UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

 

x

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

o

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

For the transition period from                  to                  .

 

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 000-26076

SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Maryland

 

52-1494660

(State or other jurisdiction of Incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

 

 

10706 Beaver Dam Road
Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030
(Address of principal executive offices, zip code)

 

(410) 568-1500

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

None

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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 o

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

Large accelerated filer o      Accelerated filer x      Non-accelerated filer o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes o      No x

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

 

Number of shares outstanding as of

Title of each class

 

May 4, 2007

Class A Common Stock

 

51,262,209

Class B Common Stock

 

35,937,837

 

 




 

SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.

FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2007

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I.

 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

 

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

 

 

 

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

ITEM 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

 

 

 

ITEM 3.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

 

 

 

ITEM 4.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

 

PART II.

 

OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

 

 

 

 

ITEM 6.

EXHIBITS

 

 

SIGNATURE

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

 

 

2




PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)

 

 

As of March 31,
2007

 

As of December 31,
2006

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

15,450

 

$

67,408

 

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,523 and $3,985, respectively

 

120,315

 

130,227

 

Affiliate receivable

 

14

 

12

 

Current portion of program contract costs

 

53,999

 

65,322

 

Income taxes receivable

 

7,812

 

3,625

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

7,223

 

12,904

 

Deferred barter costs

 

2,968

 

2,509

 

Deferred tax assets

 

8,340

 

8,340

 

Total current assets

 

216,121

 

290,347

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROGRAM CONTRACT COSTS, less current portion

 

40,286

 

49,187

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net

 

270,538

 

274,962

 

GOODWILL, net

 

1,007,268

 

1,007,268

 

BROADCAST LICENSES, net

 

409,620

 

409,620

 

DEFINITE-LIVED INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net

 

199,093

 

205,147

 

OTHER ASSETS

 

43,880

 

35,049

 

Total assets

 

$

2,186,806

 

$

2,271,580

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

3,657

 

$

4,849

 

Accrued liabilities

 

65,725

 

89,695

 

Current portion of notes payable, capital leases and commercial bank financing

 

38,881

 

98,265

 

Current portion of notes and capital leases payable to affiliates

 

3,727

 

3,985

 

Current portion of program contracts payable

 

76,385

 

85,746

 

Deferred barter revenues

 

2,799

 

2,388

 

Total current liabilities

 

191,174

 

284,928

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Notes payable, capital leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion

 

1,284,909

 

1,290,899

 

Notes payable and capital leases to affiliates, less current portion

 

19,754

 

20,474

 

Program contracts payable, less current portion

 

87,337

 

97,369

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

274,960

 

282,317

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

63,382

 

28,263

 

Total liabilities

 

1,921,516

 

2,004,250

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MINORITY INTEREST IN CONSOLIDATED ENTITIES

 

724

 

685

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

 

 

 

 

 

Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 50,783,075 and 47,552,682 shares issued and outstanding, respectively

 

508

 

476

 

Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, 140,000,000 shares authorized, 36,252,312 and 38,348,331 shares issued and outstanding, respectively, convertible into Class A Common Stock

 

362

 

383

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

610,437

 

596,667

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(344,326

)

(328,406

)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(2,415

)

(2,475

)

Total shareholders’ equity

 

264,566

 

266,645

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

2,186,806

 

$

2,271,580

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

3




SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

Station broadcast revenues, net of agency commissions

 

$

150,169

 

$

147,925

 

Revenues realized from station barter arrangements

 

13,799

 

11,805

 

Other operating divisions’ revenues

 

2,887

 

3,737

 

Total revenues

 

166,855

 

163,467

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

Station production expenses

 

36,626

 

38,109

 

Station selling, general and administrative expenses

 

34,278

 

34,146

 

Expenses recognized from station barter arrangements

 

12,465

 

10,825

 

Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments

 

21,384

 

18,623

 

Other operating divisions’ expenses

 

3,546

 

3,989

 

Depreciation of property and equipment

 

10,897

 

12,288

 

Corporate general and administrative expenses

 

5,964

 

5,806

 

Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and other assets

 

4,367

 

4,325

 

Total operating expenses

 

129,527

 

128,111

 

Operating income

 

37,328

 

35,356

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs

 

(26,382

)

(29,710

)

Interest income

 

388

 

46

 

Loss from sale of assets

 

(12

)

(287

)

Loss from extinguishment of debt

 

(15,681

)

(623

)

Unrealized gain from derivative instruments

 

1,057

 

2,881

 

(Loss) income from equity and cost investees

 

(12

)

6,099

 

Other income (expense), net

 

221

 

(125

)

Total other expense

 

(40,421

)

(21,719

)

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

(3,093

)

13,637

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME TAX BENEFIT (PROVISION)

 

843

 

(6,561

)

(Loss) income from continuing operations

 

(2,250

)

7,076

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of related income tax provision of $139 and tax benefit of $1,114 respectively

 

(139

)

1,168

 

Gain from discontinued operations, net of related income tax provision of $885

 

 

1,774

 

NET (LOSS) INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS

 

$

(2,389

)

$

10,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASIC AND DILUTED (LOSS) EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) earnings per common share from continuing operations

 

$

(0.03

)

$

0.08

 

Earnings per common share from discontinued operations

 

$

 

$

0.03

 

(Loss) earnings per common share

 

$

(0.03

)

$

0.11

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding

 

86,140

 

85,533

 

Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding

 

86,140

 

85,535

 

Dividends declared per common share

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.10

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

4




SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(In thousands) (Unaudited)

 

 

Class A
Common
Stock

 

Class B
Common
Stock

 

Additional
Paid-In
Capital

 

Accumulated
Deficit

 

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss

 

Total
Shareholders’
Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALANCE, December 31, 2006

 

$

476

 

$

383

 

$

596,667

 

$

(328,406

)

$

(2,475

)

$

266,645

 

Adjustment related to adoption of FIN 48, effective January 1, 2007

 

 

 

 

(589

)

 

(589

)

Dividends declared on Class A and Class B Common Stock

 

 

 

 

(12,942

)

 

(12,942

)

Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans

 

11

 

 

12,196

 

 

 

12,207

 

Class B Common Stock converted into Class A Common Stock

 

21

 

(21

)

 

 

 

 

Tax benefit of nonqualified stock options exercised

 

 

 

1,574

 

 

 

1,574

 

Amortization of net periodic pension benefit costs

 

 

 

 

 

60

 

60

 

Net loss

 

 

 

 

(2,389

)

 

(2,389

)

BALANCE, March 31, 2007

 

$

508

 

$

362

 

$

610,437

 

$

(344,326

)

$

(2,415

)

$

264,566

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other comprehensive loss:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

(2,389

)

$

 

$

(2,389

)

Amortization of net periodic pension benefit costs

 

 

 

 

 

60

 

60

 

Comprehensive (loss) income

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

(2,389

)

$

60

 

$

(2,329

)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

5




SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands) (Unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(2,389

)

$

10,018

 

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of debt discount, net of debt premium

 

702

 

480

 

Depreciation of property and equipment

 

10,897

 

12,288

 

Recognition of deferred revenue

 

(57

)

(1,235

)

Accretion of capital leases

 

231

 

152

 

Loss (income) from equity and cost investees

 

180

 

(6,099

)

Loss on sale of property

 

12

 

287

 

Gain on sale of broadcast assets related to discontinued operations

 

 

(2,659

)

Unrealized gain from derivative instruments

 

(1,057

)

(2,881

)

Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and other assets

 

4,367

 

4,325

 

Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments

 

21,384

 

18,623

 

Amortization of deferred financing costs

 

539

 

661

 

Stock-based compensation

 

698

 

499

 

Excess tax benefits for stock options exercised

 

(1,574

)

 

Loss on extinguishment of debt, non-cash portion

 

2,232

 

989

 

Amortization of net periodic pension benefit costs

 

60

 

 

Amortization of derivative instruments

 

134

 

134

 

Deferred tax provision related to operations

 

877

 

8,018

 

Deferred tax benefit related to discontinued operations

 

 

(1,177

)

Net effect of change in deferred barter revenues and deferred barter costs

 

(48

)

(39

)

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in accounts receivable, net

 

10,370

 

9,737

 

Increase in taxes receivable

 

(2,012

)

(2,072

)

Decrease in prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

6,729

 

10,993

 

(Increase) decrease in other assets

 

(964

)

177

 

Decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

(7,497

)

(14,822

)

Decrease in income taxes payable

 

 

(772

)

Decrease in other long-term liabilities

 

(146

)

(1,851

)

Increase (decrease) in minority interest

 

39

 

(19

)

Dividends and distributions from equity and cost investees

 

88

 

6,000

 

Payments on program contracts payable

 

(20,553

)

(26,289

)

Net cash flows from operating activities

 

23,242

 

23,466

 

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

(6,535

)

(4,717

)

Payments for acquisition of television station

 

 

(1,710

)

Dividends and distributions from cost investees

 

435

 

 

Investments in equity and cost investees

 

 

(59

)

Proceeds from the sale of assets

 

11

 

1,358

 

Proceeds from the sale of broadcast assets related to discontinued operations

 

 

1,400

 

Loans to affiliates

 

(37

)

(35

)

Proceeds from loans to affiliates

 

35

 

34

 

Net cash flows used in investing activities

 

(6,091

)

(3,729

)

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

276,500

 

49,000

 

Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

(345,232

)

(61,114

)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

11,357

 

 

Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock

 

(10,624

)

(8,470

)

Repayments of notes and capital leases to affiliates

 

(1,110

)

(1,055

)

Net cash flows used in financing activities

 

(69,109

)

(21,639

)

NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

(51,958

)

(1,902

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period

 

67,408

 

9,655

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period

 

$

15,450

 

$

7,753

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

6




SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. and those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries and variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary.  Minority interest represents a minority owner’s proportionate share of the equity in certain of our consolidated entities.  All significant intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Discontinued Operations

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, we reported the financial position and results of operations of WEMT-TV in Tri-Cities, Tennessee as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations.  Discontinued operations have not been segregated in the consolidated statements of cash flows; therefore, amounts for certain captions will not agree with the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations.  The operating results of WEMT-TV are not included in our consolidated results from continuing operations for the quarters ended March 31, 2007 and 2006.  See Note 9. Discontinued Operations, for additional information.

Interim Financial Statements

The consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 are unaudited.  In the opinion of management, such financial statements have been presented on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods.

As permitted under the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the consolidated financial statements do not include all disclosures normally included with audited consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, should be read together with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The consolidated statements of operations presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of operations for an entire year.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2007, the Financial Standards Accounting Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115 (SFAS 159). The fair value option established by this statement permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are to be reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. This statement is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2008. We are currently evaluating the impact that adoption of SFAS 159 will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

7




Restructuring Costs

During the year ended December 31, 2006, we incurred costs associated with restructuring the news operations at certain of our stations.  Specifically, on or before March 31, 2006, we ceased our locally-produced news broadcasts in nine of our markets and consequently let go our news employees and cancelled our news-related contracts.

We recorded restructuring charges in station production expenses.  The major components of the restructuring charges and the remaining accrual balance related to the restructuring plan as of March 31, 2007 follow (in thousands):

 

 

Salary and
Severance Costs

 

Contract Expenses

 

Other Exit Costs

 

Total

 

Balance at December 31, 2006

 

$

 

$

79

 

$

34

 

$

113

 

Amounts utilized

 

 

(45

)

(14

)

(59

)

Balance at March 31, 2007

 

$

 

$

34

 

$

20

 

$

54

 

 

All restructuring costs were associated with our broadcast segment.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior periods’ consolidated financial statements to conform with the current period’s presentation.

2. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

Litigation

We are a party to lawsuits and claims from time to time in the ordinary course of business.  Actions currently pending are in various preliminary stages and no judgments or decisions have been rendered by hearing boards or courts in connection with such actions.  After reviewing developments to date with legal counsel, our management is of the opinion that the outcome of our pending and threatened matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations or consolidated statements of cash flows.

Changes in the Rules on Television Ownership and Local Marketing Agreements

There have been no material changes to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules on television ownership and local marketing agreements during the three months ended March 31, 2007.  Please refer to Note 11. Commitments and Contingencies in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.

Children’s Television Programming

Television stations are required to broadcast a minimum of three hours per week of “core” children’s educational programming, which the FCC defines as programming that:

·                  has the significant purpose of serving the educational and informational needs of children 16 years of age and under;

·                  is regularly scheduled weekly and at least 30 minutes in duration; and

·                  is aired between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. local time.

In addition, the FCC concluded that starting on January 2, 2007 a digital broadcaster must air an additional half hour of “core” children’s programming per every increment of 1 to 28 hours of free video programming provided in addition to the main DTV program stream.  Furthermore, “core” children’s educational programs, in order to qualify as such, are required to be identified as educational and informational programs over the air at the time they are broadcast and are required to be identified in the children’s programming reports, which are required to be placed quarterly in stations’ public inspection files and filed quarterly with the FCC.

On April 17, 2007, the FCC requested comments on the status of children’s television programming and compliance with the Children’s Television Act and the FCC’s rules.

8




Other FCC Adjudicatory Proceedings

On April 26, 2007, the FCC sent letters to two of our stations, WUHF-TV in Rochester, New York and WSYX-TV in Columbus, Ohio, requesting information regarding the broadcast of certain video news releases without proper sponsorship identification in alleged violation of federal law and the FCC’s rules.  We have until June 25, 2007 to respond.

On May 1, 2007, the FCC sent a letter to WRLH-TV, Richmond, Virginia, requesting information regarding the alleged broadcast of indecent material during an advertisement.  We have until May 31, 2007 to respond.

3. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

During the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, our supplemental cash flow information was as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes paid related to continuing operations

 

$

 

$

26

 

Income taxes paid related to sale of discontinued operations

 

$

 

$

4,028

 

Income tax refunds received related to continuing operations

 

$

25

 

$

78

 

Income tax refunds received related to sale of discontinued operations

 

$

134

 

$

88

 

Interest paid

 

$

40,290

 

$

21,675

 

Payments related to extinguishment of debt

 

$

13,449

 

$

366

 

 

Non-cash barter and trade expense are presented in the consolidated statements of operations.  Non-cash transactions related to capital lease obligations were less than $0.1 million and $0.4 million for the quarters ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

4. NOTES PAYABLE:

On January 19, 2007, we borrowed net proceeds of $225.0 million under our Term Loan A-1 pursuant to our amended and restated Bank Credit Agreement.  On January 22, 2007, we used these proceeds along with $59.4 million of cash on hand and additional borrowings of $23.0 million under our Revolving Credit Facility to redeem the aggregate principal amount of $307.4 million of our 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011 (2011 Notes).  The redemption was effected in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the 2011 Notes at a redemption price of 104.375% of the principal amount of the 2011 Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest. As a result of the redemption, we recorded a loss from extinguishment of debt of $15.7 million representing the redemption premium and write-off of certain debt acquisition costs.

5. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS:

We enter into derivative instruments primarily for the purpose of reducing the impact of changing interest rates on our floating rate debt and to reduce the impact of changing fair market values on our fixed rate debt.  We account for our derivative instruments under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, as amended.

As of March 31, 2007, we had two derivative instruments.  Both of these instruments are interest rate swap agreements.  One of these swap agreements with a notional amount of $180.0 million and expiring on March 15, 2012 is accounted for as a fair value hedge; therefore, any changes in its fair market value are reflected as an adjustment to the carrying value of our 8.0% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012 which is the underlying debt being hedged.  During 2006, the other interest rate swap agreement was undesignated as a fair value hedge due to a reassignment of the counterparty; therefore, any subsequent changes in the fair market value are reflected as an adjustment to income.  The notional amount of this swap agreement is $120.0 million and it expires on March 15, 2012.  The interest we pay on both interest rate swap agreements is floating based on the three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 2.28% and the interest we receive is 8.0%.  The fair market value of these agreements is estimated by obtaining quotations from the international financial institution which is a party to the contract.  The fair value is an estimate of the net amount that we would pay on the balance sheet date if we cancelled the contracts or transferred them to other parties and includes net accrued interest receivable.  This amount was a net asset of $3.0 million and $5.6 million as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

During May 2003, we completed an issuance of $150.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% Convertible Senior Notes, due 2018.  Under certain circumstances, we will pay contingent cash interest to the holders of the convertible notes commencing on January 15, 2011.  This contingent cash interest feature is an embedded derivative which had a negligible fair value as of March 31, 2007.

9




6. INCOME TAXES AND CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE:

Our income tax provision for all periods consists of federal and state income taxes.  The tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2007 is based on the estimated effective tax rate applicable for the full year, which is expected to be 45.7%.  Our effective income tax rate differs from the federal statutory rate of 35% and can vary from period to period due to fluctuations in operating results, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, state taxes, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, accruals related to contingent tax liabilities, and the results of audits and examinations of previously filed tax returns.  Both the first quarter and estimated annual 2007 effective rates are different from the statutory rate due primarily to the impact of state income taxes, certain items not deductible for tax purposes and our contingent tax liability accrual.

We adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (FIN 48) on January 1, 2007. The adoption of FIN 48 did not cause a material change to our contingent liability for unrecognized tax benefits.  We decreased the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings by $0.6 million to apply the cumulative effect of FIN 48 adoption.  As of the date of adoption, we had $32.9 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits.  Of this total, $17.6 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) and $7.8 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) represent the amounts of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective tax rates from continuing operations and discontinued operations, respectively.  At March 31, 2007, we had $33.1 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits.  Of this total, $17.7 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) and $7.8 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) represent the amounts of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective tax rates from continuing operations and discontinued operations, respectively.

We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  We had $6.7 million and $0 accrued for interest and penalties, respectively, at January 1, 2007.  We recognized $0.7 million of income tax expense for interest related to uncertain tax positions during the quarter ended March 31, 2007.

We are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state jurisdictions.  All of our 2003 and subsequent federal and state tax returns remain subject to examination by various tax authorities.  Some of our pre-2003 state tax returns may also be subject to examination.  In addition, several of our subsidiaries are currently under state examinations for various years.  We do not anticipate the resolution of these matters will result in a material change to our consolidated financial statements.  In addition, it is reasonably possible that various state statutes of limitations could expire by March 31, 2008.  Such expirations, if any, could result in a reduction of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits by up to $4.2 million.

7. EARNINGS PER SHARE:

The following table reconciles income (numerator) and shares (denominator) used in our computations of earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 (in thousands):

 

 

As of March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Income (Numerator)

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations

 

$

(2,250

)

$

7,076

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, including gain on sale of broadcast assets related to discontinued operations

 

$

(139

)

$

2,942

 

Net (loss) income available to common shareholders

 

$

(2,389

)

$

10,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares (Denominator)

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

 

86,140

 

85,533

 

Dilutive effect of outstanding stock options

 

 

2

 

Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding

 

86,140

 

85,535

 

 

We applied the treasury stock method to measure the dilutive effect of our outstanding stock options and restricted stock awards and include the respective common share equivalents in the denominator of the diluted EPS computation.  For the three months ended March 31, 2007, our outstanding stock options and restricted stock and for each of the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, our 6% Convertible Debentures, due 2012 and 4.875% Convertible Senior Notes, due 2018 were anti-dilutive; therefore, they were not included in the computation of diluted EPS.

10




8. RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS:

David, Frederick, Duncan and Robert Smith (collectively, the controlling shareholders) are brothers and hold substantially all of the Class B Common Stock.

Certain assets used by us and our operating subsidiaries are leased from Cunningham Communications Inc., Keyser Investment Group, Gerstell Development Limited Partnership and Beaver Dam, LLC (entities owned by the controlling shareholders).  Lease payments made to these entities were $1.3 million and $1.1 million for each of the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

In January 1999, we entered into a local marketing agreement (LMA) with Bay Television, Inc. (Bay TV), which owns the television station WTTA-TV in Tampa, Florida.  Our controlling shareholders own a substantial portion of the equity of Bay TV.  The LMA provides that we deliver television programming to Bay TV, which broadcasts the programming in return for a monthly fee to Bay TV of $143,500.  We must also make an annual payment equal to 50% of the adjusted annual broadcast cash flow of the station (as defined in the LMA) that is in excess of $1.7 million.  Lease payments made to Bay TV were $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006.

David D. Smith, our President and Chief Executive Officer, has a controlling interest in Atlantic Automotive and is a member of the Board of Directors.  Atlantic Automotive Corporation is a holding company which owns automobile dealerships and a leasing company.  We sold advertising time to Atlantic Automotive on our stations in Baltimore, Maryland and Norfolk, Virginia and received payments totaling $0.2 million and $0.1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  We purchased a total of $0.2 million and $0.4 million in vehicles and related vehicle services from Atlantic Automotive during the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

9. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:

WEMT Disposition

On May 16, 2005, we entered into an agreement to sell WEMT-TV in Tri-Cities, Tennessee, including the FCC license (the broadcast license) to an unrelated third party for $7.0 million.  On the same day, we completed the sale of the WEMT non-license television broadcast assets for $5.6 million of the total $7.0 million sales price and recorded a deferred gain of $3.2 million, which is stated separately on the December 31, 2005 consolidated balance sheet.  The FCC approved the transfer of the broadcast license to the unrelated third party and we completed the sale of the license assets, including the broadcast license, on February 8, 2006 for a cash price of approximately $1.4 million.  We recorded $1.8 million, net of $0.9 million in taxes, as gain from discontinued operations in our consolidated statements of operations for the quarter ended March 31, 2006.  The gain is comprised of the previously deferred gain of $2.1 million and the loss of $0.3 million from the sale of the license assets, net of taxes, respectively.  The net cash proceeds were used in the normal course of operations and for capital expenditures.

Other Dispositions

During the three months ended March 31, 2007, we recognized a $0.1 million tax provision relating to an adjustment of certain state tax contingencies.

11




10. SEGMENT DATA

We have one reportable operating segment, “Broadcast”, that is disclosed separately from our corporate and other business activities.  “Corporate and Other” primarily includes our costs to operate as a public company and to operate our corporate headquarters location, our investment activity and our other operating divisions’ activities.  Our other operating divisions primarily earn revenues from internet technology and transmitter manufacturing.  Transactions between our operating segment and “Corporate and Other” are not material.

Financial information for our operating segment is included in the following tables for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 (in thousands):

For the three months ended March 31, 2007

 

 

 

Broadcast

 

Corporate and Other

 

Consolidated

 

Revenue

 

$163,968

 

$2,887

 

$166,855

 

Depreciation of property and equipment

 

10,356

 

541

 

10,897

 

Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and other assets

 

4,367

 

 

4,367

 

Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments

 

21,384

 

 

21,384

 

General and administrative overhead expenses

 

2,042

 

3,922

 

5,964

 

Operating income (loss)

 

42,547

 

(5,219

)

37,328

 

Loss from equity and cost investees

 

 

(12

)

(12

)

 

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2006

 

 

 

Broadcast

 

Corporate and Other

 

Consolidated

 

Revenue

 

$159,730

 

$3,737

 

$163,467

 

Depreciation of property and equipment

 

11,747

 

541

 

12,288

 

Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and other assets

 

4,325

 

 

4,325

 

Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments

 

18,623

 

 

18,623

 

General and administrative overhead expenses

 

1,841

 

3,965

 

5,806

 

Operating income (loss)

 

40,279

 

(4,923

)

35,356

 

Income from equity and cost investees

 

 

6,099

 

6,099

 

 

12




11. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:

Sinclair Television Group, Inc. (STG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (SBG), is the primary obligor under our existing Bank Credit Agreement, as amended, the 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011, which were redeemed in full on January 22, 2007, and the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012.  Our Class A Common Stock, Class B Common Stock, the 6.0% Convertible Debentures, due 2012 and the 4.875% Convertible Senior Notes, due 2018 remain obligations or securities of SBG and are not obligations or securities of STG.

SBG, KDSM, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG, and STG’s wholly-owned subsidiaries (guarantor subsidiaries), have fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of STG’s obligations.  Those guarantees are joint and several.  There are certain contractual restrictions on the ability of SBG, STG or KDSM, LLC to obtain funds from their subsidiaries in the form of dividends or loans.

The following condensed consolidating financial statements present the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows of SBG, STG, KDSM, LLC and the guarantor subsidiaries, the direct and indirect non-guarantor subsidiaries of SBG and the eliminations necessary to arrive at our information on a consolidated basis.  These statements are presented in accordance with the disclosure requirements under Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X, Rule 3-10.

13




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF MARCH 31, 2007
(in thousands) (unaudited)

 

 

Sinclair 
Broadcast
Group, Inc.

 

Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.

 

Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC

 

Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations

 

Sinclair
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

 

$

 

$

13,315

 

$

2,795

 

$

(660

)

$

15,450

 

Accounts and other receivables

 

10,843

 

37,176

 

78,349

 

3,958

 

(2,185

)

128,141

 

Other current assets

 

1,333

 

1,301

 

66,151

 

4,280

 

(535

)

72,530

 

Total current assets

 

12,176

 

38,477

 

157,815

 

11,033

 

(3,380

)

216,121

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

7,296

 

1,428

 

261,581

 

24,756

 

(24,523

)

270,538

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment in consolidated subsidiaries

 

538,580

 

1,435,568

 

 

 

(1,974,148

)

 

Other long-term assets

 

26,073

 

44,256

 

43,495

 

14,206

 

(43,864

)

84,166

 

Total other long-term assets

 

564,653

 

1,479,824

 

43,495

 

14,206

 

(2,018,012

)

84,166

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquired intangible assets

 

 

24,555

 

1,536,482

 

46,344

 

8,600

 

1,615,981

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

584,125

 

$

1,544,284

 

$

1,999,373

 

$

96,339

 

$

(2,037,315

)

$

2,186,806

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

$

16,934

 

$

9,477

 

$

39,153

 

$

46,553

 

$

(42,735

)

$

69,382

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

1,375

 

5,000

 

2,733

 

34,292

 

(792

)

42,608

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

 

78,780

 

404

 

 

79,184

 

Total current liabilities

 

18,309

 

14,477

 

120,666

 

81,249

 

(43,527

)

191,174

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

284,275

 

955,887

 

64,481

 

28,443

 

(28,423

)

1,304,663

 

Other liabilities

 

6,927

 

37,186

 

380,482

 

1,100

 

708

 

426,403

 

Total liabilities

 

309,511

 

1,007,550

 

565,629

 

110,792

 

(71,242

)

1,922,240

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

870

 

 

11

 

761

 

(772

)

870

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

610,437

 

280,721

 

1,060,194

 

76,221

 

(1,417,136

)

610,437

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(336,693

)

254,363

 

377,604

 

(94,039

)

(545,561

)

(344,326

)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

1,650

 

(4,065

)

2,604

 

(2,604

)

(2,415

)

Total shareholders’ equity

 

274,614

 

536,734

 

1,433,744

 

(14,453

)

(1,966,073

)

264,566

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

584,125

 

$

1,544,284

 

$

1,999,373

 

$

96,339

 

$

(2,037,315

)

$

2,186,806

 

 

14




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2006
(in thousands)

 

 

Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.

 

Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.

 

Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC

 

Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations

 

Sinclair
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

 

$

60,303

 

$

4,737

 

$

2,368

 

$

 

$

67,408

 

Accounts and other receivables

 

8,636

 

28,863

 

89,387

 

9,135

 

(2,157

)

133,864

 

Other current assets

 

4,770

 

8,278

 

75,679

 

3,795

 

(3,447

)

89,075

 

Total current assets

 

13,406

 

97,444

 

169,803

 

15,298

 

(5,604

)

290,347

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

7,771

 

1,135

 

265,962

 

25,005

 

(24,911

)

274,962

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment in consolidated subsidiaries

 

540,684

 

1,446,021

 

 

 

(1,986,705

)

 

Other long-term assets

 

25,795

 

35,391

 

52,325

 

13,299

 

(42,574

)

84,236

 

Total other long-term assets

 

566,479

 

1,481,412

 

52,325

 

13,299

 

(2,029,279

)

84,236

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquired intangible assets

 

 

24,555

 

1,542,550

 

44,674

 

10,256

 

1,622,035

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

587,656

 

$

1,604,546

 

$

2,030,640

 

$

98,276

 

$

(2,049,538

)

$

2,271,580

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

$

17,041

 

$

20,939

 

$

50,404

 

$

44,327

 

$

(38,167

)

$

94,544

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

1,337

 

64,400

 

3,013

 

34,358

 

(858

)

102,250

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

 

87,632

 

502

 

 

88,134

 

Total current liabilities

 

18,378

 

85,339

 

141,049

 

79,187

 

(39,025

)

284,928

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

283,830

 

962,701

 

64,842

 

28,570

 

(28,570

)

1,311,373

 

Other liabilities

 

6,438

 

20,854

 

380,051

 

9,844

 

(8,553

)

408,634

 

Total liabilities

 

308,646

 

1,068,894

 

585,942

 

117,601

 

(76,148

)

2,004,935

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

859

 

 

11

 

761

 

(772

)

859

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

596,667

 

281,829

 

1,111,489

 

69,891

 

(1,463,209

)

596,667

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(318,516

)

252,173

 

337,323

 

(90,231

)

(509,155

)

(328,406

)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

1,650

 

(4,125

)

254

 

(254

)

(2,475

)

Total shareholders’ equity

 

279,010

 

535,652

 

1,444,698

 

(19,325

)

(1,973,390

)

266,645

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

587,656

 

$

1,604,546

 

$

2,030,640

 

$

98,276

 

$

(2,049,538

)

$

2,271,580

 

 

15




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(in thousands) (unaudited)

 

 

Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.

 

Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.

 

Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC

 

Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations

 

Sinclair
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net revenue

 

$

 

$

 

$

164,578

 

$

5,078

 

$

(2,801

)

$

166,855

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Program and production

 

 

354

 

38,426

 

 

(2,154

)

36,626

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

4,005

 

1,749

 

33,542

 

1,009

 

(63

)

40,242

 

Depreciation, amortization and other operating expenses

 

514

 

83

 

48,299

 

4,284

 

(521

)

52,659

 

Total operating expenses

 

4,519

 

2,186

 

120,267

 

5,293

 

(2,738

)

129,527

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating (loss) income

 

(4,519

)

(2,186

)

44,311

 

(215

)

(63

)

37,328

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries

 

1,253

 

24,955

 

 

 

(26,208

)

 

Interest income

 

212

 

383

 

3

 

2

 

(212

)

388

 

Interest expense

 

(5,149

)

(19,124

)

(1,533

)

(1,349

)

773

 

(26,382

)

Other income (expense)

 

4,366

 

(14,607

)

(3,658

)

(226

)

(302

)

(14,427

)

Total other income (expense)

 

682

 

(8,393

)

(5,188

)

(1,573

)

(25,949

)

(40,421

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

1,751

 

12,423

 

(13,804

)

473

 

 

843

 

Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

 

 

(139

)

 

 

(139

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

(2,086

)

$

1,844

 

$

25,180

 

$

(1,315

)

$

(26,012

)

$

(2,389

)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2006
(in thousands) (unaudited)

 

 

Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.

 

Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.

 

Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC

 

Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations

 

Sinclair 
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net revenue

 

$

 

$

 

$

160,286

 

$

6,093

 

$

(2,912

)

$

163,467

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Program and production

 

 

399

 

39,726

 

 

(2,016

)

38,109

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

4,077

 

1,938

 

33,308

 

692

 

(63

)

39,952

 

Depreciation, amortization and other operating expenses

 

520

 

568

 

44,844

 

4,866

 

(748

)

50,050

 

Total operating expenses

 

4,597

 

2,905

 

117,878

 

5,558

 

(2,827

)

128,111

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating (loss) income

 

(4,597

)

(2,905

)

42,408

 

535

 

(85

)

35,356

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries

 

10,069

 

24,276

 

 

 

(34,345

)

 

Interest income

 

157

 

45

 

 

1

 

(157

)

46

 

Interest expense

 

(5,160

)

(22,561

)

(1,421

)

(1,280

)

712

 

(29,710

)

Other income (expense)

 

9,969

 

4,191

 

(5,404

)

(288

)

(523

)

7,945

 

Total other income (expense)

 

15,035

 

5,951

 

(6,825

)

(1,567

)

(34,313

)

(21,719

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

(117

)

7,432

 

(14,238

)

362

 

 

(6,561

)

Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

 

 

1,168

 

 

 

1,168

 

Gain from sale of discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

 

 

1,774

 

 

 

1,774

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

10,321

 

$

10,478

 

$

24,287

 

$

(670

)

$

(34,398

)

$

10,018

 

 

16




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(in thousands) (unaudited)

 

 

Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.

 

Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.

 

Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC

 

Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations

 

Sinclair
Consolidated

 

NET CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

$

(2,696

)

$

(25,923

)

$

52,611

 

$

(3,688

)

$

2,938

 

$

23,242

 

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

(7

)

(376

)

(5,918

)

(234

)

 

(6,535

)

Investments in equity and cost investees

 

435

 

 

 

 

 

435

 

Proceeds from sale of property

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

11

 

Loans to affiliates

 

(37

)

 

 

 

 

(37

)

Proceeds from loans to affiliates

 

35

 

 

 

 

 

35

 

Net cash flows (used in) from investing activities

 

426

 

(376

)

(5,907

)

(234

)

 

(6,091

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

 

276,500

 

 

 

 

276,500

 

Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

(45

)

(345,150

)

(37

)

 

 

(345,232

)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

11,357

 

 

 

 

 

11,357

 

Increase (decrease) in intercompany payables

 

1,856

 

34,646

 

(37,253

)

4,561

 

(3,810

)

 

Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock

 

(10,624

)

 

 

 

 

(10,624

)

Repayments of notes and capital leases to affiliates

 

(274

)

 

(836

)

(212

)

212

 

(1,110

)

Net cash flows from (used in) financing activities

 

2,270

 

(34,004

)

(38,126

)

4,349

 

(3,598

)

(69,109

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

 

(60,303

)

8,578

 

427

 

(660

)

(51,958

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period

 

 

60,303

 

4,737

 

2,368

 

 

67,408

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period

 

$

 

$

 

$

13,315

 

$

2,795

 

$

(660

)

$

15,450

 

 

17




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2006
(in thousands) (unaudited)

 

 

Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.

 

Sinclair 
Television
Group, Inc.

 

Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC

 

Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries

 

Eliminations

 

Sinclair
Consolidated

 

NET CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

$

5,259

 

$

8,273

 

$

10,001

 

$

1,635

 

$

(1,702

)

$

23,466

 

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

(44

)

(4

)

(4,628

)

(41

)

 

(4,717

)

Payment for acquisition of television stations

 

 

 

(1,710

)

 

 

(1,710

)

Investments in equity and cost investees

 

 

 

(59

)

 

 

(59

)

Proceeds from the sale of property

 

 

 

1,358

 

 

 

1,358

 

Proceeds from the sale of broadcast assets related to discontinued operations

 

 

 

1,400

 

 

 

1,400

 

Loans to affiliates

 

(35

)

 

 

 

 

(35

)

Proceeds from loans to affiliates

 

34

 

 

 

 

 

34

 

Net cash flows (used in) from investing activities

 

(45

)

(4

)

(3,639

)

(41

)

 

(3,729

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

 

49,000

 

 

 

 

49,000

 

Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

(7,663

)

(53,425

)

(26

)

 

 

(61,114

)

Increase (decrease) in intercompany payables

 

11,167

 

(5,932

)

(5,185

)

(2,081

)

2,031

 

 

Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock

 

(8,470

)

 

 

 

 

(8,470

)

Proceeds from notes and capital leases to affiliates

 

 

 

 

139

 

(139

)

 

Repayments of notes and capital leases to affiliates

 

(248

)

 

(807

)

(112

)

112

 

(1,055

)

Net cash flows from (used in) financing activities

 

(5,214

)

(10,357

)

(6,018

)

(2,054

)

2,004

 

(21,639

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

 

(2,088

)

344

 

(460

)

302

 

(1,902

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period

 

 

5,043

 

2,987

 

1,625

 

 

9,655

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period

 

$

 

$

2,955

 

$

3,331

 

$

1,165

 

$

302

 

$

7,753

 

 

18




12. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:

On May 3, 2007, we announced that we had priced an offering of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes, due 2027 (2027 notes) at an interest rate of 3% per year.   Upon certain conditions the 2027 notes, will be convertible into cash and, in certain circumstances, shares of class A common stock prior to maturity at an initial conversion price of $20.43 per share, subject to adjustment, which is equal to an initial conversion rate of approximately 48.9476 shares of class A common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes.  We will be required to pay contingent cash interest to the holders of notes during any six-month period from May 15 to November 14 and from November 15 to May 14, commencing with the period beginning May 20, 2010 if the average note price for the applicable five trading day period equals 120% or more of the principal amount of such notes.  The amount of contingent cash interest payable per note in respect of any six-month period will equal 0.375% per year of the average note price for the applicable five trading day period.  The 2027 notes may not be redeemed prior to May 20, 2010 and may thereafter be redeemed by us at par.  We have granted the underwriters of the notes an option to purchase up to an additional aggregate $45.0 million principal amount of the notes.  The offering was made pursuant to our universal shelf registration statement previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is expected to close, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, on May 10, 2007.  We intend to use the net proceeds from the offering, together with available cash on hand and/or bank debt, to finance the partial redemption of our existing 8.0% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012.

19




ITEM 2.                        MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS   OF OPERATIONS

This report includes or incorporates forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events.  These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, including, among other things, the following risks:

General risks

·                  the impact of changes in national and regional economies;

·                  the activities of our competitors;

·                  terrorist acts of violence or war and other geopolitical events;

Industry risks

·                  the business conditions of our advertisers;

·                  competition with other broadcast television stations, radio stations, multi-channel video programming distributors and internet and broadband content providers serving in the same markets;

·                  availability and cost of programming;

·                  the effects of governmental regulation of broadcasting or changes in those regulations and court actions interpreting those regulations, including ownership regulations, indecency regulations, retransmission regulations, political advertising restrictions and regulations and timing regarding the transition from analog to digital over-the-air broadcasting;

·                  the continued viability of networks and syndicators that provide us with programming content;

Risks specific to us

·                  the effectiveness of our management;

·                  our ability to successfully negotiate retransmission consent agreements;

·                  our ability to attract and maintain local and national advertising;

·                  our ability to service our outstanding debt;

·                  FCC license renewals;

·                  our ability to maintain our affiliation agreements with the top four networks;

·                  the popularity of syndicated programming we purchase and network programming that we air;

·                  successful integration of outsourcing and news share agreements;

·                  the strength of ratings for our local news broadcasts;

·                  changes in the makeup of the population in the areas where our stations are located;

·                  acceptance by viewers and advertisers of The CW Television Network and MyNetworkTV;

·                  the success of our multi-channel broadcasting initiatives; and

·                  the results of prior year tax audits by taxing authorities.

Other matters set forth in this report, including the Risk Factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, may also cause actual results in the future to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements.  We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.  In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking statements discussed in this report might not occur.

20




The following table sets forth certain operating data for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006:

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA
(in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Statement of Operations Data:

 

 

 

 

 

Net broadcast revenues (a)

 

$

150,169

 

$

147,925

 

Revenues realized from station barter arrangements

 

13,799

 

11,805

 

Other operating divisions’ revenues

 

2,887

 

3,737

 

Total revenues

 

166,855

 

163,467

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Station production expenses

 

36,626

 

38,109

 

Station selling, general and administrative expenses

 

34,278

 

34,146

 

Expenses recognized from station barter arrangements

 

12,465

 

10,825

 

Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments

 

21,384

 

18,623

 

Depreciation and amortization expenses (b)

 

15,264

 

16,613

 

Other operating divisions’ expenses

 

3,546

 

3,989

 

Corporate general and administrative expenses

 

5,964

 

5,806

 

Operating income

 

37,328

 

35,356

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs

 

(26,382

)

(29,710

)

Interest income

 

388

 

46

 

Loss from sale of assets

 

(12

)

(287

)

Loss from extinguishment of debt

 

(15,681

)

(623

)

Unrealized gain from derivative instruments

 

1,057

 

2,881

 

(Loss) income from equity and cost investees

 

(12

)

6,099

 

Other income (expense), net

 

221

 

(125

)

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

(3,093

)

13,637

 

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

843

 

(6,561

)

(Loss) income from continuing operations

 

(2,250

)

7,076

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discontinued Operations:

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

(139

)

1,168

 

Gain from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

 

1,774

 

Net (loss) income available to common shareholders

 

$

(2,389

)

$

10,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and Diluted (Loss) Earnings Per Common Share:

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) earnings per common share from continuing operations

 

$

(0.03

)

$

0.08

 

Earnings per common share from discontinued operations

 

$

 

$

0.03

 

(Loss) earnings per common share

 

$

(0.03

)

$

0.11

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding

 

86,140

 

85,533

 

Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding

 

86,140

 

85,535

 

Dividends declared per common share

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.10

 

 

 

 

March 31, 2007

 

December 31, 2006

 

Balance Sheet Data:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

15,450

 

$

67,408

 

Total assets

 

$

2,186,806

 

$

2,271,580

 

Total debt (c)

 

$

1,347,271

 

$

1,413,623

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

$

264,566

 

$

266,645

 


(a)          “Net broadcast revenues” is defined as station broadcast revenues, net of agency commissions.

(b)         Depreciation and amortization includes depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangible broadcasting assets and other assets.

(c)          “Total debt” is defined as notes payable, capital leases and commercial bank financing, including the current and long-term debt, net of unamortized discount and capital lease obligations, including current portion thereof.

21




The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis provides qualitative and quantitative information about our financial performance and condition and should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes to those statements.  This discussion consists of the following sections:

Executive Overview — a description of our business and financial highlights since 2006;

Recent Accounting Pronouncements — a description of new accounting pronouncements that apply to us;

Results of Operations — an analysis of our revenues and expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, including comparisons between quarters and expectations for the three months ended June 30, 2007; and

Liquidity and Capital Resources — an analysis of our cash flows from or used in operating activities, investing activities and financing activities and an update of our debt repurchases during the quarter.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

We believe that we are one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies in the United States.  We currently own, provide programming and operating services pursuant to local marketing agreements (LMAs) or provide, or are provided, sales services pursuant to outsourcing agreements to 58 television stations in 36 markets.  For the purpose of this report, these 58 stations are referred to as “our” stations.  We currently have 12 duopoly markets where we own and operate two stations within the same market, with two exceptions where we own and operate two stations in the market and provide or are provided programming and operating services to, or by, another station within the market.  We have nine LMA markets where we own and operate one station in the market and provide or are provided programming and operating services to, or by, another station within the same market, with one exception where we provide programming and operating services to one station within a market and do not own and operate another station within that same market.  In the remaining 15 markets, we own and operate a single television station.

We believe that owning duopolies and operating stations under LMAs enables us to accomplish two very important strategic business objectives: increasing our share of revenues available in each market and operating television stations more efficiently by minimizing costs.  We constantly monitor revenue share and cost efficiencies and we aggressively pursue opportunities to improve both by using new technology and by sharing best practices among our station groups.

Sinclair Television Group, Inc. (STG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (SBG), is the primary obligor under our existing Bank Credit Agreement, as amended, and the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012 and STG was the primary obligor under the 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011, which were redeemed in full on January 22, 2007.  Our Class A Common Stock, Class B Common Stock, the 6.0% Convertible Debentures, due 2012 and the 4.875% Convertible Senior Notes, due 2018 are obligations or securities of SBG and are not obligations or securities of STG and the 3.0% Convertible Senior Notes, due 2027 that we expect to issue on May 10, 2007 will be obligations of SBG alone.

First Quarter 2007 Highlights

·                  In January 2007, we entered into a three-year retransmission consent agreement with Time Warner Cable for the carriage of the analog and digital signals of 35 stations in 22 markets, representing approximately 6.0 million of Time Warner’s subscribers;

·                  In February 2007, we increased our annual dividend to $0.60 per share;

·                  In February 2007, we entered into a three-year retransmission consent agreement with Mediacom Communications Corporation for the carriage of the analog and digital signals of 24 station in 16 markets, representing approximately 0.7 million of Mediacom’s subscribers;

·                  In March 2007, we entered into a four-year renewal of our retransmission consent agreement with Comcast Corporation. for the carriage of the analog and digital signals of 37 stations in 23 markets, representing approximately 3.4 million of Comcast’s cable subscribers;

·                  We redeemed, in full, our 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011 on January 22, 2007, which resulted in a $15.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt;

·                  Our retransmission consent agreements, including the advertising component, generated $11.3 million in total net broadcast revenues during the first quarter of 2007 compared to $5.8 million during the same period in 2006; and

·                  Local advertising revenues were flat in the first quarter 2007 versus the first quarter 2006, while national advertising revenues decreased 5.0%, in part due to lower Super Bowl advertising revenues, sluggish Ohio market and fewer agency buys on the MyNetworkTV stations.  Local revenues, excluding political revenues, represented 67% of advertising revenues.

22




Other Highlights

·                  In April 2007, we entered into a retransmission consent agreement with Charter Communications, Inc. for the carriage of the analog and digital signals of 28 stations in 19 markets, representing approximately 1.9 million subscribers;

·                  In April 2007, our FOX affiliate, KOKH-TV in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma expanded its news offering through the addition of a three hour morning newscast;

·                  In April 2007, we became a part of the Open Mobile Video Coalition, which we and eight other broadcasters formed to promote the development of mobile digital broadcasting applications; and

·                  In May 2007, we priced an offering of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3% convertible senior notes, due 2027.  We expect the closing of the offering to occur on the date of filing of this Form 10-Q.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In February 2007, the Financial Standards Accounting Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115 (SFAS 159). The fair value option established by this statement permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are to be reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. This statement is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2008. We are currently evaluating the impact that adoption of SFAS 159 will have on our consolidated financial statements.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In general, this discussion is related to the results of our continuing operations, except for discussions regarding our cash flows (which also include the results of our discontinued operations).  Unless otherwise indicated, references in this discussion and analysis to the first quarter of 2007 and 2006 refer to the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  Additionally, any references to the second, third or fourth quarter are to the three months ended June 30, September 30 and December 31, respectively, for the year being discussed.

Operating Results

The following table presents our revenues from continuing operations, net of agency commissions, for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 (in millions):

 

 

For the Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Percent Change

 

Local revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-political

 

$91.1

 

$91.1

 

%

Political

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

%

Total local

 

91.2

 

91.2

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-political

 

44.7

 

47.0

 

(4.9

%)

Political

 

0.5

 

0.6

 

(16.7

%)

Total national

 

45.2

 

47.6

 

(5.0

%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other revenues

 

13.8

 

9.1

 

51.6

%

Total net broadcast revenues

 

$150.2

 

$147.9

 

1.6

%

 

Net broadcast revenues.  From a revenue category standpoint, the first quarter 2007, when compared to the same period in 2006, was negatively impacted by a decrease in advertising revenues generated from the automotive, fast food, retail-department stores and services sectors.  These decreases were offset by increases in the telecommunications, travel-leisure, schools, entertainment and other sectors.  Automotive, our single largest category representing 20.4% of the quarter’s net time sales was down 5.6%.

23




The following table presents our time sales revenue from continuing operations, net of agency commissions, by network affiliates for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 (in millions):

 

# of

 

Percent of
Sales

 

Net Time Sales

 

Percent

 

 

 

Stations

 

2007

 

2007

 

2006 (a)

 

Change

 

FOX

 

19

 

43.5

%

$

59.4

 

$

54.8

 

8.4

%

ABC

 

10

 

21.1

%

28.7

 

32.1

 

(10.6

%)

MyNetworkTV(a)

 

17

 

18.9

%

25.8

 

30.1

 

(14.3

%)

The CW (a)

 

9

 

14.0

%

19.1

 

18.6

 

2.7

%

CBS

 

2

 

1.7

%

2.3

 

2.2

 

4.5

%

NBC

 

1

 

0.7

%

0.9

 

1.0

 

(10.0

%)

Digital (b)

 

4

 

0.1

%

0.2

 

 

100.0

%

Total

 

62

 

 

 

$

136.4

 

$

138.8

 

(1.7

%)


(a)                                  In September 2006, our composition of network affiliates changed as a result of our agreement to air MyNetworkTV programming and the merger of UPN and The WB into a network called The CW.  We have reclassified the revenue from those stations in prior quarters for comparability.

(b)                                 Some of our television stations are broadcasting a second digital signal in accordance with FCC rules.

Political Revenues.  Political revenues decreased by $0.1 million to $0.6 million for the first quarter 2007 when compared to the same period in 2006.  We expect fourth quarter political revenues to be strong for a non-election year due to the many state primaries that have been moved into early 2008.

Local Revenues.  Our revenues from local advertisers, excluding political revenues, were flat during the first quarter 2007 when compared to 2006.  We continue to focus on increasing local advertising revenues through innovative sales and marketing strategies in our markets.  Revenues from our new business initiatives decreased slightly during the first quarter 2007 to $6.7 million from $6.9 million during the same period in 2006.  We experienced increases in our FOX, CW and CBS affiliated markets which were offset by fewer agency buys on the MyNetworkTV stations.  In March 2007, MyNetworkTV changed its program format and we believe that these changes may increase revenue at our MyNetworkTV stations in future periods.  We continue to provide an enhanced sales training course for all of our salespeople with a focus on local revenue sales.  We expect to continue these efforts throughout 2007.

National Revenues.  Our revenues from national advertisers, excluding political revenues, have continued to trend downward over time.  We believe this trend represents a shift in the way national advertising dollars are being spent and we believe it has recently begun accelerating.  Advertisers in major categories like automotive, soft drink and packaged goods are shifting significant portions of their advertising budgets away from spot television into non-traditional media, in-store promotions and product placement in network shows.  Automotive decreases are due to automotive companies reducing advertising budgets and shifting advertising to specific markets.  We expect this trend to continue throughout 2007.  In addition, during the first quarter of 2007, Super Bowl advertising revenues were $2.0 million less than the same period in 2006, due to the shift in network affiliation from ABC to CBS, we had decreases in revenues from our Ohio markets of $0.9 million and decreases in revenue of $3.1 million related to MyNetworkTV stations.

Other Revenues.   Our other revenues consist primarily of revenues from retransmission consent agreements with cable, satellite and telecommunication providers, network compensation, production revenues and revenues from our outsourcing agreements.  Our retransmission consent agreements, including the advertising component, generated $11.3 million in total broadcast revenues during first quarter 2007 compared with $5.8 million during the same period in 2006.  This growth trend is the result of our ability to monetize our existing relationships as cable providers struggle with increased competition from alternative video delivery providers and have begun to recognize the value of our digital and high definition signals and network programming.  Pursuant to EITF 00-21, during first quarter 2007, $9.1 million of the total $11.3 million in revenues generated from our retransmission consent agreements are included in other revenues while the remaining $2.2 million is included in net time sales.  During first quarter 2006, $4.9 million of the total $5.8 million in revenues generated from our retransmission consent agreements are included in other revenues while the remaining $0.9 million is included in net time sales.  We expect further monetization of our agreements throughout 2007.

24




The following table presents our significant expense categories for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 (in millions):

 

For the Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Percent Change

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Station production expenses

 

$

36.6

 

$

38.1

 

(3.9

%)

Station selling, general and administrative expenses

 

$

34.3

 

$

34.1

 

0.6

%

Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments

 

$

21.4

 

$

18.6

 

15.1

%

Depreciation of property and equipment

 

$

10.9

 

$

12.3

 

(11.4

%)

Corporate general and administrative expenses

 

$

6.0

 

$

5.8

 

3.4

%

Interest expense

 

$

26.4

 

$

29.7

 

(11.1

%)

Unrealized gain from derivative instruments

 

$

1.1

 

$

2.9

 

(62.1

%)

Income from equity and cost investees

 

$

 

$

6.1

 

(100.0

%)

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

$

0.8

 

$

(6.6

)

112.1

%

 

Station Production Expenses.   Station production expenses decreased during the first quarter 2007 compared to the same period in 2006 as a result of savings from the restructuring of our news operations of $2.2 million and reductions in programming expenses of $0.3 million, rating service expenses of $0.2 million and other miscellaneous expenses of $0.2 million.  These decreases were offset by increases in promotion expenses of $0.7 million in 2007, engineering expenses of $0.4 million, music license fees of $0.2 million, and production expenses of $0.1 million.

Station Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.   Station selling, general and administrative expenses increased slightly during the first quarter 2007 compared to same period in 2006 as a result of increases in national sales representative firm commissions of $0.4 million, property and other taxes of $0.1 million and other miscellaneous expenses of $0.2 million.  These increases were offset by decreases in sales expenses of $0.5 million.

We expect second quarter 2007 station production and station selling, general and administrative expenses excluding barter to trend higher than our first quarter 2007 results.

Amortization of Program Contract Costs.   The amortization of program contract costs increased during the first quarter 2007 compared to the same period in 2006 primarily due to significant program additions during 2006. We expect program contract amortization to trend higher in second quarter 2007 compared to first quarter 2007.

Depreciation of Property and Equipment.  Depreciation of property and equipment decreased in the first quarter 2007 when compared to the same period in 2006.  The decrease is primarily related to a large number of assets that had become fully depreciated during 2006. We expect depreciation on property and equipment to trend higher in second quarter 2007 compared to first quarter 2007.

Corporate General and Administrative Expenses.  Corporate general and administrative expenses represent the costs to operate our corporate headquarters location.  Such costs include, among other things, corporate departmental salaries, bonuses and fringe benefits, directors’ and officers’ life insurance, rent, telephone, consulting fees, legal, accounting, director fees and strategic development initiatives.  Corporate departments include executive, treasury, finance and accounting, human resources, technology, corporate relations, legal, sales, operations and purchasing.

Corporate general and administrative expense increased in the first quarter 2007 when compared to the same period in 2006 due to increases of $0.3 million related to strategic news and investment initiatives, director’s fees of $0.1 million, salary and bonus expense of $0.1 million and other miscellaneous expenses of $0.2 million.  These increases were offset by decreases to insurance expense of $0.3 million, audit and accounting fees of $0.1 million and legal fees of $0.1 million.

We expect corporate overhead expenses to increase in second quarter 2007.

Interest Expense.   Interest expense has been decreasing since 2004.  The decrease during the first quarter 2007 compared to the same period in 2006 is due to the redemption of the 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes on January 22, 2007 and the expiration in June 2006 of two interest rate swap agreements accounted for as fair value hedges pursuant to SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, as amended (FAS 133).  These decreases were offset by an increase in our Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan interest.  We expect interest expense net of interest income to decrease in the second quarter 2007 compared to first quarter 2007, assuming no changes in the current interest rate yield curve or changes in our assumption of debt levels for 2007.

25




Unrealized Gain from Derivative Instruments.  We record gains and losses related to certain of our derivative instruments not treated as hedges in accordance with SFAS 133.  The fair value of our derivative instruments is primarily based on the anticipated future interest rate curves at the end of each period. The decrease in the first quarter 2007 when compared to the same period in 2006 is primarily due to normal market fluctuations.

Income from Equity and Cost Investees.  In the first quarter 2006, we recorded $6.5 million of income from Allegiance Capital LP.  This was a result of the sale and initial public offering of certain of Allegiance’s portfolio companies and was offset by miscellaneous decreases in other investments.

Income Tax Provision.  We adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (FIN 48) on January 1, 2007.  The adoption of FIN 48 did not cause a material change to our contingent liability for unrecognized tax benefits.  We decreased the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings by $0.6 million to apply the cumulative effect of FIN 48 adoption.  As of the date of adoption, we had $32.9 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits.  Of this total, $17.6 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) and $7.8 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) represent the amounts of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective tax rates from continuing operations and discontinued operations, respectively.  At March 31, 2007, we had $33.1 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits.  Of this total, $17.7 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) and $7.8 million (net of federal effect on state tax issues) represent the amounts of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective tax rates from continuing operations and discontinued operations, respectively.

We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  We had $6.7 million and $0 accrued for interest and penalties, respectively, at January 1, 2007.  We recognized $0.7 million of income tax expense for interest related to uncertain tax positions during the quarter ended March 31, 2007.

The effective tax rate for the quarter ended March 31, 2007 was a benefit of 27.2% as compared to a provision of 48.1% during the same period in 2006.  Due to our pre-tax loss in 2007 compared to our pre-tax income in 2006, we had a change from a provision to a benefit.  The difference between the absolute value of the tax rate between 2007 and 2006 is primarily due to increases during the quarter in our contingent tax liabilities accrual in both years, which resulted in a decrease in our benefit in 2007 and an increase in our provision in 2006.  This change was further magnified due to the small pre-tax loss in 2007 compared to the larger pre-tax income in 2006.

Other Operating Divisions’ Revenue and Expense

The following table presents Other Operating Divisions’ revenue and expenses related to G1440 Holdings, Inc. (G1440), our software development and consulting company and Acrodyne Communications, Inc. (Acrodyne), a manufacturer of television transmissions systems, for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and  2006 (in millions):

 

For the three months ended March 31,

 

Percent Change

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

‘07 vs. ‘06

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

G1440

 

$

2.3

 

$

2.2

 

4.5

%

Acrodyne

 

$

0.6

 

$

1.6

 

(62.5

%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

G1440

 

$

2.4

 

$

2.2

 

9.1

%

Acrodyne

 

$

1.1

 

$

1.7

 

(35.3

%)

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash provided by operations and availability under our Bank Credit Agreement, as amended (the Bank Credit Agreement).  As of March 31, 2007, we had $15.5 million in cash and cash equivalent balances and working capital of approximately $24.9 million.  We anticipate that cash flow from our operations and borrowings under the Revolver will be sufficient to continue paying dividends under our current policy and to satisfy our debt service obligations, capital expenditure requirements and working capital needs for the next year.  As of March 31, 2007, we had borrowed $98.8 million under our Term Loan A, $225.0 million under our Term Loan A-1 and $15.0 million under our Revolver.  Our ability to draw on our Revolver is based on pro forma trailing cash flow levels as defined in our Bank Credit Agreement.  As of March 31, 2007, $160.0 million of current borrowing capacity was available under our Revolver.  As of March 31, 2007, we had $350.0 million of availability under our universal shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission that expires on November 30, 2008.

On January 22, 2007, we redeemed in full, the $307.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011 (the 2011 Notes).  The redemption was effected in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the 2011 Notes at a redemption price of 104.375% of the principal amount of the 2011 Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest.  As a result

26




of the redemption, we recorded a loss from extinguishment of debt of $15.7 million representing the redemption premium and write-off of certain debt acquisition costs.  The redemption of the 2011 Notes and payment of accrued interest was funded from the net proceeds of the $225.0 million Term Loan A-1, additional borrowings under the Revolver of $23.0 million and cash on hand of $59.4 million.

On May 3, 2007, we announced that we had priced an offering of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes, due 2027 (2027 notes) at an interest rate of 3% per year.   Upon certain conditions the 2027 notes, will be convertible into cash and, in certain circumstances, shares of class A common stock prior to maturity at an initial conversion price of $20.43 per share, subject to adjustment, which is equal to an initial conversion rate of approximately 48.9476 shares of class A common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes.  We will be required to pay contingent cash interest to the holders of notes during any six-month period from May 15 to November 14 and from November 15 to May 14, commencing with the period beginning May 20, 2010 if the average note price for the applicable five trading day period equals 120% or more of the principal amount of such notes.  The amount of contingent cash interest payable per note in respect of any six-month period will equal 0.375% per year of the average note price for the applicable five trading day period.  The 2027 notes may not be redeemed prior to May 20, 2010 and may thereafter be redeemed by us at par.  We have granted the underwriters of the notes an option to purchase up to an additional aggregate $45.0 million principal amount of the notes.  The offering was made pursuant to our universal shelf registration statement previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is expected to close, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, on May 10, 2007.  We intend to use the net proceeds from the offering, together with available cash on hand and/or bank debt, to finance the partial redemption of our existing 8.0% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012.

We expect to continue to monitor the trading of our debt in the open market and when it makes financial sense, we may repurchase additional amounts from time to time.  We also will consider the options available to us regarding the redemption of our various debt instruments outstanding.

Sources and Uses of Cash

The following table sets forth our cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 (in millions):

 

 

As of March 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Net cash flows from operating activities

 

$

23.2

 

$

23.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from (used in) investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property and equipment

 

$

(6.5

)

$

(4.7

)

Payments for acquisition of television stations

 

 

(1.7

)

Dividends and distributions from cost investees

 

0.4

 

 

Proceeds from the sale of broadcast assets related to discontinued operations

 

 

1.4

 

Proceeds from the sale of assets

 

 

1.4

 

Other

 

 

(0.1

)

Net cash flows used in investing activities

 

$

(6.1

)

$

(3.7

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from (used in) financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

$

276.5

 

$

49.0

 

Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing and capital leases

 

(345.2

)

(61.1

)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

11.4

 

 

Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock

 

(10.6

)

(8.5

)

Other

 

(1.2

)

(1.0

)

Net cash flows used in financing activities

 

$

(69.1

)

$

(21.6

)

 

Operating Activities

Net cash flows from operating activities decreased during the first quarter 2007 compared to the same period in 2006.  During first quarter 2007, we received $5.9 million less in distributions from equity investees and made $18.6 million more in interest payments.  These amounts were offset in part by cash receipts from customers, net of cash payments to vendors for operating expenses and other working capital cash activities that were $14.5 million greater in first quarter 2007 compared to the same period in  2006.  Additionally, in the first quarter 2007, we made $5.7 million less in program payments and $4.0 million less in cash tax payments.   Tax payments in 2006 primarily related to station sales.

We expect to have a decrease in interest payments in the second quarter 2007 compared to the first quarter 2007.  We expect program payments to remain flat in the second quarter 2007 compared to the first quarter 2007.

Investing Activities

Net cash flows used in investing activities increased during the first quarter 2007 compared to the same period in 2006.  During the first quarter 2007, we received less than $0.1 million related to the sale of certain broadcasting assets.  During the first quarter

27




2006, we received $1.4 million related to the sale of WEMT-TV in Tri-Cities, Tennessee and $1.4 million related to the sale of certain broadcasting assets.  During the first quarter 2007, there was an increase in capital expenditures of $1.8 million as compared to the first quarter 2006.  This increase is primarily related to spending on building improvement projects.  These increases were offset by a decrease in payments related to station purchase options.  During first quarter 2006, we paid $1.7 million related to the purchase option for WDKA-TV in Paducah, Kentucky.  Additionally, we received a $0.4 distribution of our investment from Sterling Venture Partners, L.P., one of our cost method investees, in first quarter 2007.

For second quarter 2007, we anticipate incurring higher capital expenditures than incurred in the first quarter 2007 primarily related to station maintenance, equipment replacement and consolidation of building and tower needs in some markets.  We expect to fund such capital expenditures with cash generated from operating activities and borrowings under our Bank Credit Agreement.

Financing Activities

Net cash flows used in financing activities increased significantly in the first quarter of 2007 compared to the same period in 2006 primarily because we utilized the cash from our operating activities to repay debt and redeem our 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011.  Our debt repayments to non-affiliates, net of debt issuances in 2007, were $68.7 million compared to $12.1 million in 2006.  Additionally, we paid $2.1 million more in common stock dividends during the first quarter 2007 as compared to the first quarter 2006.  These increases were offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options for first quarter 2007 of $11.4 million.

Currently, we expect to continue to pay a quarterly dividend rate of $0.15 per share and to fund these dividends with cash generated from operating activities and borrowings under our Bank Credit Agreement.

Seasonality/Cyclicality

Our operating results are usually subject to seasonal fluctuations.  Usually, the second and fourth quarter operating results are higher than the first and third quarters because advertising expenditures are increased in anticipation of certain seasonal and holiday spending by consumers.

Our operating results are usually subject to fluctuations from political advertising.  In even years, political spending is usually significantly higher than in odd years due to advertising expenditures preceding local and national elections.  Additionally, every four years, political spending is elevated further due to advertising expenditures preceding the presidential election.  However, we expect the television industry to begin to generate increased revenues in odd-number years preceding presidential elections such as 2007 due to earlier state primary dates and an increase in political advertising budgets.

CONTRACTUAL CASH OBLIGATIONS

During first quarter 2007, we redeemed in full the $307.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 2011 Notes.  This redemption was funded from the net proceeds of the $225.0 million Term Loan A-1, additional borrowings under the Revolver of $23.0 million and cash on had of $59.4 million.  There were no other material changes outside the ordinary course of business to our contractual cash obligations disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.

ITEM 3.                    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates.  We enter into derivative instruments primarily for the purpose of reducing the impact of changing interest rates on our floating rate debt and to reduce the impact of changing fair market values on our fixed rate debt.  We account for our derivative instruments under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, as amended.

As of March 31, 2007, we had two derivative instruments.  Both of these instruments are interest rate swap agreements.  One of these swap agreements with a notional amount of $180.0 million and expiring on March 15, 2012 is accounted for as a fair value hedge; therefore, any changes in its fair market value are reflected as an adjustment to the carrying value of our 8.0% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012 which is the underlying debt being hedged.  During 2006, the other interest rate swap agreement was undesignated as a fair value hedge due to a reassignment of the counterparty; therefore, any subsequent changes in the fair market value are reflected as an adjustment to income.  The notional amount of this swap agreement is $120.0 million and it expires on March 15, 2012.  The interest we pay on both interest rate swap agreements is floating based on the three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 2.28% and the interest we receive is at 8%.  The fair market value of these agreements is estimated by obtaining quotations from the international financial institution which is a party to the contract.  The fair value is an estimate of the net amount that we would pay on the balance sheet date if we cancelled the contracts or transferred them to other

28




parties and includes net accrued interest receivable.  This amount was a net asset of $3.0 million and $5.6 million as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

To determine the sensitivity of these derivative instruments to changes in interest rates, we also obtain quotations from the party to the contract that estimate the pro forma fair market value of the instruments on March 31, 2007 if current interest rates were higher by 1% or lower by 1%.  As of March 31, 2007, the fair market value of these instruments would be a liability of $6.2 million if interest rates were 1% higher and an asset of $9.3 million if interest rates were 1% lower than current rates.

During May 2003, we completed an issuance of $150.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% Convertible Senior Notes, due 2018.  Under certain circumstances, we will pay contingent cash interest to the holder of the convertible notes during any six month period from January 15 to July 14 and from July 15 to January 14, commencing with the six month period beginning January 15, 2011.  The contingent interest feature is an embedded derivative which had a negligible fair value as of March 31, 2007.

We are also exposed to risk from a change in interest rates to the extent we are required to refinance existing fixed rate indebtedness at rates higher than those prevailing at the time the existing indebtedness was incurred.  As of March 31, 2007, we had senior subordinated notes totaling $618.3 million, convertible senior bonds totaling $150.0 million and convertible subordinated bonds totaling $153.2 million expiring in the years 2012, 2018 and 2012, respectively.  Based on the quoted market price, the fair value of the notes and bonds was $933.5 million as of March 31, 2007.  Generally, the fair market value of the notes and bonds will decrease as interest rates rise and increase as interest rates fall.  We estimate that a 1.0% increase from prevailing interest rates would result in a decrease in fair value of the notes and bonds by $44.7 million as of March 31, 2007.  The estimates related to the increase or decrease of interest rates are based on assumptions for forecasted future interest rates.

The fair value of the notes and bonds was $1.2 billion as of December 31, 2006 and at that time we estimated that a 1.0% increase in prevailing interest rates would have resulted in a decrease of $57.4 million in fair value.  This indicates that our exposure to risk from a change in interest rates has not materially changed since December 31, 2006.

On January 22, 2007, we redeemed in full our 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2011 using the proceeds from our $225.0 million Term Loan A-1 and borrowing under the Revolver.  This transaction increases our risk to increases in interest rates as the Term Loan A-1 and Revolver both accrue interest with a variable.

On May 3, 2007, we announced that we had priced an offering of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes, due 2027 (2027 notes) at an interest rate of 3% per year.   Upon certain conditions the 2027 notes, will be convertible into cash and, in certain circumstances, shares of class A common stock prior to maturity at an initial conversion price of $20.43 per share, subject to adjustment, which is equal to an initial conversion rate of approximately 48.9476 shares of class A common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes.  We will be required to pay contingent cash interest to the holders of notes during any six-month period from May 15 to November 14 and from November 15 to May 14, commencing with the period beginning May 20, 2010 if the average note price for the applicable five trading day period equals 120% or more of the principal amount of such notes.  The amount of contingent cash interest payable per note in respect of any six-month period will equal 0.375% per year of the average note price for the applicable five trading day period.  The 2027 notes may not be redeemed prior to May 20, 2010 and may thereafter be redeemed by us at par.  We have granted the underwriters of the notes an option to purchase up to an additional aggregate $45.0 million principal amount of the notes.  The offering was made pursuant to our universal shelf registration statement previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is expected to close, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, on May 10, 2007.  We intend to use the net proceeds from the offering, together with available cash on hand and/or bank debt, to finance the partial redemption of our existing 8.0% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012.

ITEM 4.                    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of March 31, 2007.  The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.  Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.  Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of March 31, 2007, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during or subsequent to the quarter ended March 31, 2007 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, such internal control over financial reporting.

29




PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We are a party to lawsuits and claims from time to time in the ordinary course of business.  Actions currently pending are in various preliminary stages and no judgments or decisions have been rendered by hearing boards or courts in connection with such actions.  After reviewing developments to date with legal counsel, our management is of the opinion that the outcome of our pending and threatened matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations or consolidated statements of cash flows.

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.

30




ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS

Exhibit
Number

 

Description

 

 

 

10.1

 

Stock Appreciation Right Agreement between Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., and David D. Smith dated April 2, 2007

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification by David D. Smith, as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1 5 U.S.C. § 7241)

 

 

 

31.2

 

Certification by David B. Amy, as Chief Financial Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1 5 U.S.C. § 7241)

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certification by David D. Smith, as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ( 18 U.S.C § 1350)

 

 

 

32.2

 

Certification by David B. Amy, as Chief Financial Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ( 18 U.S.C § 1350)

 

31




SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report on Form 10-Q to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized on the 10th day of May 2007.

SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ David R. Bochenek

 

 

David R. Bochenek

 

 

Vice President/Chief Accounting Officer

32




EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
Number

 

Description

 

 

 

10.1

 

Stock Appreciation Right Agreement between Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., and David D. Smith dated April 2, 2007

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification by David D. Smith, as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. § 7241)

 

 

 

31.2

 

Certification by David B. Amy, as Chief Financial Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. § 7241)

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certification by David D. Smith, as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C § 1350)

 

 

 

32.2

 

Certification by David B. Amy, as Chief Financial Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C § 1350)

 

 

33