resumes, and view job listings.

ChristianJobs.com™ provides services catering to the hiring needs of Christian-friendly companies and organizations while enabling job seekers to network into that community.

SermonSearch.com provides access to searchable, archived sermons submitted by many of America’s spiritual leaders. Subscribers are pastors or other church professionals as well as many Sunday school teachers, small group and Bible study leaders.

Churchsoftware.net CCIS Church Management Software provides management tools for churches including software solutions that run on a Windows ® platform.

Conservative Opinion Websites:

TownHall.com™ is an interactive community that brings users, conservative public policy organizations, congressional staff and political activists together under the broad umbrella of conservative thoughts, ideas and actions.

HotAir.com is a leading news and commentary site with conservative news and opinions.

In addition, we own and operate websites for each of our radio stations and print publications.

Our Internet division also includes Salem Consumer Products, which hosts several websites for our audience to purchase Christian and conservative content from our on-air hosts and contributors. These sites include:

 

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ConservativeStore.com

 

   

ChristianBookstore.net

 

   

Dennis Prager’s Pragertopia

 

   

Hugh Hewitt’s Hughniverse

 

   

Michael Medved’s Medheads

 

   

Bill Bennett’s Round Table

 

   

Mike Gallagher’s World

Our revenue generating advertising arrangements include cost-per-click performance-based advertising; display advertisements where revenue is dependent upon the number of page views; and lead generating advertisements where revenue is dependent upon users registering for, or purchasing or demonstrating interest in, advertisers’ products or services. Revenues from online product sales are recognized when the products are shipped. We also generate revenue from annual support plans on our CCIS Software, which we recognize pro-ratably over the term. Total Internet revenue, including SWN, for the year ended December 31, 2011 was $27.3 million, or 12.5% of total revenue.

Salem Publishing™ and Xulon Press

Our Publishing segment consists of a Book Publishing business, Xulon Press, and a Magazine Publishing business, Salem Publishing.

Magazine Publishing:

We publish several print magazines on a monthly or semi-monthly basis. Our publications include the following Christian or Conservative publications:

 

   

The Singing News

 

   

Homecoming® The Magazine

 

   

YouthWorker Journal™

 

   

Preaching Magazine

 

   

FaithTalk Magazine

 

   

Townhall Magazine

Book Publishing:

Xulon Press™ is a print-on-demand self-publishing service for Christian authors.

COMPETITION

We operate in a highly competitive broadcast and media business. We compete for advertisers and customers with other radio broadcasters, as well as with other media sources including broadcast and cable television, newspapers and magazines, national and local digital services, outdoor advertising, direct mail, online marketing and media companies, social media platforms, web-based blogs, and mobile telephony devices.

BROADCASTING. Our broadcast audience ratings and market shares are subject to change, and any change in a particular market could have a material adverse effect on the revenue of our stations located in that market. While we already compete in some of our markets with stations that offer similar formats, if another radio station were to convert its programming to a format similar to one of ours, or if an existing competitor were to strengthen its operations, our stations could suffer reduced ratings and/or reduced revenues. In these circumstances, we could also incur significantly higher promotional and other related expenses. We cannot assure that our stations will maintain or increase their current audience ratings and revenues.

Christian and Family Themed Radio. The segment of this industry that focuses on Christian and family themes, is also a highly competitive business. The financial success of each of our radio stations that focuses on Christian Teaching and Talk is dependent, to a significant degree, upon its ability to generate revenue from the sale of block program time to national and local religious and educational organizations. We compete for this program revenue with a number of different commercial and non-commercial radio station licensees. While no commercial group owner in the United States specializing in Christian and family-themed programming approaches Salem in size of potential listening audience and presence in major markets, other religious radio stations exist and enjoy varying degrees of prominence and success in all markets.

 

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We also compete for advertising revenue with other commercial religious format and general format radio station licensees. Our competition for advertising dollars includes other radio stations as well as broadcast television, cable television, newspapers, magazines, direct mail, Internet and billboard advertising, some of which may be controlled by horizontally-integrated companies. Several factors can materially affect competitive advantage, including audience ratings, program content, management talent and expertise, sales talent and experience, audience characteristics, signal strength, and the number and characteristics of other radio stations in the same market.

Competition also comes from new media technologies and services. These include delivery of audio programming by cable television and satellite systems, digital audio radio services, mobile telephony including smart phone applications for iPhone®, Blackberry® and Android®, personal communications services and the service of low powered, limited coverage FM radio stations authorized by the FCC. The delivery of live and stored audio programming through the Internet has also created new competition. In addition, satellite delivered digital audio radio, which deliver multiple audio programming formats to national audiences, has created competition. We have attempted to address these existing and potential competitive threats through a more active strategy to acquire and integrate new electronic communications formats including Internet acquisitions made by SWN and our exclusive arrangement to provide Christian and family-themed talk on SiriusXM, a satellite digital audio radio service.

NETWORK. Salem Radio Network competes with other commercial radio networks that offer news and talk programming to religious and general format stations and noncommercial networks that offer Christian music formats. SRN also competes with other radio networks for the services of talk show personalities.

INTERNET. Salem Web Network® competes for visitors and advertisers with other companies that deliver on-line audio programming and Christian and conservative Internet content as well as providers of general market Internet sites. The online media and distribution business changes quickly and is highly competitive. We compete to attract and maintain interactions with advertisers, consumers, content creators and web publishers.

PUBLISHING. Our print magazines compete for readers and advertisers with other print publications including those that follow the Christian music industry and those that address themes of interest to church leadership and the Christian audience. Xulon Press™ competes for authors with other on-demand publishers including those focused exclusively on Christian book publishers.

FEDERAL REGULATION OF RADIO BROADCASTING

Introduction. The ownership, operation and sale of broadcast stations, including those licensed to Salem, are subject to the jurisdiction of the FCC, which acts under authority derived from The Communications Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (the “Communications Act”). Among other things, the FCC assigns frequency bands for broadcasting; determines whether to approve certain changes in ownership or control of station licenses; regulates transmission facilities, including power employed, antenna and tower heights, and location of transmission facilities; adopts and implements regulations and policies that directly or indirectly affect the ownership, operation and employment practices of stations; and has the power to impose penalties for violations of its rules under the Communications Act.

The following is a brief summary of certain provisions of the Communications Act and of specific FCC regulations and policies. Failure to observe these or other rules and policies can result in the imposition of various sanctions, including monetary forfeitures, the grant of “short” (less than the maximum) license renewal terms or, for particularly egregious violations, the denial of a license renewal application, the revocation of a license or the denial of FCC consent to acquire additional broadcast properties. For further information concerning the nature and extent of federal regulation of broadcast stations you should refer to the Communications Act, FCC rules and the public notices and rulings of the FCC.

License Grant and Renewal. Radio broadcast licenses are granted for maximum terms of eight years. Licenses must be renewed through an application to the FCC. Under the Communications Act, the FCC will renew a broadcast license if it finds that the station has served the public interest, convenience and necessity, that there have been no serious violations by the licensee of the Communications Act or the rules and regulations of the FCC, and that there have been no other violations by the licensee of the Communications Act or the rules and regulations of the FCC that, when taken together, would constitute a pattern of abuse.

Petitions to deny license renewals can be filed by certain interested parties, including members of the public in a station’s market. Such petitions may raise various issues before the FCC. The FCC is required to hold hearings on renewal applications if the FCC is

 

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unable to determine that renewal of a license would serve the public interest, convenience and necessity, or if a petition to deny raises a “substantial and material question of fact” as to whether the grant of the renewal application would be prima facie inconsistent with the public interest, convenience and necessity. In addition, during certain periods when a renewal application is pending, the transferability of the applicant’s license is restricted.

Radio station KNTS(AM) is an expanded band station paired with station KLFE(AM) in the Seattle, WA market, and station KBJD(AM) is an expanded band station paired with KRKS(AM) in the Denver, CO market. We are operating these four stations pursuant to FCC licenses or other FCC authority pending resolution by the FCC of the issue of AM expanded band dual operating authority. Depending upon how the FCC resolves that issue, it is possible that we will be required to surrender one station license in each station pair. Except for these stations, we are not currently aware of any facts that would prevent the timely renewal of our licenses to operate our radio stations, although there can be no assurance that our licenses will be renewed.

Ownership Matters. The Communications Act prohibits the assignment of a broadcast license or the transfer of control of a broadcast license without the prior approval of the FCC. In determining whether to assign, transfer, grant or renew a broadcast license, the FCC considers a number of factors pertaining to the licensee, including compliance with various rules limiting common ownership of media properties, the “character” of the licensee and those persons holding “attributable” interests therein, and compliance with the Communications Act’s limitation on alien ownership, as well as compliance with other FCC policies, including equal employment opportunity requirements.

Under the Communications Act, a broadcast license may not be granted to or held by a corporation that has more than one-fifth of its capital stock owned or voted by aliens or their representatives, by foreign governments or their representatives, or by non-U.S. corporations. Under the Communications Act, a broadcast license also may not be granted to or held by any corporation that is controlled, directly or indirectly, by any other corporation more than one-fourth of whose capital stock is owned or voted by aliens or their representatives, by foreign governments or their representatives, or by non-U.S. corporations. These restrictions apply in modified form to other forms of business organizations, including partnerships. We therefore may be restricted from having more than one-fourth of our stock owned or voted by aliens, foreign governments or non-U.S. corporations.

Multiple Ownership: The Communications Act and FCC rules also generally restrict the common ownership, operation or control of radio broadcast stations serving the same local market, of a radio broadcast station and a television broadcast station serving the same local market, and of a radio broadcast station and a daily newspaper serving the same local market. The FCC also restricts the number of television stations an entity may own both in local markets and nationwide.

Our current ownership of radio broadcast stations complies with the FCC’s multiple ownership rules; however, these rules may limit the number of additional stations that we may acquire in the future in certain of our markets and could limit the potential buyers of any stations we may attempt to sell. The FCC is also required by the Communications Act to review its broadcast ownership rules every four years. During 2009, the FCC held a series of hearings designed to evaluate possible changes to its rules. In May 2010, the FCC formally initiated its 2010 review of its media ownership rules with the issuance of a Notice of Inquiry (NOI). The NOI is intended to assist the Commission in establishing a framework within which to analyze whether its media ownership rules remain “necessary in the public interest as a result of competition,” due to the dramatic changes occurring in the media marketplace. Numerous parties have filed comments and reply comments in response to the NOI. In June and July 2011, the FCC released to the public eleven economic studies related to its media ownership rules. We believe that the next step will be for the FCC to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to seek comment on specific proposed changes to its ownership rules. We can make no determination as to what effect, if any, this proposed rulemaking will have on Salem.

Attribution: Because of these multiple and cross-ownership rules, a purchaser of voting stock of the company that acquires an “attributable” interest in the company may violate the FCC’s rule if it also has an attributable interest in other television or radio stations, or in daily newspapers, depending on the number and location of those radio or television stations or daily newspapers. Such a purchaser also may be restricted in the other companies in which it may invest, to the extent that these investments give rise to an attributable interest. If an attributable stockholder of the company violates any of these ownership rules, the company may be unable to obtain from the FCC one or more authorizations needed to conduct its radio station business and may be unable to obtain FCC consents for certain future acquisitions.

The FCC generally applies its television/radio/newspaper cross-ownership rules and its broadcast multiple ownership rules by considering the “attributable,” or cognizable, interests held by a person or entity. A person or entity can have an interest in a radio station, television station or daily newspaper by being an officer, director, partner, member, or stockholder of a company that owns that station or newspaper. Whether that interest is cognizable under the FCC’s ownership rules is determined by the FCC’s attribution rules. If an interest is attributable, the FCC treats the person or entity who holds that interest as an “owner” of the radio station, television station or daily newspaper in question, and therefore subject to the FCC’s ownership rules.

 

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Any officers and directors of a broadcast licensee, cable system owner, or daily newspaper owner are deemed to hold attributable interests in that entity. Generally, the officers and directors of any parent company that holds an attributable interest are themselves also deemed to hold the same attributable interests as that company. In certain situations where a parent company is involved in businesses other than broadcasting, cable system operation, or newspaper publishing, and an individual officer or director has duties and responsibilities wholly unrelated to the company’s broadcast, cable, or newspaper activities, that officer or director may avoid attribution, but will need to submit a statement to the FCC documenting their lack of involvement in the relevant businesses.

Generally, debt interests held in a broadcast licensee, cable system owner, daily newspaper publisher, or parent company are not deemed attributable. Debt holders will be subject to attribution, however, where the aggregate value of the equity and debt held in the broadcast, cable, or newspaper company exceeds 33% of that company’s total asset value and the debt holder also holds another attributable interest in the relevant market or the debt holder supplies over 15% of the programming, on a weekly basis, for the station in which the interest is held.

Programming and Operation. The Communications Act requires broadcasters to serve the “public interest.” The FCC has gradually relaxed or eliminated many of the more formalized procedures it had developed in the past to promote the broadcast of certain types of programming responsive to the needs of a station’s community of license. Although in recent years proposals have been put forth by the FCC to reinstitute certain formal procedures, none of these proposals have yet been adopted for radio stations. Licensees continue to be required, however, to present programming that is responsive to community problems, needs and interests and to maintain certain records demonstrating such responsiveness. Complaints from listeners concerning a station’s programming will be considered by the FCC when it evaluates the licensee’s renewal application, but such complaints may be filed and considered at any time.

Stations also must pay annual regulatory fees and fees associated with the filing of most applications. Stations also must follow various FCC rules that regulate, among other things, political advertising, advertising for certain products or services (e.g. tobacco advertising), the broadcast of obscene or indecent programming, closed captioning, emergency programming, sponsorship identification and technical operations (including limits on radio frequency radiation) and equal employment opportunity requirements. The broadcast of contests and lotteries is regulated by FCC rules.

Failure to observe these or other rules and policies can result in the imposition of various sanctions, including monetary forfeitures, the grant of “short” (less than the maximum) renewal terms or, for particularly egregious violations, the denial of a license renewal application or the revocation of a license.

Proposed Changes. As noted above, in May 2010, the FCC formally initiated its 2010 review of its media ownership rules with the issuance of a Notice of Inquiry (NOI). The NOI is intended to assist the Commission in establishing a framework within which to analyze whether its media ownership rules remain “necessary in the public interest as a result of competition,” due to the dramatic changes occurring in the media marketplace. Numerous parties have filed comments and reply comments in response to the NOI. In June and July 2011, the FCC released to the public eleven economic studies related to its media ownership rules. We believe that the next step will be for the FCC to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to seek comment on specific proposed changes to its ownership rules. We can make no determination as to what effect, if any, this proposed rulemaking will have on Salem.

The Congress and the FCC from time to time have under consideration, and may in the future consider and adopt, new laws, regulations and policies regarding a wide variety of matters that could, directly or indirectly, affect the operation, ownership and profitability of the company’s radio stations, result in the loss of audience share and revenue for the company’s radio stations, and affect the ability of the company to acquire additional radio stations or finance such acquisitions. Such matters under consideration include, or may come to include:

 

   

proposals to require broadcast licensees to broadcast specific types and amounts of local programming;

 

   

proposals restricting the location of broadcast studios;

 

   

technical and frequency allocation matters, including potential reallocation of broadcast spectrum to other uses;

 

   

changes in multiple ownership and cross-ownership rules;

 

   

changes to broadcast technical requirements; and

 

   

proposals to require broadcasters to pay copyright royalties for over-the-air performance of sound recordings.

 

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The foregoing summary of certain provisions of the Communications Act and of specific FCC rules and policies does not purport to be comprehensive. For further information concerning the nature and extent of federal regulation of radio broadcast stations you should refer to the Communications Act, the FCC’s rules and the public notices and rulings of the FCC.

Federal Antitrust Considerations. The Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and the Department of Justice (“DOJ”), which evaluate transactions to determine whether those transactions should be challenged under the federal antitrust laws, are also active in their review of radio station acquisitions, particularly where an operator proposes to acquire additional stations in its existing markets.

For an acquisition meeting certain size thresholds, the Hart-Scott-Rodino Improvements Act (“HSR Act”) and the rules promulgated thereunder require the parties to file Notification and Report Forms with the FTC and the DOJ and to observe specified waiting period requirements before consummating the acquisition. At any time before or after the consummation of a proposed acquisition, the FTC or the DOJ could take such action under the antitrust laws as it deems necessary or desirable in the public interest, including seeking to enjoin the acquisition or seeking divestiture of the business acquired or other assets of the company. Acquisitions that are not required to be reported under the HSR Act may be investigated by the FTC or the DOJ under the antitrust laws before or after consummation. In addition, private parties may under certain circumstances bring legal action to challenge an acquisition under the antitrust laws. The DOJ also has stated publicly that it believes that LMAs and other similar agreements customarily entered into in connection with radio station transfers prior to the expiration of the waiting period under the HSR Act could violate the HSR Act.

Although we do not believe our acquisition strategy as a whole will be adversely affected in any material respect by antitrust review, we can provide no assurances as such.

SEGMENTS

We have historically had one reportable operating segment—radio broadcasting. The radio-broadcasting segment operates radio stations throughout the United States, various radio networks and our National sales group. Beginning with the first quarter of 2011, we separated our non-broadcast segment into two operating segments, Internet and Publishing. We believe that this information regarding our non-broadcast segment is useful to readers of our financial statements. Additionally, due to growth within our Internet operations, including the acquisition of WorshipHouse Media on March 28, 2011, our Internet segment qualifies for disclosure as a reportable segment. All prior periods were updated to reflect the separation of these non-broadcast segments. Our Internet segment operates all of our websites and our consumer product sales. Our publishing segment operates our print magazines and Xulon Press, a print-on-demand book publisher. We present our segment operating results in Note 16.

EMPLOYEES

As of February 20, 2012, we employed 1,130 employees in radio broadcasting, 134 employees in Internet entities, 88 employees in publishing and 105 employees in corporate functions. Of these employees, 1,115 are full-time and 342 are part-time employees. Our employees are not covered by collective bargaining agreements and we consider our relations with our employees to be good.

We employ many on-air personalities in our businesses and enter into employment agreements with certain on-air personalities in order to protect our interests in these employee relationships; however, talent may sometimes be lost to competitors or for various other reasons. While we do not believe that the loss of any one of our on-air personalities would have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations, the loss of several key on-air personalities combined could have a material adverse effect on our business.

INTERNET ADDRESS AND INTERNET ACCESS TO SEC REPORTS

Our Internet address is www.salem.cc. You may obtain through our Internet website, free of charge, copies of our annual reports filed on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These reports are available as soon as reasonably practical after we electronically file them or furnish them to the SEC. Our website and the information contained therein or connected thereto shall not be deemed to be incorporated into this Form 10-K.

 

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

CERTAIN FACTORS AFFECTING SALEM

We may choose not to pursue potentially more profitable business opportunities outside of our Christian, conservative news talk and family-themed formats, or not to broadcast programming that violates our programming standards, either of which may have a material adverse effect on our business.

We are fundamentally committed to broadcasting, Internet and publishing formats and programming emphasizing Christian values, conservative family themes and news. We may choose not to switch to other formats or pursue potentially more profitable business opportunities due to this commitment. We do not intend to pursue business opportunities or broadcast programming that would conflict with our core commitment to Christian and family themes formats or that would violate our programming standards, even if such opportunities or programming would be more profitable. Our decision not to pursue other formats or broadcast programming inconsistent with our programming standards might result in lower operating revenues and profits than we might otherwise achieve.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH BUSINESS OPERATIONS

We may be adversely affected by deteriorating economic conditions including the economic climate failing to improve.

The risks associated with our businesses become more acute in periods of a slowing economy or recession, which are often accompanied by a decrease in advertising. A decline in the level of business activity of our advertisers could have an adverse effect on our revenues and profit margins. During economic slowdowns in the United States, many advertisers have reduced their advertising expenditures. The impact of slowdowns on our business is difficult to predict, but they may result in reductions in purchases of advertising.

Our exposure to several risks increases with slowing economies or a recession, including but not limited to:

 

   

Increasing pressure to sell advertising and block programming time at discounted rates;

 

   

Increases in the length of time to collect receivables and higher risks that the accounts become uncollectible as our customers face tight credit markets;

 

   

Ministries are experiencing lower levels of donations that could negatively impact their ability to purchase and pay for block programming time;

 

   

We may not be able to find suitable replacements for ministries that can no longer purchase and pay for block programming;

 

   

Limitations on our ability to obtain additional financing to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other corporate requirements;

 

   

Limitations on our ability to pursue projects that could have been beneficial; and

 

   

Impairment losses on the value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets including FCC broadcast licenses, goodwill, and mastheads and impairment losses on other long-lived assets.

We must respond to the rapid changes in technology, services and standards of our industry in order to remain competitive.

The radio broadcast industry is subject to rapid technological change, evolving industry standards and the emergence of competition from new media technologies and services. We cannot assure you that we will have the resources to acquire new technologies or to introduce new services that could compete with these new technologies. Various new media technologies and services are being developed or introduced, including:

 

   

Satellite-delivered digital audio radio service, which has resulted in the introduction of new subscriber-based satellite radio services with numerous niche formats;

 

   

Audio programming by cable systems, direct-broadcast satellite systems, personal communications systems, content available over the Internet and other digital audio broadcast formats;

 

   

In-band on-channel digital radio, which provides multi-channel, multi-format digital radio services in the same bandwidth currently occupied by traditional AM and FM radio services;

 

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Low-power FM radio, which could result in additional FM radio broadcast outlets including additional low-power FM radio signals authorized in December 2010 under the Local Community Radio Act;

 

   

Mobile telephony;

 

   

High Definition radio;

 

   

Internet radio; and

 

   

Personal digital audio devices (e.g., iPods, mp3 players, audio via WiFi, mobile phones, WiMAX) or other emerging next-generation networks and technologies.

We currently program one channel on SiriusXM. We also offer pod-casts and downloads of portions of our programming; however, we cannot assure you that this arrangement will be successful or enable us to adapt effectively to these new media technologies. We cannot predict the effect, if any, that competition arising from new technologies or regulatory change may have on the radio broadcast industry or on our financial condition and results of operations.

The accounting treatment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets could cause future losses due to asset impairment.

Under FASB ASC Topic 350 “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other,” indefinite-lived intangibles, including broadcast licenses, goodwill and mastheads are not amortized but instead are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that there may be an impairment. Impairment is measured as the excess of the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset over its fair value. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives continue to be amortized over their useful lives and are measured for impairment if events or circumstances indicate that they may be impaired. Impairment losses are recorded as operating expenses. We have incurred significant impairment losses in prior periods with regard to our indefinite-lived intangible assets.

The valuation of intangible assets is subjective and based on estimates rather than precise calculations. The fair value measurements of our indefinite-lived intangible assets use significant unobservable inputs that reflect our own assumptions about the estimates that market participants would use in measuring fair value including assumptions about risk. If actual future results are less favorable than the assumptions and estimates we used, we are subject to future impairment charges, the amount of which may be material. Given the current economic environment and uncertainties that can negatively impact our business, there can be no assurance that our estimates and assumptions made for the purpose of our indefinite-lived intangible fair value estimates will prove to be accurate.

The impairment charges we have recognized are non-cash in nature and did not violate covenants on our then existing credit facilities or Revolver. However, the potential for future impairment charges can be viewed as a negative factor with regard to forecasted future performance and cash flows. We believe that we have adequately considered the economic downturn in our valuation models and do not believe that the non-cash impairments in and of themselves are a liquidity risk.

We may be unable to integrate the operations and management of acquired stations or businesses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

During 2010 and 2011, we spent $7.8 million and $9.2 million, respectively, on the acquisition of radio station and Internet businesses. We expect to make additional acquisitions of radio stations, Internet businesses or publishing entities. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully integrate the operations or management of acquired radio stations and businesses and realize anticipated revenue synergies, or the operations or management of stations and businesses that may be acquired in the future. Continued acquisitions will require us to manage a larger and likely more geographically diverse radio station, Internet and publishing portfolio than historically has been the case. Our inability to integrate and manage newly acquired radio stations, Internet businesses or publishing entities successfully could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

If we are unable to implement our cluster strategy, we may not realize anticipated operating efficiencies.

As part of our operating strategy, we attempt to realize efficiencies in operating costs and cross-selling of advertising by clustering the operations of two or more radio stations in a single market. However, there can be no assurance that this operating strategy will be successful. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that the clustering of radio stations in one market will not result in downward pressure on advertising rates at one or more of the existing or new radio stations within the cluster. There can be no assurance that any of our stations will be able to maintain or increase its current listening audiences and operating revenue in circumstances where we implement our clustering strategy.

 

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Additionally, FCC rules and policies allow a broadcaster to own a number of radio stations in a given market and permit, within limits, joint arrangements with other stations in a market relating to programming, advertising sales and station operations. We believe that radio stations that elect to take advantage of these clustering opportunities may have lower operating costs and may be able to offer advertisers more attractive rates and services. The future development of our business in new markets, as well as the maintenance of our business growth in those markets in which we do not currently have radio station clusters, may be negatively impacted by competitors who are taking or may take advantage of these clustering opportunities by operating multiple radio stations within markets.

We base capital allocation decisions primarily on our analysis of the predicted internal rate of return. If the estimates and assumptions we use in calculating the internal rate of return are inaccurate, our capital may be inefficiently allocated. If we fail to appropriately allocate our capital, our growth rate and financial results will be adversely affected.

We continually seek opportunities for growth by increasing the strength and number of our broadcast signals, increasing the number of page-views on our web platform and increasing the subscriber base of our magazines. In order to realize these growth opportunities, we must rely on continued technical improvements to expand our broadcasting, Internet and publication footprint. When deciding which opportunities to pursue, we must predict the internal rate of return associated with each project. Our calculations are based on certain estimates and assumptions that may not be realized. Accordingly, the calculation of internal rate of return may not be reflective of our actual returns.

Our business is dependent upon the performance of key employees, on-air talent and program hosts.

Our business is dependent upon the performance and continued efforts of certain key individuals, including Edward G. Atsinger III, our Chief Executive Officer, and Stuart W. Epperson, our Chairman of the Board. The loss of the services of such key individuals could have a material adverse effect upon us. We enter into employment agreements with such key individuals. Mr. Epperson has radio interests unrelated to Salem’s operations that will continue to impose demands on his time. Mr. Atsinger has an interest in an aviation business unrelated to Salem’s operations that will continue to impose demands on his time.

We also employ or independently contract with several on-air personalities and hosts of syndicated radio programs with significant loyal audiences on both a national level and in their respective markets. Several of our on-air personalities have a presence that extends beyond our radio platforms into other strategic areas. Although we have entered into long-term agreements with some of our executive officers, key on-air talent and program hosts to protect our interests in those relationships, we can give no assurance that all or any of these key employees will remain with us or will retain their audiences. Competition for these individuals is intense and many of our key employees are at-will employees who are under no legal obligation to remain with us. Our competitors may choose to extend offers to any of these individuals on terms that we may be unwilling to meet. In addition, any or all of our key employees may decide to leave for a variety of personal or other reasons beyond our control. Furthermore, the popularity and audience loyalty of our key on-air talent and program hosts is highly sensitive to rapidly changing public tastes. A loss of such popularity or audience loyalty is beyond our control and could limit our ability to generate revenues.

Our syndicated programming is dependent upon maintenance of our transponder equipment, which is located at various customer sites.

Delivery of our national programs is dependent upon transponder equipment that is located at various customer locations. The quality and durability of this equipment, as well as our ability to protect the equipment from damage, destruction or theft, directly impacts our ability to transmit programming. Losses to the equipment and any business interruption may not be fully insurable.

Our advertising revenues in certain markets are ratings sensitive and subject to decline based on ratings agency projections.

Arbitron uses their own technology to collect data for its ratings service. The Portable People Meter TM (PPMTM ) is a small device that does not require active manipulation by the end user and is capable of automatically measuring radio, television, Internet, satellite radio and satellite television signals that are encoded for the service by the broadcaster. The PPM offers a number of advantages over the traditional diary ratings collection system including ease of use, more reliable ratings data and shorter time periods between when advertising runs and when audience listening or viewing habits can be reported. In markets where we subscribe to Arbitron under the PPM, our ratings have been less consistent. It is not clear what long-term impact, if any, the PPM will have on our revenues for stations that subscribe to Arbitron.

 

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If we cannot attract the anticipated listener, programmer and advertiser base for our newly acquired radio stations, we may not recoup associated operating costs or achieve profitability for these radio stations.

We frequently acquire selected assets of radio stations that previously broadcast in formats other than our primary formats. We continue to program some of these stations in non-primary formats and we re-program others to one of our primary formats. During, and for a period after, the conversion of a radio station’s format, the radio station typically generates operating losses. The magnitude and duration of these losses depends on a number of factors, including the promotional and marketing costs associated with attracting listeners and advertisers to our radio station’s new format and the success of these efforts. There is no guarantee that the operation of these newly acquired stations or our operations in new formats will attract a sufficient listener and advertiser base. If we are not successful in attracting the listener and advertiser base we anticipate, we may not recoup associated operating costs or achieve profitability for these radio stations.

If we do not maintain or increase our block programming revenues, our business and operating results may be adversely affected.

The financial success of each of our radio stations that feature Christian Teaching and Talk programming is dependent, to a significant degree, upon our ability to generate revenue from the sale of block programming time to national and local religious and educational organizations. Block programming accounted for 41.5% of our net broadcast revenue for the year ended December 31, 2011, and 40.3% of our net broadcast revenue for the same period of the prior year. We compete for this program revenue with a number of commercial and non-commercial radio stations. Due to the significant competition for this block programming, we may not be able to maintain or increase our current block programming revenue.

If we are unable to maintain or grow our advertising revenues, our business and operating results may be adversely affected.

Our radio stations, Internet sites and publications are to varying degrees dependent upon advertising for their revenues. In the advertising market, we compete for revenue with other commercial religious format and general format radio stations, as well as with other media outlets including broadcast and cable television, newspapers, magazines, direct mail, Internet and billboard advertising. Due to this significant competition, we may not be able to maintain or increase our current advertising revenue. Any sustained economic downturn could negatively impact our ability to generate revenues.

We face significant competition, which we expect will continue to intensify, and we may not be able to maintain or improve our competitive position or market share.

We operate in a highly competitive broadcast and media business. We compete for advertisers and customers with other radio broadcasters, as well as with other media sources including broadcast and cable television, newspapers and magazines, national and local digital services, outdoor advertising, direct mail, online marketing and media companies, social media platforms, web-based blogs, and mobile telephony devices. We face intense competition from a wide range of competitors, including online marketing and media companies, integrated social media platforms and other specialist and enthusiast websites.

Our broadcast audience ratings and market shares are subject to change, and any change in a particular market could have a material adverse effect on the revenue of our stations located in that market. Salem Web Network competes for visitors and advertisers with other companies that deliver on-line audio programming and Christian and conservative Internet content as well as providers of general market Internet sites. Our print magazines compete for readers and advertisers with other print publications including those that follow the Christian music industry and those that address themes of interest to church leadership and the Christian audience. Xulon Press™ competes for authors with other on-demand publishers including those focused exclusively on Christian book publishers.

This competition could make it more difficult for us to provide value to our consumers, our advertisers and our content creators and result in increased pricing pressure, reduced profit margins, increased sales and marketing expenses, decreased website traffic and failure to increase, or the loss of, market share, any of which would likely seriously harm our business, revenue, financial condition and results of operations. There can be no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully against current or future competitors.

Our business generates revenue from the sale of advertising, and the reduction in spending by or loss of advertisers could seriously harm our business.

We derive a substantial part of our total revenues from the sale of advertising. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, 43.1%, 43.3% and 43.0% of our total revenues, respectively, were generated from the sale of broadcast advertising. We are particularly dependent on revenue from our Los Angeles and Dallas clusters , which generated 16.9% and 17.2%, respectively, of our

 

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total net advertising revenues for the year ended December 31, 2009, 15.8 %, and 18.8 %, respectively, of our total net advertising revenues for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 15.2% and 23.2% for the year ended December 31, 2011. Because substantial portions of our revenues are derived from local advertisers in these key markets, our ability to generate revenues in those markets could be adversely affected by local or regional economic downturns.

If we are unable to continue to drive and increase visitors to our owned and operated websites and to our customer websites and convert these visitors into repeat users and customers cost-effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

We attract traffic to our owned and operated websites by offering content that is highly specific and that we believe to be relevant to our audiences. How successful we are in these efforts depends, in part, upon our continued ability to create and distribute high-quality, commercially valuable content in a cost effective manner at scale that connects consumers with content that meets their specific interests and enables them to share and interact with the content and supporting communities. We may not be able to create content in a cost effective manner or that meets rapidly changing consumer demand in a timely manner, if at all. Any such failure to do so could adversely affect user and customer experiences and reduce traffic driven to our websites that would adversely affect our business, revenue, financial condition and results of operations.

Even if we succeed in driving traffic to our owned and operated websites and to our customer websites, neither we nor our advertisers and customers may be able to monetize this traffic or otherwise retain consumers. Our failure to do so could result in decreases in customers and related advertising revenue, which would have an adverse effect on our business, revenue, financial condition and results of operations.

New technologies may increase competition with our broadcasting operations

Our radio broadcasting business faces increasing competition from new technologies, such as broadband wireless, satellite radio and audio broadcasting by cable television systems, as well as new customer products, such as portable digital audio players and smart mobile phones. These new technologies and alternative media platforms compete with our radio stations for audience share and advertising revenues. The FCC also has approved new technologies for use in the radio broadcasting industry, including the terrestrial delivery of digital audio broadcasting, which significantly enhances the sound quality of radio broadcasts. We are unable to predict the effect that such technologies and related services and products will have on our broadcasting operations, but the capital expenditures necessary to implement such technologies could be substantial. We cannot assure that we will continue to have the resources to acquire new technologies or to introduce new services to compete with other new technologies or services, and other companies employing such new technologies or services could increase competition with our businesses.

The company must respond to changes in consumer behavior as a result of new technologies in order to remain competitive.

Technology, particularly digital technology used in the entertainment industry, continues to evolve rapidly, leading to alternative methods for the delivery and storage of digital content. These technological advancements have driven changes in consumer behavior and have empowered consumers to seek more control over when, where and how they consume digital content. Content owners are increasingly delivering their content directly to consumers over the Internet, often without charge, and innovations in distribution platforms have enabled consumers to view such Internet-delivered content on televisions and portable devices. There is a risk that the Company’s responses to these changes and strategies to remain competitive, including distribution of its content on a “pay” basis, may not be adopted by consumers. In publishing, the trending toward digital media may drive down the price consumers are willing to spend on our products disproportionately to the costs associated with generating literary content. The Company’s failure to protect and exploit the value of its content, while responding to and developing new technology and business models to take advantage of advancements in technology and the latest consumer preferences, could have a significant adverse effect on the Company’s businesses and results of operations.

The interruption or failure of our information technology and communications systems, or those of third parties that we rely upon, may adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition.

The availability of our products and services depends on the continuing operation of our information technology and communications systems. Any damage to or failure of our systems, or those of third parties that we rely upon (co-location providers for data servers, storage devices, and network access) could result in interruptions in our service, which could reduce our revenue and profits. Our systems are also vulnerable to damage or interruption from earthquakes, terrorist attacks, floods, fires, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses or other attempts to harm our systems.

 

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Furthermore, third-party service providers may experience an interruption in operations or cease operations for any reason. If we are unable to agree on satisfactory terms for continued data center hosting relationships, we would be forced to enter into a relationship with other service providers or assume hosting responsibilities ourselves. If we are forced to switch hosting facilities, we may not be successful in finding an alternative service provider on acceptable terms or in hosting the computer servers ourselves. We may also be limited in our remedies against these providers in the event of a failure of service. We also rely on third-party providers for components of our technology platform, such as hardware and software providers. A failure or limitation of service or available capacity by any of these third-party providers could adversely affect our business, revenue, financial condition and results of operations.

We may be unable to increase or maintain our Internet advertising revenues, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

We generate advertising revenue from the sale of display advertisements on our Internet sites. Our ability to increase or maintain this advertising revenue is largely dependent upon the number of users actively visiting our Internet sites. We also must increase user engagement with our advertisers in order to increase our advertising revenues. In addition, Internet advertising techniques are evolving, and if our technology and advertisement serving techniques do not evolve to meet the needs of advertisers, our advertising revenue could decline. Changes in our business model, advertising inventory or initiatives could also cause a decrease in our advertising revenue.

In addition, Internet advertisements are reportedly becoming a means to distribute viruses over the Internet. If this practice becomes more prevalent, it could result in consumers becoming less inclined to click through online advertisements, which could adversely affect the demand for Internet advertising. We do not have long-term agreements with most of our advertisers. Any termination, change or decrease in our advertising relationships could have a material adverse affect on our revenues and profitability. If we do not maintain or increase our advertising revenues, our business, results of operations and financial condition would be materially adversely affected.

If Internet search engines’ methodologies are modified, traffic to our websites and corresponding consumer origination volumes could decline.

We depend in part on various Internet search engines, such as Google®, Bing®, Yahoo!®, and other search engines to direct a significant amount of traffic to our websites. Our ability to maintain the number of visitors directed to our websites through which we distribute our content by search engines is not entirely within our control. Changes in the methodologies used by search engines to display results could cause our websites to receive less favorable placements, which could reduce the number of unique visitors who link to our websites. Any reduction in the number of users directed to our websites could negatively affect our ability to earn revenue. If traffic on our websites declines, we may need more costly sources to replace lost traffic, and such increased expense could adversely affect our business, revenue, financial condition and results of operations.

Wireless devices and mobile phones are used to access the Internet, and our online marketing services may not be as effective when accessed through these devices, which could cause harm to our business.

The number of people who access the Internet through devices other than personal computers has increased substantially in the last few years. Our websites were originally designed for persons accessing the Internet on a desktop or laptop computer. The smaller screens, lower resolution graphics and less convenient typing capabilities of these devices may make it more difficult for visitors to respond to our offerings. In addition, the cost of mobile advertising is relatively high and may not be cost-effective for our services. We must also ensure that our licensing arrangements with third-party content providers allow us to make this content available on these devices. If we cannot effectively make our content, products and services available on these devices, fewer consumers may access and use our content, products and services. In addition, if our services continue to be less effective or economically attractive for customers seeking to engage in advertising through these devices and this segment of Internet traffic grows at the expense of traditional computer Internet access, we will experience difficulty attracting website visitors and attracting and retaining customers and our operating results and business will be harmed.

As a creator and a distributor of Internet content, we face potential liability and expenses for legal claims based on the nature and content of the materials that we create or distribute, or that are accessible via our owned and operated websites and our network of customer websites. If we are required to pay damages or expenses in connection with these legal claims, our operating results and business may be harmed.

 

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We rely on the work product of various content creators to produce original content for our programs, websites and publications. We face potential liability based on a variety of theories, including defamation, negligence, unlawful practice of a licensed profession, copyright or trademark infringement or other legal theories based on the nature, creation or distribution of this information, and under various laws, including the Lanham Act and the Copyright Act. We may also be exposed to similar liability in connection with content that we do not create but that is posted to our owned and operated websites and to our network of customer websites by users and other third parties through forums, comments, personas and other social media features. In addition, it is also possible that visitors to our owned and operated websites and to our network of customer websites could make claims against us for losses incurred in reliance upon information provided on our owned and operated websites or our network of customer websites. These claims, whether brought in the United States or abroad, could divert management time and attention away from our business and result in significant costs to investigate and defend, regardless of the merit of these claims. If we become subject to these or similar types of claims and are not successful in our defense, we may be forced to pay substantial damages. While we run our content through a rigorous quality control process, including an automated plagiarism program, there is no guarantee that we will avoid future liability and potential expenses for legal claims based on the content of the materials that we create or distribute. Should the content distributed through our owned and operated websites and our network of customer websites violate the intellectual property rights of others or otherwise give rise to claims against us, we could be subject to substantial liability, which could have a negative impact on our business, revenue and financial condition.

We rely on third parties to provide software and related services necessary for the operation of our business.

We incorporate and include third-party software into and with our applications and service offerings and expect to continue to do so. The operation of our applications and service offerings could be impaired if errors occur in the third-party software that we use. It may be more difficult for us to correct any defects in third-party software because the development and maintenance of the software is not within our control. Accordingly, our business could be adversely affected in the event of any errors in this software. There can be no assurance that any third-party licensors will continue to make their software available to us on acceptable terms, to invest the appropriate levels of resources in their software to maintain and enhance its capabilities, or to remain in business. Any impairment in our relationship with these third-party licensors could harm our ability to maintain and expand the reach of our service, increase listener hours and sell advertising each of which could harm our operating results, cash flow and financial condition.

We may have difficulty scaling and adapting our existing technology and network infrastructure to accommodate increased traffic and technology advances or changing business requirements, which could lead to the loss of current and potential customers and advertisers, and cause us to incur expenses to make architectural changes.

To be successful, our network infrastructure has to perform well and be reliable. The greater the user traffic and the greater the complexity of our products and services, the more computing power we will need. In the future, we may spend substantial amounts to purchase or lease data centers and equipment, upgrade our technology and network infrastructure to handle increased traffic on our owned and operated websites and roll out new products and services. This expansion could be expensive and complex and could result in inefficiencies or operational failures. If we do not implement this expansion successfully, or if we experience inefficiencies and operational failures during its implementation, the quality of our products and services and our users’ experience could decline. This could damage our reputation and lead us to lose current and potential customers and advertisers. The costs associated with these adjustments to our architecture could harm our operating results. Cost increases, loss of traffic or failure to accommodate new technologies or changing business requirements could harm our business, revenue and financial condition.

Our business is subject to the risks of earthquakes, fires, floods and other natural catastrophic events and to interruption by man-made problems such as computer viruses or terrorism.

Our systems and operations are vulnerable to damage or interruption from earthquakes, fires, floods, power losses, telecommunications failures, terrorist attacks, acts of war, human errors, break-ins or similar events. For example, a significant natural disaster, such as an earthquake, fire or flood, could have a material adverse impact on our business, operating results and financial condition, and our insurance coverage may be insufficient to compensate us for losses that may occur. Our principal executive offices are located in Southern California, a region known for seismic activity. In addition, acts of terrorism could cause disruptions in our business or the economy as a whole. Our servers may also be vulnerable to computer viruses, break-ins and similar disruptions from unauthorized tampering with our computer systems, which could lead to interruptions, delays, loss of critical data or the unauthorized disclosure of confidential customer data. As we rely heavily on our servers, computer and communications systems and the Internet to conduct our business and provide high quality service to our listeners, such disruptions could negatively impact our ability to run our business, result in loss of existing or potential listeners and advertisers and increased maintenance costs, which would adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.

 

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We are controlled by a few controlling stockholders.

As of December 31, 2011, Edward G. Atsinger III (Chief Executive Officer), Stuart W. Epperson (Chairman), Nancy A. Epperson (wife of Chairman) and Edward C. Atsinger (son of Chief Executive Officer) controlled approximately 85.5% in aggregate of the voting power of our capital stock. These four stockholders thus have the ability to control fundamental corporate transactions requiring stockholder approval, including but not limited to, the election of all of our directors, approval of merger transactions involving Salem and the sale of all or substantially all of Salem’s assets. The interests of any of these controlling stockholders may differ from the interests of other stockholders in a material manner.

Our broadcasts often rely on content owned by third parties; obtaining such content could be costly and require us to enter into disadvantageous license or royalty arrangements.

We rely heavily upon content and software owned by third parties in order to provide programming for our broadcasts. The cost of obtaining all necessary licenses and permission to use this third-party content and software continues to increase. Although we attempt to avoid infringing known proprietary rights of third parties in our broadcasting efforts, we expect that we may be subject to legal proceedings and claims for alleged infringement from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Any claims relating to the infringement of third-party proprietary rights, even if not meritorious, could result in costly litigation, divert management’s attention and resources, or require us to enter into royalty or license agreements that are not advantageous to us. In addition, parties making claims may be able to obtain an injunction, which could prevent us from broadcasting all or certain portions of individual radio broadcasts containing content owned by third parties. We also rely on software that we license from third parties, including software that is integrated with internally developed software and used to perform key broadcasting and accounting functions. We could lose the right to use this software or it could be made available to us only on commercially unreasonable terms. Although we believe that alternative software is available from other third-party suppliers or internal developments, the loss of or inability to maintain any of these software licenses or the inability of the third parties to enhance in a timely and cost-effective manner their products in response to changing customer needs, industry standards or technological developments could result in limitations or delays in broadcasting or accounting for programming by us until equivalent software could be developed internally or identified, licensed and integrated, which would harm our business.

Poor perception of our brand, business or industry could harm our reputation and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our business is dependent on attracting a large audience to our radio stations, websites and publications. Our brand, business and reputation are vulnerable to poor perception. Any damage to our reputation could harm our ability to attract and retain advertisers, customers and content creators, which could materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and business.

If we are unable to protect our domain names, our reputation and brands could be adversely affected.

We currently hold various domain name registrations relating to our brands. The registration and maintenance of domain names generally are regulated by governmental agencies and their designees. Governing bodies may establish additional top-level domains, appoint additional domain name registrars or modify the requirements for holding domain names. As a result, we may be unable to register or maintain relevant domain names. We may be unable, without significant cost or at all, to prevent third parties from registering domain names that are similar to, infringe upon or otherwise decrease the value of, our trademarks and other proprietary rights. Failure to protect our domain names could adversely affect our reputation and brands, and make it more difficult for users to find our websites and our services.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH REGULATIONS

The restrictions on ownership of multiple stations in each market may prevent us from implementing our cluster strategy.

As part of our growth strategy, we seek to acquire additional radio stations in markets in which we already have existing stations. However, our ability to acquire, operate and integrate any such future acquisitions as part of a cluster is limited by antitrust laws, the Communications Act, FCC regulations and other applicable laws and regulations. Changes to any of these laws or regulations may affect our ability to acquire additional stations in radio markets where we already own one or more radio stations. In 1996, Congress passed legislation that requires the FCC to periodically conduct reviews of its regulations, including ones that govern the maximum number of radio stations an entity may own or have joint arrangements with relating to programming, advertising sales and station operations (the “Ownership Limits”). The FCC has adopted radio multiple ownership rules that depend upon the total number of radio stations located in the market in determining the applicable Ownership Limits. In 2003, the FCC modified its

 

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definition of the term “market” and its method of determining the number of radio stations located in a “market.” Specifically, in larger markets the FCC replaced its “signal contour method” of defining a market and determining the number of radio stations located in the market with the use of “geographic markets” delineated by Arbitron, which is a commercial ratings service, as reported in the BIA database. For smaller radio markets for which Arbitron has not delineated a geographic market, the “signal contour method” continues to be the method of defining the market and determining the number of radio stations in the market. The methods the FCC uses to define markets affect the number of radio stations an entity may own or have joint arrangements with relating to programming, advertising sales and station operations in areas adjacent to a delineated Arbitron market. In 2010, the FCC opened a new phase of rulemaking concerning its broadcast ownership rules. The FCC sought public comments on the existing rules, including arguments and factual data on their impact on competition, localism, and diversity and held public meetings around the country on the issue of media ownership rules. The FCC 2010 quadrennial review of broadcast ownership rules is ongoing and expected to be completed in 2012.

We cannot predict the impact of possible modifications to the FCC’s local radio multiple ownership rules on our business operations. Likewise, we cannot predict whether there will be a change in the antitrust laws, Communications Act or other laws governing the ownership or operation of radio stations, or whether the FCC, DOJ or FTC will modify their regulations and policies governing or affecting the acquisition of additional radio stations in a market. In addition, we cannot predict whether a private party will challenge acquisitions we propose in the future. These events could adversely affect our ability to implement our cluster acquisition strategy.

Government regulation of the broadcasting industry by the FTC, DOJ and FCC may limit our ability to acquire or dispose of radio stations and enter into certain agreements.

The Communications Act and FCC rules and policies require prior FCC approval for transfers of control of, and assignments of, FCC broadcast licenses. The FTC and the DOJ evaluate transactions to determine whether those transactions should be challenged under federal antitrust laws. As we have gained a presence in a greater number of markets and percentage of the top 50 markets, our future proposed transactions may be subject to more frequent and aggressive review by the FTC or the DOJ due to market concentration concerns. This increased level of review may be accentuated in instances where we propose to engage in a transaction with parties who themselves have multiple stations in the relevant market. The FCC might not approve a proposed radio station acquisition or disposition when the DOJ has expressed market concentration concerns with respect to the buy or sell side of a given transaction, even if the proposed transaction would otherwise comply with the FCC’s numerical limits on in-market ownership. We cannot be sure that the DOJ or the FTC will not seek to prohibit or require the restructuring of our future acquisitions or dispositions on these or other bases.

Were a complaint to be filed against us or other FCC licensees involved in a transaction with us, or an objection to the transaction itself, the FCC could delay the grant of, or refuse to grant, its consent to an assignment or transfer of control of licenses and effectively prohibit a proposed acquisition or disposition.

As noted in the immediately preceding risk factor, the FCC’s local radio multiple ownership rules limit the maximum number of stations we may own or operate in a market. This may limit our ability to make future radio station acquisitions in certain markets. Additionally, this may limit our ability, in certain markets, to enter into agreements whereby we provide programming to or sell advertising on radio stations that we do not own. It could also limit our ability to sell stations to other entities that already own stations in some markets.

We may be adversely affected by statutes dealing with indecency.

The Broadcast Decency Enforcement Act of 2005 enhances the FCC’s enforcement of its rules concerning the broadcast of obscene, indecent, or profane material became law. This legislation increased the FCC’s authority in this area to impose substantially higher monetary forfeiture penalties, up to $325,000 per violation and a total of $3,000,000 for any one incident. While we do not anticipate these increased penalties to impact us as significantly as some of our competitors given the nature of our programming, we could face increased costs in the form of fines as a result of this legislation.

If we fail to maintain our broadcast licenses with the FCC, we would be prevented from operating affected radio stations.

We operate each of our radio stations pursuant to one or more FCC broadcast licenses, generally of eight years’ duration. As each license expires, we apply for renewal of the license. However, we cannot be sure that any of our licenses will be renewed, and renewal is subject to challenge by third parties or to denial by the FCC. In evaluating a broadcast license renewal application, the FCC must grant the renewal if: (1) the station has served the public interest, convenience and necessity; (2) there have been no serious violations of the Communications Act or the FCC’s rules; and (3) there have been no other violations which, taken together, constitute a pattern

 

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of abuse. If, however, the station fails to meet these standards, the FCC may deny the application, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing, or grant the application on terms and conditions that are appropriate, including renewal for less than the maximum term otherwise allowed. The failure to renew any of our licenses would prevent us from operating the affected station and generating revenue from it. If the FCC decides to include conditions or qualifications in any of our licenses, we may be limited in the manner in which we may operate the affected station.

Proposed legislation requires radio broadcasters to pay higher royalties to record labels and recording artists.

We must maintain music programming royalty arrangements with, and pay license fees to, Broadcast Music, Inc. (“BMI”), American Society Composers, Authors and Publishers (“ASCAP”), and SESAC, Inc. These organizations negotiate with copyright users, collect royalties and distribute them to songwriters and music publishers. Currently, we pay royalties to song composers and publishers through BMI, ASCAP and SESAC.

On December 18, 2007, legislation was introduced to Congress that would require terrestrial radio broadcasters to pay a royalty to record labels and performing artists for use of their recorded songs. The proposed legislation would add an additional layer of royalties to be paid directly to the record labels and artists. It is currently unknown what proposed legislation, if any, will become law, and what significance this royalty would have on our results from operations, cash flows or financial position.

Changes in regulations or user concerns regarding privacy and protection of user data, or any failure to comply with such laws, could diminish the value of our services and cause us to lose customers and revenue.

When a user visits our websites or certain pages of our customers’ websites, we use technologies, including “cookies,” to collect information related to the user, such as the user’s Internet Protocol, or IP, address, demographic information, and history of the user’s interactions with advertisements previously delivered by us. The information that we collect about users helps us deliver appropriate content and targeted advertising to the user. A variety of federal, state and international laws and regulations govern the collection, use, retention, sharing and security of data that we receive from and about our users. The existing privacy-related laws and regulations are evolving and subject to potentially differing interpretations. We post privacy policies on all of our owned and operated websites which set forth our policies and practices related to the collection and use of customer data. Any failure, or perceived failure, by us to comply with our posted privacy policies or with industry standards or laws or regulations could result in a loss of customer confidence in us, or result in actions against us by governmental entities or others, all of which could potentially cause us to lose customers and revenues.

In addition, various federal, state and foreign legislative and regulatory bodies may expand current or enact new laws regarding privacy matters. New laws may be enacted, or existing laws may be amended or re-interpreted, in a manner which limits our ability to analyze user data. If our access to user data is limited through legislation or any industry development, we may be unable to provide effective technologies and services to customers and we may lose customers and revenue.

Certain U.S. and foreign laws could subject us to claims or otherwise harm our business.

We are subject to a variety of laws in the U.S. and abroad that may subject us to claims or other remedies. Our failure to comply with applicable laws may subject us to additional liabilities, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Laws and regulations that are particularly relevant to our business address (a) privacy; (b) freedom of expression; (c) information security; (d) content and distribution of content, including liability for user reliance on such content; (e) intellectual property rights, including secondary liability for infringement by others; (f) domain name registration; and (g) online advertising and marketing, including email marketing and unsolicited commercial email.

Many applicable laws were adopted prior to the advent of the Internet and do not contemplate or address the unique issues of the Internet. Moreover, the applicability and scope of the laws that do address the Internet remain uncertain. For example, the laws relating to the liability of providers of online services are evolving. Claims have been either threatened or filed against us under both U.S. and foreign laws for defamation, copyright infringement, cybersquatting and trademark infringement. In the future, claims may also be alleged against us based on tort claims and other theories based on our content, products and services or content generated by our users.

We receive, process and store large amounts of personal user data on our owned and operated websites and from our freelance content creators. Our privacy and data security policies govern the collection, use, sharing, disclosure and protection of this data. The storing, sharing, use, disclosure and protection of personal information and user data are subject to federal, state and international privacy laws, the purpose of which is to protect the privacy of personal information that is collected, processed and transmitted in or

 

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from the governing jurisdiction. If requirements regarding the manner in which certain personal information and other user data are processed and stored change significantly, our business may be adversely affected, impacting our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we may be exposed to potential liabilities as a result of differing views on the level of privacy required for customer and other user data we collect. Our failure or the failure of various third-party vendors and service providers to comply with applicable privacy policies or applicable laws and regulations or any compromise of security that results in the unauthorized release of personal information or other user data could adversely affect our business, revenue, financial condition and results of operations.

Government regulation of the Internet is evolving, and unfavorable developments could have an adverse affect on our operating results.

We are subject to general business regulations and laws, as well as regulations and laws specific to the Internet. Such laws and regulations cover taxation, user privacy, data collection and protection, copyrights, electronic contracts, sales procedures, automatic subscription renewals, credit card processing procedures, customer protections, broadband Internet access and content restrictions. We cannot guarantee that we have been or will be fully compliant in every jurisdiction, as it is not entirely clear how existing laws and regulations governing issues such as privacy, taxation and consumer protection apply to the Internet. Moreover, as Internet commerce continues to evolve, increasing regulation by federal, state and foreign agencies becomes more likely. The adoption of any laws or regulations that adversely affect the popularity or growth in use of the Internet, including laws limiting Internet neutrality, could decrease listener demand for our service offerings and increase our cost of doing business. Future regulations, or changes in laws and regulations or their existing interpretations or applications, could also hinder our operational flexibility, raise compliance costs and result in additional historical or future liabilities for us, resulting in adverse impacts on our business and our operating results.

Environmental, health, safety and land use laws and regulations may limit or restrict some of our operations.

We must comply with various federal, state and local environmental, health, safety and land use laws and regulations that have a tendency to affect broadcast facilities differently than other uses. We and our properties are subject to such laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, disposal, emission and release of hazardous and non-hazardous substances and employee health and safety, as well as zoning restrictions that may affect, among other things, the ability for us to improve or relocate our radio broadcasting facilities. Historically, we have not incurred significant expenditures to comply with these laws. However, existing laws, and those that may be applied in the future, or a finding of a violation of or liability, could require us to make significant expenditures and otherwise limit or restrict some of our operations.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH OUR SUBSTANTIAL INDEBTEDNESS

Capital requirements necessary to implement acquisitions could pose risks.

We face competition from other companies for acquisition opportunities. If the prices sought by sellers of these companies were to rise, we may find fewer acceptable acquisition opportunities. In addition, the purchase price of possible acquisitions could require additional debt or equity financing on our part. Since the terms and availability of this financing depend to a large degree upon general economic conditions and third parties over which we have no control, we can give no assurance that we will obtain the needed financing or that we will obtain such financing on attractive terms. In addition, our ability to obtain financing depends on a number of other factors, many of which are also beyond our control, such as interest rates and national and local business conditions. If the cost of obtaining needed financing is too high or the terms of such financing are otherwise unacceptable in relation to the acquisition opportunity we are presented with, we may decide to forego that opportunity. Additional indebtedness could increase our leverage and make us more vulnerable to economic downturns and may limit our ability to withstand competitive pressures.

If we are unable to execute our acquisition strategy successfully, our business may not continue to grow.

We intend to continue to selectively acquire radio stations, complementary publishing and Internet media businesses. With respect to the acquisition of radio stations, our acquisition strategy has been, and will continue to focus primarily on, the acquisition of stations in the top 50 markets. However, we may not be able to identify and consummate future acquisitions successfully, and stations that we do acquire may not increase our station operating income or yield other anticipated benefits. Acquisitions in markets in which we already own stations may not increase our station operating income due to saturation of audience demand. Acquisitions in smaller markets may have less potential to increase operating revenues. With respect to our acquisition strategy of Internet and publishing businesses, we may not be able to identify and consummate the acquisition of future businesses successfully. Additionally, we may not be able to effectively integrate the operation of newly acquired businesses with our existing businesses that could result in reduced operating income from our businesses. Our failure to execute our acquisition strategy successfully in the future could limit our ability to continue to grow in terms of number of stations or profitability.

 

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If we are not able to obtain financing or generate sufficient cash flows from operations, we may be unable to fund future acquisitions.

We may require significant financing to fund our acquisition strategy. This financing may not be available to us. The availability of funds under our senior credit facility at any time is dependent upon, among other factors, our ability to satisfy financial covenants. Our future operating performance will be subject to financial, economic, business, competitive, regulatory and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that our future cash flows or borrowing capacity will be sufficient to allow us to complete future acquisitions or implement our business plan, which could have a material negative impact on our business and results of operations.

We have substantial debt and have the ability to incur additional debt. The principal and interest payment obligations of such debt may restrict our future operations and impair our ability to meet our obligations under such debt.

At December 31, 2011, we and our subsidiary guarantors have approximately $275.0 million aggregate principal amount of outstanding indebtedness, of which $235.0 million is outstanding on the 95/8% Notes and $9.0 million is outstanding on Affiliate Letters of Credit. The balance outstanding on the Revolver of approximately $31.0 million effectively ranks senior to the outstanding notes to the extent of the assets securing such debt. In addition, the terms of the Revolver and the indenture governing the 95/ 8% Notes permit us to incur additional indebtedness, including up to approximately $40 million that would be available under our Revolver, subject to our ability to meet certain borrowing conditions.

Our substantial debt may have important consequences. For instance, it could:

 

   

make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations, including those relating to the 95/8% Notes;

 

   

require us to dedicate a substantial portion of any cash flow from operations to the payment of interest and principal due under our debt, which will reduce funds available for other business purposes, including capital expenditures and acquisitions;

 

   

place us at a competitive disadvantage compared with some of our competitors that may have less debt and better access to capital resources; and

 

   

limit our ability to obtain additional financing required to fund working capital and capital expenditures and for other general corporate purposes.

Our ability to satisfy our obligations and to reduce our total debt depends on our future operating performance and on economic, financial, competitive and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow, and future financings may not be available to provide sufficient net proceeds, to meet these obligations or to successfully execute our business strategy.

The agreements governing our various debt obligations impose restrictions on our business and adversely affect our ability to undertake certain corporate actions.

The agreements governing our various debt obligations, including the indenture governing the 95/8% Notes and the agreements governing our Revolver, include covenants imposing significant restrictions on our business. These restrictions may affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise. These covenants place restrictions on our ability to, among other things:

 

   

incur additional debt;

 

   

declare or pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions to stockholders;

 

   

make investments;

 

   

create liens or use assets as security in other transactions;

 

   

merge or consolidate, or sell, transfer, lease or dispose of substantially all of our assets;

 

   

engage in transactions with affiliates; and

 

   

sell or transfer assets.

Our Revolver also requires us to comply with a number of financial ratios and covenants and restricts our ability to make certain capital expenditures.

Our ability to comply with these agreements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. These covenants could have an adverse effect on our business by limiting our ability to take

 

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advantage of financing, merger and acquisition or other corporate opportunities. The breach of any of these covenants or restrictions could result in a default under the indenture governing the 95/ 8% Notes or the Revolver. An event of default under any of our debt agreements could permit some of our lenders, including the lenders under the Revolver, to declare all amounts borrowed from them to be immediately due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, which could, in turn, trigger defaults under other debt obligations and the commitments of the lenders to make further extensions of credit under our Revolver could be terminated. If we were unable to repay debt to our lenders, or are otherwise in default under any provision governing our outstanding secured debt obligations, our secured lenders could proceed against us and the subsidiary guarantors and against the collateral securing that debt. In addition, acceleration of our other indebtedness may cause us to be unable to make interest payments on the 95/8% Notes and repay the principal amount of or repurchase the 95/8% Notes or may cause the subsidiary guarantors to be unable to make payments under the guarantees.

To service our indebtedness, we will require a significant amount of cash. However, our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on, and to refinance, our indebtedness, and to fund capital expenditures, will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future, which, in turn, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, regulatory and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.

Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and we may not have available to us future borrowings in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness, including the 95/8% Notes, or to fund our other liquidity needs. In these circumstances, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We may not be able to refinance any of our indebtedness, including our Revolver, the 95/8% Notes, and the Affiliate Lines of Credit on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. Without this financing, we could be forced to sell assets or secure additional financing to make up for any shortfall in our payment obligations under unfavorable circumstances. However, we may not be able to secure additional financing on terms favorable to us or at all and, in addition, the terms of our revolver and the indenture governing the 95/8% Notes limit our ability to sell assets and also restrict the use of proceeds from such a sale. In addition, we may not be able to sell assets quickly enough or for sufficient amounts to enable us to meet our obligations.

 

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not Applicable.

 

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.

No one physical property is material to our overall operations. We believe that our properties are in good condition and suitable for our operations; however, we continually evaluate opportunities to upgrade our properties. We believe we will be able to renew existing leases when applicable or obtain comparable facilities, as necessary.

Corporate

Our corporate headquarters are located in Camarillo, California where we own an approximately 40,000 square foot office building.

Radio Broadcasting

The types of properties required to support our radio stations include offices, studios, transmitter, antenna and tower sites. A station’s studios are generally located in an office in a downtown or business district. Transmitter, antenna and tower sites are located in areas that provide maximum market coverage. We either own or lease our radio transmitting properties under agreements that generally range from five to twenty-five years. We believe we will be able to renew any such lease that expires or obtain comparable facilities, as necessary. Our SRN and SMR offices and Dallas radio stations are located in an office building in the Dallas, Texas metropolitan area, where we own an approximately 34,000 square foot office building. Our radio network operates from various offices and studios from which the programming originates or is relayed from a remote point of origination. Our network leases satellite transponders used for delivery of its programming. We also own office buildings in Honolulu, Hawaii; Tampa, Florida; Miami, Florida; and Altamonte Springs, Florida.

We lease certain property from our principal stockholders or trusts and partnerships created for the benefit of the principal stockholders and their families. These leases are described in Note 12 of our consolidated financial statements. All such leases have

 

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cost of living adjustments. Based upon our management’s assessment and analysis of local market conditions for comparable properties, we believe such leases have terms that are as favorable as, or more favorable, to the company than those that would have been available from unaffiliated parties.

Salem Web Network

Salem Web Network operates from leased office facilities in Nashville, Tennessee, Tarzana, California, and Richmond, Virginia. The lease agreements range from one to ten years remaining on the lease term. We believe we will be able to renew any such lease that expires or obtain comparable facilities, as necessary.

Salem Publishing

Salem Publishing operates from leased office facilities in Nashville, Tennessee, and Orlando, Florida. The lease agreements range from one to ten years remaining on the lease term. We believe we will be able to renew any such lease that expires or obtain comparable facilities, as necessary.

 

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

We and our subsidiaries, incident to our business activities, are parties to a number of legal proceedings, lawsuits, arbitration and other claims. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties and outcomes that are not predictable with assurance. We maintain insurance that may provide coverage for such matters. Consequently, we are unable to ascertain the ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or the financial impact with respect to these matters. We believe, at this time, that the final resolution of these matters, individually and in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect upon our annual consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

On July 10, 2010, Asia Vision, Inc. and Rehan Siddiqi amended a complaint they had previously filed against third parties in the 152nd Judicial District Court of Harris County, Houston, Texas, naming Salem Communications Corporation, South Texas Broadcasting, Inc. and one of Salem’s officers as defendants. In their complaint, Asia Vision claims that the Salem defendants interfered with Asia Vision’s contractual right to purchase radio station KTEK-AM from Business Radio Licensee, LLC. In their complaint, Asia Vision and Rehan Siddiqi make a claim for injunctive relief and monetary damages. On July 21, 2010, Salem Communications and South Texas Broadcasting were served with the complaint but the Salem officer has not been served. On March 7, 2011, Salem entered into a tentative settlement of the matter. The court approved the settlement on October 27, 2011. No appeals were filed and as a result, the order became final and we closed on the purchase on December 21, 2011.

 

ITEM 4. MINE AND SAFETY DISCLSOURES.

Not Applicable.

PART II

 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.

The company’s Class A common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Market® (“NASDAQ-NGM”) under the symbol SALM. On March 1, 2012, the company had approximately 73 stockholders of record (not including the number of persons or entities holding stock in nominee or street name through various brokerage firms) and 18,735,555 outstanding shares of its Class A common stock and two stockholders of record and 5,553,696 outstanding shares of its Class B common stock. The following table sets forth for the fiscal quarters indicated the range of high and low sales price information per share of the Class A common stock of the company as reported on the NASDAQ-NGM.

 

     2010      2011  
      1st Qtr      2nd Qtr      3rd Qtr      4th Qtr      1st Qtr      2nd Qtr      3rd Qtr      4th Qtr
 

High (mid-day)

   $ 5.96       $ 5.50       $ 4.24       $ 3.96       $ 4.38       $ 3.98       $ 3.96       $ 2.99   

Low (mid-day)

   $ 3.45       $ 3.35       $ 2.10       $ 2.70       $ 2.99       $ 3.08       $ 2.20       $ 2.12   

There is no established public trading market for the company’s Class B common stock.

 

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DIVIDEND POLICY

After careful review and consideration of its earnings, financial position, capital requirements, the Revolver and the indenture governing the 95/8% Notes, the company paid a $0.20 per share special cash distribution, or approximately $4.8 million to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 6, 2010. There were no dividends or distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2011.

The company’s sole source of cash available for making any future dividend payments will be dividends paid to the company or payments made to the company by its subsidiaries. The ability of subsidiaries of the company to make such payments may be restricted by applicable state laws or terms of agreements to which they are or may become a party; the company’s Revolver and the terms of the indenture governing the 95/8% Notes restrict the payment of dividends on its common stock unless certain specified conditions are satisfied.

UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

 

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

The following table sets forth selected financial data and other operating information of Salem. The selected financial data in the table is derived from the consolidated financial statements of Salem. The data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes, and other financial information included (incorporated by reference) herein. The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified by reference to, our consolidated financial statements and related notes and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and specifically the disclosure concerning a reconciliation for historical Non-GAAP measures presented in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations–Non-GAAP Financial Measures” included in Item 7 of this report.

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year financial statements to conform to the current year presentation. These reclassifications include the separation of our non-broadcast segment into two operating segments, Internet and Publishing. We believe that this information regarding our non-broadcast segments is useful to readers of our financial statements. Additionally, due to growth within our Internet operations, including the acquisition of WorshipHouse Media as discussed in Note 3, our Internet segment qualifies for disclosure as a reportable segment. All prior periods are updated to reflect the separation of these non-broadcast segments. These reclassifications also include the accounting for discontinued operations.

In December 2011, due to operating results that were below expectations, we ceased operations of Samaritan Fundraising. All employees of the entity were terminated as of December 31, 2011. The Statements of Operations Data for all periods presented are updated to reflect the operating results of Samaritan Fundraising as a discontinued operation. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity as assets of discontinued operations for each applicable period presented.

In January 2010, we collected a $0.2 million termination fee from the buyer of radio station WRFD-AM, Columbus, Ohio pursuant to termination of the asset purchase agreement. The accompanying Statements of Operations Data for all periods presented are updated to reflect the operating results of WRFD-AM, Columbus, Ohio in continuing operations from discontinued operations. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity within our assets from continuing operations for each period presented. We had entered into an asset purchase agreement on July 31, 2008, to sell this radio station and exit the Columbus market. We accounted for this market as a discontinued operation until being notified in December 2009 that the buyer would not be able to meet the terms of the asset purchase agreement.

We ceased publishing CCM Magazine as of the March 2008 publication. The Statements of Operations Data for periods prior to this final publication are updated to reflect the operating results of CCM Magazine as a discontinued operation.

During the year ending December 31, 2008, we sold radio stations WRRD-AM, Milwaukee, Wisconsin and WFZH-FM, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Statements of Operations Data presented for periods prior to the sale are updated to reflect the operating results of this market as discontinued operations.

 

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     Year Ended December 31,  
     2007     2008     2009     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)  

Statement of Operations Data:

          

Net broadcast revenue

   $ 206,055      $ 194,113      $ 172,055      $ 174,933      $ 178,731   

Internet revenue

     13,454        16,583        16,232        20,104        27,304   

Publishing revenue

     11,174        11,794        10,926        11,421        12,131   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenue

     230,683        222,490        199,213        206,458        218,166   

Operating expenses:

          

Broadcast operating expenses

     130,844        124,881        108,106        110,421        115,482   

Internet operating expenses

     11,883        14,050        13,361        16,722        20,889   

Publishing operating expenses

     11,075        11,817        10,237        11,226        11,475   

Corporate expenses

     22,283        20,040        14,005        16,613        17,503   

Depreciation and amortization

     15,082        16,136        15,120        14,588        14,971   

Cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

     —          1,275        1,111        —          —     

Impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets

     —          73,010        27,996        —          —     

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

     (2,190     (6,892     1,676        255        (4,153
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     188,977        254,317        191,612        169,825        176,167   

Operating income (loss) from continuing operations

     41,706        (31,827     7,601        36,633        41,999   

Other income (expense):

          

Interest income

     183        247        290        183        344   

Interest expense

     (25,488     (22,381     (20,079     (30,297     (27,665

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

     —          (4,827     (781     —          —     

Gain on bargain purchase

     —          —          1,634        —          —     

Gain (loss) on early retirement of long-term debt

     —          4,664        (1,050     (1,832     (2,169

Other income (expense)

     164        121        (88     (16     (40
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense

     (25,141     (22,176     (20,074     (31,962     (29,530

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

     16,565        (54,003     (12,473     4,671        12,469   

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

     7,379        (19,151     (4,210     2,695        6,110   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     9,186        (34,852     (8,263     1,976        6,359   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (1,011     1,766        (83     (44     (741
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 8,175      $ (33,086   $ (8,346   $ 1,932      $ 5,618   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share data:

          

Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

   $ 0.39      $ (1.47   $ (0.35   $ 0.08      $ 0.26   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

     (0.04     0.07        —          —          (0.03

Net earnings (loss) per share

   $ 0.34      $ (1.40   $ (0.35   $ 0.08      $ 0.23   

Diluted earnings (loss) per share data:

          

Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

   $ 0.39      $ (1.47   $ (0.35   $ 0.08      $ 0.26   

Earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations

     (0.04     0.07        —          —          (0.03

Net earnings (loss) per share

   $ 0.34      $ (1.40   $ (0.35   $ 0.08      $ 0.23   

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

     23,785,015        23,671,288        23,803,864        24,086,829        24,475,102   

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

     23,788,568        23,671,288        23,803,864        24,653,465        24,683,644   

 

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (CONTINUED).

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2007     2008     2009     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance Sheet Data:

          

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 447      $ 1,892      $ 8,945      $ 828        67   

Broadcast licenses

     464,549        398,135        375,317        378,362        371,420   

Other intangible assets including goodwill, net

     27,607        25,574        22,484        25,122        28,522   

Total assets

     679,798        607,718        579,045        574,486        561,310   

Long-term debt (including current portion)

     354,284        325,375        314,047        304,527        274,803   

Stockholders’ equity

     233,178        203,116        197,199        196,404        203,048   

Cash flows related to:

          

Operating activities

   $ 30,983      $ 37,901      $ 39,468      $ 22,817        31,705   

Investing activities

     (11,312     (21,817     (2,851     (13,777     (4,501

Financing activities

     (20,854     (25,004     29,481        (16,150     (28,084

Other Data:

          

Station operating income (1)

   $ 75,211      $ 69,232      $ 63,949      $ 64,512        63,249   

Station operating income margin (2)

     36.5     35.7     37.2     36.9     35.4

 

(1) We define station operating income as net broadcast revenue less broadcast operating expenses.
(2) Station operating income margin is station operating income as a percentage of net broadcast revenue.

Station operating income (“SOI”) is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Therefore, SOI should be viewed as a supplement to and not a substitute for results of operations presented on the basis of GAAP. Management believes that station operating income is useful, when considered in conjunction with operating income, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, because it is generally recognized by the radio broadcasting industry as a tool in measuring performance and in applying valuation methodologies for companies in the media, entertainment and communications industries. This measure is used by investors and by analysts who report on the industry to provide comparisons between broadcast groups. Additionally, we use station operating income as one of our key measures of operating efficiency and contribution to profitability. Station operating income does not purport to represent cash provided by operating activities. Our statement of cash flows presents our cash flow activity and our income statement presents our historical performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. Our station operating income is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies.

RECONCILIATION OF STATION OPERATING INCOME TO OPERATING INCOME

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2007     2008     2009     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Station operating income

   $ 75,211      $ 69,232      $ 63,949      $ 64,512      $ 63,249   

Plus Internet revenue

     13,454        16,583        16,232        20,104        27,304   

Plus publishing revenue

     11,174        11,794        10,926        11,421        12,131   

Less Internet operating expenses

     (11,883     (14,050     (13,361     (16,722     (20,889

Less publishing operating expenses

     (11,075     (11,817     (10,237     (11,226     (11,475

Less corporate expenses

     (22,283     (20,040     (14,005     (16,613     (17,503

Less depreciation and amortization

     (15,082     (16,136     (15,120     (14,588     (14,971

Less cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

     —          (1,275     (1,111     —          —     

Less impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets

     —          (73,010     (27,996     —          —     

Less gain (loss) on disposal of assets

     2,190        6,892        (1,676     (255     4,153   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 41,706      $ (31,827   $ 7,601      $ 36,633      $ 41,999   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

GENERAL

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report. Our consolidated financial statements are not directly comparable from period to period due to acquisitions and dispositions of selected radio station assets and Internet and publishing businesses. Refer to Note 3 of our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 for details of each of these transactions.

Salem is a domestic multi-media company with integrated business operations covering radio broadcasting, publishing and the Internet. Our programming is intended for audiences interested in Christian and conservative opinion content. We maintain a website at www.salem.cc. Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports are available free of charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable after those reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Any information found on our website is not a part of or incorporated by reference into, this or any other report of the company filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

OVERVIEW

Our radio-broadcasting segment derives revenue primarily from the sale of broadcast time and radio advertising on a national and local basis.

Historically, our principal sources of broadcast revenue have been:

 

   

the sale of block program time, both to national and local program producers;

 

   

the sale of advertising time on our radio stations, both to national and local advertisers; and

 

   

the sale of advertising time on our national radio network.

 

The rates we are able to charge for broadcast time and advertising time are dependent upon several factors, including:

 

   

audience share;

 

   

how well our stations perform for our clients;

 

   

the size of the market;

 

   

the general economic conditions in each market; and

 

   

supply and demand on both a local and national level.

Our principal sources of Internet revenue include:

 

   

the sale of Internet advertising;

 

   

the support and promotion to stream third-party content on our websites;

 

   

sales of software and support services; and

 

   

product sales and royalties for on-air host materials.

Our principal sources of publishing revenue include:

 

   

subscription fees for our magazines;

 

   

the sale of print magazine advertising;

 

   

fees from authors for book publishing; and

 

   

the sale of books.

Broadcast Segment

Broadcast revenues are impacted by the program rates our radio stations charge, the level of broadcast airtime sold and by the advertising rates our radio stations and networks charge. The rates for block programming time are based upon our stations’ ability to attract audiences that will support the program producers through contributions and purchases of their products. Advertising rates are based upon the demand for advertising time, which in turn is based on our stations and networks’ ability to produce results for their

 

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advertisers. We do not subscribe to traditional audience measuring services for most of our radio stations. Instead, we have marketed ourselves to advertisers based upon the responsiveness of our audiences. In selected markets, we do subscribe to Arbitron, which develops quarterly reports to measure a radio station’s audience share in the demographic groups targeted by advertisers. Each of our radio stations and our networks has a pre-determined level of time that they make available for block programming and/or advertising, which may vary at different times of the day.

Arbitron has developed technology to collect data for its ratings service. The PPM is a small device that does not require active manipulation by the end user and is capable of automatically measuring radio, television, Internet, satellite radio and satellite television signals that are encoded for the service by the broadcaster. The PPM offers a number of advantages over the traditional diary ratings collection system including ease of use, more reliable ratings data and shorter time periods between when advertising runs and when audience listening or viewing habits can be reported. This service is already in a number of our markets and is scheduled to be introduced in more markets in the future. It is not clear what long-term impact, if any, the introduction of the PPM will have on our revenues for stations that subscribe to Arbitron.

As is typical in the radio broadcasting industry, our second and fourth quarter advertising revenue generally exceeds our first and third quarter advertising revenue. This seasonal fluctuation in advertising revenue corresponds with quarterly fluctuations in the retail advertising industry. Quarterly revenue from the sale of block programming time does not tend to vary significantly, however, because program rates are generally set annually and are recognized on a per program basis. We currently program 39 of our stations with our Christian Teaching and Talk format, which is talk programming with Christian and family themes. We also program 25 News Talk stations, 11 Contemporary Christian Music stations, 10 Business format stations, and 6 Spanish-language Christian Teaching and Talk stations. The business format features financial experts, business talk, and nationally recognized Bloomberg programming. The business format operates similar to our Christian Teaching and Talk format as it features long-form block programming.

Our cash flow is historically affected by a transitional period experienced by radio stations when, due to the nature of the radio station, our plans for the market and other circumstances, we find it beneficial to change its format. This transitional period is when we develop a radio station’s listener and customer base. During this period, a station may generate negative or insignificant cash flow.

In the broadcasting industry, radio stations often utilize trade or barter agreements to exchange advertising time for goods or services in lieu of cash. In order to preserve the sale of our advertising time for cash, we generally enter into trade agreements only if the goods or services bartered to us will be used in our business. We have minimized our use of trade agreements and have generally sold most of our advertising time for cash. In 2011, we sold 97% of our broadcast revenue for cash. In addition, it is our general policy not to preempt advertising paid for in cash with advertising paid for in trade.

The primary operating expenses incurred in the ownership and operation of our radio stations include: (i) employee salaries, commissions and related employee benefits and taxes, (ii) facility expenses such as rent and utilities, (iii) marketing and promotional expenses and (iv) music license fees. In addition to these expenses, our network incurs programming costs and lease expenses for satellite communication facilities. We also incur and expect to continue to incur significant depreciation, amortization and interest expense as a result of completed and future acquisitions and existing and future borrowings.

Internet Segment

Salem Web Network™ and our Internet business earns revenues from the sales of streaming services, sales of advertising and, to a lesser extent, sales of software, software support contracts and consumer products such as DVD’s and editorial products. The revenues of these businesses are reported as Internet revenue on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The primary operating expense incurred in the ownership and operation of our Internet businesses include: (i) employee salaries, commissions and related employee benefits and taxes, (ii) facility expenses such as rent and utilities, (iii) marketing and promotional expenses and (iv) streaming costs.

Publishing Segment

Our publishing business, Salem Publishing™, earns revenues from advertising in and subscriptions to our magazine publications and from book sales. Xulon Press™ generally earns its revenue from fees paid by authors in association with the publishing of their books. The revenues of these businesses are reported as Publishing on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The primary operating expenses incurred by Salem Publishing™ include: (i) employee salaries, commissions and related employee benefits and taxes, (ii) facility expenses such as rent and utilities, (iii) marketing and promotional expenses and (iv) printing and production costs, including paper costs.

 

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SAME STATION DEFINITION

In the discussion of our results of operations below, we compare our results between periods on an as-reported basis (that is, the results of operations of all radio stations and network formats owned or operated at any time during either period) and on a “same-station” basis. With regard to fiscal quarters, we include in our same-station comparisons the results of operations of radio stations or radio station clusters and networks that we own or operate in the same format during the quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. Same-station results for a full year are based on the sum of the same station-results for the four quarters of that year.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Year ended December 31, 2011 compared to year ended December 31, 2010

The following factors affected our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the prior year:

Financing

 

   

On December 12, 2011, we redeemed $12.5 million of our 95/8% Notes for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $62,000 of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

 

   

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into Affiliate Lines of Credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors. Pursuant to the agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Amounts outstanding under each Affiliate Line of Credit bear interest at an amount equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum and (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the Credit Agreement referred to above plus 2% per annum. The indebtedness under the Affiliate Lines of Credit is subordinated to the indebtedness under the Salem credit facility described above pursuant to a subordination agreement to be entered into among Wells Fargo, Salem and the Affiliate Lenders and the description of terms herein is subject to such subordination agreement. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit.

 

   

On November 15, 2011, we completed the Second Amendment to our Revolver to among other things: (1) extend the maturity date from December 1, 2012 to December 1, 2014 (2) change the interest rate applicable to LIBOR or the Wells Fargo base rate plus a spread to be determined based on our leverage ratio, (3) allow us to borrow and repay unsecured indebtedness provided certain conditions are met and (4) include step-downs related to our leverage ratio covenant. The applicable interest rate relating to the amended credit agreement is LIBOR plus a spread of 3.0% per annum or the Base Rate plus a spread of 1.25% per annum, which is adjusted based on our leverage ratio. We incurred $0.5 million in fees to complete this amendment, which are being amortized over the remaining term of the credit agreement.

 

   

On September 6, 2011, we repurchased $5.0 million of our 95/8% Notes for $5.1 million, or at a price equal to 1027/8% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.3 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $26,000 of unamortized discount and $0.1 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

 

   

On June 1, 2011, we redeemed $17.5 million of our 95/8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.5 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

Acquisitions

 

   

On December 21, 2011, we completed the acquisition of KTEK-AM in Houston, Texas for $2.6 million, which includes $1.0 million of cash and $1.6 million netted against the unpaid portion of our note receivable. We began operating the station on March 5, 2010, pursuant to a long-term TBA. The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results of this entity as of the TBA date. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. We previously sold the assets of KTEK-AM on March 28, 2008 for $7.8 million, which included $4.5 million in cash and $3.3 million in notes receivable of which we collected $1.8 million. Our 2011 purchase was partially funded by the unpaid portion of the note of $1.5 million.

 

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On March 28, 2011, we completed the acquisition of the Internet business, WorshipHouse Media, an on-line church media and video ministry website, for $6.0 million in cash. WorshipHouse Media offers users worship and small group resources, including movie illustrations, song tracks, worship backgrounds, small group video curriculum and worship software, to churches that may face budget, time and in-house talent constraints. The site also includes WorshipHouse Kids, which offers similar products designed to meet the needs of children’s ministry media in the church. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $2.1 million representing the excess value of the business resulting from the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefits to us.

 

   

On March 14, 2011, we completed the acquisition of radio station WDDZ-AM, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, for $0.6 million in cash. We began operating the station as WBZS-AM upon the close of the transaction. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. On January 5, 2012, we entered into an APA to sell this radio station for $0.8 million.

 

   

On January 3, 2011, we began programming radio station KVCE-AM, Highland Park, Texas pursuant to a long-term TBA.

Dispositions

 

   

On March 1, 2011, we completed the sale of radio station WAMD-AM in Aberdeen, Maryland resulting in a pre-tax loss of $0.2 million. The loss was recognized in September 2010 upon entering the sale agreement.

 

   

On February 25, 2011, we completed the sale of radio station KXMX-AM in Los Angeles, California for $12.0 million, consisting of $11.0 million in cash and a $1.0 million promissory note. The $1.0 million promissory note has a three-year term, bearing interest at 7% compounded annually, due February 25, 2016. We recognized a pre-tax gain of $2.1 million from the sale.

 

   

On January 6, 2011, we completed the sale of radio station KKMO-AM in Seattle, Washington for $2.7 million in cash resulting in a pre-tax gain of $2.4 million.

Net Broadcasting Revenue

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Net Broadcast Revenue

   $ 174,933       $ 178,731      $ 3,798         2.2      84.7      81.9 

Same Station Net Broadcast Revenue

   $ 170,908       $ 175,957       $ 5,049         3.0     

Net broadcast revenues increased due to overall improving economic conditions and a greater demand for radio advertising compared to the prior year. Our results reflect higher sales volume in the number of minutes sold with little change in the rates we charge our customers.

The following table shows the dollar amount and percentage of net broadcast revenue for each broadcast revenue source.

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Block program time:

          

National

   $ 38,736         22.1   $ 42,812         24.0

Local

     31,848         18.2        31,227         17.5   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 
     70,584         40.3        74,039         41.5   

Advertising:

          

National

     14,200         8.1        13,426         7.5   

Local

     61,494         35.2        63,446         35.5   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 
     75,694         43.3        76,872         43.0   

Infomercials

     6,661         3.8        6,303         3.5   

Network

     15,657         9.0        14,699         8.2   

Other

     6,337         3.6        6,818         3.8   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net broadcast revenue

   $ 174,933         100.0   $ 178,731         100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Internet Revenue

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Internet Revenue

   $ 20,104       $ 27,304       $ 7,200        35.8      9.7      12.5 

The increase in Internet revenues reflect improving overall economic conditions and higher demand for banner advertisements as well as growth from acquisitions that generate revenues across all of our web-based platforms. The increases are driven primarily by a higher sales volume and secondarily to higher rates charged to our customers. Banner advertisements, including those on our station websites, increased $4.0 million due to higher demand. WorshipHouse Media, which we acquired in March 2011, generated revenue of $2.7 million and Salem Consumer Products revenues increased $0.4 million.

Publishing Revenue

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Publishing Revenue

   $ 11,421       $ 12,131       $ 710        6.2      5.5      5.6 

Publishing revenue increased $0.9 million based on higher submission fees and book sales from Xulon Press partially offset by a $0.2 million decline in subscription revenues from our print magazines based on a lower number of subscribers.

Broadcast Operating Expenses

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Broadcast Operating Expenses

   $ 110,421       $ 115,482       $ 5,061        4.6      53.5      52.9 

Same Station Net Broadcast Operating Expenses

   $ 107,232       $ 113,061       $ 5,829         5.4    

Broadcast operating expenses increased due to higher variable expenses associated with higher revenues, including a $2.3 million increase in personnel-related costs including commissions, a $1.0 million increase in production and programming expenses, a $0.6 million increase in facility related costs, a $0.4 million increase in music license fees, a $0.4 million increase in bad debt expense and a $0.3 million increase in professional services.

Internet Operating Expenses

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Internet Operating Expenses

   $ 16,722       $ 20,889      $ 4,167        24.9      8.1      9.6 

Internet operating expenses increased due to higher variable expenses associated with higher revenues, including a $1.8 million increase in personnel-related costs including commissions, a $1.3 million increase in royalty expenses, a $0.3 million increase in advertising expenses incurred to promote our Internet businesses, as well as a $0.8 million increase in streaming, hosting and software expenses.

Publishing Operating Expenses

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Publishing Operating Expenses

   $ 11,226       $ 11,475       $ 249        2.2      5.4      5.3 

Publishing operating expenses increased from Xulon Press, our digital book publishing service that incurred higher variable costs associated with revenue growth. These costs include an increase of $0.1 million in personnel related costs including commissions and a $0.1 million increase in advertising expense partially offset by lower printing costs associated with reduced distribution levels of our print magazines.

 

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Corporate Expenses

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Corporate Expenses

   $ 16,613       $ 17,503      $ 890        5.4      8.0      8.0 

Corporate expenses include shared general and administrative services. The increase of $0.9 million includes a $1.5 million increase in personnel-related costs and a $0.1 million increase in professional services, offset by a $0.4 million decrease in non-cash stock-based compensation expense, a $0.2 million decrease in repair and maintenance costs and a $0.2 million decrease in facility related costs.

Depreciation Expense

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $     Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Depreciation Expense

   $ 12,570       $ 12,520      $ (50 )     (0.4 ) %      6.1      5.7 

Depreciation expense remained flat because of reductions in capital expenditures and acquisition related activity, primarily in our broadcast operating segment.

Amortization Expense

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Amortization Expense

   $ 2,018       $ 2,451      $ 433        21.5      1.0      1.1 

Amortization expense increased primarily due to the acquisitions of intangible assets from our 2010 acquisitions of HotAir.com and GodTube.com and our 2011 acquisition of WorshipHouse Media. These intangible assets include customer lists and domain names with useful lives of between one and five years.

(Gain) Loss on disposal of assets

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011     Change $     Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

   $ 255       $ (4,153   $ (4,408 )     (1,728.6 ) %      0.1     (1.9 ) % 

The net gain on disposal of assets of $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, includes a $2.4 million pre-tax gain on the sale of KKMO-AM in Seattle, Washington and a $2.1 million pre-tax gain on the sale of KXMX-AM in Los Angeles, California, offset by various fixed asset and equipment disposals. The net loss on disposal of assets of $0.3 million for the same period of the prior year, is comprised of a $0.2 million pre-tax loss on the sale of WAMD-AM, Aberdeen, Maryland, a $0.2 million pre-tax loss from the sale of Chicago real estate associated with the relocation of our Radio Division President and $0.2 million of losses from various fixed asset and equipment disposals offset by a $0.3 million pre-tax gain from the eminent domain seizure of property by the Dallas County School District.

Other income (expense), net

 

$0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000 $0000000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010     2011     Change $     Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Interest Income

   $ 183      $ 344      $ 183        88.0      0.1     0.2

Interest Expense

     (30,297     (27,665     2,632        (8.7 ) %      (14.7 ) %      (12.7 )% 

Loss on early retirement of long-term debt

     (1,832     (2,169     (337     18.4     (0.1 ) %      (0.9 )% 

Other Income (Expense)

     (16     (40     (24     150.0     0.1    

Interest income of $0.3 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 represents earnings on excess cash. The decrease in interest expense is due to the lower principal balance outstanding on our 95/8% Notes, partially offset by higher interest on the outstanding balances on our Revolver. Loss on early retirement of debt represents the redemptions and open market repurchases in each period of principle amounts of our 95/8% Notes at a price equal to 103% of the face value.

 

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Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

   $ 2,695       $ 6,110      $ 3,415        126.7     1.3      2.8 

In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes,” our provision for income taxes was $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to a tax benefit of $2.7 million for the same period of the prior year. Provision for income taxes as a percentage of income before income taxes (that is, the effective tax rate) was 49.0% for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to 57.7% for the same period of the prior year. The effective tax rate for each period differs from the federal statutory income rate of 35.0% due to the effect of state income taxes, certain expenses that are not deductible for tax purposes, and changes in the valuation allowance from the utilization of certain state net operating loss carryforwards.

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010     2011     Change $     Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

   $ (44   $ (741   $ (697 )     1,584.1      —       (0.3 )% 

The loss from discontinued operations of $0.7 million and $44,000, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 relate to the operating results of Samaritan Fundraising that ceased operations in December 2011.

Net Income (Loss)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010      2011      Change $      Change %     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Net Income (Loss)

   $ 1,932       $ 5,618      $ 3,686         190.7     0.9      2.6

Net income increased $3.7 million due to a $5.4 million increase in our net operating income and a $2.6 million decrease in interest expense offset by a $3.4 million increase in our tax provision, a $0.4 million increase in losses associated with the early redemption of $35.0 million of the 95/8% Notes, and a $0.7 increase in the loss associated with the discontinued operations of Samaritan Fundraising.

Year ended December 31, 2010 compared to year ended December 31, 2009

The following factors affected our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2010 as compared to the prior year:

Financing

 

   

On December 1, 2010, we redeemed $12.5 million of the 95/8% Notes for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

 

   

On November 1, 2010, we amended our Revolver to allow us to use borrowings under the Revolver, subject to the “Available Amount” as defined by the terms of the Credit Agreement, to redeem applicable portions of the 95/8% Notes. The calculation of the “Available Amount” also pertains to the payment of dividends when the leverage ratio is above 5.0 to 1. Additionally, we increased the total capacity of the Revolver from $30.0 million to $40.0 million.

 

   

On June 1, 2010, we redeemed $17.5 million of the 95/8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.4 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

Acquisitions

 

   

On August 3, 2010, we completed the acquisition of WWRC-AM in Washington, D.C. for $3.1 million. We had begun operating the station under a local marketing agreement (“LMA”) effective May 15, 2010. The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results of this entity as of the LMA date. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity as of the closing date.

 

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On June 8, 2010, we completed the acquisition of tangle.com and GodTube.com, Christian content and community websites, for $2.5 million. We ceased using the tangle.com name shortly after completing the acquisition having identified all acquired content under the GodTube.com brand. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of these entities as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $0.3 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us.

 

   

On February 12, 2010, we completed the acquisition of HotAir.com, a website blog featuring news, analysis and commentary, for $2.0 million. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $0.2 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us.

Other

 

   

On September 28, 2010, we received approximately $1.0 million as compensation for loss of our property rights under an Eminent Domain Petition from the Dallas Independent School District. We recorded these proceeds less the net book value of our property, which was not directly associated with the operations of radio station, KSKY-AM, Dallas, Texas, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $0.3 million. The property rights related to our back-up transmitter site. The loss of these property rights will not impact our results of operations.

Net Broadcasting Revenue

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Net Broadcast Revenue

   $ 172,055       $ 174,933      $ 2,878         1.7     86.4      84.7 

Same Station Basis

   $ 171,343       $ 173,838       $ 2,495         1.5    

Net broadcast revenue increased due to improving economic conditions and a greater demand for radio advertising over the prior year. We experienced higher sales volume in the number of minutes sold with little to no change in the rates charged to our customers. Also included in this increase is a $2.6 million increase in political advertisements, which favorably affects our revenue in active election years.

The following table shows the dollar amount and percentage of net broadcast revenue for each broadcast revenue source.

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Block program time:

          

National

   $ 38,842         22.6   $ 38,736         22.1

Local

     31,344         18.2        31,848         18.2   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 
     70,186         40.8        70,584         40.3   

Advertising:

          

National

     12,649         7.3        14,200         8.1   

Local

     61,557         35.8        61,494         35.2   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 
     74,206         43.1        75,694         43.3   

Infomercials

     7,225         4.2        6,661         3.8   

Network

     15,244         8.9        15,657         9.0   

Other

     5,194         3.0        6,337         3.6   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net broadcast revenue

   $ 172,055         100.0   $ 174,933         100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Internet Revenue

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      $ Change      % Change     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Internet revenue

   $ 16,232       $ 20,104       $ 3,872         23.9     8.1     9.7

 

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Internet revenue increased due to improving economic conditions and an increased demand for banner advertisements as well as growth from recent acquisitions that generate revenues across all of our web-based platforms. The increases primarily resulted from higher sales volume with minimal impact from the rates charged to our customers. Banner advertisements, including our station websites, increased $3.5 million due to higher demand while Salem Consumer Products revenues increased $0.3 million.

Publishing Revenue

 

$0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      $ Change      % Change     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Publishing revenue

   $ 10,926       $ 11,421       $ 495         4.5     5.5     5.5

Publishing revenue increased $0.7 million based on higher submission fees and book sales from Xulon Press offset by a $0.2 million decline in subscription revenues from our print magazines based on a lower number of subscribers.

Broadcast Operating Expenses

 

$0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Broadcast Operating Expenses

   $ 108,106       $ 110,421      $ 2,315         2.1     54.3     53.5

Same Station Basis

   $ 109,229       $ 107,227       $ 2,002         1.9    

Broadcast operating expenses increased due to higher variable expenses associated with higher revenues, including a $4.9 million increase in personnel-related costs, a $1.1 million increase in advertising expenses and a $0.2 million increase in commissions. These higher costs were partially offset by a $2.8 million decrease in bad debt expense, a $0.2 million decrease in music license fees, a $0.2 million decrease in professional services and a $0.4 million decrease in production and programming expenses.

Internet Operating Expenses

 

$0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Internet operating expenses

   $ 13,361       $ 16,722       $ 3,361         25.2     6.7     8.1

Internet operating expenses increased due to higher variable expenses associated with higher revenues, including a $1.7 million increase in personnel-related costs including commissions based on higher levels of collected revenues, a $0.9 million increase in advertising expenses promoting our Internet businesses, a $0.5 million increase in streaming, hosting and software expenses, and a $0.4 million increase in royalties.

Publishing Operating Expenses

 

$0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Publishing operating expenses

   $ 10,237       $ 11,226       $ 989         9.7     5.1     5.4

Publishing operating expenses primarily increased on Xulon Press, our digital book publishing service, due to higher variable costs associated with revenue growth. These increases include $0.2 million of personnel related costs including sales commissions and a $0.6 million increase in advertising costs partially offset by lower printing costs associated with reduced distribution levels of our print magazines.

Corporate Expenses

 

$0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000 $0000.000
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Corporate expenses

   $ 14,005       $ 16,613       $ 2,608         18.6     7.0     8.0

Corporate expenses include shared general and administrative services. The increase in corporate expenses includes a $0.8 million increase in management bonuses, a $0.7 million increase in non-cash stock-based compensation expense from options granted during the year, a $0.5 million increase in repair and maintenance costs and a $0.4 million increase in facility related costs.

 

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Depreciation Expenses

 

$000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $     Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Depreciation

   $ 13,441       $ 12,570       $ (870     (6.5 )%      6.7     6.1

The decrease in depreciation reflects the overall impact of reduced capital expenditures and reduced station acquisitions during 2009 and 2010 as compared to prior years.

Amortization Expenses

 

$0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Amortization

   $ 1,679       $ 2,018       $ 339         20.2     0.8     1.0

The increase in amortization expense is due to the amortization of intangible assets associated with the acquisitions of HotAir.com and GodTube.com during 2010.

Cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

 

$000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $     Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

   $ 1,111       $ —         $ (1,111     (100.0 )%      0.6     —  

During 2009, we abandoned certain capital projects that we felt would not be economically advantageous to complete. Costs incurred to date on these projects of $0.2 million were charged to expense. Additionally, we incurred costs of $0.9 million associated with a tower relocation project for radio station KDOW-AM, San Francisco, California, that was rejected by the City of Hayward.

Impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets

 

$0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00 $0000.00
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $     Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets

   $ 27,996       $ —         $ (27,996     (100.0 )%      14.1     —  

We test all non-amortizable intangible assets for impairment annually. Due to lower revenues and lower growth expectations during the year ending December 31, 2009, we recognized impairment charges of $26.8 million on our FCC Licenses and goodwill in the Dallas, Atlanta, Detroit, Portland and Cleveland markets as well as impairment charges of $1.2 million on goodwill and mastheads in our publishing segment. These impairment charges resulted from weakening valuations based on lower revenues and lower growth expectations. These trends were not specific to any of our individual markets, but rather were affecting valuations in the industry as a whole. For the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, the markets for which impairment charges were recorded during 2009 accounted for 23.6% and 25.7% of total net revenues, respectively. There were no impairments as of the December 31, 2010 testing period.

Loss on disposal of assets

 

$000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00 $000.00
     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      Change $     Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Loss on disposal of assets

   $ 1,676       $ 255       $ (1,421     (84.8 )%      0.8     0.1

The net loss on disposal of assets of $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, is comprised of a $0.2 million pre-tax loss on the sale of WAMD-AM, Aberdeen, Maryland, a $0.2 million pre-tax loss from the sale of Chicago real estate associated with the relocation of our Radio Division President and $0.2 million of losses from various fixed asset and equipment disposals offset by a $0.3 million pre-tax gain from the eminent domain seizure of property by the Dallas County School District. The loss on disposal of assets of $1.7 million for the same period of the prior year reflects the sale of radio station KPXI-FM, Tyler-Longview, Texas for $0.4 million resulting in a pre-tax loss of $1.6 million and $0.1 million of various fixed asset and equipment disposals.

 

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Gain on bargain purchase

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009        2010        Change $     Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Gain on bargain purchase

   $ 1,634       $ —         $ (1,634     (100.0 )%      0.8    

In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805 “Business Combinations,” effective as of January 1, 2009, any excess of fair value of the acquired net assets over the acquisition consideration shall be recognized as a gain on a bargain purchase. Prior to recording a gain, the acquiring entity must reassess whether all acquired assets and assumed liabilities have been identified and recognized and perform re-measurements to verify that the consideration paid, assets acquired, and liabilities assumed have been properly valued. During 2009, we underwent such a reassessment, and recorded a gain on the bargain purchase WZAB-AM in Miami, Florida, of $1.6 million. We believe that the gain on bargain purchase resulted from various factors that may have influenced the acquisition price of WZAB-AM, including, without limitation, significant declines in broadcast revenues throughout the industry. We have completed the one-year measurement period and have not obtained information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that would have affected the amounts recognized for assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

Other income (expense), net

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     Change $     Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)           % of Total Net Revenue  

Interest income

   $ 290      $ 183      $ (107     (36.9 )%      0.1     0.1

Interest expense

   $ (20,079   $ (30,297   $ (10,218     50.9     (10.1 )%      (14.7 )% 

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

   $ (781   $ —        $ 781        (100.0 )%      (0.4 )%     

Other income (expense), net

   $ (88   $ (16   $ 72        (81.8 )%         

Interest income of $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 was interest earned on excess cash. Interest expense increased due to the issuance of our 95/8% Notes in December 2009. The change in fair value of interest rate swaps represents the change in the fair market value of our swaps that were terminated in December 2009.

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

   $ (4,210   $ 2,695       $ 6,905         (164.0 )%      (2.1 )%      1.3

In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes,” our provision for income taxes was $2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to a tax benefit of $4.2 million for the same period of the prior year. Provision for income taxes as a percentage of income before income taxes (that is, the effective tax rate) was 57.7% for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 33.8% for the same period of the prior year. The effective tax rate for each period differs from the federal statutory income rate of 35.0% due to the effect of state income taxes, certain expenses that are not deductible for tax purposes, and changes in the valuation allowance from the utilization of certain state net operating loss carryforwards.

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

   $ (83   $ (44   $ 39         (47.0 )%         

The loss from discontinued operations of $44,000, net of taxes, for the year ended December 31, 2010, relates to the operating results of Samaritan Fundraising, which we ceased operating in December 2011. The loss from discontinued operations of $0.1 million, net of taxes, for the same period of the prior year relates to facility charges incurred on the Milwaukee property offset by a gain from recording fixed assets that had been abandoned and written-off at the Milwaukee facility and later placed back into service in other markets.

 

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Net Income (loss)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010      Change $      Change %     2009     2010  
      (Dollars in thousands)            % of Total Net Revenue  

Net income (loss)

   $ (8,346   $ 1,932       $ 10,278         (123.1 )%      (4.2 )%      0.9

Net income increased $10.3 million due to a $29.0 million increase in our net operating income and a $0.8 million benefit from the change in fair value of the interest rate swaps offset by a $10.2 million increase in interest expense, $0.7 million increase in losses associated with the early redemption of $30.0 million of the 95/ 8% Notes, a $6.9 million increase in our tax provision and the prior year impact of the $1.6 million gain on bargain purchase of WZAB-AM, Miami, Florida.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

The performance of a radio broadcasting company is customarily measured by the ability of its stations to generate station operating income. We define station operating income (“SOI”) as net broadcast revenue less broadcast operating expenses. Accordingly, changes in net broadcast revenue and broadcast operating expenses, as explained above, have a direct impact on changes in SOI.

SOI is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP. SOI should be viewed as a supplement to and not a substitute for our results of operations presented on the basis of GAAP. Management believes that SOI is a useful non-GAAP financial measure to investors, when considered in conjunction with operating income, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, because it is generally recognized by the radio broadcasting industry as a tool in measuring performance and in applying valuation methodologies for companies in the media, entertainment and communications industries. This measure is used by investors and analysts who report on the industry to provide comparisons between broadcasting groups. Additionally, our management uses SOI as one of the key measures of operating efficiency, profitability and our internal review associated with our impairment analysis of indefinite-lived intangible assets. SOI does not purport to represent cash provided by operating activities. Our statement of cash flows presents our cash flow activity and our income statement presents our historical performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. SOI as defined by and used by our company is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies.

Year ended December 31, 2011 compared to year ended December 31, 2010

STATION OPERATING INCOME. SOI decreased $1.3 million, or 2.0%, to $63.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to $64.5 million for the same period of the prior year as a result of the changes in net broadcast revenue and broadcast operating expense explained above. As a percentage of net broadcast revenue, SOI decreased to 35.4% for the year ended December 31, 2011 from 36.9% for the same period of the prior year. On a same station basis, SOI decreased $0.8 million, or 1.2%, to $62.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 from $63.7 million for the same period of the prior year. As a percentage of same station net broadcast revenue, same station SOI decreased to 35.7% for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to 37.3% for the same period of the prior year.

The following table provides a reconciliation of SOI (a non-GAAP financial measure) to operating income (as presented in our financial statements) for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2011:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Station operating income

   $ 64,512      $ 63,249   

Plus Internet revenue

     20,104        27,304   

Plus publishing revenue

     11,421        12,131   

Less Internet operating expenses

     (16,722     (20,889

Less publishing operating expenses

     (11,226     (11,475

Less corporate expenses

     (16,613     (17,503

Less depreciation and amortization

     (14,588     (14,971

Less gain (loss) on disposal of assets

     (255     4,153   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income from continuing operations

   $ 36,633      $ 41,999   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Year ended December 31, 2010 compared to year ended December 31, 2009

STATION OPERATING INCOME. SOI increased $0.6 million, or 0.9%, to $64.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to $63.9 million for the same period of the prior year as a result of the changes in net broadcast revenue and broadcast

 

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operating expense explained above. As a percentage of net broadcast revenue, SOI decreased to 36.9% for the year ended December 31, 2010 from 37.1% for the same period of the prior year. On a same station basis, SOI increased $0.5 million, or 0.8%, to $64.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 from $64.1 million for the same period of the prior year. As a percentage of same station net broadcast revenue, same station SOI decreased to 37.2% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 37.4% for the same period of the prior year.

The following table provides a reconciliation of SOI (a non-GAAP financial measure) to operating income (as presented in our financial statements) for the year ended December 31, 2009 and 2010:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Station operating income

   $ 63,949      $ 64,512   

Plus Internet revenue

     16,232        20,104   

Plus publishing revenue

     10,926        11,421   

Less Internet operating expenses

     (13,361     (16,722

Less publishing operating expenses

     (10,237     (11,226

Less corporate expenses

     (14,005     (16,613

Less depreciation and amortization

     (15,120     (14,588

Less cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

     (1111     —     

Less impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets

     (27,996     —     

Less gain (loss) on disposal of assets

     (1,676     (255
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income from continuing operations

   $ 7,601      $ 36,633   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES, JUDGMENTS AND ESTIMATES

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to acquisitions and upgrades of radio station and network assets, revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts, goodwill and other non-intangible assets, uncertain tax positions, valuation allowance (deferred taxes), long-term debt and debt covenant compliance, and stock-based compensation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

We believe the following accounting policies and the related judgments and estimates are critical accounting policies that affect the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. For a more comprehensive list of our accounting policies, see Note 1, Significant Accounting Policies, accompanying the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report. Note 1 contains several other policies which are important to the preparation of our consolidated financial statements, but do not meet the SEC’s definition of critical accounting policies because they do not involve subjective or complex judgments

Accounting for acquisitions and upgrades of radio station and network assets

A majority of our radio station acquisitions have consisted primarily of the FCC licenses to broadcast in a particular market. We often do not acquire the existing format, or we change the format upon acquisition when we find it beneficial. As a result, a substantial portion of the purchase price for the assets of a radio station is allocated to the broadcast license. It is our policy generally to retain third-party appraisers to value radio stations, networks, Internet businesses or publishing properties. The allocations assigned to acquired broadcast licenses and other assets are subjective by their nature and require our careful consideration and judgment. We believe the allocations represent appropriate estimates of the fair value of the assets acquired. As part of the valuation and appraisal process, the third-party appraisers prepare reports that assign values to the various asset categories in our financial statements. Our management reviews these reports and determines the reasonableness of the assigned values used to record the acquisition of these properties at the close of the transaction.

We undertake projects from time to time to upgrade our radio station technical facilities and/or FCC broadcast licenses. Our policy is to capitalize costs incurred up to the point where the project is complete, at which time we transfer the costs to the appropriate fixed asset and/or intangible asset categories. When the completion of a project is contingent upon FCC or other

 

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regulatory approval, we assess the probable future benefit of the asset at the time that it is recorded and monitor it through the FCC or other regulatory approval process. In the event the required approval is not considered probable or the project is abandoned, we write-off the capitalized costs of the project.

Revenue recognition

Revenues are recognized when pervasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or the service has been rendered, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable and collection of the arrangement fee is reasonably assured.

Revenues from radio programs and commercial advertising are recognized when the program or advertisement is broadcast. Revenue is reported net of agency commissions, which are calculated based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing. Our customers principally include not-for-profit charitable organizations and commercial advertisers. Revenue from the sale of products and services are recognized when the products are shipped and the services are rendered. Revenues from the sale of advertising in our magazines are recognized upon publication. Revenue from the sale of subscriptions to our publications is recognized over the life of the subscription. Revenue from book sales are recorded when shipment occurs.

Multiple-Deliverables

We may enter bundled advertising agreements that include spot advertisements on our radio stations, Internet banner placements, print magazine advertisements and booth space at specific events, or some combination thereof. The multiple deliverables contained in each agreement are accounted for separately over their respective delivery period provided that they are separate units of accounting. The selling price used for each deliverable is based on vendor specific objective evidence if available or estimated selling price if vendor specific objective evidence is not available. Objective evidence of fair value includes the price charged for each element when it is sold separately. The estimated selling price is the price that we would transact if the deliverable were sold regularly on a standalone basis. Arrangement consideration is allocated at the inception of each arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method. The relative selling price method allocates any discount in the arrangement proportionally to each deliverable on the basis of each deliverable’s selling price. The adoption of ASU No, 2009-13 did not change the units of accounting, how we allocate consideration to various units of accounting, or the timing of revenue recognition.

Barter Transactions

We may provide advertising time in exchange for certain products, supplies and services. The terms of the exchanges generally permit for the preemption of such broadcast time in favor of advertisers who purchase time on regular terms. We include the value of such exchanges in both net broadcasting revenues and broadcast operating expenses. The value recorded for barter revenues is based upon management’s estimate of the fair value of the products, supplies and services received.

Advertising time that our radio stations exchange for goods and or services is recorded as barter revenue when the advertisement is broadcast at an amount equal to our estimate fair value of what was received. The value of the goods and services received in such barter transactions is charged to expense when used. Barter advertising revenue included in broadcast revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 was approximately $5.0 million, $4.6 million and $5.2 million, respectively, and barter expenses were approximately the same as barter revenue for each period.

Advertising by our Internet businesses exchanged for goods and or services are recognized as the advertisements are delivered at an amount equal to the estimated fair value of the goods or services received. The value of the goods and services received in such barter transactions is charged to expense when used. Barter advertising revenue included in Internet revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 was approximately $72,000, $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, and barter expenses were approximately the same as barter revenue for each period.

Allowance for doubtful accounts

We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. An analysis is performed by applying various percentages based on the age of the receivable and other subjective and historical analysis. A considerable amount of judgment is required in assessing the likelihood of ultimate realization of these receivables including the current creditworthiness of each customer. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

 

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Accounting for discontinued operations

We regularly review underperforming assets to determine if a sale might be a better way to monetize the assets. When a station, group of stations, or other asset groups are considered for sale, we review the transaction to determine if or when the entity qualifies as a discontinued operation in accordance with the criteria of FASB ASC Topic 205-20 “Discontinued Operations.” This pronouncement specifies that the operations and cash flow of the entity disposed of, or to be sold, have or will be eliminated from the ongoing operations as a result of the disposal and that we will not have significant continuing involvement in the operations after the disposal transaction. For our radio stations, we define a cluster as a group of radio stations operating in the same geographic market, sharing the same building, equipment, and managed by a single general manager. The cluster level is the lowest level for which discrete financial information and cash flows are available and the level reviewed by management to analyze operating results. General Managers are compensated based on the results of their cluster as a whole, not the results of any individual radio stations. We have determined that a radio market qualifies for a discontinued operation when management, having the authority to approve the action, commits to a plan to sell the asset (disposal group), the sale is probable, and the sale will result in the exit of a particular geographic market.

During the 4th quarter of 2011, based on operating results that did not meet expectations, we ceased operating Samaritan Fundraising as of December 31, 2011. Samaritan Fundraising, reported in our Internet operations, was a web-based fundraising products company operating from a single facility in Fairfax, VA, under the control of one general manager. As a result of our decision to close operations, there will be no material cash flows associated with this entity and we will have no ongoing or further involvement in the operations of this entity. We have reported the operating results and net assets of this entity as a discontinued operation for all periods presented.

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

Approximately 70% of our total assets as of December 31, 2011, consist of indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as broadcast licenses, goodwill and mastheads, the value of which depends significantly upon the operating results of our businesses. In the case of our radio stations, we would not be able to operate the properties without the related FCC license for each property. Broadcast licenses are renewed with the FCC every eight years for a nominal cost that is expensed as incurred. We continually monitor our stations’ compliance with the various regulatory requirements. Historically, all of our broadcast licenses are renewed at the end of their respective periods, and we expect that all broadcast licenses will continue to be renewed in the future. Accordingly, we consider our broadcast licenses to be indefinite-lived intangible assets in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) Topic 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other.” Broadcast licenses account for approximately 94% of our indefinite-lived intangible assets. Goodwill and magazine mastheads account for the remaining 6%. We do not amortize goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets, but rather test for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired.

We complete our annual impairment tests in the fourth quarter of each year. We believe that our estimate of the value of our broadcast licenses, mastheads, and goodwill is a critical accounting estimate as the value is significant in relation to our total assets, and our estimates incorporate variables and assumptions that are based on experiences and judgment about future operating performance of our markets and business segments. The fair value measurements for our indefinite-lived intangible assets use significant unobservable inputs that reflect our own assumptions about the estimates that market participants would use in measuring fair value including assumptions about risk. The unobservable inputs are defined in FASB ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” as Level 3 inputs discussed in detail in Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Broadcast licenses

The unit of accounting used to test broadcast licenses is the cluster level, which we define as a group of radio stations operating in the same geographic market, sharing the same building and equipment and managed by a single general manager. The cluster level is the lowest level for which discrete financial information and cash flows are available and the level reviewed by management to analyze operating results. We apply the start-up income approach, which measures the expected future economic benefits that the broadcast licenses provide and discounts these future benefits using a discounted cash flow analysis. The discounted cash flow analysis assumes that the broadcast licenses hypothetical start-up stations and the values yielded by the discounted cash flow analysis represent the portion of the stations value attributable solely to the broadcast license. The discounted cash flow model incorporates variables such as projected revenues, operating profit margins, forecasted growth rates, estimated start-up costs, losses expected to be incurred in the early years, competition within the market, the effective tax rate, future terminal values and the risk-adjusted discount rate. Impairment losses are recognized if the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value as determined by the start-up income approach.

 

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The key estimates and assumptions used in the start-up income valuation of our broadcast segment for each testing period are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Broadcast Licenses

   2009   2010   2011

Discount rate

   9.5%   9.0%   9.0%

Operating profit margin ranges

   0.3% - 36.5%   3.8% - 36.3%   3.8% - 38.0%

Long-term market revenue growth rate ranges

   (3.0%) - 18.7%   0.25% - 3.5%   1.0% - 4.0%

The tables below present the percentage within a range by which the estimated fair value exceeded the carrying value of our broadcasting licenses for each of our clusters.

 

     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2011
Percentage Range By Which Fair Value Exceeds Carrying Value
 
     
     £ 10%      >10% to 25%      >25% to 75%      > than 75%  

Number of market clusters

     2         11         7         10   

Broadcast license carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 78,951       $ 183,696       $ 34,055       $ 74,718   

 

     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2010
Percentage Range By Which Fair Value Exceeds Carrying Value
 
     
     £ 10%      >10% to 25%      >25% to 75%      > than 75%  

Number of market clusters

     12         4         6         8   

Broadcast license carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 230,583       $ 47,331       $ 68,336       $ 32,112   

 

     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2009
Percentage Range By Which Fair Value Exceeds Carrying Value
 
     
     £ 10%      >10% to 25%      >25% to 75%      > than 75%  

Number of market clusters

     12         4         5         9   

Broadcast license carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 234,525       $ 47,196       $ 58,723       $ 34,873   

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2010 and 2011. For the annual testing period ending December 31, 2009, we recognized a pre-tax impairment charge of $0.2 million associated with the value of broadcast licenses in the Detroit market.

Based on deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining radio industry revenues throughout 2009 and a weakening in prevailing radio station transaction multiples, we tested our broadcast licenses for impairment in the second and third quarters of 2009. We recognized (1) pre-tax impairment charges during our September 30, 2009, interim review and valuation of $14.1 million associated with the value of broadcast licenses in the Cleveland, Atlanta, Detroit and Portland markets; and (2) pre-tax impairment charges recognized during our June 30, 2009 interim review and valuation of $12.1 million associated with the value of broadcast licenses in the Dallas and Portland markets. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven in part by declining revenues at the industry and market levels, declining radio stations transaction multiples and a higher cost of capital. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the broadcast industry and were not unique to the company.

Mastheads

Mastheads consist of the graphic elements that identify our publications to readers and advertisers. These include customized typeset page headers, section headers, and column graphics as well as other name and identity stylized elements within the body of each publication. We test the value of mastheads as a single combined publishing entity as our print magazines operate from one shared facility under one general manager with operating results and cash flows reported on a combined basis for all publications. We engaged Bond & Pecaro, an independent third-party appraisal firm, to perform an income-based approach to determine the estimated fair value of our mastheads. The income approach is based upon an estimated royalty stream that measures a cost savings to the business because it does not have to pay a royalty to use the owned trade name and content. The analysis assumes that the assets are employed by a typical market participant in their highest and best use. Under the income approach, we utilize a discounted cash flow method to calculate the estimated fair value of our mastheads, the key estimates and assumptions to which are as follows:

 

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     December 31,

Mastheads

   2009   2010   2011

Discount rate

   9.5%   8.5%   8.5%

Projected revenue growth ranges

   2.5%   2.0% - 2.5%   1.5% - 2.50%

Royalty growth rate

   3.0%   3.0%   3.0%

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011. The estimated fair value exceeded the carrying value of our mastheads by 3.3% as of December 31, 2011.

Based on then deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining magazine industry revenues throughout 2009, we tested our mastheads for impairment in the second quarter of 2009. For the interim testing period ended June 30, 2009, we recognized an impairment charge of $0.9 million associated with the value of mastheads in our publishing segment. The impairment recognized during 2009 was driven by negative revenue growth projections and a reduction in cash flows for magazine operations. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the publishing industry and were not unique to the company.

Goodwill—Broadcast

The unit of accounting used to test broadcast licenses is the cluster level, which we define as a group of radio stations operating in the same geographic market, sharing the same building and equipment and managed by a single general manager. We apply a market approach and an income approach to estimate the estimated fair value of each of our clusters when testing goodwill associated with our broadcast segment for impairment. Eight of our 30 market clusters and our networks have goodwill associated with them as of our annual testing period ending December 31, 2011. Seven of our thirty market clusters and our network had goodwill associated with them for our annual testing periods ending December 31, 2010 and 2009. The first step of our review compares the estimated fair value of each cluster to its carrying value including goodwill. Under the market approach, we apply a multiple of six to each clusters’ station operating income (“SOI”) to calculate the estimated fair value. As radio stations are typically sold on the basis of a multiple of SOI, typically in excess of eight, we believe that a benchmark of six is a conservative measure even in today’s market. Under the income approach, we utilize a discounted cash flow method to calculate the estimated fair value of the accounting unit. The discounted cash flow analysis assumes that the broadcast licenses are hypothetical start-up stations and the values yielded by the discounted cash flow analysis represent the portion of the stations value attributable to the broadcast license.

The key estimates and assumptions used in the start-up income valuation of our broadcast units for each testing period are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Goodwill –Radio clusters

   2009   2010   2011

Discount rate

   9.5%   9.0%   9.0%

Operating profit margin ranges

   0.3% - 36.5%   3.8% - 36.3%   3.8% - 38.0%

Long-term market revenue growth rate ranges

   (3.0%)- 18.7%   0.25% - 3.5%   1.0% - 4.0%

If the carrying amount, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value of the cluster, an indication exists that the amount of goodwill attributed to that cluster may be impaired. When we have indication of impairment, we perform a second step to determine the amount of any impairment. We engaged Bond & Pecaro, an independent third-party appraisal and valuation firm, to determine the enterprise value of five of our clusters and our networks in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation. The enterprise valuation assumes that the subject assets are installed as part of an operating business rather than as a hypothetical start-up. The key estimates and assumptions used for our enterprise valuations are as follows:

 

     December 31, 2011

Enterprise Valuations

   Networks   Radio Clusters

Discount rate

   9.0%   9.0%

Operating profit margin ranges

   (4.5%) - 10.0%   6.8% - 45.4%

Long-term revenue market growth rate ranges

   1.5%   1.5% - 3.5%

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. The estimated fair value of our networks exceeded the carrying value by 101.6%, 98.6% and 93.1% for each of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The table below presents the percentage within a range by which the enterprise value exceeded the carrying value of each of our clusters, including goodwill.

 

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     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2011  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value Exceeds Carrying  Value Including Goodwill  
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of market clusters

     1         2         3         2   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 9,877       $ 17,487       $ 68,506       $ 5,178   

 

     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2010  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value Exceeds Carrying  Value Including Goodwill  
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of market clusters

     2         —           2         3   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 19,502       $ —         $ 66,871       $ 7,295   

 

     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2009  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value Exceeds Carrying  Value Including Goodwill  
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of market clusters

     1         2         —           4   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 9,782       $ 61,128       $ —         $ 21,556   

Based on then deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining radio industry revenues throughout 2009 and a weakening in prevailing radio station transaction multiples, we tested the goodwill balance in our broadcast segment for impairment in the second quarter of 2009. We recognized pre-tax impairment charges during our June 30, 2009 interim review and valuation of $0.4 million associated with the value of goodwill in the Dallas markets. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven in part by declining revenues at the industry and market levels, declining radio stations transaction multiples and a higher cost of capital. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the broadcast industry and were not unique to the company.

Goodwill—Internet & Publishing

The units of accounting we use to test goodwill in our Internet business include Townhall.com and Salem Web Network. The operating results for Salem Web Network reflect the operating results and cash flows for all of our Internet sites exclusive of Towhnhall.com. We also separate our publishing business into two accounting units. The first publishing accounting unit is the magazine unit, which operates and produces all publications from a stand-alone facility, under one general manager, with operating results and cash flows of all publications reported on a combined basis. The second accounting unit is our book publishing division, Xulon Press, which also operates from a stand-alone facility, under one general manager who is responsible for the separately stated operating results and cash flows. Four of these accounting units have goodwill associated with them as our annual testing period.

We apply a market approach to estimate the fair value of each or our accounting units. Under the market approach, we apply a multiple of six to each accounting units’ operating income to estimate the fair value. We believe that a multiple of six is a conservative benchmark based on actual industry transactions. The first step of our review compares the estimated fair value of each accounting unit to its carrying value including goodwill. If the carrying amount, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value of the unit, an indication exists that the amount of goodwill attributed to that unit may be impaired. When we have indication of impairment, we perform a second step to determine the amount of any impairment. We engaged Bond & Pecaro, an independent third-party appraisal and valuation firm, to determine the enterprise value of one of our accounting units in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation. The enterprise valuation assumes that the subject assets are installed as part of an operating business rather than as a hypothetical start-up. The key estimates and assumptions used for our enterprise valuations are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Enterprise Valuations

   2009   2010   2011

Discount rate

   9.5%   8.5%   13.5%

Operating profit margin ranges

   1.9% - 7.1%   2.0% - 8.4%   18.4% - 22.0%

Long-term revenue growth rate ranges

   2.0%   2.0%   3.0%

 

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The key assumptions in our third-party enterprise valuation varied from the testing period ending December 31, 2011 to the testing period ending December 31, 2010 due to the accounting units for which the enterprise valuations were performed. Due to the nature of the business, publishing varies greatly from our print magazines to our online print-on demand digital book publisher and our Internet businesses.

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. The table below presents the percentage within a range by which the enterprise value exceeded the carrying value of our accounting units, including goodwill.

 

     Internet and Publishing Accounting units as of December 31, 2011  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value Exceeds Carrying Value  Including Goodwill  
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of accounting units

     1         1         1         1   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 1,123       $ 3,764       $ 22,757       $ (46

Based on then deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining magazine industry revenue and a reduction in Internet company valuations throughout 2009, we tested the goodwill value in our Internet and publishing accounting units for impairment in the second quarter of 2009. For the interim testing period ended June 30, 2009, we recognized an impairment charge of $0.2 million associated with the value of goodwill in our publishing segment. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven by negative revenue growth projections and a reduction in cash flows for magazine operations. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the publishing industry and were not unique to the company. Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary for goodwill associated with our Internet accounting units for the interim testing period ending June 30, 2009.

We believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the estimated fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets, however, these estimates and assumptions could be materially different from actual results. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by the industry or by us, or if events occur or circumstances change that would reduce the estimated fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets below the amounts reflected on our balance sheet, we may recognize future impairment charges, the amount of which may be material.

Income taxes and uncertain tax positions

We account for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes.” Upon the adoption of the provisions on January 1, 2007, we had $3.0 million in liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, including $0.9 million recognized under FASB ASC Topic 450 “Contingencies” and carried forward from prior years and $2.1 million recognized upon adoption of the tax provision changes as a reduction to retained earnings. Included in the $2.1 million accrual was $0.1 million in related interest, net of federal income tax benefits. During 2010, we recognized a net decrease of $0.1 million in liabilities and at December 31, 2010, had $3.7 million in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. Included in this liability amount were $0.1 million accrued for the related interest, net of federal income tax benefits, and $0.05 million for the related penalty recorded in income tax expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. During 2011, we recognized a net increase of $0.2 million in liabilities and at December 31, 2011, had $3.9 million in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. Included in this liability amount were $0.1 million accrued for the related interest, net of federal income tax benefits and $0.02 million for the related penalties recorded in income tax expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

A summary of the changes in the gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 

     December 31, 2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance at January 1, 2011

   $ 3,654   

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

     326   

Additions based on tax positions related to prior years

     85   

Reductions related to tax positions of prior years

     —     

Decrease due to statute expirations

     (239

Related interest and penalties, net of federal tax benefits

     26   
  

 

 

 

Balance as of December 31, 2011

   $ 3,852   
  

 

 

 

 

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Valuation allowance (deferred taxes)

For financial reporting purposes, we recorded a valuation allowance of $2.8 million as of December 31, 2011 to offset a portion of the deferred tax assets related to the state net operating loss carryforwards. Management regularly reviews our financial forecasts in an effort to determine our ability to utilize the net operating loss carryforwards for tax purposes. Accordingly, the valuation allowance is adjusted periodically based on management’s estimate of the benefit the company will receive from such carryforwards.

Fair value accounting

FASB ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” established a single definition of fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and expanded disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. The provision applies to other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. We adopted the fair value provisions for financial assets and financial liabilities effective January 1, 2008. The adoption had a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. We adopted fair value provisions for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities effective January 1, 2009. This includes applying the fair value concept to (i) nonfinancial assets and liabilities initially measured at fair value in business combinations; (ii) reporting units or nonfinancial assets and liabilities measured at fair value in conjunction with goodwill impairment testing; (iii) other nonfinancial assets measured at fair value in conjunction with impairment assessments; and (iv) asset retirement obligations initially measured at fair value. The adoption of the fair value provisions of FASB ASC Topic 820 to nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

The fair value provisions include guidance on how to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities in the current economic environment and reemphasizes that the objective of a fair value measurement remains an exit price. If we were to conclude that there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity of the asset or liability in relation to normal market activities, quoted market values may not be representative of fair value and we may conclude that a change in valuation technique or the use of multiple valuation techniques may be appropriate.

The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is affected by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new to the market, and the characteristics specific to the transaction. Financial instruments with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial instruments rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less (or no) pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value.

FASB ASC Topic 820 established a hierarchal disclosure framework associated with the level of pricing observability utilized in measuring fair value. This framework defined three levels of inputs to the fair value measurement process and requires that each fair value measurement be assigned to a level corresponding to the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The three broad levels of inputs defined by the FASB ASC Topic 820 hierarchy are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 Inputs—quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date;

 

   

Level 2 Inputs—inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. If the asset or liability has a specified (contractual) term, a Level 2 input must be observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

 

   

Level 3 Inputs—unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. These unobservable inputs reflect the entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, and are developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (which might include the reporting entity’s own data).

As a result of the adoption of the fair value provisions, we modified the assumptions used in measuring the fair value of our derivative positions. Specifically, we include the impact of our own credit risk on derivative liabilities measured at fair value as defined. Counterparty credit-risk adjustments are applied to derivatives, such as over-the-counter derivatives, where the base valuation uses market parameters based on LIBOR interest rate curves. Not all counterparties have the same credit risk as that implied by the relevant LIBOR curve, so it is necessary to consider the market value of the credit risk of the counterparty in order to estimate the fair value of such an item. Bilateral or “own” credit risk adjustments are applied to our own credit risk when valuing derivatives measured at fair value. Credit adjustments consider the estimated future cash flows between the company and its counterparties under the terms of the instruments and affect the credit risk on the valuation of those cash flows, rather than a point-in-time assessment of the current recognized net asset or liability.

 

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The fair value of our liabilities is impacted by our credit ratings as established by agencies such as Moody’s Investor Services (“Moody’s) and Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”). The estimated change in the fair value of these liabilities, including the credit risk and all other market variables, was a gain of $1.5 million for the period ended December 31, 2009. We settled our outstanding swap transactions on December 1, 2009 when we terminated our then existing bank credit facilities, resulting in a loss of $2.3 million. The loss represents the difference in the discounted value as estimated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820 and the actual amount the bank was willing to accept in an arms-length transaction.

Long-term debt and debt covenant compliance

Our classification of borrowings under our Revolver as long-term debt on our balance sheet is based on our assessment that, under the terms of our Credit Agreement and after considering our projected operating results and cash flows for the coming year, no principal payments are required to be made. These projections are estimates dependent upon a number of factors including developments in the markets in which we are operating in and economic and political factors, among other factors. Accordingly, these projections are inherently uncertain and our actual results could differ from these estimates.

Stock-Based compensation

We have one stock option plan, The Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan, (the “Plan”) under which equity awards, including stock options and restricted stock may be granted to employees, consultants and non-employee members of the Board of the Directors of the company. A maximum of 3,100,000 shares are authorized under the Plan, of which 1,640,392 are outstanding and 655,228 are exercisable as of December 31, 2011.

We account for stock-based compensation under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718 “Compensation—Stock Compensation.” We record equity awards with stock-based compensation measured at the fair value of the award as of the grant date. We determine the fair value of our options using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility and expected term of the options granted. The exercise price for options is equal to the closing market price of Salem Communications common stock as of the date of grant. We use the straight-line attribution method to recognize share-based compensation costs over the expected service period of the award. Upon exercise, cancellation, forfeiture, or expiration of stock options, or upon vesting or forfeiture of restricted stock awards, deferred tax assets for options and restricted stock awards with multiple vesting dates are eliminated for each vesting period on a first-in, first-out basis as if each vesting period was a separate award.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (“ASU No. 2011-11”). This ASU requires us to disclose both net and gross information about assets and liabilities that have been offset, if any, and the related arrangements. The disclosures under this new guidance are required to be provided retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. We are required to apply the amendments for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. The adoption of ASU No. 2011-11 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-08, “Testing Goodwill for Impairment” (“ASU No. 2011-08”), which is intended to simplify goodwill impairment testing. Entities will be allowed to perform a qualitative assessment on goodwill impairment to determine whether a quantitative assessment is necessary. The revised standard is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of ASC No. 2011-08 will not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, “Presentation of Comprehensive Income” (“ASU No. 2011-05”), which is an update to ASC Topic 220, “Comprehensive Income”, eliminating the option to present other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of shareholders’ equity. We can elect to present the items of net income and other comprehensive income in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate, but consecutive, statements. Under either method, the statement would need to be presented with equal prominence as the other primary financial statements. The amended guidance, which must be applied retroactively, is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011, with earlier adoption permitted. The adoption of ASC No. 2011-05 will not impact our financial position, results of operations, cash flows, or presentation thereof.

 

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In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs” (“ASU No. 2011-04”), which amends ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement”. ASU No. 2011-04 does not extend the use of fair value accounting, but provides guidance on how it should be applied where its use is already required or permitted by other standards within U.S. GAAP or International Financial Reporting Standards. ASU No. 2011-14 changes the wording used to describe many requirements in U.S. GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. Additionally, ASU No. 2011-14 clarifies the FASB’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurements. ASU No. 2011-04 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, and is applied prospectively. We will adopt this guidance at the beginning of our first quarter of fiscal year 2012. We not expect the adoption of ASU No. 2011-04 to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

We have historically financed acquisitions through borrowings, including borrowings under credit facilities and, to a lesser extent, from operating cash flow and selected asset dispositions. We currently expect to fund any future acquisitions from cash on hand, proceeds from debt and equity offerings, borrowings under our credit facility, operating cash flow and possibly through the sale of income-producing assets. We have historically funded, and will continue to fund, expenditures for operations, administrative expenses, capital expenditures and debt service required by our credit facilities and the notes from operating cash flow, borrowings under the Revolver and, if necessary, proceeds from the sale of selected assets or radio stations.

Cash Flows

Cash and cash equivalents decreased $0.7 million to $0.1 million as of December 31, 2011 compared to $0.8 million as of the same period of the prior year. Working capital decreased $12.7 million to $5.4 million as of December 31, 2011, compared to $18.1 million for the same period of the prior year.

The following events impacted our liquidity and capital resources during the year ended December 31, 2011:

 

   

Our net income from continuing operations increased $4.4 million to $6.4 million from $2.0 million for the prior year;

 

   

Consolidated net receivables increased $1.8 million to $31.0 million from $29.2 million as of the prior year;

 

   

Our Day’s Sales Outstanding “DSO” improved to 67 days as of December 31, 2011 compared to 69 days for the same period of the prior year;

 

   

Capital expenditures decreased $0.3 million to $7.5 million from $7.8 million for the prior year;

 

   

Cash paid for acquisitions increased $1.6 million to $9.2 million from $7.6 million for the prior year;

 

   

We redeemed $35.0 million of total principal on the 95/8% Notes at a price equal to 103% of face value, or $36.0 million in cash; and

 

   

We decreased the outstanding balance on our Revolver by $4.0 million, to $31.0 million as of December 31, 2011 compared to $35.0 million as of the same period of the prior year.

 

   

We borrowed $9.0 million under Affiliate Lines of Credit that bear simple interest at 5% to be repaid within three months, the proceeds of which were used to redeem principal on our 95/8% Notes.

Credit Facilities

The Revolver and the 95/8% Notes have been entered into by Salem Communications Corporation. Our parent company, Salem Communications Corporation has no independent assets or operations. All of the subsidiaries of Salem Communications Corporation are currently guarantors of the Revolver and the 95/8% Notes. The guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several, and any subsidiaries of the parent company other than the subsidiary guarantors are minor.

Senior Credit Facility

On December 1, 2009, our parent company, Salem Communications Corporation entered into the Revolver. We amended the Revolver on November 1, 2010 to increase the borrowing capacity from $30 million to $40 million. The amendment allowed us to use borrowings under the Revolver, subject to the “Available Amount” as defined by the terms of the Credit Agreement, to redeem applicable portions of the 95/ 8% Notes. The calculation of the “Available Amount” also pertains to the payment of dividends when the leverage ratio is above 5.0 to 1.

 

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On November 15, 2011, we completed the Second Amendment of our Revolver to among other things, (1) extend the maturity date from December 1, 2012 to December 1, 2014 (2) change the interest rate applicable to LIBOR or the Wells Fargo base rate plus a spread to be determined based on our leverage ratio, (3) allow us to borrow and repay unsecured indebtedness provided certain conditions are met and (4) include step-downs related to our leverage ratio covenant. We incurred $0.5 million in fees to complete this amendment, which are being amortized over the remaining term of the credit agreement. The applicable interest rate on the amended credit agreement is LIBOR plus a spread of 3.0% per annum or the Base Rate plus a spread of 1.25% per annum, which is adjusted based on our leverage ratio. The applicable interest rate prior to the Second Amendment was LIBOR plus a spread of 3.5% per annum or the Base Rate plus a spread of 2.5% per annum. If an event of default occurs, the interest rate may increase by 2.0% per annum. Details of the adjustment to our interest rate based on our leverage ratio are as follows:

 

Consolidated Leverage Ratio

   Base Rate   Eurodollar
Rate Loans
  Applicable Fee
Rate

Less than 3.25 to 1.00

   0.75%   2.25%   0.40%

Greater than or equal to 3.25 to 1.00 but less than 4.50 to 1.00

   0.75%   2.50%   0.50%

Greater than or equal to 4.50 to 1.00 but less than 6.00 to 1.00

   1.25%   3.00%   0.60%

Greater than or equal to 6.00 to 1.00

   2.25%   3.50%   0.75%

We believe the borrowing capacity of the Revolver allows us to meet our ongoing operating requirements, fund capital expenditures, and satisfy our debt service requirements. The Revolver includes a $5 million subfacility for standby letters of credit and a subfacility for swingline loans of up to $5 million, subject to the terms and conditions of the credit agreement relating to the Revolver. Amounts outstanding under the Revolver may be paid and then reborrowed at Salem’s discretion without penalty or premium. At December 31, 2011, the blended interest rate on amounts outstanding under the Revolver was 3.29%.

During the year ended December 31, 2011, the amounts outstanding on our Revolver ranged from $12.0 million to $37.0 million. During the first quarter of 2011, cash flows from operations were used to pay down the Revolver to $13.0 million that was offset by a $6.0 million increase to fund the acquisition of WorshipHouse Media. During the second quarter of 2011, we increased the amount outstanding under the Revolver up to $18.6 million, of which $1.6 million was repaid as of the third quarter of 2011. The net increase in the Revolver during the second quarter of 2011 of $17.0 million was used to redeem $17.5 million of principal on the 95/8% Notes. During the third quarter of 2011, we increased the net amount due on the Revolver up to $35.5 million of which of which $5.0 million was repaid as of the end of the third quarter of 2011. The largest draw on the Revolver of $7.0 million during the third quarter of 2011 was used primarily toward the repurchase of $5.0 million of the 95/8% Notes. During the fourth quarter of 2011, the balance outstanding on our revolver increased by a net amount of $5.0 million with repayments on the Revolver generated from our operating cash flow. Increases during the fourth quarter of 2011 were used to redeem $12.5 million principal on the 95/8% Notes, interest due on our notes, and the acquisition of KTEK-AM in Alvin, Texas for $1.0 million in cash.

With respect to financial covenants, the credit agreement includes a maximum leverage ratio of 7.0 to 1.0 and a minimum interest coverage ratio of 1.5 to 1. The credit agreement also includes other negative covenants that are customary for credit facilities of this type, including covenants that, subject to exceptions described in the credit agreement, restrict the ability of Salem and the guarantors (i) to incur additional indebtedness; (ii) to make investments; (iii) to make distributions, loans or transfers of assets; (iv) to enter into, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any liens; (v) to sell assets; (vi) to enter into transactions with affiliates; (vii) to merge or consolidate with, or dispose of all or substantially all assets to, a third party; (viii) to prepay indebtedness; and (ix) to pay dividends. As of December 31, 2011, our leverage ratio was 5.13 to 1 and our interest coverage ratio was 1.97 to 1. We were and remain compliant with our debt covenants.

Senior Secured Second Lien Notes

On December 1, 2009, we issued $300.0 million principal amount of the 95/ 8% Notes at a discount for $298.1 million resulting in an effective yield of 9.75%. Interest is due and payable on June 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing June 15, 2010 until maturity. We are not required to make principal payments on the 95/8% Notes that are due in full in December 2016. The 95/8% Notes are guaranteed by all of our existing domestic restricted subsidiaries. We are required to pay $28.9 million per year in interest on the 95/8% Notes. As of December 31, 2010 and 2011, accrued interest on 95/ 8% Notes was $1.2 million and $1.0 million, respectively. The discount is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 95/8% Notes based on the effective interest method. For each of the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 and 2011, approximately $0.2 million of the discount has been recognized as interest expense.

 

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On December 12, 2011, we redeemed $12.5 million of our 95/8% Notes for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $62,000 of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On September 6, 2011, we repurchased $5.0 million of our 95/8% Notes due 2016 for $5.1 million, or at a price equal to 1027/8% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.3 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $26,000 of unamortized discount and $0.1 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On June 1, 2011, we redeemed $17.5 million of the 95/8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.5 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

Information regarding repurchases and redemptions of the 95/8% Notes are as follows:

 

Date

        Principal
Redeemed
     Premium
Paid
     Unamortized
Discount
     Bond Issue
Costs
 
         (Dollars in thousands)  

June 1, 2010

     $ 17,500       $ 525       $ 105       $ 417   

December 1, 2010

       12,500         375         70         334   

June 1, 2011

       17,500         525         93         472   

September 6, 2011

       5,000         144         26         135   

December 12, 2011

       12,500         375         62         337   

The carrying value of the 95/8% Notes was $268.5 million and $233.8 million at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Affiliate Lines of Credit

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into Affiliate Lines of Credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors. Pursuant to the related agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million . The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit will bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum and (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the Credit Agreement referred to above plus 2% per annum. Interest is payable at the time of any repayment of principal. In addition, outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit must be repaid within three months from the time that such amounts are borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit.

Prior Credit Facility

Our wholly-owned subsidiary, Salem Communications Holding Corporation (“Salem Holding”), was the borrower under our prior credit facilities. The prior credit facilities included commitments of $75.0 million senior secured reducing revolving credit facility (“revolving credit facility”), a $75.0 million term loan B facility (“Term Loan B”) and a $165.0 million term loan C facility (“Term Loan C”). On December 1, 2009, we used the proceeds of the 95/8% Notes, a portion of the Revolver, and approximately $27 million of cash on hand to fully repay amounts outstanding under the Term Loan B of $71.2 million, the Term Loan C of $160.0 million, and to fully repay all outstanding aggregate principal of $89.7 million on the 7 3/4% Notes. We recorded a loss of $1.7 million which included $1.1 million of unamortized bank loan fees on the prior credit facility, $0.1 million of unamortized bond issue costs on the 7 3/4% Notes and $0.4 million of legal and dealer fees associated with the calling of the 7 3/4% Notes and prior credit facility.

 

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Swingline Credit Facility

On June 1, 2005, we entered into an agreement for a swingline credit facility (“Swingline”) with a borrowing capacity of $5.0 million. The agreement was most recently amended on June 1, 2009 and had a borrowing capacity of $4.3 million. The interest rate was the bank’s prime rate plus 0.75% per annum. As collateral for the Swingline, we pledged our corporate office building. We terminated the Swingline as of December 1, 2009.

73/4% Notes

In December 2002, Salem Holding issued $100.0 million principal amount of 73/ 4% Notes. The indenture for the 73/4% Notes contained restrictive covenants that, among other things, limited the incurrence of debt by Salem Holding and its subsidiaries, the payment of dividends, the use of proceeds of specified asset sales and transactions with affiliates. Through the use of an unrestricted subsidiary, we repurchased $9.4 million of our 73/4% Notes for $4.7 million in December 2008. This transaction resulted in a $4.7 million pre-tax gain on the early retirement of debt. Through the use of an unrestricted subsidiary, we repurchased $1.0 million of our 73/4% Notes for $0.3 million in April 2009. This transaction resulted in a $0.7 million pre-tax gain on the early retirement of debt. As of September 30, 2009, there was $89.7 million aggregate principal amount of the 73 /4% Notes outstanding. Based on this principal amount, Salem Holding was required to pay $7.0 million per year in interest on the 73/4% Notes. As of December 1, 2009, we used the net proceeds from the offering of the 95/8% Notes, borrowings under the Revolver, and approximately $27 million of cash on hand to fund the payment of consideration and certain costs relating to the early settlement of the Tender Offer and consent solicitation with respect to the outstanding $89.7 million in aggregate principal amount of the 73/4% Notes. Accrued interest on the tendered 73/4% Notes was also paid. Since all outstanding 73/4% Notes were tendered, accepted for payment and cancelled, the indenture relating to the 73/4% Notes was discharged.

Summary of long-term debt obligations

Long-term debt consisted of the following at the balance sheet date indicated:

 

     As of December 31, 2010     As of December 31, 2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Revolving credit facility under senior credit facility

   $ 35,000      $ 31,000   

95/8% senior secured second lien notes due 2016

     268,479        233,846   

Affiliate lines of credit

     —          9,000   

Capital leases and other loans

     1,048        957   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 304,527      $ 274,803   

Less current portion

     (111     (9,124
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 304,416      $ 265,679   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

In addition to the amounts listed above, we also have interest payments related to our long-term debt as follows as of December 31, 2011:

 

   

Outstanding borrowings of $31.0 million under the Revolver, with interest payments equal to LIBOR plus 3.00% or at prime rate plus 1.25%;

 

   

$235.0 million 95/ 8% Notes with semi-annual interest payments at an annual rate of 95/8%; and

 

   

Commitment fee of 0.6% on the unused portion of the Revolver.

Impairment Losses on Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Under FASB ASC Topic 350 “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other,” indefinite-lived intangibles, including broadcast licenses, goodwill and mastheads are not amortized but instead are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that there may be an impairment. Impairment is measured as the excess of the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset over its fair value. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives continue to be amortized over their useful lives and are measured for impairment if events or circumstances indicate that they may be impaired. Impairment losses are recorded as operating expenses. We have incurred significant impairment losses in prior periods with regard to our indefinite-lived intangible assets.

These losses, recognized during 2009, were attributable to the following variables used in our assumptions to calculate the estimated fair value of our broadcast licenses and goodwill balances:

 

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(1) an increase in the weighted average cost of capital from 8.0% as of the testing period ended December 31, 2007 to 9.5% for the testing period ended December 31, 2009,

(2) a decline in the estimated terminal or exit values assigned to the licenses as a result of industry wide declines in radio station transaction multiples,

(3) a decrease in projected future cash flows from a range of 2.0% to 3.5% for the testing period ended December 31, 2007 to a range of 1.0% to 2.5% for the testing period ended December 31, 2009, and

(4) a significant decline in projected revenues from up to a 12.6% increase projected at the end of 2007 for the 2009 year to a 3.0% decline at the end of 2009 for 2010, followed by up to a 2.5% projected increase in 2011 as compared to 2010.

These losses were also attributable to the following variables used in our assumptions to calculate the estimated fair value of our mastheads and goodwill associated with our publishing and Internet segment:

(1) an increase in the weighted average cost of capital from 8.0% as of the testing period ended December 31, 2007 to 9.0% for the interim testing period ended June 30, 2009,

(2) a decline in the estimated terminal or exit values assigned to the assets as a result of industry wide declines in the total number of magazines sold,

(3) a decrease in projected future cash flows from 2.9% for the testing period ended December 31, 2007 to 2.0% for the interim testing period ended June 30, 2009, and

(4) a significant decline in projected profit margins from a range of 3.0% to 10.0% as of the December 31, 2007 testing period to a range of 0.5% to 6.0% as of the June 30, 2009 interim testing period.

The valuation of intangible assets is subjective and based on estimates rather than precise calculations. The fair value measurements of our indefinite-lived intangible assets use significant unobservable inputs that reflect our own assumptions about the estimates that market participants would use in measuring fair value including assumptions about risk. If actual future results are less favorable than the assumptions and estimates we used, we are subject to future impairment charges, the amount of which may be material. Given the current economic environment and uncertainties that can negatively impact our business, there can be no assurance that our estimates and assumptions made for the purpose of our indefinite-lived intangible fair value estimates will prove to be accurate.

The impairment charges we have recognized are non-cash in nature and did violate covenants on our then existing credit facilities or Revolver. However, the potential for future impairment charges can be viewed as a negative factor with regard to forecasted future performance and cash flows. We believe that we have adequately considered the economic downturn in our valuation models and do not believe that the non-cash impairments in and of themselves are a liquidity risk.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

At December 31, 2010 and 2011, Salem did not have any relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as entities often referred to as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. As such, Salem is not materially exposed to any financing, liquidity, market or credit risk that could arise if Salem had engaged in such relationships.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The company enters into various agreements in the normal course of business that contain minimum guarantees. The typical minimum guarantee is tied to future revenue amounts that exceed the contractual level. Accordingly, the estimated fair value of these arrangements is zero.

 

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The following table summarizes our aggregate contractual obligations at December 31, 2011, and the estimated timing and effect that such obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods.

 

     Payments Due by Period  

Contractual

Obligations

   Total      Less than
One year
     1-3
years
     3-5
years
     More Than 5
years
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Long-term debt, including current portion

   $ 273,846       $ 9,000       $ 31,000       $ 233,846       $ —     

Interest payments on long-term debt (1)

     115,649         23,457         46,745         45,329         118   

Capital lease obligations and other loans

     957         124         199         143         491   

Operating leases

     62,947         9,744         17,635         13,225         22,343   

On-Air Talent

     4,881         2,567         2,296         18         —     

Other Contracts (2)

     8,589         2,751         5,838         —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total contractual cash obligations

   $ 466,869       $ 47,643       $ 103,713       $ 292,561       $ 22,952   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) Interest payments on long-term debt are based on the outstanding debt and respective interest rates with interest rates on variable-rate debt held constant through maturity at the December 31, 2011 rates. Interest ultimately paid on these obligations may differ based on changes in interest rates for variable-rate debt, as well as any potential repayments or future refinancing. See Note 6 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further details.
(2) Other contracts consist of purchase commitments and royalty agreements.

 

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

We are exposed to fluctuations in interest rates. We actively monitor these fluctuations and use derivative instruments from time to time to manage the related risk. In accordance with our risk management strategy, we use derivative instruments only for the purpose of managing risk associated with an asset, liability, committed transaction, or probable forecasted transaction that is identified by management. Our use of derivative instruments may result in short-term gains or losses that may increase the volatility of our earnings.

Under FASB ASC Topic 815 “Derivatives and Hedging” the effective portion of the gain or loss on a derivative instrument designated and qualifying as a cash flow hedging instrument shall be reported as a component of other comprehensive income (outside earnings) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument, if any, shall be recognized currently in earnings.

On April 8, 2005, we entered into an interest rate swap arrangement for the notional principal amount of $30.0 million whereby we were to pay a fixed interest rate of 4.99% as compared to LIBOR on our then outstanding bank credit facility borrowing. Interest expense for year ended December 31, 2009, was approximately $0.9 million based on the difference between the interest rates. The swap was settled on December 1, 2009 for $3.1 million when the underlying bank credit facility was terminated. The ineffective portion of this swap reported in current period expenses was a $0.6 million gain and upon termination of the swap, we recognized a $0.8 million loss. Effective on October 1, 2008, we had elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As this interest rate swap agreement contained a three-month reset period, the swap was no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of this swap after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. An additional $0.3 million of accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense as of December 1, 2009 in order to recognize the impact over the same period in which the hedged transaction affected earnings. On December 1, 2009, the remaining $1.0 million in accumulated other comprehensive losses was reclassified into interest expense.

On April 26, 2005, we entered into an interest rate swap arrangement for the notional principal amount of $30.0 million whereby we were to pay a fixed interest rate of 4.70% as compared to LIBOR on our then outstanding bank credit facility borrowing. Interest expense for year ended December 31, 2009, was approximately $0.8 million based on the difference between the interest rates. The swap was settled on December 1, 2009 for $2.9 million when the underlying bank credit facility was terminated. The ineffective portion of this swap reported in current period expenses was a $0.5 million gain and upon termination of the swap, we recognized a $0.8 million loss. Effective on October 1, 2008, we had elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As this interest rate swap agreement contained a three-month reset period, the swap was no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of this swap after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period

 

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income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. An additional $0.3 million of accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense as of December 1, 2009 in order to recognize the impact over the same period in which the hedged transaction affected earnings. On December 1, 2009, the remaining $0.7 million in accumulated other comprehensive losses was reclassified into interest expense.

On May 5, 2005, we entered into a third interest rate swap arrangement for the notional principal amount of $30.0 million whereby we were to pay a fixed interest rate of 4.53% as compared to LIBOR on then outstanding bank credit facility borrowing. Interest expense for year ended December 31, 2009, was approximately $0.8 million based on the difference between the interest rates. The swap was settled on December 1, 2009 for $2.7 million when the underlying bank credit facility was terminated. The ineffective portion of this swap reported in current period expenses was a $0.5 million gain and upon termination of the swap, we recognized a $0.7 million loss. Effective on October 1, 2008, we had elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As this interest rate swap agreement contained a three-month reset period, the swap was no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of this swap after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. An additional $0.2 million of accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense as of December 1, 2009 in order to recognize the impact over the same period in which the hedged transaction affected earnings. On December 1, 2009, the remaining $0.6 million in accumulated other comprehensive losses was reclassified into interest expense.

 

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

     PAGE  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     62   

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2010 and 2011

     63   

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011

     64   

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December  31, 2009, 2010 and 2011

     66   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011

     67   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     69   

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders

Salem Communications Corporation

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Salem Communications Corporation and subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule of the Company listed in Item 15(a). These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Salem Communications Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.

/s/ SingerLewak LLP

Los Angeles, California

March 9, 2012

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

     December 31,  
      2010     2011  
ASSETS     

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 828      $ 67   

Restricted cash

     100        110   

Trade accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $10,026 in 2010 and $9,300 in 2011)

     29,157        31,001   

Other receivables

     623        888   

Prepaid expenses

     3,314        3,395   

Deferred income taxes

     5,974        6,403   

Assets of discontinued operations

     962        102   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

     40,958        41,966   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of $117,211 in 2010 and $125,708 in 2011)

     115,851        111,222   

Broadcast licenses

     378,362        371,420   

Goodwill

     18,108        20,092   

Other indefinite-lived intangible assets

     1,961        1,961   

Amortizable intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of $20,430 in 2010 and $22,817 in 2011)

     5,053        6,469   

Deferred financing costs

     7,349        5,489   

Notes receivable (net of allowance of $289 in 2010 and $100 in 2011)

     2,327        1,459   

Other assets

     4,517        1,232   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 574,486      $ 561,310   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 961      $ 4,565   

Accrued expenses

     6,020        5,542   

Accrued compensation and related expenses

     7,730        8,431   

Accrued interest

     1,264        1,127   

Deferred revenue

     6,513        7,521   

Income tax payable

     210        205   

Affiliate lines of credit

     —          9,000   

Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations

     111        124   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     22,809        36,515   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, less current portion

     304,416        265,679   

Deferred income taxes

     42,296        48,077   

Deferred revenue

     7,898        7,962   

Other liabilities

     663        29   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     378,082        358,262   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)

    

Stockholders’ Equity:

    

Class A common stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 80,000,000 shares; 21,000,193 and 21,051,305 issued and 18,682,543 and 18,733,655 outstanding at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively

     209        210   

Class B common stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 20,000,000 shares; 5,553,696 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2010 and 2011

     56        56   

Additional paid-in capital

     230,947        231,972   

Retained earnings (loss)

     (802     4,816   

Treasury stock, at cost (2,317,650 shares at December 31, 2010 and 2011)

     (34,006     (34,006
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ equity

     196,404        203,048   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 574,486      $ 561,310   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  

Net broadcast revenue

   $ 172,055      $ 174,933      $ 178,731   

Net Internet revenue

     16,232        20,104        27,304   

Net publishing revenue

     10,926        11,421        12,131   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net revenue

     199,213        206,458        218,166   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

      

Broadcast operating expenses exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below (including $1,246, $1,268 and $1,297 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, paid to related parties)

     108,106        110,421        115,482   

Internet operating expenses exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below

     13,361        16,722        20,889   

Publishing operating expenses exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below

     10,237        11,226        11,475   

Corporate expenses exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below (including $135, $209 and $402 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, paid to related parties)

     14,005        16,613        17,503   

Depreciation (including $10,418, $1,709, $256 and $1,058 for the year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, for broadcast, Internet, publishing and corporate, including $9,391, $1,771, $263 and $1,145 for the year ended December 31, 2010, respectively, for broadcast, Internet, publishing and corporate, including $8,834, $2,139, $308 and $1,239 for the year ended December 31, 2011, respectively, for broadcast, Internet, publishing and corporate)

     13,441        12,570        12,520   

Amortization (including $45, $1,187, $437 and $10 for the year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, for broadcast, Internet, publishing and corporate, including $102, $1,637, $274 and $5 for the year ended December 31, 2010, respectively, for broadcast, Internet, publishing and corporate, including $136, $2,186, $127 and $2 for the year ended December 31, 2011, respectively, for broadcast, Internet, publishing and corporate)

     1,679        2,018        2,451   

Cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

     1,111        —          —     

Impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill

     27,409        —          —     

Impairment of goodwill

     587        —          —     

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

     1,676        255        (4,153
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     191,612        169,825        176,167   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss) from continuing operations

     7,601        36,633        41,999   

Other income (expense):

      

Interest income

     290        183        344   

Interest expense

     (20,079     (30,297     (27,665

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

     (781     —          —     

Gain on bargain purchase

     1,634        —          —     

Gain (loss) on early retirement of long-term debt

     (1,050     (1,832     (2,169

Other income (expense), net

     (88     (16     (40
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

     (12,473     4,671        12,469   

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

     (4,210     2,695        6,110   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     (8,263     1,976        6,359   

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (83     (44     (741
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ (8,346   $ 1,932      $ 5,618   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

      Year Ended December 31,  
      2009     2010      2011  

Basic earnings per share data:

       

Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

   $ (0.35   $ 0.08       $ 0.26   

Earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations

     —          —           (0.03

Basic earnings (loss) per share

     (0.35     0.08         0.23   

Diluted earnings per share data:

       

Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

   $ (0.35   $ 0.08       $ 0.26   

Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations

     —          —           (0.03

Diluted earnings (loss) per share

     (0.35     0.08         0.23   

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

     23,803,864        24,086,829         24,475,102   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

     23,803,864        24,653,465         24,683,644   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

 

      Class A
Common Stock
     Class B
Common Stock
     Additional      Retained           Accumulated
Other
       
                                 Paid-In      Earnings     Treasury     Comprehensive        
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount      Capital      (Loss)     Stock     Income (Loss)     Total  

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2008

     20,437,742         204         5,553,696         56         228,251         10,452        (34,006     (1,841     203,116   

Stock-based compensation

     —           —           —           —           588         —          —          —          588   

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

     —           —           —           —           —           —          —          482        482   

Termination of interest rate swaps

     —           —           —           —           —           —          —          1,359        1,359   

Net loss

     —           —           —           —           —           (8,346     —          —          (8,346
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2009

     20,437,742         204         5,553,696         56         228,839         2,106        (34,006     —          197,199   

Stock-based compensation

     —           —           —           —           1,437         —          —          —          1,437   

Lapse of restricted shares

     5,000         —           —           —           —           —          —          —          —     

Options exercised

     557,451         5         —           —           333         —          —          —          338   

Tax benefit related to stock options exercised

     —           —           —           —           338         —          —          —          338   

Dividends

     —           —           —           —           —           (4,840     —            (4,840

Net income

     —           —           —           —           —           1,932        —          —          1,932   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2010

     21,000,193         209         5,553,696         56         230,947         (802     (34,006     —          196,404   

Stock-based compensation

     —           —           —           —           950         —          —          —          950   

Lapse of restricted shares

     10,000         —           —           —           —           —          —          —          —     

Options exercised

     41,112         1         —           —           23         —          —          —          24   

Tax benefit related to stock options exercised

     —           —           —           —           52         —          —          —          52   

Net income

     —           —           —           —           —           5,618        —          —          5,618   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2011

     21,051,305         210         5,553,696         56         231,972         4,816        (34,006     —          203,048   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

      

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ (8,263   $ 1,976      $ 6,359   

Adjustments to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Non-cash stock-based compensation

     588        1,437        950   

Excess tax benefit from stock options exercised

     —          (338     (52

Depreciation and amortization

     15,120        14,588        14,971   

Amortization of bond issue costs and bank loan fees

     1,400        1,639        1,556   

Amortization and accretion of financing items

     21        189        186   

Provision for bad debts

     4,881        2,198        2,069   

Deferred income taxes

     (3,161     2,387        5,404   

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

     781        —          —     

Cost of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

     1,111        —          —     

Impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill

     27,409        —          —     

Impairment of goodwill

     587        —          —     

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

     1,676        255        (4,153

Gain on bargain purchase

     (1,634     —          —     

Loss on early retirement of debt

     1,050        1,832        2,169   

Non-cash interest charges related to interest rate swaps

     1,841        —          —     

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

      

Accounts receivable

     (3,618     (4,407     (633

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     (430     (175     (81

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

     643        710        980   

Deferred revenue

     127        849        (616

Other liabilities

     (401     (446     2,601   

Income taxes payable

     (260     123        (5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by continuing operating activities

     39,468        22,817        31,705   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

      

Capital expenditures

     (3,731     (7,819     (7,522

Deposits on radio station acquisitions and equipment

     2,725        (193     248   

Purchases of broadcast assets and radio stations

     (3,745     (3,090     (3,151

Purchases of Internet businesses and assets

     —          (4,470     (6,000

Proceeds from the disposal of assets

     353        44        12,750   

Deposit received on pending sale of broadcast business

     —          1,000        —     

Proceeds from eminent domain

     —          996        —     

Net cash outflows from related party residential purchase

     —          (155     —     

Reimbursement of tower relocation costs

     1,742        —          —     

Other

     (195     (90     (826
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations

     (2,851     (13,777     (4,501
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

      

Payments of costs related to bank credit facilities

     (2,850     (319     (597

Payments of bond issue costs

     (7,163     (681     (43

Payments of bond premium in connection with early redemption

     —          (900     (1,044

Payments to terminate interest rate swap agreements

     (8,679     —          —     

Payments to redeem 73/4% Notes

     (89,945     —          —     

Payments to redeem 95/8% Notes

     —          (30,000     (35,000

Proceeds from issuance 95/8% Notes, net of original issue discount

     298,095        —          —     

Proceeds from borrowings under credit facilities

     15,000        54,000        108,400   

Payments under credit facilities

     (232,468     (34,000     (112,400

Proceeds from Affiliate Lines of Credit

     —          —          9,000   

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     —          338        24   

Excess tax benefit from stock options exercised

     —          338        52   

Payment of cash dividend on common stock

     —          (4,840     —     

See accompanying notes

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

(Dollars in thousands)

 

      Year Ended December 31,  
      2009     2010     2011  

Payments on capital lease obligations and seller financed note

     (1,371     (86     (116

Restricted cash

     (100     —          (10

Book overdraft

     —          —          3,650   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in financing activities

     (29,481     (16,150     (28,084
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

      

Operating cash flows

     (83     (262     (625

Investing cash flows

     —          (745     744   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total cash inflows (outflows) from discontinued operations

     (83     (1,007     119   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     7,053        (8,117     (761

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     1,892        8,945        828   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 8,945      $ 828      $ 67   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

      

Cash paid during the period for:

      

Interest

     14,200        29,668        26,053   

Income taxes

     314        295        263   

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

      

Trade revenue

     5,076        4,773        5,352   

Trade expense

     4,585        4,514        4,680   

Note receivable acquired in exchange for radio station

     —          —          1,000   

Assets acquired under capital leases

     —          238        25   

See accompanying notes

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Salem Communications Corporation (“Salem” “we” or the “company”) include the company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Description of Business

Salem is a domestic multi-media company with integrated business operations covering radio broadcasting, publishing and the Internet. Our programming is intended for audiences interested in Christian and conservative opinion content and complementary programming. Our primary business is the ownership and operation of radio stations in large metropolitan markets. Upon the close of all announced transactions, we will own and/or operate 96 radio stations across the United States. We also own and operate Salem Radio Network® (“SRN”), SRN News Network (“SNN”), Salem Music Network (“SMN”), Solid Gospel Network (“SGN”), Salem Media Representatives (“SMR”) and Vista Media Representatives (“VMR”). SRN, SNN, SMN and SGN are radio networks that produce and distribute programming, such as talk, news and music segments to radio stations throughout the United States, including Salem owned and operated stations. SMR and VMR sell commercial airtime to national advertisers on radio stations and networks that we own, as well as on independent radio station affiliates.

We also operate Salem Web Network™ (“SWN”), our Internet businesses that provide Christian and conservative-themed content, audio and video streaming, and other resources on the web. SWN’s Internet portals include OnePlace.com, Christianity.com, Crosswalk.com, BibleStudyTools.com, GodTube.com, Townhall.com®, HotAir.com, WorshipHouse Media.com and Jesus.org . SWN’s content is accessible through our radio station websites that feature content of interest to local listeners throughout the United States. SWN operates these Salem radio station websites as well as Salem Consumer Products, a website offering books, DVD’s and editorial content developed by many of our on-air personalities that are available for purchase. The revenues generated from this segment are reported as Internet revenue on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

We also operate Salem Publishing™, that produces and distributes Christian and conservative opinion print magazines. Salem Publishing includes Xulon Press™, a print-on-demand self-publishing service for Christian authors. The revenues generated from this segment are reported as publishing revenue on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid debt instruments, purchased with an initial maturity of three-months or less, to be cash equivalents. The carrying value of our cash equivalents approximated fair value at each balance sheet date.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash includes amounts that are contractually restricted in connection with a security agreement between the company and Traveler’s Insurance.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. An analysis is performed by applying various percentages based on the age of the receivable and other subjective and historical analysis. A considerable amount of judgment is required in assessing the likelihood of ultimate realization of these receivables including the current creditworthiness of each customer. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

 

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Revenue Recognition

Revenues are recognized when pervasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or the service has been rendered, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable and collection of the arrangement fee is reasonably assured.

Revenues from radio programs and commercial advertising are recognized when the program or advertisement is broadcast. Revenue is reported net of agency commissions, which are calculated based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing. Our customers principally include not-for-profit charitable organizations and commercial advertisers. Revenue from the sale of products and services are recognized when the products are shipped and the services are rendered. Revenues from the sale of advertising in our magazines are recognized upon publication. Revenue from the sale of subscriptions to our publications is recognized over the life of the subscription. Revenue from book sales are recorded when shipment occurs.

Multiple-Deliverables

We may enter bundled advertising agreements that include spot advertisements on our radio stations, Internet banner placements, print magazine advertisements and booth space at specific events or some combination thereof. The multiple deliverables contained in each agreement are accounted for separately over their respective delivery period provided that they are separate units of accounting. The selling price used for each deliverable is based on vendor specific objective evidence if available or estimated selling price if vendor specific objective evidence is not available. Objective evidence of fair value includes the price charged for each element when it is sold separately. The estimated selling price is the price that we would transact if the deliverable were sold regularly on a standalone basis. Arrangement consideration is allocated at the inception of each arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method. The relative selling price method allocates any discount in the arrangement proportionally to each deliverable on the basis of each deliverable’s selling price. The adoption of ASU No. 2009-13 did not change the units of accounting, how we allocate consideration to various units of accounting, or the timing of revenue recognition.

Barter Transactions

We may provide advertising time in exchange for certain products, supplies and services. The terms of the exchanges generally permit for the preemption of such broadcast time in favor of advertisers who purchase time on regular terms. We include the value of such exchanges in both net broadcasting revenues and broadcast operating expenses. The value recorded for barter revenues is based upon management’s estimate of the fair value of the products, supplies and services received.

Advertising time that our radio stations exchange for goods and or services is recorded as barter revenue when the advertisement is broadcast at an amount equal to our estimate fair value of what was received. The value of the goods and services received in such barter transactions is charged to expense when used. Barter advertising revenue included in broadcast revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 was approximately $5.0 million, $4.6 million and $5.2 million, respectively, and barter expenses were approximately the same as barter revenue for each period.

Advertising by our Internet businesses exchanged for goods and or services are recognized as the advertisements are delivered at an amount equal to the estimated fair value of the goods or services received. The value of the goods and services received in such barter transactions is charged to expense when used. Barter advertising revenue included in Internet revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 was approximately $72,000, $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, and barter expenses were approximately the same as barter revenue for each period.

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation

The company has one employee stock compensation plan, described more fully in “Note 11. Stock Option Plan.” We account for stock-based compensation in accordance with the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 718 “Compensation—Stock Compensation.” We record equity awards under the fair value method with share-based compensation measured at the fair value of the award as of the grant date. The exercise price for options is equal to the closing market price of Salem Communications common stock on the date of grant.

We use the straight-line attribution method to recognize share-based compensation costs over the service period of the award. Upon exercise, cancellation, forfeiture, or expiration of stock options, or upon vesting or forfeiture of restricted stock awards, deferred tax assets for options and restricted stock awards with multiple vesting dates are eliminated for each vesting period on a first-in, first-out basis as if each vesting period was a separate award. To calculate the excess tax benefits available as of the date of adoption for use in offsetting future tax shortfalls, we followed the alternative transition method discussed in the FASB ASC Topic 718.

 

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Accounting for Acquisitions and Upgrades of Radio Station and Network Assets

A majority of our radio station acquisitions have consisted primarily of the FCC licenses to broadcast in a particular market. We often do not acquire the existing format, or we change the format upon acquisition when we find it beneficial. As a result, a substantial portion of the purchase price for the assets of a radio station is allocated to the broadcast license. It is our policy generally to retain third-party appraisers to value radio stations, networks, Internet or publishing properties. The allocations assigned to acquired broadcast licenses and other assets are subjective by their nature and require our careful consideration and judgment. We believe the allocations represent appropriate estimates of the fair value of the assets acquired. As part of the valuation and appraisal process, the third-party appraisers prepare reports that assign values to the various asset categories in our financial statements. Our management reviews these reports and determines the reasonableness of the assigned values used to record the acquisition at the close of the transaction.

We undertake projects from time to time to upgrade our radio station technical facilities and/or FCC broadcast licenses. Our policy is to capitalize costs incurred up to the point where the project is complete, at which time we transfer the costs to the appropriate fixed asset and/or intangible asset categories. When the completion of a project is contingent upon FCC or other regulatory approval, we assess the probable future benefit of the asset at the time that it is recorded and monitor it through the FCC or other regulatory approval process. In the event the required approval is not considered probable or the project is abandoned, we write-off the capitalized costs of the project.

Accounting for Discontinued Operations

We regularly review underperforming assets to determine if a sale might be a better way to monetize the assets. When a station, group of stations, or other asset groups are considered for sale, we review the transaction to determine if or when the entity qualifies as a discontinued operation in accordance with the criteria of FASB ASC Topic 205-20 “Discontinued Operations.” This pronouncement specifies that the operations and cash flow of the entity disposed of, or to be sold, have or will be eliminated from the ongoing operations as a result of the disposal and that we will not have significant continuing involvement in the operations after the disposal transaction. For our radio stations, we define a cluster as a group of radio stations operating in the same geographic market, sharing the same building and equipment and managed by a single general manager. The cluster level is the lowest level for which discrete financial information and cash flows are available and the level reviewed by management to analyze operating results. General Managers are compensated based on the results of their cluster as a whole, not the results of any individual radio stations. We have determined that a radio market qualifies for a discontinued operation when management, having the authority to approve the action, commits to a plan to sell the asset (disposal group), the sale is probable, and the sale will result in the exit of a particular geographic market.

Based on operating results that did not meet expectations, we ceased operating Samaritan Fundraising as of December 31, 2011. Samaritan Fundraising, previously included in our Internet operations, was a web-based fundraising products company that operated from a single facility in Fairfax, VA, under the control of one general manager. As a result of our decision to cease operations, the cash flows associated with this entity will cease and we will have no continuing involvement in the operations of the entity. We have reported the operating results and net assets of this entity as a discontinued operation for all periods presented.

The markets and entities that we have accounted for as a discontinued operation are explained in more fully in “Note 3 – Significant Transactions.”

 

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Accounting for Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation. Cost represents the historical cost of acquiring the asset, including the costs necessarily incurred to bring it to the condition and location necessary for its intended use. For assets constructed for our own use, such as towers and building that are discrete projects for which costs are separately accumulated and for which construction takes considerable time, we record capitalized interest. The amount capitalized is the cost that could have been avoided had the asset not been constructed and is based on the average accumulated expenditures incurred over the capitalization period at the weighted average rate applicable to our outstanding variable rate debt. We capitalized interest of $26,000 and $0.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense as incurred. Capital improvements are capitalized when they extend the life of the asset or enhance the quality or ability of the asset to benefit operations. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives as follows:

 

Category

   Life
Buildings    40 years
Office furnishings and equipment    5-10 years
Antennae, towers and transmitting equipment    20 years
Studio and Production equipment    10 years
Computer software and website development costs    3 years
Record and tape libraries    5 years
Automobiles    5 years
Leasehold improvements    Lesser of 15 years or life of lease

The carrying value of property, plant and equipment is evaluated periodically in relation to the operating performance and anticipated future cash flows of the underlying radio stations and businesses for indicators of impairment. When indicators of impairment are present and the cash flows estimated to be generated from these assets is less than the carrying value of these assets, an adjustment to reduce the carrying value to the fair market value of the assets is recorded, if necessary. No adjustments to the carrying amounts of property, plant and equipment were made during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011.

Accounting for Internally Developed Software and Website Development Costs

We capitalize costs incurred during the application development stage related to the development of internal-use software as specified in FASB ASC Topic 350-40 “Internal-Use Software.” Capitalized costs are generally amortized over the estimated useful life of three years. Costs incurred related to the conceptual design and maintenance of internal-use software are expensed as incurred. Website development activities include planning, design and development of graphics and content for new websites and operation of existing sites. Costs incurred that involve providing additional functions and features to the website are capitalized. Costs associated with website planning, maintenance, content development and training are expensed as incurred. Capitalized costs are generally amortized over the estimated useful life of three years. We capitalized $1.2 million, $2.7 million and $2.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, related to internally developed software and website development costs. Amortization expense of amounts capitalized was $1.3 million, $1.4 million and $1.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

Accounting for Advertising and Promotional Cost

Costs of media advertising and associated production costs are expensed as incurred and amounted to approximately $6.0 million, $8.6 million and $10.3 million for each of years ending December 31, 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively.

Accounting for Amortizable Intangible Assets

Intangible assets are recorded at cost less accumulated amortization. Typically, intangible assets are acquired in conjunction with the acquisition of radio stations, Internet businesses and publishing entities. These intangibles are amortized using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:

 

Category

   Life
Customer lists and contracts    Lesser of 5 years or life of contract
Favorable and assigned leases    Life of the lease
Domain and brand names    5 years
Internally developed software    3 to 5 years
Customer relationships    1 to 3 years
Other amortizable intangible assets    5 to 10 years

The carrying value of our amortizable intangible assets are evaluated periodically in relation to the operating performance and anticipated future cash flows of the underlying radio stations and businesses for indicators of impairment. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 360 “Property, Plant and Equipment,” when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated from these assets are less than the carrying amounts of these assets, an adjustment to reduce the carrying value to the fair market value of these assets is recorded, if necessary. No adjustments to the carrying amounts of our amortizable intangible assets were necessary during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 or 2011.

 

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Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Approximately 70% of our total assets as of December 31, 2011, consist of indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as broadcast licenses, goodwill and mastheads, the value of which depends significantly upon the operating results of our businesses. In the case of our radio stations, we would not be able to operate the properties without the related FCC license for each property. Broadcast licenses are renewed with the FCC every eight years for a nominal cost that is expensed as incurred. We continually monitor our stations’ compliance with the various regulatory requirements. Historically, all of our broadcast licenses have been renewed at the end of their respective periods, and we expect that all broadcast licenses will continue to be renewed in the future. Accordingly, we consider our broadcast licenses to be indefinite-lived intangible assets in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) Topic 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other.” Broadcast licenses account for approximately 94% of our indefinite-lived intangible assets. Goodwill and magazine mastheads account for the remaining 6%. We do not amortize goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets, but rather test for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired.

We complete our annual impairment tests in the fourth quarter of each year. We believe that our estimate of the value of our broadcast licenses, mastheads, and goodwill is a critical accounting estimate as the value is significant in relation to our total assets, and our estimates incorporate variables and assumptions that are based on past experiences and judgment about future operating performance of our markets and business segments. The fair value measurements for our indefinite-lived intangible assets use significant unobservable inputs that reflect our own assumptions about the estimates that market participants would use in measuring fair value including assumptions about risk. The unobservable inputs are defined in FASB ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” as Level 3 inputs discussed in detail in Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Please refer to “Note 2 – Impairment of Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets” for a further discussion of our testing plan and impairments recognized.

Gain or Loss on Disposal of Assets

We record gains or losses on the disposal of assets equal to the proceeds, if any, compared to the net book value. Exchange transactions are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 845 “Non-Monetary Transactions.” For the year ended December 31, 2011, we recorded a gain on disposal of assets of $4.2 million that includes a $2.4 million pre-tax gain on the sale of KKMO-AM in Seattle, Washington and a $2.1 million pre-tax gain on the sale of KXMX-AM in Los Angeles, California, offset by various fixed asset and equipment disposals. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we recorded a loss on disposal of assets of $0.3 million which includes a $0.2 million pre-tax loss pending the sale of WAMD-AM, Aberdeen, Maryland, that closed on March 1, 2011, a $0.2 million loss on a related party real estate transaction and $0.2 million of losses related to various other fixed assets and equipment disposals offset by a $0.3 million pre-tax gain associated with the seizure of our property by the Dallas County School District. For the year ended December 31, 2009, we recorded a loss on disposal of assets of $1.7 million that included the sale of radio station KPXI-FM, Tyler-Longview, Texas for $0.4 million resulting in a pre-tax loss of $1.6 million.

Leases

We lease various facilities including broadcast tower and transmitter sites. When we enter a lease agreement, we review the terms to determine the appropriate classification of the lease as a capital lease or operating lease based on the factors listed in FASB ASC Topic 840 “Leases.” Our current lease terms generally range from one to twenty-five years with rent expense recorded on a straight-line basis for financial reporting purposes. We also sublease towers that we own under various agreements with other broadcasters. Subleases generally cover a sixty-year term, over which time we recognize rental income on a straight-line basis. Deferred rent revenue was $4.8 million and $4.7 million at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

Leasehold Improvements

We may elect to construct or otherwise invest in leasehold improvements to properties. We capitalize the cost of the improvements that are then amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the improvement or the remaining lease term.

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred financing costs consist of bond issue costs and bank loan fees. Bond issue costs represent costs incurred in conjunction with the issuance of the 95/ 8% Senior Secured Second Lien Notes on December 1, 2009 (“95/8% Notes”). The costs are being amortized over the term of the 95/ 8% Notes as an adjustment to interest expense. Bank loan fees represent costs incurred with the new

 

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Senior Credit Facility, which is a revolving credit facility (“Revolver”) entered on December 1, 2009. The costs are being amortized over the three-year term of the Revolver as an adjustment to interest expense. During the year ended December 31, 2010, approximately $0.7 million of bond issue costs were written off in conjunction with the early redemption of $30.0 million of the 95/8% Notes. During the year ended December 31, 2011, approximately $0.1 million of bond issue costs were written off upon the calling and retirement of the 95/8% Notes. During the year ended December 31, 2009, approximately $0.1 million of bond issues costs were written off upon the calling and retirement of the 7  3/4% Notes. Also during the year ended December 31, 2009, bank loan fees associated with our prior credit facility of $1.1 million were written-off. Deferred financing costs consist of the following:

 

      As of December 31, 2010      As of December 31, 2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Bond issue costs

   $ 6,084       $ 4,219   

Bank loan fees

     1,265         1,270   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 7,349       $ 5,489   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Partial Self-Insurance on Employee Health Plan

We provide health insurance benefits to eligible employees under a self-insured plan whereby the company pays actual medical claims subject to certain stop loss limits. We record self-insurance liabilities based on actual claims filed and an estimate of those claims incurred but not reported. Any projection of losses concerning our liability is subject to a high degree of variability. Among the causes of this variability are unpredictable external factors such as future inflation rates, changes in severity, benefit level changes, medical costs and claim settlement patterns. Should the actual amount of claims increase or decrease beyond what was anticipated we may need to adjust our future reserves. Our self-insurance liability was $0.6 million at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

Local Programming and Marketing Agreement Fees

We enter into Local Marketing Agreement (“LMA”) or Time Brokerage Agreements (“TBA”) in connection with acquisitions of radio stations that are pending FCC regulatory approval of transfer of the broadcast licenses. Under the terms of these agreements, we make specified periodic payments to the owner in exchange for the right to program and sell advertising for a specified portion of the station’s inventory of broadcast time. We record revenues and expenses associated with the portion of the station’s inventory of broadcast time it manages. Nevertheless, as the holder of the FCC license, the owner-operator retains control and responsibility for the operation of the station, including responsibility over all programming broadcast on the station. We also enter into LMA’s in connection with dispositions of radio stations. In such cases, we may receive periodic payments in exchange for allowing the buyer to program and sell advertising for a portion of the station’s inventory of broadcast time.

Derivative Instruments

We are exposed to fluctuations in interest rates. We actively monitor these fluctuations and use derivative instruments from time to time to manage the related risk. In accordance with our risk management strategy, we use derivative instruments only for the purpose of managing risk associated with an asset, liability, committed transaction, or probable forecasted transaction that is identified by management. Our use of derivative instruments may result in short-term gains or losses that may increase the volatility of our earnings.

Under FASB ASC Topic 815 “Derivatives and Hedging” the effective portion of the gain or loss on a derivative instrument designated and qualifying as a cash flow hedging instrument shall be reported as a component of other comprehensive income (outside earnings) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument, if any, shall be recognized currently in earnings. Please refer to “Note 7 Derivative Instruments” for a further discussion of our derivative instruments.

Fair Value Accounting

FASB ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” established a single definition of fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and expanded disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. The provision applies to other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. We adopted the fair value provisions for financial assets and financial liabilities effective January 1, 2008. The adoption had a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. We adopted fair value provisions for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities effective January 1, 2009. This includes applying the fair value concept to (i) nonfinancial assets and liabilities initially measured at fair value in business combinations; (ii) reporting units or nonfinancial assets and liabilities measured at fair value in conjunction with goodwill impairment

 

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testing; (iii) other nonfinancial assets measured at fair value in conjunction with impairment assessments; and (iv) asset retirement obligations initially measured at fair value. The adoption of the fair value provisions of FASB ASC Topic 820 to nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

The fair value provisions include guidance on how to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities in the current economic environment and reemphasizes that the objective of a fair value measurement remains an exit price. If we were to conclude that there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity of the asset or liability in relation to normal market activities, quoted market values may not be representative of fair value and we may conclude that a change in valuation technique or the use of multiple valuation techniques may be appropriate.

The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is affected by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new to the market, and the characteristics specific to the transaction. Financial instruments with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial instruments rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less (or no) pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value. Please refer to “Note 8 Fair Value Accounting” for a further discussion.

Long-term Debt and Debt Covenant Compliance

Our classification of borrowings under our Revolver as long-term debt on our balance sheet is based on our assessment that, under the terms of our Credit Agreement and after considering our projected operating results and cash flows for the coming year, no principal payments are required to be made. These projections are estimates dependent upon a number of factors including developments in the markets in which we are operating in and economic and political factors, among other factors. Accordingly, these projections are inherently uncertain and our actual results could differ from these estimates.

Income taxes and uncertain tax positions

We account for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes.” Upon the adoption of the provisions on January 1, 2007, we had $3.0 million in liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, including $0.9 million recognized under FASB ASC Topic 450 “Contingencies” and carried forward from prior years and $2.1 million recognized upon adoption of the tax provision changes as a reduction to retained earnings. Included in the $2.1 million accrual was $0.1 million in related interest, net of federal income tax benefits. During 2010, we recognized a net decrease of $0.1 million in liabilities and at December 31, 2010, had $3.7 million in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. Included in this liability amount were $0.1 million accrued for the related interest, net of federal income tax benefits, and $0.05 million for the related penalty recorded in income tax expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. During 2011, we recognized a net increase of $0.2 million in liabilities and at December 31, 2011, had $3.9 million in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. Included in this liability amount were $0.1 million accrued for the related interest, net of federal income tax benefits and $0.02 million for the related penalties recorded in income tax expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

A summary of the changes in the gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 

      December 31, 2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance at January 1, 2011

   $ 3,654   

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

     326   

Additions based on tax positions related to prior years

     85   

Reductions related to tax positions of prior years

     —     

Decrease due to statute expirations

     (239

Related interest and penalties, net of federal tax benefits

     26   
  

 

 

 

Balance as of December 31, 2011

   $ 3,852   
  

 

 

 

Valuation allowance (deferred taxes)

For financial reporting purposes, we recorded a valuation allowance of $2.8 million as of December 31, 2011 to offset a portion of the deferred tax assets related to the state net operating loss carryforwards. Management regularly reviews our financial forecasts in an effort to determine our ability to utilize the net operating loss carryforwards for tax purposes. Accordingly, the valuation allowance is adjusted periodically based on management’s estimate of the benefit the company will receive from such carryforwards.

 

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Comprehensive Loss

We recognized the gains and losses on the effective portion of our interest rate swap derivative instruments that were designated as, and qualified as, cash flow hedges as a component of Other Comprehensive Loss as defined by FASB ASC Topic 220 “Comprehensive Income.” As of October 1, 2008, we elected a one-month reset on our then outstanding Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As our interest rate swap agreements contained a three-month reset period, the swaps were no longer effective and no longer qualified as cash flow hedges. As a result, changes in the fair value of our then existing swaps were reported in current period income rather than as a component of other comprehensive income.

Basic and Diluted Net Earnings Per Share

Basic net earnings per share has been computed using the weighted average number of Class A and Class B shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of Class A and Class B common stock outstanding during the period plus the dilutive effects of stock options.

Options to purchase 1,341,875, 1,151,998, and 1,640,392 shares of Class A common stock and unvested restricted stock shares of 5,000, 10,000 and zero were outstanding at December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011. Diluted weighted average shares outstanding exclude outstanding stock options whose exercise price is in excess of the average price of the company’s stock price. These options are excluded from the respective computations of diluted net income or loss per share because their effect would be anti-dilutive. There were no dilutive shares for the year ended December 31, 2009. The number of anti-dilutive shares as of December 31, 2010 and 2011 was 360,164 and 183,384, respectively.

The following table sets forth the shares used to compute basic and diluted net earnings per share for the periods indicated:

 

      Year Ended December 31,  
      2009      2010      2011  

Weighted average shares

     23,803,864         24,086,829         24,475,102   

Effect of dilutive securities - stock options

     —           566,636         208,542   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average shares adjusted for dilutive securities

     23,803,864         24,653,465         24,683,644   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segments

We have historically had one reportable operating segment—radio broadcasting. The radio-broadcasting segment operates radio stations throughout the United States, various radio networks and our National sales group. Beginning with the first quarter of 2011, we separated our non-broadcast segment into two operating segments, Internet and Publishing. We believe that this information regarding our non-broadcast segment is useful to readers of our financial statements. Additionally, due to growth within our Internet operations, including the acquisition of WorshipHouse Media on March 28, 2011, our Internet segment qualifies for disclosure as a reportable segment. All prior periods are updated to reflect the separation of these non-broadcast segments. Our Internet segment operates all of our websites and our consumer product sales. Our publishing segment operates our print magazine and Xulon Press, a print-on-demand book publisher. We present our segment operating results in Note 16.

Concentrations of Business Risks

We derive a substantial part of our total revenues from the sale of advertising. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, 43.1%, 43.3% and 43.0% of our total revenues, respectively, were generated from the sale of broadcast advertising. We are particularly dependent on revenue from stations in the Los Angeles and Dallas markets, which generated 16.9% and 17.2%, respectively, of our total net advertising revenues for the year ended December 31, 2009, 15.8%, and 18.8%, respectively, of our total net advertising revenues for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 15.2% and 23.2% for the year ended December 31, 2011. Because substantial portions of our revenues are derived from local advertisers in these key markets, our ability to generate revenues in those markets could be adversely affected by local or regional economic downturns.

Concentrations of Credit Risks

Our credit risk is spread across a large number of customers, none of which account for a significant volume of revenue or outstanding receivables. We do not normally require collateral on credit sales; however, credit histories are reviewed before extending substantial credit to any customer. We establish an allowance for doubtful accounts based on customers’ payment history and perceived credit risks. Bad debt expense has been within management’s expectations.

 

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Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant areas for which management uses estimates include, but are not limited to: (1) asset impairments, including broadcasting licenses and goodwill; (2) income tax valuation allowances; (3) uncertain tax positions; (4) allowance for doubtful accounts; (5) self-insurance reserves; (6) fair value of equity awards; (7) estimated lives for tangible and intangible assets; (8) fair value measurements; and (9) contingency reserves. These estimates require the use of judgment as future events and the effect of these events cannot be predicted with certainty. The estimates will change as new events occur, as more experience is acquired and as more information is obtained. We evaluate and update our assumptions and estimates on an ongoing basis and we may consult outside experts to assist as considered necessary.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year financial statements to conform to the current year presentation. These reclassifications include the separation of our non-broadcast segment into two operating segments, Internet and Publishing. We believe that this information regarding our non-broadcast segments is useful to readers of our financial statements. Additionally, due to growth within our Internet operations, including the acquisition of WorshipHouse Media as discussed in Note 3, our Internet segment qualifies for disclosure as a reportable segment. All prior periods are updated to reflect the separation of these non-broadcast segments. These reclassifications also include the accounting for discontinued operations as described in more detail in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (“ASU No. 2011-11”). This ASU requires us to disclose both net and gross information about assets and liabilities that have been offset, if any, and the related arrangements. The disclosures under this new guidance are required to be provided retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. We are required to apply the amendments for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. The adoption of ASU No. 2011-11 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-08, “Testing Goodwill for Impairment” (“ASU No. 2011-08”), which is intended to simplify goodwill impairment testing. Entities will be allowed to perform a qualitative assessment on goodwill impairment to determine whether a quantitative assessment is necessary. The revised standard is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of ASC No. 2011-08 will not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, “Presentation of Comprehensive Income” (“ASU No. 2011-05”), which is an update to ASC Topic 220, “Comprehensive Income”, eliminating the option to present other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of shareholders’ equity. We can elect to present the items of net income and other comprehensive income in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate, but consecutive, statements. Under either method the statement would need to be presented with equal prominence as the other primary financial statements. The amended guidance, which must be applied retroactively, is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011, with earlier adoption permitted. The adoption of ASC No. 2011-05 will not impact our financial position, results of operations, cash flows, or presentation thereof.

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs” (“ASU No. 2011-04”), which amends ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement”. ASU No. 2011-04 does not extend the use of fair value accounting, but provides guidance on how it should be applied where its use is already required or permitted by other standards within U.S. GAAP or International Financial Reporting Standards. ASU No. 2011-14 changes the wording used to describe many requirements in U.S. GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. Additionally, ASU No. 2011-14 clarifies the FASB’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurements. ASU No. 2011-04 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, and is applied prospectively. We will adopt this guidance at the beginning of our first quarter of fiscal year 2012. We not expect the adoption of ASU No. 2011-04 to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-13, “Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements” (“ASU No. 2009-13”). ASU No. 2009-13 provides guidance for arrangements with multiple deliverables. Specifically, the updated accounting standard requires an entity to allocate arrangement consideration at the inception of an arrangement to all of its deliverables based on their relative selling prices. ASU No. 2009-13 also eliminates the residual method of allocation and requires use of the relative-selling-price method in all circumstances in which an entity recognizes revenue for an arrangement with multiple deliverables. ASU No. 2009-13 is effective as of January 2011 with early adoption permitted. The adoption of ASU No. 2009-13 did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

NOTE 2. IMPAIRMENT OF GOODWILL AND OTHER INDEFINITE-LIVED INTANGIBLE ASSETS

We account for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) Topic 350 “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other.” We do not amortize goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets, but rather test for impairment annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired. Approximately 70% of our total assets as of December 31, 2011, consist of indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as broadcast licenses, goodwill and mastheads, the value of which depends significantly upon the operating results of our businesses. In the case of our radio stations, we would not be able to operate the properties without the related FCC license for each property. Broadcast licenses are renewed with the FCC every eight years for a nominal cost that is expensed as incurred. We continually monitor our stations’ compliance with the various regulatory requirements. Historically, all of our broadcast licenses are renewed at the end of their respective periods, and we expect that all broadcast licenses will continue to be renewed in the future. Accordingly, we consider our broadcast licenses to be indefinite-lived intangible assets in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) Topic 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other.” Broadcast licenses account for approximately 94% of our indefinite-lived intangible assets. Goodwill and magazine mastheads account for the remaining 6%. We do not amortize goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets, but rather test for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired.

We complete our annual impairment tests in the fourth quarter of each year. Based on deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining radio industry revenues throughout 2009 and a weakening in prevailing radio station transaction multiples, we tested our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment in the second, third and fourth quarters of 2009. During 2010 and 2011, we did not have indications of impairment at interim dates. We performed our annual tests in the fourth quarter of 2010 and 2011 that did not result in impairment charges.

We believe that our estimate of the value of our broadcast licenses, mastheads, and goodwill is a critical accounting estimate as the value is significant in relation to our total assets, and our estimates incorporate variables and assumptions that are based on past experiences and judgment about future operating performance of our markets and business segments. The fair value measurements for our indefinite-lived intangible assets use significant unobservable inputs that reflect our own assumptions about the estimates that market participants would use in measuring fair value including assumptions about risk. The unobservable inputs are defined in FASB ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” as Level 3 inputs discussed in detail in Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Broadcast licenses

The unit of accounting used to test broadcast licenses is the cluster level, which we define as a group of radio stations operating in the same geographic market, sharing the same building and equipment and managed by a single general manager. The cluster level is the lowest level for which discrete financial information and cash flows are available and the level reviewed by management to analyze operating results. We apply the start-up income approach, which measures the expected future economic benefits that the broadcast licenses provide and discounts these future benefits using a discounted cash flow analysis. The discounted cash flow analysis assumes that the broadcast licenses hypothetical start-up stations and the values yielded by the discounted cash flow analysis represent the portion of the stations value attributable solely to the broadcast license. The discounted cash flow model incorporates variables such as projected revenues, operating profit margins, forecasted growth rates, estimated start-up costs, losses expected to be incurred in the early years, competition within the market, the effective tax rate, future terminal values and the risk-adjusted discount rate. Impairment losses are recognized if the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value as determined by the start-up income approach.

 

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The key estimates and assumptions used in the start-up income valuation of our broadcast segment for each testing period are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Broadcast Licenses

   2009    2010    2011

Discount rate

   9.5%    9.0%    9.0%

Operating profit margin ranges

   0.3% - 36.5%    3.8% - 36.3%    3.8% - 38.0%

Long-term market revenue growth rate ranges

   (3.0%)- 18.7%    0.25% - 3.5%    1.0% - 4.0%

The tables below present the percentage within a range by which the estimated fair value exceeded the carrying value of our broadcasting licenses for each of our clusters.

 

      Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2011
Percentage Range By Which Fair Value Exceeds Carrying Value
 
      < 10%      >10% to 25%      >25% to 75%      > than 75%  

Number of market clusters

     2         11         7         10   

Broadcast license carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 78,951       $ 183,696       $ 34,055       $ 74,718   
      Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2010
Percentage Range By Which Fair Value Exceeds Carrying Value
 
      < 10%      >10% to 25%      >25% to 75%      > than 75%  

Number of market clusters

     12         4         6         8   

Broadcast license carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 230,583       $ 47,331       $ 68,336       $ 32,112   
      Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2009
Percentage Range By Which Fair Value Exceeds Carrying Value
 
      < 10%      >10% to 25%      >25% to 75%      > than 75%  

Number of market clusters

     12         4         5         9   

Broadcast license carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 234,525       $ 47,196       $ 58,723       $ 34,873   

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2010 and 2011. For the annual testing period ending December 31, 2009, we recognized a pre-tax impairment charge of $0.2 million associated with the value of broadcast licenses in the Detroit market.

Based on then deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining radio industry revenues throughout 2009 and a weakening in prevailing radio station transaction multiples, we tested our broadcast licenses for impairment in the second and third quarters of 2009. We recognized (1) pre-tax impairment charges during our September 30, 2009, interim review and valuation of $14.1 million associated with the value of broadcast licenses in the Cleveland, Atlanta, Detroit and Portland markets; and (2) pre-tax impairment charges recognized during our June 30, 2009 interim review and valuation of $12.1 million associated with the value of broadcast licenses in the Dallas and Portland markets. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven in part by declining revenues at the industry and market levels, declining radio stations transaction multiples and a higher cost of capital. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the broadcast industry and were not unique to the company.

Mastheads

Mastheads consist of the graphic elements that identify our publications to readers and advertisers. These include customized typeset page headers, section headers, and column graphics as well as other name and identity stylized elements within the body of each publication. We test the value of mastheads as a single combined publishing entity as our print magazines operate from one shared facility under one general manager with operating results and cash flows reported on a combined basis for all publications. We engaged Bond & Pecaro, an independent third-party appraisal firm, to perform an income-based approach to determine the fair value of our mastheads. The income approach is based upon an estimated royalty stream that measures a cost savings to the business because it does not have to pay a royalty to use the owned trade name and content. The analysis assumes that the assets are employed by a typical market participant in their highest and best use. Under the income approach, we utilize a discounted cash flow method to calculate the fair value of our mastheads, the key estimates and assumptions to which are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Mastheads

   2009    2010    2011

Discount rate

   9.5%    8.5%    8.5%

Projected revenue growth ranges

   2.5%    2.0% - 2.5%    1.5% - 2.50%

Royalty growth rate

   3.0%    3.0%    3.0%

 

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Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011. The estimated fair value exceeded the carrying value of our mastheads by 3.3% as of December 31, 2011.

Based on then deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining magazine industry revenues throughout 2009, we tested our mastheads for impairment in the second quarter of 2009. For the interim testing period ended June 30, 2009, we recognized an impairment charge of $0.9 million associated with the value of mastheads in our publishing segment. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven by negative revenue growth projections and a reduction in cash flows for magazine operations. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the publishing industry and were not unique to the company.

Goodwill - Broadcast

The unit of accounting used to test broadcast licenses is the cluster level, which we define as a group of radio stations operating in the same geographic market, sharing the same building and equipment and managed by a single general manager. We apply a market approach and an income approach to estimate the fair value of each of our clusters when testing goodwill associated with our broadcast segment for impairment. Eight of our 30 market clusters and our networks have goodwill associated with them as of our annual testing period ending December 31, 2011. Seven of our thirty market clusters and our network had goodwill associated with them for our annual testing periods ending December 31, 2010 and 2009. The first step of our review compares the estimated fair value of each cluster to its carrying value including goodwill. Under the market approach, we apply a multiple of six to each clusters’ station operating income (“SOI”) to calculate the estimated fair value. As radio stations are typically sold on the basis of a multiple of SOI, typically in excess of eight, we believe that a benchmark of six is a conservative measure even in today’s market. Under the income approach, we utilize a discounted cash flow method to calculate the fair value of the accounting unit. The discounted cash flow analysis assumes that the broadcast licenses are hypothetical start-up stations and the values yielded by the discounted cash flow analysis represent the portion of the stations value attributable to the broadcast license.

The key estimates and assumptions used in the start-up income valuation of our broadcast units for each testing period are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Goodwill –Radio clusters

   2009    2010    2011

Discount rate

   9.5%    9.0%    9.0%

Operating profit margin ranges

   0.3% - 36.5%    3.8% - 36.3%    3.8% - 38.0%

Long-term market revenue growth rate ranges

   (3.0%) - 18.7%    0.25% - 3.5%    1.0% - 4.0%

If the carrying amount, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value of the cluster, an indication exists that the amount of goodwill attributed to that cluster may be impaired. When we have indication of impairment, we perform a second step to determine the amount of any impairment. We engaged Bond & Pecaro, an independent third-party appraisal and valuation firm, to determine the enterprise value of five of our clusters and our networks in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation. The enterprise valuation assumes that the subject assets are installed as part of an operating business rather than as a hypothetical start-up. The key estimates and assumptions used for our enterprise valuations are as follows:

 

     December 31, 2011

Enterprise Valuations

   Networks    Radio Clusters

Discount rate

   9.0%    9.0%

Operating profit margin ranges

   (4.5%) - 10.0%    6.8% - 45.4%

Long-term revenue market growth rate ranges

   1.5%    1.5% - 3.5%

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. The estimated fair value of our networks exceeded the carrying value by 101.6%, 98.6% and 93.1% for each of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The table below presents the percentage within a range by which the enterprise value exceeded the carrying value of each of our clusters, including goodwill.

 

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     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2011  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value
Exceeds Carrying Value Including Goodwill
 
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of market clusters

     1         2         3         2   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 9,877       $ 17,487       $ 68,506       $ 5,178   
     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2010  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value
Exceeds Carrying Value Including Goodwill
 
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of market clusters

     2         —           2         3   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 19,502       $ —         $ 66,871       $ 7,295   
     Geographic Clusters as of December 31, 2009  
     Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value
Exceeds Carrying Value Including Goodwill
 
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of market clusters

     1         2         —           4   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 9,782       $ 61,128       $ —         $ 21,556   

Based on than deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining radio industry revenues throughout 2009 and a weakening in prevailing radio station transaction multiples, we tested the goodwill balance in our broadcast segment for impairment in the second quarter of 2009. We recognized pre-tax impairment charges during our June 30, 2009 interim review and valuation of $0.4 million associated with the value of goodwill in the Dallas markets. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven in part by declining revenues at the industry and market levels, declining radio stations transaction multiples and a higher cost of capital. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the broadcast industry and were not unique to the company.

Goodwill – Internet & Publishing

The units of accounting we use to test goodwill in our Internet business include Townhall.com and Salem Web Network. The operating results for Salem Web Network reflect the operating results and cash flows for all of our Internet sites exclusive of Towhnhall.com. We also separate our publishing business into two accounting units. The first publishing accounting unit is the magazine unit, which operates and produces all publications from a stand-alone facility, under one general manager, with operating results and cash flows of all publications reported on a combined basis. The second accounting unit is our book publishing division, Xulon Press, which also operates from a stand-alone facility, under one general manager who is responsible for the separately stated operating results and cash flows. Four of these accounting units have goodwill associated with them as our annual testing period.

We apply a market approach to estimate the fair value of each or our accounting units. Under the market approach, we apply a multiple of six to each accounting units’ operating income to estimate the fair value. We believe that a multiple of six is a conservative benchmark based on actual industry transactions. The first step of our review compares the estimated fair value of each accounting unit to its carrying value including goodwill. If the carrying amount, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value of the unit, an indication exists that the amount of goodwill attributed to that unit may be impaired. When we have indication of impairment, we perform a second step to determine the amount of any impairment. We engaged Bond & Pecaro, an independent third-party appraisal and valuation firm, to determine the enterprise value of one of our accounting units in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation. The enterprise valuation assumes that the subject assets are installed as part of an operating business rather than as a hypothetical start-up. The key estimates and assumptions used for our enterprise valuations are as follows:

 

     December 31,

Enterprise Valuations

   2009    2010    2011

Discount rate

   9.5%    8.5%    13.5%

Operating profit margin ranges

   1.9% - 7.1%    2.0% - 8.4%    18.4% - 22.0%

Long-term revenue growth rate ranges

   2.0%    2.0%    3.0%

 

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The key assumptions in our third-party enterprise valuation varied from the testing period ending December 31, 2011 to the testing period ending December 31, 2010 due to the accounting units for which the enterprise valuations were performed. Due to the nature of the business, publishing varies greatly from our print magazines to our online print-on demand digital book publisher and our Internet businesses.

Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary as of the annual testing periods ending December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. The table below presents the percentage within a range by which the enterprise value exceeded the carrying value of our accounting units, including goodwill.

 

     Internet and Publishing Accounting units as of December 31,  2011
Percentage Range By Which Enterprise Value Exceeds Carrying
Value Including Goodwill
 
     < 10%      >10% to 20%      >20% to 50%      > than 50%  

Number of accounting units

     1         1         1         1   

Enterprise carrying value (in thousands)

   $ 1,123       $ 3,764       $ 22,757       $ (46

Based on than deteriorating macro-economic factors, including declining magazine industry revenue and a reduction in Internet company valuations throughout 2009, we tested the goodwill value in our Internet and publishing accounting units for impairment in the second quarter of 2009. For the interim testing period ended June 30, 2009, we recognized an impairment charge of $0.2 million associated with the value of goodwill in our publishing segment. The impairments recognized during 2009 were driven by negative revenue growth projections and a reduction in cash flows for magazine operations. The impairments were indicative of a trend in the publishing industry and were not unique to the company. Based on our review and analysis we determined that no impairment charges were necessary for goodwill associated with our Internet accounting units for the interim testing period ending June 30, 2009.

We believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets, however, these estimates and assumptions could be materially different from actual results. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by the industry or by us, or if events occur or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets below the amounts reflected on our balance sheet, we may recognize future impairment charges, the amount of which may be material.

NOTE 3. SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTIONS

On December 21, 2011, we completed the acquisition of KTEK-AM in Houston, Texas for $2.6 million, which includes $1.0 million of cash and $1.6 million netted against the unpaid portion of our note receivable. We began operating the station on March 5, 2010, pursuant to a long-term Time Brokerage Agreement (“TBA”). The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results of this entity as of the TBA date. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity as of the closing date. We previously sold the assets of KTEK-AM on March 28, 2008 for $7.8 million, which included $4.5 million in cash and $3.3 million in notes receivable of which we collected $1.8 million. Our 2011 purchase was partially funded by the unpaid portion of the note of $1.5 million.

On December 12, 2011, we redeemed $12.5 million of our 95/ 8% Notes for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $62,000 of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On November 15, 2011, we completed the Second Amendment to our Senior Credit Facility, which is a revolving credit facility (“Revolver”) entered on December 1, 2009, to among other things: (1) extend the maturity date from December 1, 2012 to December 1, 2014 (2) change the interest rate applicable to LIBOR or the Wells Fargo base rate plus a spread to be determined based on our leverage ratio, (3) allow us to borrow and repay unsecured indebtedness provided certain conditions are met and (4) include step-downs related to our leverage ratio covenant. We incurred $0.5 million in fees to complete this amendment, which are being amortized over the remaining term of the credit agreement. The applicable interest rate relating to the amended credit agreement is LIBOR plus a spread of 3.0% per annum or the Base Rate (as defined in the credit agreement) plus a spread of 1.25% per annum, which is adjusted based on our leverage ratio.

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into lines of credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors (the “Affiliate Lenders”). Pursuant to the related agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million,

 

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and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million (together, the “Affiliate Lines of Credit ”). The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit will bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum and (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the Credit Agreement referred to above plus 2% per annum. Interest is payable at the time of any repayment of principal. In addition, outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit must be repaid within three months from the time that such amounts are borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit.

On September 6, 2011, we repurchased $5.0 million of our 95/8% Notes due 2016 for $5.1 million, or at a price equal to 1027/8% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.3 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $26,000 of unamortized discount and $0.1 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On June 1, 2011, we redeemed $17.5 million of our 95/8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.5 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On March 28, 2011, we completed the acquisition of the Internet business, WorshipHouse Media, an on-line church media and video ministry website, for $6.0 million in cash. WorshipHouse Media offers users worship and small group resources, including movie illustrations, song tracks, worship backgrounds, small group video curriculum and worship software, to churches that may face budget, time and in-house talent constraints. The site also includes WorshipHouse Kids, which offers similar products designed to meet the needs of children’s ministry media in the church. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $2.1 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us.

On March 14, 2011, we completed the acquisition of radio station WDDZ-AM, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, for $0.6 million in cash. We began operating the station as WBZS-AM upon the close of the transaction. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. On January 5, 2012, we entered into an APA to sell this radio station for $0.8 million.

On March 1, 2011, we sold radio station WAMD-AM in Aberdeen, Maryland resulting in a pre-tax loss of $0.2 million that was previously recognized upon entering into the agreement in September 2010.

On February 25, 2011, we sold radio station KXMX-AM in Los Angeles, California for $12.0 million, which was comprised of $11.0 million in cash and a $1.0 million promissory note. The $1.0 million promissory note has a three-year term, bearing interest at 7% compounded annually, due on February 25, 2016. The sale resulted in a pre-tax gain of $2.1 million.

On January 6, 2011, we sold radio station KKMO-AM in Seattle, Washington for $2.7 million in cash resulting in a pre-tax gain of $2.4 million.

On January 3, 2011, we began programming radio station KVCE-AM, Highland Park, Texas pursuant to a long-term TBA.

A summary of our business acquisitions for the year ended December 31, 2011, none of which were material to our consolidated financial position as of the respective date of acquisition, is as follows:

 

Acquisition Date

  

Description

   Total Cost  
          (Dollars in thousands)  

December 21, 2011

   KTEK-AM, Alvin Texas    $ 2,601   

March 28, 2011

   WorshipHouse Media      6,000   

March 14, 2011

   WBZS-AM, Pawtucket, Rhode Island      550   
     

 

 

 
      $ 9,151   
     

 

 

 

Under the acquisition method of accounting as specified in FASB ASC Topic 805, the total acquisition consideration is allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the date of the transaction. We obtained an independent third-party appraisal of the estimated fair value of the acquired net assets as of the acquisition date for the transactions noted. Property, plant and equipment are recorded at the estimated fair value and depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives as described in Note 1- Summary of our Significant Accounting Policies. Intangible assets are also recorded at

 

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their estimated fair value and amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives as described in Note 1- Summary of our Significant Accounting Policies. The total acquisition consideration was allocated to the net assets acquired as follows:

 

     Net Broadcast
Assets Acquired
     Net Internet
Assets Acquired
     Net Assets
Acquired
 
                   (Dollars in thousands)  

Asset

        

Property and equipment

   $ 1,018       $ 8       $ 1,026   

Broadcast licenses

     2,130         —           2,130   

Goodwill

     3         2,143         2,146   

Customer lists and contracts

     —           80         80   

Domain and brand names

     —           457         457   

Internally developed software

     —           311         311   

Customer relationships

     —           2,451         2,451   

Other amortizable intangible assets

     —           550         550   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 3,151       $ 6,000       $ 9,151   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Pending Transactions:

On October 17, 2011, we entered an agreement acquire KTNO-AM, Dallas, Texas for $2.2 million. We began programming the station pursuant to a Time Brokerage Agreement with the current owner on November 1, 2011. The transaction closed on January 13, 2012.

Discontinued Operations

In December 2011, we ceased operating Samaritan Fundraising based on operating results that did not meet our expectations. As of December 31, 2011, we have terminated all employees of this entity. The entity was eliminated from our ongoing operations and we will have no ongoing involvement in the operation. The Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations for all periods presented are reclassified to reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as a discontinued operation.

On July 31, 2008, we entered into an asset purchase agreement to sell radio station WRFD-AM in Columbus, Ohio for $4.0 million. As a result of the sale, we were to exit the Columbus, Ohio market. The Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations for all periods presented are reclassified as of the date of the asset purchase agreement to reflect the operating results and net assets of this market as a discontinued operation through December 2009. The sale was expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2009. On December 30, 2009, the buyer of the radio station advised us that they would not be able to meet the terms of the asset purchase agreement. Because of the buyer terminating the agreement, we have reclassified the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations for all periods presented to reflect the operating results and net assets of this market in continuing operations. In January 2010, we collected a $0.2 million termination fee from the buyer pursuant to the asset purchase agreement.

The following table sets forth the components of income (loss) from discontinued operations as reclassified, net of tax, for the years ending:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Net revenues

   $ (3   $ 464      $ 1,950   

Operating expenses

     193        536        2,793   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating loss

   $ (196   $ (72   $ (843

Impairment of assets used in discontinued operations

     —          —          (382

Loss on sale of radio station assets

     (11     —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from discontinued operations

   $ (207   $ (72   $ (1,225

Benefit from income taxes

     (124     (28     (484 )
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

   $ (83   $ (44   $ (741 )
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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A summary of our business acquisitions and asset purchases for the year ended December 31, 2010, none of which were material to our consolidated financial position as of the respective date of acquisition, is as follows:

 

Acquisition Date

  

Description

   Total Cost  
          (Dollars in thousands)  

February 12, 2010

   HotAir.com (business acquisition)    $ 2,000   

June 8, 2010

   GodTube.com (business acquisition)      2,500   

August 3, 2010

   WWRC-AM, Washington, D.C. (business acquisition)      3,090   

September 1, 2010

   Samaritan Fundraising (business acquisition)      800   

Various

  

Purchase of various Internet domain names (asset purchases)

     170   
     

 

 

 
      $ 8,560   
     

 

 

 

Under the acquisition method of accounting as specified in FASB ASC Topic 805, the total acquisition consideration is allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the date of the transaction. We obtained an independent third-party appraisal of the estimated fair value of the acquired net assets as of the acquisition date for the transactions noted. Property, plant and equipment are recorded at the estimated fair value and depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives as described in Note 1- Summary of our Significant Accounting Policies. Intangible assets are also recorded at their estimated fair value and amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives as described in Note 1- Summary of our Significant Accounting Policies. The total acquisition consideration was allocated to the net assets acquired as follows:

 

     Net Broadcast
Assets Acquired
     Net Internet
Assets Acquired
    Net Assets
Acquired
 
                  (Dollars in thousands)  

Asset

       

Property and equipment

   $ 71         88      $ 159   

Broadcast licenses

     2,948         —          2,948   

Goodwill

     4         720        724   

Customer lists and contracts

     —           1,834        1,834   

Domain and brand names

     —           2,097        2,097   

Affiliate agreements

     —           450        450   

Other amortizable intangible assets

     67         281        348   

Liabilities

       

Contingent consideration arrangement

     —           (200     (200
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 3,090         5,270      $ 8,360   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

On December 1, 2010, we redeemed $12.5 million of the 95/8% Notes for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On November 1, 2010, we amended our Revolver to allow us to use borrowings under the Revolver, subject to the “Available Amount” as defined by the terms of the Credit Agreement, to redeem applicable portions of the 95/8% Notes. The calculation of the “Available Amount” also pertains to the payment of dividends when the leverage ratio is above 5.0 to 1. Additionally, we increased the total capacity of the Revolver from $30.0 million to $40.0 million.

On September 28, 2010, we received approximately $1.0 million as compensation for loss of our property rights under an Eminent Domain Petition from the Dallas Independent School District. We reduced the proceeds by the net book value of our property, which was not directly associated with the operations of radio station, KSKY-AM, Dallas, Texas, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $0.3 million. The property rights related to our back-up transmitter site. We do not expect the loss of these property rights to negatively affect our operations.

On September 1, 2010, we acquired Samaritan Fundraising, a web-based fundraising products company, for $0.6 million in cash plus $0.2 million contingent consideration payable in the future based on achieving certain revenue and profit goals as specified in the APA. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $0.3 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us. As discussed above, we ceased operating this entity on December 31, 2011. The Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations for all periods presented are reclassified to reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as a discontinued operation.

 

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On August 3, 2010, we completed the acquisition of WWRC-AM in Washington, D.C. for $3.1 million. We had begun operating the station under a local marketing agreement (“LMA”) effective May 15, 2010. The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results of this entity as of the LMA date. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect the net assets of this entity as of the closing date.

On June 1, 2010, we redeemed $17.5 million of the 95/ 8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.4 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On June 8, 2010, we completed the acquisition of tangle.com and GodTube.com, Christian content and community websites, for $2.5 million. We ceased using the tangle.com name shortly after completing the acquisition having identified all acquired content under the GodTube.com brand. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of these entities as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $0.3 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us.

On February 12, 2010, we completed the acquisition of HotAir.com, a website blog featuring news, analysis and commentary, for $2.0 million. The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Operations reflect the operating results and net assets of this entity as of the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $0.2 million representing the excess value of the business as a result of the integrated business model and services already established that provide future economic benefit to us.

During the year ended December 31, 2009, we completed the following business acquisitions and asset purchases, none of which were material in aggregate or individually to our consolidated financial position as of the date of acquisition:

 

Acquisition Date

  

Description

   Net Broadcast Assets
Acquired
 
          (Dollars in thousands)  

March 31, 2009

   WAMD-AM, Aberdeen, Maryland (business acquisition)    $ 227   

March 31, 2009

  

License upgrade for WNYM-AM New York, NY (asset purchase)

     2,498   

July 24, 2009

   WZAB-AM, Miami, Florida (business acquisition)      1,020   
     

 

 

 
      $ 3,745   
     

 

 

 

Under the acquisition method of accounting, in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805, the total acquisition consideration is allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the date of the transaction. We obtained an independent third-party appraisal of the estimated fair value of the acquired net assets from Bond & Pecaro as of the acquisition date for each of the transactions noted.

The estimated fair value of the total acquisition consideration was allocated to the total assets acquired as follows:

 

      Total Broadcast
Assets Acquired
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Asset

  

Property and equipment

   $ 213   

FCC License

     5,166   
  

 

 

 
   $ 5,379   
  

 

 

 

On December 1, 2009, we entered into the Revolver and issued $300 million of 95/ 8% Notes at a discount for $298.1 million resulting in an effective yield of 9.75%. The revolver includes a $5 million subfacility for standby letters of credit, a subfacility for swingline loans of up to $5 million and an optional $10 million incremental facility under which we may increase the commitments available, subject to the terms and conditions of the credit agreement relating to the Revolver (the “Credit Agreement”). The net proceeds from the 95/8% Notes of $291.7 million, borrowings under our Revolver of $15.0 million and cash on hand were used to repay and terminate Salem Holding’s then existing credit facilities which included the Term Loan B and Term Loan C and to repurchase all of the outstanding 7 3/4% Notes due 2010.

On July 24, 2009, we completed the purchase of radio station WZAB-AM in Miami, Florida for $1.0 million. The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect the operating results of this radio station as of the acquisition date. The business combination is not material in the aggregate or individually to our financial position as of the date of acquisition.

 

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In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805 “Business Combinations,” effective as of January 1, 2009, any excess of fair value of the acquired net assets over the acquisition consideration shall be recognized as a gain on a bargain purchase. Prior to recording a gain, the acquiring entity must reassess whether all acquired assets and assumed liabilities have been identified and recognized and perform re-measurements to verify that the consideration paid, assets acquired, and liabilities assumed have been properly valued. We underwent such a reassessment, and as a result, have recorded a gain on the bargain purchase of WZAB-AM in Miami, Florida, of $1.6 million. We have completed the measurement period and have not obtained information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that would have affected the amounts recognized for assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We believe that the gain on bargain purchase resulted from various factors that may have impacted the acquisition price of WZAB-AM, including, without limitation, that the previous owner of the license for WZAB-AM did not have the technical facilities from which to broadcast.

On June 1, 2009, we completed the sale of radio station KPXI-FM in Tyler-Longview, Texas for $0.4 million that resulted in a pre-tax loss of $1.6 million. The operating results of KPXI-FM are excluded from the Consolidated Statements of Operations as of the date of the sale.

On April 9, 2009, SIC purchased $1.0 million of Salem Holding’s 7 3/4% Notes for $0.3 million. Salem Holding agreed to cancel the outstanding promissory note in exchange for the cancellation by SIC of the 7  3/4% Notes. On a consolidated basis, the transaction resulted in a $0.7 million pre-tax gain on the early retirement of debt.

On March 31, 2009, we completed the purchase of radio station WAMD-AM in Aberdeen, Maryland for $2.7 million. The acquisition was made to accommodate the day time signal upgrade of WNYM-AM, New York, NY. Approximately $2.5 million of the purchase price was allocated to this upgrade. The purchase price was paid into an escrow account on July 18, 2008. The accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations includes the operating results of this radio station as of the acquisition date. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805 “Business Combinations,” expenses associated with this business combination were expensed as of the January 2009 effective date. The business combination is not material in the aggregate or individually to our financial position as of the date of acquisition.

On February 2, 2009, we received reimbursement from the Port of Seattle of approximately $1.7 million of costs associated with a tower relocation project. The tower relocation began in 2001 as a result of the Port’s use of eminent domain in which the existing tower land was seized.

NOTE 4. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Land

   $ 36,858      $ 37,107   

Buildings

     24,772        24,690   

Office furnishings and equipment

     36,950        37,523   

Antennae, towers and transmitting equipment

     74,518        73,517   

Studio and production equipment

     29,120        29,110   

Computer software and website development costs

     11,794        14,817   

Record and tape libraries

     65        65   

Automobiles

     1,004        1,031   

Leasehold improvements

     15,658        16,558   

Construction-in-progress

     2,323        2,512   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 233,062      $ 236,930   

Less accumulated depreciation

     (117,211     (125,708
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 115,851      $ 111,222   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Depreciation expense was approximately $13.4 million, $12.6 million and $12.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively, which includes depreciation of $53,000 for each of the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 on a radio station tower that was valued at $0.8 million under a capital lease obligation. Accumulated depreciation associated with the capital lease was $132,000, $185,000 and $238,000 at December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

 

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NOTE 5. AMORTIZABLE INANGIBLE ASSETS

The following tables provide details, by major category, of the significant classes of amortizable intangible assets:

 

     As of December 31, 2011  
     Cost      Accumulated
Amortization
    Net  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Customer lists and contracts

   $ 15,519       $ (11,372   $ 4,147   

Domain and brand names

     8,227         (6,436     1,791   

Favorable and assigned leases

     1,649         (1,536     113   

Other amortizable intangible assets

     3,891         (3,473     418   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 29,286       $ (22,817   $ 6,469   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
     As of December 31, 2010  
     Cost      Accumulated
Amortization
    Net  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Customer lists and contracts

   $ 12,837       $ (10,300   $ 2,537   

Domain and brand names

     7,649         (5,490     2,159   

Favorable and assigned leases

     1,649         (1,444     205   

Other amortizable intangible assets

     3,348         (3,196     152   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 25,483       $ (20,430   $ 5,053   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Based on the amortizable intangible assets as of December 31, 2011, we estimate amortization expense for the next five years to be as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,

   Amortization Expense  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

2012

   $ 2,009   

2013

     1,719   

2014

     1,415   

2015

     826   

2016

     252   

Thereafter

     248   
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 6,469   
  

 

 

 

NOTE 6. NOTES PAYABLE AND LONG-TERM DEBT

Senior Credit Facility

On December 1, 2009, our parent company, Salem Communications Corporation entered into a Revolver. We amended the Revolver on November 1, 2010 to increase the borrowing capacity from $30 million to $40 million. The amendment allows us to use borrowings under the Revolver, subject to the “Available Amount” as defined by the terms of the Credit Agreement, to redeem applicable portions of the 95/8% Notes. The calculation of the “Available Amount” also pertains to the payment of dividends when the leverage ratio is above 5.0 to 1.

On November 15, 2011, we completed the Second Amendment of our Revolver to among other things, (1) extend the maturity date from December 1, 2012 to December 1, 2014 (2) change the interest rate applicable to LIBOR or the Wells Fargo base rate plus a spread to be determined based on our leverage ratio, (3) allow us to borrow and repay unsecured indebtedness provided certain conditions are met and (4) include step-downs related to our leverage ratio covenant. We incurred $0.5 million in fees to complete this amendment, which are being amortized over the remaining term of the agreement. The applicable interest rate relating to the amended credit agreement is LIBOR plus a spread of 3.0% per annum or the Base Rate plus a spread of 1.25% per annum, which is

 

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adjusted based on our leverage ratio. If an event of default occurs, the interest rate may increase by 2.0% per annum. Details of the change in our rate based on our leverage ratio are as follows:

 

Consolidated Leverage Ratio

   Base Rate     Eurodollar
Rate Loans
    Applicable Fee
Rate
 

Less than 3.25 to 1.00

     0.75     2.25     0.40

Greater than or equal to 3.25 to 1.00 but less than 4.50 to 1.00

     0.75     2.50     0.50

Greater than or equal to 4.50 to 1.00 but less than 6.00 to 1.00

     1.25     3.00     0.60

Greater than or equal to 6.00 to 1.00

     2.25     3.50     0.75

The Revolver includes a $5 million subfacility for standby letters of credit and a subfacility for swingline loans of up to $5 million, subject to the terms and conditions of the credit agreement relating to the Revolver. In addition to interest charges outlined above, we pay a commitment fee on the unused balance of 0.75% per year. If an event of default occurs, the interest rate may increase by 2.00% per annum. Amounts outstanding under the Revolver may be paid and then reborrowed at Salem’s discretion without penalty or premium. At December 31, 2011, the blended interest rate on amounts outstanding under the Revolver was 3.29%. We believe that our borrowing capacity under the Revolver allows us to meet our ongoing operating requirements, fund capital expenditures, and satisfy our debt service requirements.

With respect to financial covenants, the credit agreement includes a maximum leverage ratio of 7.0 to 1.0 and a minimum interest coverage ratio of 1.5 to 1. The credit agreement also includes other negative covenants that are customary for credit facilities of this type, including covenants that, subject to exceptions described in the Credit Agreement, restrict the ability of Salem and the guarantors: (i) to incur additional indebtedness; (ii) to make investments; (iii) to make distributions, loans or transfers of assets; (iv) to enter into, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any liens; (v) to sell assets; (vi) to enter into transactions with affiliates; (vii) to merge or consolidate with, or dispose of all or substantially all assets to, a third party; (viii) to prepay indebtedness; and (ix) to pay dividends. As of December 31, 2011, our leverage ratio was 5.13 to 1 and our interest coverage ratio was 1.97 to 1. We were in compliance with our debt covenants at December 31, 2011, and we remain in compliance.

Our parent company, Salem Communications Corporation, has no independent assets or operations, the subsidiary guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several, and any subsidiaries of the parent company other than the subsidiary guarantors are minor.

Senior Secured Second Lien Notes

On December 1, 2009, we issued $300.0 million principal amount of 95/ 8% Notes at a discount for $298.1 million resulting in an effective yield of 9.75%. Interest is due and payable on June 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing June 15, 2010 until maturity. We are not required to make principal payments on the 95/8% Notes that are due in full in December 2016. The 95/8% Notes are guaranteed by all of our existing domestic restricted subsidiaries. Upon issuance, we were required to pay $28.9 million per year in interest on the then outstanding 95/ 8% Notes. As of December 31, 2010 and 2011, accrued interest on the 95/8% Notes was $1.2 million and $1.0 million, respectively. The discount is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 95/8% Notes based on the effective interest method. For each the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 and 2011, approximately $0.2 million of the discount has been recognized as interest expense.

On December 12, 2011, we redeemed $12.5 million of our 95/8% Notes for $12.9 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.8 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $62,000 of unamortized discount and $0.3 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On September 6, 2011, we repurchased $5.0 million of our 95/8% Notes for $5.1 million, or at a price equal to 1027/8% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $0.3 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including approximately $26,000 of unamortized discount and $0.1 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

On June 1, 2011, we redeemed $17.5 million of the 95/8% Notes for $18.0 million, or at a price equal to 103% of the face value. This transaction resulted in a $1.1 million pre-tax loss on the early retirement of debt, including $0.1 million of unamortized discount and $0.5 million of bond issues costs associated with the 95/8% Notes.

 

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Information regarding repurchased and redemptions of the 95/8% Notes are as follows:

 

Date

   Principal
Redeemed
     Premium
Paid
     Unamortized
Discount
     Bond Issue
Costs
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

June 1, 2010

   $ 17,500       $ 525       $ 105       $ 417   

December 1, 2010

     12,500         375         70         334   

June 1, 2011

     17,500         525         93         472   

September 6, 2011

     5,000         144         26         135   

December 12, 2011

     12,500         375         62         337   

The carrying value of the 95/8% Notes was $268.5 million and $233.8 million at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Affiliate Lines of Credit

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into Affiliate Lines of Credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors. Pursuant to the related agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million (together, the “Affiliate Lines of Credit ”). The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit will bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum and (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the Credit Agreement referred to aboveplus 2% per annum. Interest is payable at the time of any repayment of principal. In addition, outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit must be repaid within three months from the time that such amounts are borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit.

Prior Credit Facility

Our wholly-owned subsidiary, Salem Communications Holding Corporation (“Salem Holding”), was the borrower under our prior credit facilities. The prior credit facilities included a $75.0 million senior secured reducing revolving credit facility (“revolving credit facility”), a $75.0 million term loan B facility (“Term Loan B”) and a $165.0 million term loan C facility (“Term Loan C”). On December 1, 2009, we used the proceeds of the 95/8% Notes, a portion of the Revolver, and approximately $27 million of cash on hand to fully repay amounts outstanding under the Term Loan B of $71.2 million, the Term Loan C of $160.0 million, and to fully repay all outstanding aggregate principal of $89.7 million on the 7 3/4% Notes. We recorded a loss of $1.7 million which included $1.1 million of unamortized bank loan fees on the prior credit facility, $0.1 million of unamortized bond issue costs on the 7 3/4% Notes and $0.4 million of legal and dealer fees associated with the calling of the 7  3/4% Notes and prior credit facility.

Swingline Credit Facility

On June 1, 2005, we entered into an agreement for a swingline credit facility (“Swingline”) with a borrowing capacity of $5.0 million. The agreement was amended on June 1, 2009 and had a borrowing capacity of $4.3 million. The interest rate was the bank’s prime rate plus 0.75% per annum. As collateral for the Swingline, we pledged our corporate office building. We terminated the Swingline as of December 1, 2009.

73/4% Notes

In December 2002, Salem Holding issued $100.0 million principal amount of 73/ 4% Notes. The indenture for the 73/4% Notes contained restrictive covenants that, among other things, limited the incurrence of debt by Salem Holding and its subsidiaries, the payment of dividends, the use of proceeds of specified asset sales and transactions with affiliates. Through the use of an unrestricted subsidiary, we repurchased $9.4 million of our 73/4% Notes for $4.7 million in December 2008. This transaction resulted in a $4.7 million pre-tax gain on the early retirement of debt. Through the use of an unrestricted subsidiary, we repurchased $1.0 million of our 73/4% Notes for $0.3 million in April 2009. This transaction resulted in a $0.7 million pre-tax gain on the early retirement of debt. As of September 30, 2009, there was $89.7 million aggregate principal amount of the 73 /4% Notes outstanding. Based on this principal amount, Salem Holding was required to pay $7.0 million per year in interest on the 73/4% Notes. As of December 1, 2009, we used the net proceeds from the offering of the 95/8% Notes, borrowings under the Revolver, and approximately $27 million of cash on hand to fund the payment of consideration and certain costs relating to the early settlement of the Tender Offer and consent solicitation with respect to the outstanding $89.7 million in aggregate principal amount of the 73/4% Notes. Accrued interest on the tendered 73/4% Notes was also paid. Since all outstanding 73/4% Notes were tendered, accepted for payment and cancelled, the indenture relating to the 73/4% Notes was discharged.

 

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Summary of long-term debt obligations

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Revolver under senior credit facility

   $ 35,000      $ 31,000   

95/8% senior secured second lien notes due 2016

     268,479        233,846   

Affiliate Lines of Credit

     —          9,000   

Capital leases and other loans

     1,048        957   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     304,527        274,803   

Less current portion

     (111     (9,124
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 304,416      $ 265,679   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

In addition to the amounts listed above, we also have interest payments related to our long-term debt as follows as of December 31, 2011:

 

   

Outstanding borrowings of $31.0 million under the Revolver, with interest payments due at LIBOR plus 3.00% or at prime rate plus 1.25%;

 

   

$235.0 million 95/ 8% Notes with semi-annual interest payments at an annual rate of 95/8%; and

 

   

Commitment fee of 0.60% on the unused portion of the Revolver.

Other Debt

We have several capital leases related to various data processing equipment. The obligation recorded at December 31, 2010 and 2011 represents the present value of future commitments under the lease agreements.

Maturities of Long-Term Debt

Principal repayment requirements under all long-term debt agreements outstanding at December 31, 2011 for each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

 

     Amount  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

2012

   $ 9,124   

2013

     102   

2014

     31,097   

2015

     78   

2016

     233,911   

Thereafter

     491   
  

 

 

 
   $ 274,803   
  

 

 

 

NOTE 7. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

During 2005, we entered into three interest rate swap transactions intended to offset the risks associated with the variable interest rate on our then outstanding Term Loan C. The interest rate swaps were designated and qualified as cash flow hedges under FASB ASC Topic 815 “Derivatives and Hedging.” The effective portion of the gain or loss on these derivative instruments was reported as a component of other comprehensive income (outside earnings) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affected earnings. Effective October 1, 2008, we elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than a three-month, resulting in the swaps no longer qualifying as a cash flow hedge. As the interest rate swap agreements contained a three-month reset period, the swaps were no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of these swaps after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. On December 1, 2009, the swap transactions were terminated when the underlying Term Loan C was paid in full.

 

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Details of the three swap transaction were as follows:

On April 8, 2005, we entered into an interest rate swap arrangement for the notional principal amount of $30.0 million whereby we were to pay a fixed interest rate of 4.99% as compared to LIBOR on our then outstanding bank credit facility borrowing. Interest expense for year ended December 31, 2009, was approximately $0.9 million based on the difference between the interest rates. The swap was settled on December 1, 2009 for $3.1 million when the underlying bank credit facility was terminated. The ineffective portion of this swap reported in current period expenses was a $0.6 million gain and upon termination of the swap, we recognized a $0.8 million loss. Effective on October 1, 2008, we had elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As this interest rate swap agreement contained a three-month reset period, the swap was no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of this swap after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. An additional $0.3 million of accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense as of December 1, 2009 in order to recognize the impact over the same period in which the hedged transaction affected earnings. On December 1, 2009, the remaining $1.0 million in accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense.

On April 26, 2005, we entered into an interest rate swap arrangement for the notional principal amount of $30.0 million whereby we were to pay a fixed interest rate of 4.70% as compared to LIBOR on our then outstanding bank credit facility borrowing. Interest expense for year ended December 31, 2009, was approximately $0.8 million based on the difference between the interest rates. The swap was settled on December 1, 2009 for $2.9 million when the underlying bank credit facility was terminated. The ineffective portion of this swap reported in current period expenses was a $0.5 million gain and upon termination of the swap, we recognized a $0.8 million loss. Effective on October 1, 2008, we had elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As this interest rate swap agreement contained a three-month reset period, the swap was no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of this swap after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. An additional $0.3 million of accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense as of December 1, 2009 in order to recognize the impact over the same period in which the hedged transaction affected earnings. On December 1, 2009, the remaining $0.7 million in accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense.

On May 5, 2005, we entered into a third interest rate swap arrangement for the notional principal amount of $30.0 million whereby we were to pay a fixed interest rate of 4.53% as compared to LIBOR on then outstanding bank credit facility borrowing. Interest expense for year ended December 31, 2009, was approximately $0.8 million based on the difference between the interest rates. The swap was settled on December 1, 2009 for $2.7 million when the underlying bank credit facility was terminated. The ineffective portion of this swap reported in current period expenses was a $0.5 million gain and upon termination of the swap, we recognized a $0.7 million loss. Effective on October 1, 2008, we had elected a one-month reset on our Term Loan C rather than the three-month reset period. As this interest rate swap agreement contained a three-month reset period, the swap was no longer effective and no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of this swap after October 1, 2008 were reported in current period income rather than deferred in other comprehensive income. An additional $0.2 million of accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense as of December 1, 2009 in order to recognize the impact over the same period in which the hedged transaction affected earnings. On December 1, 2009, the remaining $0.6 million in accumulated other comprehensive loss was reclassified into interest expense.

NOTE 8. FAIR VALUE ACCOUNTING

FASB ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” established a hierarchal disclosure framework associated with the level of pricing observability utilized in measuring fair value. This framework defined three levels of inputs to the fair value measurement process and requires that each fair value measurement be assigned to a level corresponding to the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The three broad levels of inputs defined by the FASB ASC Topic 820 hierarchy are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 Inputs—quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date;

 

   

Level 2 Inputs—inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. If the asset or liability has a specified (contractual) term, a Level 2 input must be observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

 

   

Level 3 Inputs—unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. These unobservable inputs reflect the entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, and are developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (which might include the reporting entity’s own data).

 

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As a result of the adoption of the fair value provisions, we modified the assumptions used in measuring the fair value of our derivative positions. Specifically, we now include the impact of our own credit risk on derivative liabilities measured at fair value as defined. Counterparty credit-risk adjustments are applied to derivatives, such as over-the-counter derivatives, where the base valuation uses market parameters based on LIBOR interest rate curves. Not all counterparties have the same credit risk as that implied by the relevant LIBOR curve, so it is necessary to consider the market value of the credit risk of the counterparty in order to estimate the fair value of such an item. Bilateral or “own” credit risk adjustments are applied to our own credit risk when valuing derivatives measured at fair value. Credit adjustments consider the estimated future cash flows between the company and its counterparties under the terms of the instruments and affect the credit risk on the valuation of those cash flows, rather than a point-in-time assessment of the current recognized net asset or liability.

The fair value of our liabilities was impacted by our credit ratings as established by agencies such as Moody’s Investor Services (“Moody’s) and Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”). The estimated change in the fair value of these liabilities, including the credit risk and all other market variables, was a gain of $1.5 million for the period ended December 1, 2009. We settled our outstanding swap transactions on December 1, 2009 when we terminated our then existing bank credit facilities resulting in a loss of $2.3 million. The loss represents the difference in the discounted value estimated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820 and the actual amount the bank was willing to accept in an arm’s length transaction.

Interest Rate Caps

On October 18, 2006, we purchased two interest rate caps for $0.1 million to mitigate exposure to rising interest rates based on LIBOR. The first interest rate cap covers $50.0 million of borrowings under the credit facility for a three-year period. The second interest rate cap covers $50.0 million of borrowings under the credit facility for a four-year period. Both interest rate caps are at 7.25%. The caps do not qualify for hedge accounting and accordingly, all changes in fair value have been included as a component of interest expense. For the year ended December 31, 2009, interest expense of $350 was recorded related to our interest rate caps. The interest rate cap agreements were terminated in December 2009 in conjunction with the cancellation of the underlying debt under our prior credit facilities.

NOTE 9. INCOME TAXES

The consolidated provision (benefit) for income taxes from continuing operations for Salem consisted of the following:

 

     December 31,  
   2009     2010     2011  
   (Dollars in thousands)  

Current:

      

Federal

   $ (237   $ (4   $ (8

State

     293        286        282   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     56        282        274   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred:

      

Federal

     (3,038     1,887        4,425   

State

     (1,228     526        1,411   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (4,266     2,413        5,836   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

   $ (4,210   $ 2,695      $ 6,110   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Discontinued operations are reported net of the tax benefit of $0.1 million in 2009, $0.03 million in 2010 and $0.5 million in 2011.

 

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The consolidated deferred tax asset and liability consisted of the following:

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Deferred tax assets:

    

Financial statement accruals not currently deductible

   $ 5,928      $ 6,303   

Net operating loss, AMT credit and other carryforwards

     49,382        54,327   

State taxes

     100        100   

Other

     2,656        2,864   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets

     58,066        63,594   

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets

     (2,644     (2,798
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

   $ 55,422      $ 60,796   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

    

Excess of net book value of property, plant, equipment and software for financial reporting purposes over tax basis

   $ 9,138      $ 8,794   

Excess of net book value of intangible assets for financial reporting purposes over tax basis

     78,952        89,824   

Unrecognized tax benefits

     3,654        3,852   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total deferred tax liabilities

     91,744        102,470   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax liabilities

   $ (36,322   $ (41,674
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The following table reconciles the above net deferred tax liabilities to the financial statements:

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Deferred income tax asset per balance sheet

   $ 5,974      $ 6,403   

Deferred income tax liability per balance sheet

     (42,296     (48,077
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ (36,322   $ (41,674
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the provision for income tax is as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010      2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Statutory federal income tax rate (at 35%)

   $ (4,365   $ 1,638       $ 4,364   

Effect of state taxes, net of federal

     (608     525         1,102   

Permanent items

     1,316        174         696   

ISO benefit

     —          338         —     

Other, net

     (553     20         (52
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

   $ (4,210   $ 2,695       $ 6,110   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31, 2011, we had net operating loss carryforwards for federal income tax purposes of approximately $115.3 million that expire in 2020 through 2031 and for state income tax purposes of approximately $790.0 million that expire in years 2012 through 2031. For financial reporting purposes at December 31, 2011, we had a valuation allowance of $2.8 million, net of federal benefit, to offset a portion of the deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss carryforwards that may not be realized.

NOTE 10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

The company enters into various agreements in the normal course of business that contain minimum guarantees. The typical minimum guarantee is tied to future revenue amounts that exceed the contractual level. Accordingly, the fair value of these arrangements is zero.

The company and its subsidiaries, incident to its business activities, are parties to a number of legal proceedings, lawsuits, arbitration and other claims. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties and outcomes that are not predictable with assurance. The company maintains insurance that may provide coverage for such matters. Consequently, the company is unable to ascertain the ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or the financial impact with respect to these matters. The company believes, at this time, that the final resolution of these matters, individually and in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect upon the company’s annual consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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Salem leases various land, offices, studios and other equipment under operating leases that generally expire over the next ten to twenty-five years. The majority of these leases are subject to escalation clauses and may be renewed for successive periods ranging from one to five years on terms similar to current agreements and except for specified increases in lease payments. Rental expense included in operating expense under all lease agreements was $15.7 million, $15.4 million and $14.9 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

Future minimum rental payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year as of December 31, 2011, are as follows:

 

     Related Parties      Other      Total  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

2012

   $ 1,287       $ 8,458       $ 9,745   

2013

     1,205         8,001         9,206   

2014

     1,124         7,304         8,428   

2015

     1,124         6,580         7,704   

2016

     1,059         4,462         5,521   

Thereafter

     3,135         19,208         22,343   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 8,934       $     54,013       $     62,947   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 11. STOCK OPTION PLAN

We have one stock option plan. The Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) allows the company to grant equity-based awards, including stock options and restricted share awards to employees, advisors and non-employee members of the Board of Directors to the company. A maximum of 3,100,000 shares are authorized under the Plan. Options generally vest over a four-year period and have a maximum term of five years from the vesting date. The Plan provides that vesting may be accelerated in certain corporate transactions of the company. The Plan provides that the Board of Directors, or a committee appointed by the Board, have discretion, subject to certain limits, to modify the terms of outstanding options. We recognize non-cash stock-based compensation expense related to the estimated fair value of stock options granted in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 “Compensation—Stock Compensation.”

The following table reflects the components of stock-based compensation expense recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Stock option compensation expense included in corporate expenses

   $ 272       $ 947      $ 603   

Restricted stock shares compensation expense included in corporate expenses

     —           17        4   

Stock option compensation expense included in broadcast operating expenses

     220         380        281   

Stock option compensation expense included in Internet operating expenses

     69         79        52   

Stock option compensation expense included in publishing operating expenses

     27         14        10   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stock-based compensation expense, pre-tax

   $ 588       $ 1,437      $ 950   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Tax benefit (expense) from stock-based compensation expense

     208         (792     (220
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax

   $ 796       $ 645      $ 730   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Stock option and restricted stock grants

The Plan allows grants of equity-based awards, including stock options and restricted stock awards to employees, advisors and non-employee members of the Board of Directors of the company. The stock option exercise price is set at the closing price of the company’s common stock on the date of grant, and the related number of shares granted is fixed at that point in time. Eligible employees may receive stock options annually with the number of shares and type of instrument generally determined by the employee’s salary grade and performance level. Certain management and professional level employees may also receive a stock option grant upon commencement of employment. Non-employee directors of the company may receive restricted stock awards that vest one year from the date of issuance in addition to stock option awards that vest immediately. The Plan does not allow key employees and directors (restricted persons) to exercise options during pre-defined blackout periods. However, restricted persons may participate in 10b5-1 Plans that allow them to exercise options according to predefined criteria.

 

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We use the Black-Scholes option valuation model to estimate the grant date fair value of stock options. The expected volatility reflects the consideration of the historical volatility of our stock as determined by the closing price over a six to ten year term that is generally commensurate with the expected term of the option. The expected dividend is zero, as the 2010 distribution was not expected to be recurring in nature. The expected term of each option is based on evaluations of historical and expected future employee exercise behavior. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect during the period the options were granted. We use historical data to estimate future forfeiture rates to apply against the gross amount of compensation expense determined using the option valuation model.

The weighted-average assumptions used to estimate the fair value of the stock options using the Black-Scholes option valuation model were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  

Expected volatility

     77.23     94.26     101.49

Expected dividends

     0.0     0.0     0.0

Expected term (in years)

     6.2        7.3        7.5   

Risk-free interest rate

     2.34     3.11     1.64

Stock option information with respect to the company’s stock-based compensation plans during the three years ended December 31, 2011 is as follows (Dollars in thousands, except weighted average exercise price and weighted average grant date fair value):

 

Options

   Shares     Weighted Average
Exercise Price
     Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Value
     Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
   Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 

Outstanding at January 1, 2009

     562,175      $ 14.56       $ 9.11       4.0 years    $ 28   

Granted

     910,000        0.73         1.49            4,787   

Exercised

     —          —           —              —     

Forfeited or expired

     (130,300     16.32         10.66            53   
  

 

 

            

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

     1,341,875      $ 5.01       $ 3.80       5.0 years    $ 4,762   
  

 

 

            

Exercisable at December 31, 2009

     304,688      $ 15.15       $ 9.18       2.9 years    $ 6   
  

 

 

            

Outstanding at January 1, 2010

     1,341,875      $ 5.01       $ 3.80       5.0 years    $ 4,762   

Granted

     430,500        5.20         4.32            —     

Exercised

     (557,451     0.61         0.41            1,718   

Forfeited or expired

     (62,926     11.88         8.79            —     
  

 

 

            

Outstanding at December 31, 2010

     1,151,998      $ 6.83       $ 5.36       5.0 years    $ 748   
  

 

 

            

Exercisable at December 31, 2010

     560,151      $ 8.79       $ 5.73       3.3 years    $ 554   
  

 

 

            

Expected to Vest

     561,959      $ 4.97       $ 5.01       6.5 years    $ 184   

Outstanding at January 1, 2011

     1,151,998      $ 6.83       $ 5.36       5.0 years    $ 748   

Granted

     630,000        2.43         2.05            116   

Exercised

     (41,112     0.59         0.42            125   

Forfeited or expired

     (100,494     11.47         7.72            22   
  

 

 

            

Outstanding at December 31, 2011

     1,640,392      $ 5.01       $ 4.07       5.2 years    $ 584   
  

 

 

            

Exercisable at December 31, 2011

     655,228        7.56         5.47       2.9 years      414   
  

 

 

            

Expected to Vest

     980,189      $ 3.31       $ 3.13       6.8 years    $ 170   

The aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the company’s closing stock price on December 30, 2011 of $2.57 and the option exercise price of the shares for stock options that were in the money, multiplied by the number of shares underlying such options. The total fair value of options vested during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 was $0.8 million, $1.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively.

 

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The fair values of shares of restricted stock are determined based on the closing price of the company common stock on the grant dates. Information regarding the company’s restricted stock during the three years ended December 31, 2011 is as follows:

 

Restricted Stock

   Shares     Weighted Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 

Non-Vested at January 1, 2009

     —        $ —     

Granted

     5,000        0.36   

Lapsed

     —          —     

Forfeited

     —          —     
  

 

 

   

Non-Vested at December 31, 2009

     5,000      $ 0.36   
  

 

 

   

Non-Vested at January 1, 2010

     5,000      $ 0.36   

Granted

     10,000        2.03   

Lapsed

     (5,000     0.36   

Forfeited

     —       
  

 

 

   

Non-Vested at December 31, 2010

     10,000      $ 2.03   
  

 

 

   

Non-Vested at January 1, 2011

     10,000      $ 2.03   

Granted

    

Lapsed

     (10,000     2.03   

Forfeited

     —       
  

 

 

   

Non-Vested at December 31, 2011

     —        $ —     
  

 

 

   

As of December 31, 2011, there was $1.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards of stock options and restricted shares. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.2 years.

Additional information regarding options outstanding as of December 31, 2011, is as follows:

 

Range of Exercise Prices

   Options      Weighted Average
Contractual Life
Remaining
(Years)
   Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
     Exercisable
Options
     Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
 

$ 0.36 - $ 3.00

     840,229       6.2    $ 1.87         214,315       $ 0.64   

$ 3.01 - $ 6.00

     510,750       5.5      5.07         151,500         5.06   

$ 6.01 - $ 9.00

     1,500       3.4      7.99         1,500         7.99   

$ 9.01 - $ 12.00

     101,900       2.6      11.72         101,900         11.72   

$ 12.01 - $ 15.00

     119,762       1.9      13.88         119,762         13.88   

$ 15.01 - $ 18.00

     45,001       1.4      16.75         45,001         16.75   

$ 18.01 - $ 21.00

     13,875       1.9      18.89         13,875         18.89   

$ 21.01 - $ 24.00

     6,075       0.5      21.92         6,075         21.92   

$ 24.01 - $ 25.50

     1,300       1.2      24.78         1,300         24.78   
  

 

 

          

 

 

    

$ 0.36 - $ 25.50

     1,640,392               655,228      
  

 

 

          

 

 

    

NOTE 12. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Our board of directors has adopted a written policy for review, approval and monitoring of transactions between the company and its related parties. Related parties include our directors, executive officers, nominees to become a director, any person beneficially owning more than 5% of any class of our stock, immediate family members of any of the foregoing, and any entity in which any of the forgoing persons is employed or is a general partner or principal or in which the person has a 10% or greater beneficial ownership interest. The policy covers material transactions in which a related party had, has or will have a direct or indirect interest.

 

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Leases with Principal Stockholders

A trust controlled by the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Edward G. Atsinger III, owns real estate on which assets of one radio station are located. Salem has entered into a lease agreement with this trust. Rental expense related to this lease included in operating expense for 2009, 2010 and 2011 amounted to $151,000, $156,000 and $160,000, respectively.

Land and buildings occupied by various Salem radio stations are leased from entities owned by the company’s CEO and its Chairman of the Board. Rental expense under these leases included in operating expense for 2009, 2010 and 2011 amounted to $1.2 million, $1.3 million and $1.3 million, respectively.

On April 8, 2008, we acquired land in Seattle, Washington; Denver, Colorado; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from entities controlled by Principal Shareholders for approximately $5.0 million. This transaction was approved by the independent members of the company Board of Directors and was based on the appraised value from a third-party valuation firm. As a result of this transaction, the company will reduce rental expense by approximately $148,000 annually and has permanently secured these AM transmitter site locations. We also assumed two income-producing lease agreements as follows: (a) a diplex agreement at the Seattle-Tacoma, Washington site generating current annual rental income of approximately $139,000, and (b) a mobile telephone lease at the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania site generating current annual rental income of approximately $26,000. A prerequisite negotiated by the company as an important condition of the closing of the Transmitter Site Purchases was the entry by the company into new transmitter site leases for eight existing transmitter sites (the “New Transmitter Site Leases”) operated by the company and leased from the Principal Stockholders. Seven of these New Transmitter Site Leases replace existing transmitter site leases between the company and the Principal Shareholder which were either scheduled to expire or had option exercise deadlines in 2009 or 2010. As a result, we are not required to renegotiate a new lease or exercise an option on any of its related party leases until 2016.

Affiliate Lines of Credit

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into Affiliate Lines of Credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors. Pursuant to the related agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million (together, the “Affiliate Lines of Credit ”). The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit will bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum and (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the Credit Agreement referred to above plus 2% per annum. Interest is payable at the time of any repayment of principal. In addition, outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit must be repaid within three months from the time that such amounts are borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit.

Radio Stations Owned by the Epperson’s

Nancy A. Epperson, the wife of the Chairman of the Board, Stuart W. Epperson, currently serves as an officer, director and stockholder of six radio stations in Virginia, five radio stations in North Carolina, and five radio stations in Florida.

Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation (“Chesapeake-Portsmouth”) is a company controlled by Nancy Epperson, wife of Salem’s Chairman of the Board Stuart W. Epperson and sister of CEO Edward G. Atsinger III. Chesapeake-Portsmouth owns and operates radio stations WJGR-AM, Jacksonville, Florida, WZNZ-AM, Jacksonville, Florida and WZAZ-AM, Jacksonville, Florida, which we sold to Chesapeake-Portsmouth on December 1, 2006, for $2.8 million resulting in a pre-tax gain of $0.1 million.

The markets where these radio stations are located are not currently served by stations owned and operated by the company. Under his employment agreement, Mr. Epperson is required to offer the company a right of first refusal of opportunities related to the company’s business.

Radio Stations Owned by Mr. Hinz

Mr. Hinz, a director of the company, through companies or entities controlled by him, operates three radio stations in Southern California. These radio stations are formatted in Christian Teaching and Talk programming in the Spanish language.

 

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Truth For Life—Mr. Hinz, Mr. Riddle and Mrs. Weinberg

Truth For Life is a non-profit organization that is a customer of Salem Communications. During 2009, 2010 and 2011, Truth For Life paid the company approximately $2.0 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million, respectively, for airtime on its stations. Mr. Hinz was an active member of the board of directors of Truth for Life during 2009 and through September 2010. Mr. Riddle joined the Truth for Life board in October 2010 and remains a member of this board. Mrs. Allyson Weinberg is the wife of Salem Communication’s director Dennis M. Weinberg. Mrs. Weinberg joined the board of Truth for Life in April 2011 and remains a member of this board.

Split-Dollar Life Insurance

The company purchased split-dollar life insurance policies for its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 1997. During 2011, the then existing policies were cancelled and new policies were entered. The company is the owner of the policies and is entitled to recover all of the premiums paid on these policies. The company records an asset based on the lower of the aggregate premiums paid or insurance cash surrender value. The premiums were $230,000, for each of the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2010, and $990,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2009, 2010, and 2011 we recorded net assets of $2.4 million, $2.8 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Benefits above and beyond the cumulative premiums paid will go to the beneficiary trusts established by each of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Transportation Services Supplied by Atsinger Aviation

From time to time, the company rents aircraft from a company that is owned by Edward G. Atsinger III. As approved by the independent members of the company’s board of directors, the company rents these aircraft on an hourly basis at what the company believes are market rates and uses them for general corporate needs. Total rental expense for these aircraft for 2009, 2010 and 2011 amounted to approximately $135,000, $209,000 and $402,000, respectively.

Other Related Party Transactions

On June 3, 2010, we entered into a related party transaction under which the company purchased the former primary residence of our President, Radio Division. The transaction was entered to facilitate the relocation of the President, Radio Division, in order for him to reside near the corporate office as necessary to effectively perform employment related duties. We obtained an independent third-party appraisal of the purchase price of the residence for $0.7 million. On December 29, 2010, we sold the property sold for $0.5 million, resulting in a pre-tax loss of $0.2 million.

During the period ended March 31, 2010, we recorded a loss of $0.2 million associated with a second lien real estate note with an employee.

NOTE 13. DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN

We maintain a 401(k) defined contribution plan (the “401(k) Plan”), which covers all eligible employees (as defined in the 401(k) Plan). Participants are allowed to make non-forfeitable contributions up to 60% of their annual salary, but may not exceed the annual maximum contribution limitations established by the Internal Revenue Service. The plan previously allowed for a company match of 50% on the first 3% of the amounts contributed by each participant and 25% on the next 3% contributed but does not match participants’ contributions in excess of 6% of their compensation per pay period. The company match was temporarily suspended in July 2008 as part of an extensive cost reduction program. The company match was reinstated effective January 1, 2012 under new terms that allow for a company match of 50% on the first 5% of the amounts contributed by each participant.

NOTE 14. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Holders of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share and holders of Class B common stock are entitled to ten votes per share, except for specified related party transactions. Holders of Class A common stock and Class B common stock vote together as a single class on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, except that holders of Class A common stock vote separately for two independent directors.

On December 13, 2010, we paid a special cash distribution of $0.20 per share on its Class A and Class B common stock to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 6, 2010. The distribution amounted to approximately $4.8 million.

 

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We account for stock-based compensation expense in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 “Compensation—Stock Expense.” As a result, $0.6 million, $1.4 million and $1.0 million of non-cash stock-based compensation expense has been recorded to additional paid-in capital for the year ended December 31, 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively.

NOTE 15. QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED):

The following table sets forth selected financial results of the company on a quarterly basis.

 

     March 31     June 30      September 30     December 31  
     2010     2011     2010     2011      2010      2011     2010     2011  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)  

Total revenue

  $ 48,324      $ 51,163      $ 53,123      $ 55,440       $ 51,305       $ 54,503      $ 53,706      $ 57,060   

Operating income (loss)

    8,098        11,918        10,088        9,920         8,188         9,286        10,259        10,875   

Net income (loss) before discontinued operations

    204        2,559        698        1,085         353         1,689        721        1,026   

Net income

  $ 204      $ 2,587      $ 698      $ 1,100       $ 343       $ 1,485      $ 687      $ 446   

Basic earnings (loss) per share

  $ 0.01      $ 0.10      $ 0.03      $ 0.04       $ 0.01       $ 0.07      $ 0.03      $ 0.04   

Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

  $ 0.01      $ 0.11      $ 0.03      $ 0.05       $ 0.01       $ 0.06      $ 0.03      $ 0.02   

Diluted earnings (loss) per share

  $ 0.01      $ 0.10      $ 0.03      $ 0.04       $ 0.01       $ 0.07      $ 0.03      $ 0.04   

Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

  $ 0.01      $ 0.10      $ 0.03      $ 0.04       $ 0.01       $ 0.06      $ 0.03      $ 0.02   

Weighted average shares outstanding – basic

    23,724,192        24,520,858        23,819,158        24,279,251         24,357,042         24,546,056        24,446,924        24,554,245   

Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted

    24,441,944        24,759,253        24,542,417        24,491,530         24,822,412         24,746,164        24,807,088        24,737,629   

NOTE 16. SEGMENT DATA

FASB ASC Topic 280 “Segment Reporting” requires companies to provide certain information about their operating segments. We have historically had one reportable operating segment—radio broadcasting. Our radio broadcasting segment operates radio stations throughout the United States, as well as various radio networks and our National sales group. Beginning with the first quarter of 2011, we separated our non-broadcast segment into two operating segments, Internet and Publishing. We believe that this information regarding our non-broadcast segment is useful to readers of our financial statements. Additionally, due to growth within our Internet operations, including the acquisition of WorshipHouse Media on March 28, 2011, our Internet segment meets the threshold for disclosure as a reportable segment. All prior periods have been updated to separate these non-broadcast segments. Our Internet segment operates all of our websites and our consumer product sales. Our publishing segment operates our print magazine and Xulon Press, a print-on-demand book publisher.

Management uses operating income before depreciation, amortization, impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets, (gain) loss on disposal of assets, and costs of denied towers, abandoned projects and terminated transactions as its measure of profitability for purposes of assessing performance and allocating resources.

 

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     Radio
Broadcast
    Internet     Publishing     Corporate     Consolidated  
    (Dollars in thousands)  

Year Ended December 31, 2011

         

Net revenue

  $ 178,731      $ 27,304      $ 12,131      $ —        $ 218,166   

Operating expenses

    115,482        20,889        11,475        17,503        165,349   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss) before depreciation, amortization and (gain) loss on disposal of assets

  $ 63,249      $ 6,415      $ 656      $ (17,503   $ 52,817   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Depreciation

    8,834        2,139        308        1,239        12,520   

Amortization

    136        2,186        127        2        2,451   

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

    (4,332     (11     23        167        (4,153
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

  $ 58,611      $ 2,101      $ 198      $ (18,911   $ 41,999   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2010

         

Net revenue

  $ 174,933      $ 20,104      $ 11,421      $ —        $ 206,458   

Operating expenses

    110,421        16,722        11,226        16,613        154,982   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss) before depreciation, amortization and (gain) loss on disposal of assets

  $ 64,512      $ 3,382      $ 195      $ (16,613   $ 51,476   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Depreciation

    9,391        1,771        263        1,145        12,570   

Amortization

    102        1,637        274        5        2,018   

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

    (10     7        55        203        255   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

  $ 55,029      $ (33   $ (397   $ (17,966   $ 36,633   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2009

         

Net revenue

  $ 172,055      $ 16,232      $ 10,926      $ —        $ 199,213   

Operating expenses

    108,106        13,361        10,237        14,005        145,709   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss) before depreciation, amortization and (gain) loss on disposal of assets

  $ 63,949      $ 2,871      $ 689      $ (14,005   $ 53,504   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Depreciation

    10,418        1,709        256        1,058        13,441   

Amortization

    45        1,187        437        10        1,679   

Costs of denied tower site, abandoned projects and terminated transactions

    1,111        —          —          —          1,111   

Impairment of indefinite-live intangible assets

    26,837        —          1,159        —          27,996   

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

    1,666        12        —          (2     1,676   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

  $ 23,872      $ (37   $ (1,163   $ (15,071   $ 7,601   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

      Radio
Broadcast
     Internet      Publishing      Corporate      Consolidated  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

As of December 31, 2011

              

Total property, plant and equipment, net

   $ 95,295       $ 5,752       $ 1,233       $ 8,942       $ 111,222   

Goodwill

     3,873         14,874         1,337         8         20,092   

As of December 31, 2010

              

Total property, plant and equipment, net

   $ 99,621       $ 5,501       $ 969       $ 9,760       $ 115,851   

Goodwill

     4,006         12,757         1,337         8         18,108   

NOTE 17. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On January 5, 2012, we entered into an APA to sell radio station WBZS-AM in Pawtucket, Rhode Island for $0.8 million.

On January 13, 2012, we completed the acquisition of KTNO-AM, Dallas, Texas for $2.2 million. We began programming the station pursuant to a Time Brokerage Agreement with the current owner on November 1, 2011.

On February 15, 2012, we entered into an APA to acquire radio station WKDL-AM in Warrenton, Virginia for $30,000.

On March 7, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized and declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.035 per share on Class A and Class B common stock. The initial quarterly cash dividend of $0.035 per share will be paid on March 30, 2012 to all common stockholders of record as of March 23, 2012. We anticipate paying the quarterly dividends in March, June, September and December of each year. Based on the number of shares currently outstanding we expect to pay a total annual dividend of $3.4 million.

Subsequent events reflect all applicable transactions through the date of the filing.

 

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.

None.

 

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded accurately, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. As required by Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of senior management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level as of the end of the period covered by this report.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011 based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on our evaluation under that framework and applicable Securities and Exchange Commission rules, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2011.

(c) Attestation Report of Registered Public Accounting Firm. This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding the internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

(d) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our fourth fiscal quarter for 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION.

Not applicable.

 

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PART III

 

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our Definitive Proxy Statement under the heading “DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT,” expected to be filed within 120 days of our fiscal year end.

 

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our Definitive Proxy Statement under the heading “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION,” expected to be filed within 120 days of our fiscal year end.

 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our Definitive Proxy Statement under the heading “SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS” expected to be filed within 120 days of our fiscal year end.

 

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.

The information required by this item relating to “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions” is incorporated by reference to our Definitive Proxy Statement under the heading “CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS” expected to be filed within 120 days of our fiscal year end.

The information required by this item relating to “Director Independence” is incorporated by reference to our Definitive Proxy Statement under the heading “DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE” expected to be filed within 120 days of our fiscal year end.

 

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our Definitive Proxy Statement under the heading “PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES,” expected to be filed within 120 days of our fiscal year end.

PART IV

 

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.

 

(a)

1. Financial Statements. The financial statements required to be filed hereunder are included in Item 8.

2. Financial Statement Schedule. The following financial statement schedule for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 is filed as part of this report and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements.

 

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SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

Schedule II – Valuation & Qualifying Accounts

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Description    Balance at
Beginning of
Period
     Additions
Charged to
Cost and
Expense
     Deductions
Bad Debt
Write-offs
    Balance at
End of Period
 

Year Ended December 31, 2009
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

     8,821         4,881         (3,399     10,303   

Year Ended December 31, 2010
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

     10,303         2,198         (2,475     10,026   

Year Ended December 31, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

     10,026         2,069         (2,795     9,300   

All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.

3. Exhibits.

 

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EXHIBIT LIST

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
3.01    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Salem Communications Corporation, a Delaware corporation.    8-K    333-41733-29    04/14/99    3.1   
3.02.02    Amended and Restated Bylaws of Salem Communications Corporation, a Delaware Corporation.    8-K    000-26497    06/26/07    3.1   
3.03    Certificate of Incorporation of Salem Communications Holding Corporation.    8-K    000-26497    09/08/00    2.01   
3.04.02    Amended and Restated Bylaws of Salem Communications Holding Corporation, a Delaware Corporation.    10-Q    000-26497    08/09/07    3.04.01   
3.05    Certificate of Incorporation of Salem Communications Acquisition Corporation.    8-K    000-26497    09/08/00    2.03   
3.06    Bylaws of Salem Communications Acquisition Corporation.    8-K    000-26497    09/08/00    2.04   
3.07    Certificate of Incorporation of SCA License Corporation.    8-K    000-26497    09/08/00    2.06   
3.08    Bylaws of SCA License Corporation.    8-K    000-26497    09/08/00    2.06   
4.01    Specimen of Class A common stock certificate.    S-1/A    333-76649    Declared
Effective
6/30/99
   4.09   
4.02    Second Amended and Restated Parent Security Agreement dated as of June 15, 2001, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, a Delaware corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, a Delaware corporation, and The Bank of New York, as Administrative Agent.    10-Q    000-26497    08/14/01    4.24.02   
4.03    Indenture between Salem Communications Holding Corporation, a Delaware corporation, certain named guarantors and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, dated as of June 25, 2001, relating to the 9% Series A and Series B Senior Subordinated Notes due 2011.    10-Q    000-26497    08/14/01    4.10.03   
4.04    Form of 9% Senior Subordinated Notes (filed as part of exhibit 4.06).    10-Q    000-26497    08/14/01      
4.05    Form of Note Guarantee (filed as part of exhibit 4.06).    10-Q    000-26497    08/14/01      
4.06    Registration Rights Agreement dated as of June 25, 2001, by and among Salem Communications Holding Corporation, the guarantors and initial purchasers named therein.    10-Q    000-26497    08/14/01    4.28   
4.07    Indenture, dated as of December 23, 2002, relating to the 7 3/4% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2010 by and among Salem Holding, the Company and The Bank of New York, as trustee, with form of Note incorporated    8-K    000-26497    12/23/02    4.10   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
4.08    Form of 7 3/4% Senior Subordinated Notes (filed as part of exhibit 4.10).    8-K    000-26497    12/23/02      
4.09    Form of Note Guarantee (filed as part of exhibit 4.10).    8-K    000-26497    12/23/02      
4.10    Supplemental Indenture No. 1 to the 7 3/4% Senior Subordinated Notes, dated as of December 23, 2002, between Salem Communications Corporation and its guarantors, and Bank of New York.    10-K    000-26497    03/31/03    4.22   
4.11    Supplemental Indenture No. 1 to the 9% Senior Subordinated Notes, dated as of December 16, 2002, between Salem Communications Corporation and its guarantors, and Bank of New York.    10-K    000-26497    03/31/03    4.23   
4.12    Supplemental Indenture No. 2 to the 7 3/4% Senior Subordinated Notes, dated as of June 12, 2003, between Salem Communications Corporation and its guarantors, and Bank of New York.    10-Q    000-26497    08/06/03    4.24   
4.13    Supplemental Indenture No. 2 to the 9% Senior Subordinated Notes, dated as of June 12, 2003, between Salem Communications Corporation and its guarantors, and Bank of New York.    10-Q    000-26497    08/06/03    4.25   
4.14    Indenture, dated as of December 1, 2009, among Salem Communications Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee and Collateral Agent.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    4.1   
4.15    Form of 9.625% Senior Secured Second Lien Notes due 2016 (filed as part of Exhibit 4.21).    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    4.2   
4.16    Second Lien Security Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2009, among Salem Communications Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Collateral Agent.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    4.3   
4.17    Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2009, among Salem Communications Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Collateral Agent and Banc of America Securities LLC, as Representative of the Initial Purchasers.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    4.4   
4.18    Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 30, 2009, among Salem Communications Holding Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    4.5   
10.01.01    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2004, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Edward G. Atsinger III.    10-Q    000-26497    08/06/04    10.01.01   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.01.02    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2007, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Edward G. Atsinger III.    8-K    000-26497    06/26/07    10.2   
10.01.03    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2010 between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Edward G. Atsinger III    8-K    000-26497    6/8/10    99.1   
10.01.04    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2010 between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Edward G. Atsinger III    10-Q    000-26497    6/8/10    99.1   
10.02.01    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2004, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Stuart W. Epperson.    10-Q    000-26497    08/06/04    10.02.01   
10.02.02    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2007, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Stuart W. Epperson.    8-K    000-26497    06/26/07    10.1   
10.02.03    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2010 between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Stuart W. Epperson    8-K    000-26497    2/22/10    99.1   
10.02.04    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2010 between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Stuart W. Epperson    10-Q    000-26497    2/22/10    99.1   
10.02.05    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2011 between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Stuart W. Epperson    8-K    000-26497    06/22/11    99.1   
10.03.01    Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2007, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Eric H. Halvorson.    8-K    000-26497    06/26/07    10.3   
10.04.01    Employment Agreement, effective as of September 1, 2005, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Joe D. Davis    8-K/A    000-26497    05/25/05    99.1   
10.04.02    Employment Agreement, effective as of July 1, 2007, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Joe D. Davis    8-K    000-26497    06/26/07    10.4   
10.05.01    Employment Agreement, effective as of September 1, 2005, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and David A.R. Evans.    8-K    000-26497    09/27/05    99.1   
10.05.02    Employment Agreement, effective as of September 15, 2008, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and David A.R. Evans    8-K    000-26497    09/09/08    99.1   
10.05.03    Employment Agreement, effective as of September 15, 2011, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and David A.R. Evans    8-K    000-26497    06/22/11    99.2   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.06.01    Antenna/tower/studio lease between Common Ground Broadcasting, Inc. (KKMS-AM/Eagan, Minnesota) and Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson expiring in 2016.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.04   
10.06.03    Antenna/tower lease (KFAX-FM/Hayward, California) and Salem Broadcasting Company, a partnership consisting of Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson, expiring in 2013.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.06   
10.06.04    Antenna/tower lease between Inspiration Media, Inc. (KGNW-AM/Seattle, Washington) and Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson expiring in 2012.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.08   
10.06.05    Antenna/tower lease between Inspiration Media, Inc. (KLFE-AM/Seattle, Washington) and The Atsinger Family Trust and Stuart W. Epperson Revocable Living Trust expiring in 2014.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.09   
10.06.06    Antenna/tower/studio lease between Pennsylvania Media Associates, Inc. (WNTP-AM/WFIL-AM/Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) and The Atsinger Family Trust and Stuart W. Epperson Revocable Living Trust expiring 2014.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.11.02   
10.06.07    Antenna/tower lease between New Inspiration Broadcasting Co., Inc.: as successor in interest to Radio 1210, Inc. (KPRZ-AM/San Marcos, California) and The Atsinger Family Trust expiring in 2028.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.12   
10.06.08    Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Texas, Inc. (KSLR-AM/San Antonio, Texas) and Atsinger Family Trust/Epperson Family Limited Partnership expiring 2009.    10-K    000-26497    03/30/00    10.05.13   
10.06.09    Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Colorado, Inc. (KNUS-AM/Denver-Boulder, Colorado) and Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson expiring 2016.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.15   
10.06.10    Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Colorado, Inc. and Atsinger Family Trust/Epperson Family Limited Partnership (KRKS-AM/KBJD-AM/Denver, Colorado) expiring 2009.    10-K    000-26497    03/30/00    10.05.16   
10.06.11    Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Oregon, Inc. (KPDQ-AM/FM/Portland, Oregon), and Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson expiring 2012.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.17.02   
10.06.12    Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Pennsylvania, Inc. (WORD-FM/WPIT-AM/Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) and The Atsinger Family Trust and Stuart W. Epperson Revocable Living Trust expiring 2013.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.18   
10.06.13    Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Texas, Inc. (KSLR-AM/San Antonio, Texas) and Epperson-Atsinger 1983 Family Trust expiring 2017.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.19   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.06.13.01    Amendment to Lease to Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Texas, Inc. (KSLR-AM/San Antonio, TX) and Epperson-Atsinger 1983 Family Trust expiring 2017    10-K    000-26497    03/17/08    10.06.13.01   
10.06.13.02    Second Amendment to Lease to Antenna/tower lease between Salem Media of Texas, Inc. (KSLR-AM/San Antonio, TX) and Epperson-Atsinger 1983 Family Trust expiring 2017    10-K    000-26497    03/17/08    10.06.13.02   
10.06.14    Antenna/tower lease between South Texas Broadcasting, Inc. (KNTH-AM/Houston-Galveston, Texas) and Atsinger Family Trust and Stuart W. Epperson Revocable Living Trust expiring 2015.    S-4    333-41733-29    01/29/98    10.05.20   
10.06.15    Antenna/tower lease between New Inspiration Broadcasting Co., Inc. successor in interest to Vista Broadcasting, Inc. (KFIA-AM/Sacramento, California) and The Atsinger Family Trust and Stuart W. Epperson Revocable Living Trust expiring 2016.    S-4    333-41733-29    10/29/98    10.05.21   
10.06.17    Antenna/tower lease between Inspiration Media of Texas, Inc. (KTEK-AM/Alvin, Texas) and the Atsinger Family Trust and The Stuart W. Epperson Revocable Living Trust expiring 2018.    10-K
405
   000-26497    03/31/99    10.05.23   
10.06.18    Studio building lease between Salem Radio Properties, Inc. and Thomas H. Moffit Jr.    10-K    000-26497    03/31/06    10.05.24   
10.06.19    Antenna/tower lease between Pennsylvania Media Associates Inc. (WTLN-AM/ Orlando, Florida) and Atsinger Family Trust and Stuart W. Epperson, revocable living trust expiring 2045.    10-K    000-26497    03/16/07    10.05.25   
10.06.20    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between Inspiration Media, Inc. (KDOW-AM/Palo Alto, CA) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.20   
10.06.21    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between New Inspiration Broadcasting Company, Inc.(KFAX-AM/San Francisco, CA) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.21   
10.06.22    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between Inspiration Media, Inc. (KLFE-AM/Seattle, WA) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.22   
10.06.23    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between South Texas Broadcasting, Inc. (KNTH-AM/Houston, TX) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.23   
10.06.24    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between Salem Media of Oregon, Inc. (KPDQ-AM/Portland, OR) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.24   
10.06.25    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between Common Ground Broadcasting, Inc. (KPXQ-AM/Glendale, AZ) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.25   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.06.26    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between Salem Media of Texas, Inc. (KSLR-AM/San Antonio, TX) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.26   
10.06.27    Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2008, between Pennsylvania Media Associates, Inc. (WFIL-AM and WNTP-AM/Philadelphia, PA) and Principal Shareholders expiring 2023    8-K    000-26497    04/14/08    10.06.27   
10.07.01    Asset Purchase Agreement, dated August 18, 2006, by and between Caron Broadcasting, Inc. and Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation (WJGR-AM, Jacksonville, Florida, and WZNZ-AM, Jacksonville, Florida)    10-Q    000-26497    11/09/06    10.06.02   
10.07.02    Asset Purchase Agreement, dated September 14, 2006, by and between Caron Broadcasting, Inc. and Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation (WZAZ-AM, Jacksonville, Florida)    10-Q    000-26497    11/09/06    10.06.03   
10.07.03    Local Programming and Marketing Agreement, dated September 14, 2006, by and between Caron Broadcasting, Inc. and Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation (WJGR-AM, Jacksonville, Florida, and WZNZ-AM, Jacksonville, Florida)    10-Q    000-26497    11/09/06    10.06.04   
10.07.04    Local Programming and Marketing Agreement, dated September 14, 2006, by and between Caron Broadcasting, Inc. and Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation (WZAZ-AM, Jacksonville, Florida)    10-Q    000-26497    11/09/06    10.06.05   
10.08.01    Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to previously filed Appendix B).    DEF
14A
   000-26497    04/29/03    Appendix B   
10.08.02    Form of stock option grant for Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan.    10-K    000-26497    03/16/05    10.08.02   
10.08.03    Form of restricted stock option grant for Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan.    10-Q    000-26497    11/09/05    10.01   
10.08.04    Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan as amended and restated through May 18, 2005.    DEF
14A
   000-26497    04/18/05    Proposal
No. 2
  
10.08.04.01    Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan as amended and restated through June 3, 2009.    8-K    000-26497    06/09/09    10.08.04.01   
10.09    Management Services Agreement by and among Salem and Salem Communications Holding Corporation, dated August 25, 2000 (incorporated by reference to previously filed exhibit 10.11). (7)    10-Q    000-26497    05/15/01    10.11   
10.10.01    Employment Agreement dated January 1, 2008, between Salem Communications Holding Corporation and Evan D. Masyr    8-K    000-26497    12/19/07    99.1   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.11    Intercreditor Agreement dated as of December 1, 2009, among Salem Communications Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, Bank of America, N.A., as first lien agent and control agent and the Collateral Agent.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    10.1   
10.12.01    Credit Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2009, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, as the borrower, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swingline Lender, L/C Issuer and a Lender, the other Lenders party thereto, Banc of America Securities LLC, as Joint Lead Arranger and Sole Book Manager, Barclays Capital and ING Capital LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers, Barclays Capital, as Syndication Agent, and ING Capital LLC, as Documentation Agent.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    10.2   
10.12.02    Amendment No. 1 and Waiver to Credit Agreement dated as of November 1, 2010, among Salem Communications Corporation, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and L/C Issuer, and each lender party thereto    8-K    000-26497    11/14/10    99.2   
10.12.03    Second Amendment to the Credit Agreement dated as of November 15, 2011 by and between Salem Communications Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.    8-K    000-26497    11/21/11    10.1   
10.13    First Lien Security Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2009, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent.    8-K    000-26497    12/03/09    10.3   
10.14    Increase Joinder dated as of November 1, 2010 among Salem Communications Corporation, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, the Guarantors party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent    8-K    000-26497    11/4/10    99.1   
10.15    Employment Agreement with Evan D. Masyr dated as of January 1, 2011    8-K    000-26497    12/13/10    99.1   
10.16    Affiliate Line of Credit , dated as of November 17, 2011 between Salem Communications Corporation and Edward G. Atsinger III                X
10.17    Affiliate Line of Credit, dated as of November 17, 2011 between Salem Communications Corporation and Stuart W. Epperson                X
10.18.01    Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2003, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, General Electric Capital Corporation, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Syndication Agent, Fleet National Bank, as Documentation Agent, ING (U.S.) Capital, LLC, as Documentation Agent, The Bank of New York, as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders party thereto.    10-Q    000-26497    11/06/03    4.09   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.18.02    Amendment #1, dated as of May 19, 2004, to the Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2003, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, General Electric Capital Corporation, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Syndication Agent, Fleet National Bank, as Documentation Agent, ING (U.S.) Capital, LLC, as Documentation Agent, The Bank of New York, as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders party thereto.    10-Q    000-26497    08/06/04    4.11   
10.18.03    Amendment #2, dated as of July 7, 2005, to the Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2003, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, General Electric Capital Corporation, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Syndication Agent, Fleet National Bank, as Documentation Agent, ING (U.S.) Capital, LLC, as Documentation Agent, The Bank of New York, as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders party thereto.    8-K    000-26497    07/13/05    4.12   
10.18.04    Consent No. 2, dated as of July 23, 2003, under the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement between Salem Communications Corporation and its guarantors, and The Bank of New York.    10-Q    000-26497    08/06/03    4.26   
10.18.05    Amendment #3, dated as of June 9, 2006, to the Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2003, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, General Electric Capital Corporation, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Syndication Agent, Fleet National Bank, as Documentation Agent, ING (U.S.) Capital, LLC, as Documentation Agent, The Bank of New York, as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders party thereto.    8-K    000-26497    06/15/06    4.13   
10.18.06    Amendment #4, dated as of October 24, 2007, to the Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2003, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, General Electric Capital Corporation, as Syndication Agent, SunTrust Bank, as Syndication Agent, Fleet National Bank, as Documentation Agent, ING (U.S.) Capital, LLC, as Documentation Agent, The Bank of New York, as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders party thereto.    8-K    000-26497    10/30/07    4.19   

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Exhibit Description

   Form    File No.    Date of
First
Filing
   Exhibit
Number
   Filed
Herewith
10.18.07    Amendment #5, dated as of March 11, 2009, to the Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2003, by and among Salem Communications Corporation, Salem Communications Holding Corporation, General Electric Capital Corporation, as Syndication Agent, Sun Trust Bank, as Syndication Agent, Bank of America, N.A. (successor by merger to Fleet National Bank), as Documentation Agent, ING Capital, LLC, as Documentation Agent, The Bank of New York Mellon (formerly the Bank of New York), as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders party thereto.    8-K    000-26497    03/12/09    99.1   
16.01    Letter from Ernst & Young LLP regarding change in certifying accountant    8-K    000-26497    06/12/07    16.1   
21.01    Subsidiaries of Salem Communications Corporation                X
23.1    Consent of SingerLewak LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.                X
23.3    Consent of Bond & Pecaro, Inc., dated March 9, 2011                X
31.1    Certification of Edward G. Atsinger III Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act.                X
31.2    Certification of Evan D. Masyr Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act.                X
32.1    Certification of Edward G. Atsinger III Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.                X
32.2    Certification of Evan D. Masyr Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.                X
101    The following financial information from the Annual Report on Form 10K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language) and furnished electronically herewith: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations (iii) the Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (v) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.                X

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

    SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

        March 9, 2012

   
    By:   /s/ EDWARD G. ATSINGER III
   

Edward G. Atsinger III

   

Chief Executive Officer

 

        March 9, 2012

   
    By:   /s/ EVAN D. MASYR
   

Evan D. Masyr

   

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/ EDWARD G. ATSINGER III

Edward G. Atsinger III

  

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

March 9, 2012

/s/ EVAN D. MASYR

Evan D. Masyr

  

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer and Principal

Accounting Officer)

 

March 9, 2012

/s/ STUART W. EPPERSON

Stuart W. Epperson

   Chairman  

March 9, 2012

/s/ DAVID DAVENPORT

David Davenport

   Director  

March 9, 2012

/s/ ROLAND S. HINZ

Roland S. Hinz

   Director  

March 9, 2012

/s/ JONATHAN VENVERLOH

Jonathan Venverloh

   Director  

March 9, 2012

/s/ RICHARD A. RIDDLE

Richard A. Riddle

   Director  

March 9, 2012

/s/ DENNIS M. WEINBERG

Dennis M. Weinberg

   Director  

March 9, 2012

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number
   Description of Exhibits
10.16    Affiliate Line of Credit, dated as of November 17, 2011 between Salem Communications and Edward G. Atsinger III
10.17    Affiliate Line of Credit, dated as of November 17, 2011 between Salem Communications and Stuart W. Epperson
21.01    Subsidiaries of Salem Communications Corporation.
23.1    Consent of SingerLewak LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
23.3    Consent of Bond & Pecaro, Inc.
31.1    Certification of Edward G. Atsinger III Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act.
31.2    Certification of Evan D. Masyr Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act.
32.1    Certification of Edward G. Atsinger III Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
32.2    Certification of Evan D. Masyr Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
101    The following financial information from the Annual Report on Form 10K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language) and furnished electronically herewith: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations (iii) the Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (v) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

116