nxst200910k.htm
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

 
 
 
FORM 10-K

 
 
 
x
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009
 
OR
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
for the transition period from              to             .
 
Commission File Number: 000-50478

 
 
 
NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 
 
 
Delaware
23-3083125
(State of Organization or Incorporation)
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
   
5215 N. O’Connor Blvd., Suite 1400
Irving, Texas 75039
(972) 373-8800
(Address of Principal Executive Offices, including Zip Code)
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

 
 
 
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of Each Class
 
 
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
 
 
Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share
The Nasdaq Global Market
 
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 
 
 
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes ¨    No x
 
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes ¨    No x
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that it was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes x     No ¨
 
Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ¨    No  ¨
 
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    x
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (check one):
 
Large accelerated filer  ¨
Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer  x
Smaller reporting company  ¨
   
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes ¨    No x
 
As of June 30, 2009, the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was $8,170,355.
 
As of March 2, 2010, the Registrant had outstanding:
 
15,018,839 shares of Class A Common Stock
and 13,411,588 shares of Class B Common Stock
 
Documents Incorporated By Reference
 
Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Registrant’s 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be filed with the Commission within 120 days after the close of the Registrant’s fiscal year and incorporated by reference in Part III.

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
Page
PART I
   
     
ITEM 1.
Business
        2
     
ITEM 1A.
Risk Factors
        12
     
ITEM 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
        20
     
ITEM 2.
Properties
        21
     
ITEM 3.
Legal Proceedings
        24
     
ITEM 4.
Reserved
        24
     
PART II
   
     
ITEM 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
        25
     
ITEM 6.
Selected Financial Data
        27
     
ITEM 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
        28
     
ITEM 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
        48
     
ITEM 8.
Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
        48
     
ITEM 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
        48
     
ITEM 9A.
Controls and Procedures
        48
     
ITEM 9B.
Other Information
        49
     
PART III
   
     
ITEM 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
        50
     
ITEM 11.
Executive Compensation
        50
     
ITEM 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management, and Related Stockholder Matters
        50
     
ITEM 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
        50
     
ITEM 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
        50
     
PART IV
   
     
ITEM 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
        51
   
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
        F-1
   
Index to Exhibits
        E-1
 

 
 
 
 
i

General
 
As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and unless the context indicates otherwise, “Nexstar” refers to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries; “Nexstar Broadcasting” refers to Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., our indirect subsidiary; “Nexstar Finance Holdings” refers to Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc., our wholly-owned subsidiary; “Mission” refers to Mission Broadcasting, Inc.; “ABRY” refers to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.’s principal stockholder, ABRY Partners, LLC and its affiliated funds; and all references to “we,” “our,” “ours,” and “us” refer to Nexstar.
 
Nexstar has time brokerage agreements, shared services agreements and joint sales agreements (which we generally refer to as local service agreements) relating to the television stations owned by Mission, but does not own any of the equity interests in Mission. For a description of the relationship between Nexstar and Mission, see Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
 
In the context of describing ownership of television stations in a particular market, the term “duopoly” refers to owning or deriving the majority of the economic benefit, through local service agreements, from two or more stations in a particular market. For more information on how we derive economic benefit from a duopoly, see Item 1. “Business.”
 
There are 210 generally recognized television markets, known as Designated Market Areas, or DMAs, in the United States. DMAs are ranked in size according to various factors based upon actual or potential audience. DMA rankings contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are from Investing in Television Market Report 2009 4th Edition, as published by BIA Financial Network, Inc.
 
Reference is made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to the following trademarks/tradenames which are owned by the third parties referenced in parentheses: Seinfeld (Columbia Tristar Television Distribution, a unit of Sony Pictures) and Entertainment Tonight (Paramount Distribution, a division of Viacom Inc.).
 
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
 
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of federal and state securities laws, including: any projections or expectations of earnings, revenue, financial performance, liquidity and capital resources or other financial items; any assumptions or projections about the television broadcasting industry, any statements of our plans, strategies and objectives for our future operations, performance, liquidity and capital resources or other financial items; any statements concerning proposed new products, services or developments; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; any statements of belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Forward-looking statements may include the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and other similar words.
 
Although we believe that the expectations reflected in any of our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ from a projection or assumption in any of our forward-looking statements. Our future financial position and results of operations, as well as any forward-looking statements, are subject to change and inherent risks and uncertainties discussed under Item 1A. “Risk Factors” located elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The forward-looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are made only as of the date hereof, and we do not have or undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances unless otherwise required by law.
 
Available Information
 
We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any reports, statements and other information filed by us at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549-0102. Please call (800) SEC-0330 for further information on the Public Reference Room. The SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers, including us, that file electronically with the SEC. The address for the SEC’s website is http://www.sec.gov.
 
We make available, free of charge, through our investor relations website our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, statements of changes in beneficial ownership of securities, and amendments to those reports and statements as soon as reasonably practicable after they are filed with the SEC. The address for our website is http://www.nexstar.tv.
 

 
1
 
 

 
PART I
 
Item 1.                      Business
 
Overview
 
We are a television broadcasting company focused exclusively on the acquisition, development and operation of television stations in medium-sized markets in the United States, primarily markets that rank from 50 to 175 out of the 210 generally recognized television markets, as reported by A.C. Nielsen Company. As of December 31, 2009, we owned and operated 34 stations, and provided sales or other services to an additional 25 stations that are owned by Mission and other entities. In 21 of the 34 markets that we serve, we own, operate, program or provide sales and other services to more than one station. We refer to these markets as duopoly markets. The stations that we own, operate, program or provide sales and other services to are in markets located in New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Alabama, Utah, Florida, Montana, Rhode Island and Maryland. These stations are diverse in their network affiliations: 47 have primary affiliation agreements with one of the four major networks—15 with FOX, 12 with NBC, 9 with ABC and 11 with CBS. Six of the remaining 12 stations have primary agreements with MyNetworkTV; four stations have an agreement with The CW; one station has an agreement with This TV and one station has an agreement with Azteca America.  Additionally, three of the stations have secondary network affiliations that are broadcast over digital multicasts (DM’s) – one with MyNetworkTV, one with RTN and one with Telemundo.
 
On October 7, 2008, Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of KWBF the MyNetworkTV affiliate serving the Little Rock, Arkansas market for $4.0 million from Equity Broadcasting Corp. In February 2009, the station was re-launched under the call letters KARZ-TV. Closing of the acquisition occurred on March 12, 2009.
 
As of January 1, 2009, KBTV in Beaumont, Texas became a FOX affiliate. KBTV’s NBC network affiliation expired on December 31, 2008.
 
On January 28, 2009, Nexstar entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of WCWJ, the CW affiliate serving the Jacksonville, Florida market. This transaction closed on May 1, 2009.
 
On March 23, 2009 we announced entry into an agreement with Four Points Media Group Holdings LLC (“Four Points”), owned by an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., whereby Nexstar Broadcasting provides management services for Four Points’ seven television stations located in four markets. Under the terms of the agreement, Nexstar receives a fixed annual management fee of $2.0 million per year, as well as annual incentive compensation based on increases of the broadcast cash flow of Four Points’ stations. The agreement provides for minimum compensation to Nexstar of $10.0 million if the Four Points stations are sold during the initial three year term of the agreement. The agreement was effective beginning March 20, 2009.
 
We believe that medium-sized markets offer significant advantages over large-sized markets, most of which result from a lower level of competition. First, because there are fewer well-capitalized acquirers with a medium-market focus, we have been successful in purchasing stations on more favorable terms than acquirers of large market stations. Second, in the majority of our markets five or fewer local commercial television stations exist. As a result, we achieve lower programming costs than stations in larger markets because the supply of quality programming exceeds the demand.
 
The stations we own and operate or provide services to provide free over-the-air programming to our markets’ television viewing audiences. This programming includes (a) programs produced by networks with which the stations are affiliated; (b) programs that the stations produce; and (c) first-run and rerun syndicated programs that the stations acquire. Our primary source of revenue is the sale of commercial air time to local and national advertisers.
 
We seek to grow our revenue and broadcast cash flow by increasing the audience and revenue shares of the stations we own, operate, program or provide sales and other services to. We strive to increase the audience share of the stations by creating a strong local broadcasting presence based on highly rated local news, local sports coverage and active community sponsorship. We seek to improve revenue share by employing and supporting a high-quality local sales force that leverages the stations’ strong local brand and community presence with local advertisers. Additionally, we further improve broadcast cash flow by maintaining strict control over operating and programming costs. The benefits achieved through these initiatives are magnified in our duopoly markets by broadcasting the programming of multiple networks, capitalizing on multiple sales forces and achieving an increased level of operational efficiency. As a result of our operational enhancements, we expect revenue from the stations we have acquired or begun providing services to in the last four years to grow faster than that of our more mature stations.
 
We completed our initial public offering on November 28, 2003. Concurrent with our offering, we completed a corporate reorganization whereby our predecessor, Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C., and certain direct and indirect subsidiaries of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C. merged with and into us. Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C. was organized as a limited liability company on December 12, 1996 in the State of Delaware and commenced operations on April 15, 1997.
 
Our principal offices are at 5215 N. O’Connor Blvd., Suite 1400, Irving, TX 75039. Our telephone number is (972) 373-8800 and our website is http://www.nexstar.tv.

 
2
 
 

 
Operating Strategy
 
We seek to generate revenue and broadcast cash flow growth through the following strategies:
 
Develop Leading Local Franchises. Each of the stations that we own, operate, program, or provide sales and other services to creates a highly recognizable local brand, primarily through the quality of local news programming and community presence. Based on internally generated analysis, we believe that in approximately two-thirds of our markets that feature local newscasts produced by Nexstar, we rank among the top two stations in local news viewership. Strong local news typically generates higher ratings among attractive demographic profiles and enhances audience loyalty, which may result in higher ratings for programs both preceding and following the news. High ratings and strong community identity make the stations that we own, operate, program, or provide sales and other services to more attractive to local advertisers. For the year ended December 31, 2009 we earned approximately one-fourth of our advertising revenue from spots aired during local news programming. As of December 31, 2009, our stations and the stations we provide services to provided approximately 660 hours per week of local news programming. Extensive local sports coverage and active sponsorship of community events further differentiate us from our competitors and strengthen our community relationships and our local advertising appeal.
 
Emphasize Local Sales. We employ a high-quality local sales force in each of our markets to increase revenue from local advertisers by capitalizing on our investment in local programming and eMedia platform. We believe that local advertising is attractive because our sales force is more effective with local advertisers, giving us a greater ability to influence this revenue source. Additionally, local advertising has historically been a more stable source of revenue than national advertising for television broadcasters. For the year ended December 31, 2009, revenue generated from local advertising represented 74.1% of our consolidated broadcast revenue (total of local and national advertising revenue, excluding political advertising revenue). In most of our markets, we have increased the size and quality of our local sales force. We also invest in our sales efforts by implementing comprehensive training programs and employing a sophisticated inventory tracking system to help maximize advertising rates and the amount of inventory sold in each time period.
 
Operate Duopoly Markets. Owning or providing services to more than one station in a market enables us to broaden our audience share, enhance our revenue share and achieve significant operating efficiencies. Duopoly markets broaden audience share by providing programming from multiple networks with different targeted demographics. These markets increase revenue share by capitalizing on multiple sales forces. Additionally, we achieve significant operating efficiencies by consolidating physical facilities, eliminating redundant management and leveraging capital expenditures between stations. We derived approximately 76.7% of our net broadcast revenue for the year ended December 31, 2009 from our duopoly markets.
 
Maintain Strict Cost Controls. We emphasize strict controls on operating and programming costs in order to increase broadcast cash flow. We continually seek to identify and implement cost savings at each of our stations and the stations we provide services to and our overall size benefits each station with respect to negotiating favorable terms with programming suppliers and other vendors. By leveraging our size and corporate management expertise, we are able to achieve economies of scale by providing programming, financial, sales and marketing support to our stations and the stations we provide services to.  Our and Mission’s cash broadcast payments were 4.0%, 3.1%, 3.4%, 3.4% and 4.7% of net broadcast revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
 
Capitalize on Diverse Network Affiliations. We currently own, operate, program, or provide sales and other services to a balanced portfolio of television stations with diverse network affiliations, including NBC, CBS, ABC, and Fox affiliated stations which represented approximately 30.3%, 26.8%, 13.9% and 25.6% respectively, of our 2009 net broadcast revenue. The networks provide these stations with quality programming and numerous sporting events such as NBA basketball, Major League baseball, NFL football, NCAA sports, PGA golf and the Olympic Games. Because network programming and ratings change frequently, the diversity of our station portfolio’s network affiliations reduces our reliance on the quality of programming from a single network.
 
Attract and Retain High Quality Management. We seek to attract and retain station general managers with proven track records in larger television markets by providing equity incentives not typically offered by other station operators in our markets. Our station general managers have been granted stock options and have an average of over 20 years of experience in the television broadcasting industry.

 
3
 
 

 
Acquisition Strategy
 
We selectively pursue acquisitions of television stations primarily in markets ranking from 50 to 175 out of the 210 generally recognized television markets, where we believe we can improve revenue and cash flow through active management. When considering an acquisition, we evaluate the target audience share, revenue share, overall cost structure and proximity to our regional clusters. Additionally, we seek to acquire or enter into local service agreements with stations to create duopoly markets.  The October 8, 2009 amendment to our senior credit facility specifically restricts our ability to pursue our acquisition strategy.
 
Relationship with Mission
 
Through various local service agreements with Mission, we currently provide sales, programming and other services to 16 television stations that are owned and operated by Mission. Mission is 100% owned by an independent third party. We do not own Mission or any of its television stations. In order for both us and Mission to comply with Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) regulations, Mission maintains complete responsibility for and control over programming, finances, personnel and operations of its stations. However, as a result of (a) local service agreements Nexstar has with the Mission stations, (b) Nexstar’s guarantee of the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior credit facility and (c) purchase options (which expire on various dates between 2011 and 2018) granted by Mission’s sole shareholder which will permit Nexstar to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent, we are deemed under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) to have a controlling financial interest in Mission. As a result of our controlling financial interest in Mission under U.S. GAAP and in order to present fairly our financial position, results of operations and cash flows, we consolidate the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of Mission with us as if Mission were a wholly-owned entity. We expect these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration.
 
The Stations
 
The following chart sets forth general information about the stations we owned, operated, programmed or provided sales and other services to as of December 31, 2009:


Market
Rank(1)
Market
Station
Affiliation
Status(2)
Commercial
Stations in Market(3)
FCC License
Expiration Date
9   
Washington, DC/Hagerstown, MD(4)
WHAG
NBC
O&O
               (4)
                 (5)
31   
Salt Lake City, UT
KUTV
CBS
MSA
               8
               10/1/14
   
KUSG
This TV
MSA
 
               10/1/14
38   
West Palm Beach, FL
WTVX
The CW/RTN
MSA
               5
               2/1/13
   
WTCN
MyNetworkTV
MSA
 
               2/1/13
   
WWHB
Azteca America
MSA
 
               2/1/13
39   
Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon-York, PA
WLYH
The CW
O&O(6)
               5
                 (5)
47   
Jacksonville, FL
WCWJ
The CW
O&O
               6
               2/1/13
48   
Austin, TX
KEYE
CBS/Telemundo
MSA
               5
               8/1/14
53   
Providence, RI
WLWC
The CW
MSA
               5
               4/1/15
54   
Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
WBRE
NBC
O&O
               7
                 (5)
       
WYOU
CBS
LSA
 
                 (5)
56   
Little Rock-Pine Bluff, AR
KARK
NBC
O&O
               7
                 (5)
   
KARZ
MyNetworkTV
O&O
 
               6/1/13
74   
Springfield, MO
KOLR
CBS
LSA
               6
                 (5)
   
KSFX
Fox
O&O
 
                 (5)
80   
Rochester, NY
WROC
CBS
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
WUHF
Fox
LSA
 
               6/1/15
82   
Shreveport, LA
KTAL
NBC
O&O
               6
               8/1/14
84   
Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, IL
WCIA
CBS
O&O
               6
                 (5)
   
WCFN
MyNetworkTV
O&O
 
                 (5)
100   
Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-
KFTA
Fox/NBC
O&O
               6
               6/1/13
 
Springdale-Rogers, AR
KNWA
NBC
O&O
 
                 (5)
101   
Johnstown-Altoona, PA
WTAJ
CBS
O&O
               6
                 (5)
102   
Evansville, IN
WTVW
Fox
O&O
               5
                 (5)
107   
Ft. Wayne, IN
WFFT
Fox
O&O
               4
                 (5)
116   
Peoria-Bloomington, IL
WMBD
CBS
O&O
               5
                 (5)
   
WYZZ
Fox
LSA
 
               12/1/13
131   
Amarillo, TX
KAMR
NBC
O&O
               5
                 (5)
   
KCIT
Fox
LSA
 
                 (5)
   
KCPN-LP
MyNetworkTV
LSA
 
                 (5)
134   
Rockford, IL
WQRF
Fox
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
WTVO
 
ABC/
MyNetworkTV
LSA
 
 
                 (5)
 
138   
Monroe, LA-El Dorado, AR
KARD
Fox
O&O
               6
                 (5)
   
KTVE
NBC
LSA
 
               6/1/13
141   
Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX
KBTV
Fox
O&O
               4
                 (5)
143   
Lubbock, TX
KLBK
CBS
O&O
               5
                 (5)
   
KAMC
ABC
LSA
 
                 (5)
146   
Erie, PA
WJET
ABC
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
WFXP
Fox
LSA
 
                 (5)
147   
Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS
KSNF
NBC
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
KODE
ABC
LSA
 
                 (5)
149   
Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK
KFDX
NBC
O&O
               5
                 (5)
   
KJTL
Fox
LSA
 
                 (5)
   
KJBO-LP
MyNetworkTV
LSA
 
                 (5)
152   
Terre Haute, IN
WTWO
NBC
O&O
               3
                 (5)
   
WFXW
Fox
LSA
 
                 (5)
155   
Odessa-Midland, TX
KMID
ABC
O&O
               5
                 (5)
165   
Abilene-Sweetwater, TX
KTAB
CBS
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
KRBC
NBC
LSA
 
                 (5)
169   
Billings, MT
KSVI
ABC
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
KHMT
Fox
LSA
 
                 (5)
170   
Utica, NY
WFXV
Fox
O&O
               4
                 (5)
   
WPNY-LP
MyNetworkTV
O&O
 
                 (5)
   
WUTR
ABC
LSA
 
                 (5)
172   
Dothan, AL
WDHN
ABC
O&O
               3
                 (5)
198   
San Angelo, TX
KSAN
NBC
LSA
               4
                 (5)
   
KLST
CBS
O&O
 
                 (5)
201   
St. Joseph, MO
KQTV
ABC
O&O
               1
                 (5)
         
(1)
Market rank refers to ranking the size of the Designated Market Area (“DMA”) in which the station is located in relation to other DMAs. Source: Investing in Television Market Report 2009 4th Edition, as published by BIA Financial Network, Inc.
(2)
O&O refers to stations that we own and operate. LSA, or local service agreement, is the general term we use to refer to a contract under which we provide services utilizing our employees to a station owned and operated by an independent third party. Local service agreements include time brokerage agreements, shared services agreements, joint sales agreements and outsourcing agreements. MSA or management service agreement, refers to a contract under which we provide management oversight of a third party’s stations and employees.  For further information regarding the LSAs to which we are party, see Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(3)
The term “commercial station” means a television broadcast station and excludes non-commercial stations, religious and Spanish-language stations, cable program services or networks. Source: Investing in Television Market Report 2009 4th Edition, as published by BIA Financial Network, Inc.
(4)
Although WHAG is located within the Washington, DC DMA, its signal does not reach the entire Washington, DC metropolitan area. WHAG serves the Hagerstown, MD sub-market within the DMA.
(5)
Application for renewal of license timely was submitted to the FCC. Under the FCC’s rules, a license expiration date automatically is extended pending review of and action on the renewal application by the FCC.
(6)
Although Nexstar owns WLYH, this station is programmed by Newport Television pursuant to a time brokerage agreement.

 
4
 
 

 
Industry Background
 
Commercial television broadcasting began in the United States on a regular basis in the 1940s. Currently a limited number of channels are available for over-the-air broadcasting in any one geographic area and a license to operate a television station must be granted by the FCC. All television stations in the country are grouped by A.C. Nielsen Company, a national audience measuring service, into 210 generally recognized television markets, known as designated market areas (“DMAs”), that are ranked in size according to various metrics based upon actual or potential audience. Each DMA is an exclusive geographic area consisting of all counties in which the home-market commercial stations receive the greatest percentage of total viewing hours. A.C. Nielsen periodically publishes data on estimated audiences for the television stations in the DMA. The estimates are expressed in terms of a “rating,” which is a station’s percentage of the total potential audience in the market, or a “share,” which is the station’s percentage of the audience actually watching television. A station’s rating in the market can be a factor in determining advertising rates.
 
Most television stations are affiliated with networks and receive a significant part of their programming, including prime-time hours, from networks. Whether or not a station is affiliated with one of the four major networks (NBC, ABC, CBS or Fox) has a significant impact on the composition of the station’s revenue, expenses and operations. Network programming, along with cash payments for some NBC, ABC and CBS affiliates, is provided to the affiliate by the network in exchange for the network’s retention of a substantial majority of the advertising time during network programs. The network then sells this advertising time and retains the revenue. The affiliate retains the revenue from the remaining advertising time it sells during network programs and from advertising time it sells during non-network programs.
 
Broadcast television stations compete for advertising revenue primarily with other commercial broadcast television stations and cable satellite television systems, as well as with newspapers, radio stations and internet advertising serving the same market. Non-commercial, religious and Spanish-language broadcasting stations in many markets also compete with commercial stations for viewers. In addition, the Internet and other leisure activities may draw viewers away from commercial television stations.
 
The television broadcast industry transitioned to an advanced digital television (“DTV”) transmission system on June 12, 2009. DTV transmissions deliver improved video and audio signals including high definition television and have substantial multiplexing and data transmission capabilities. As of June 12, 2009, television broadcasters were required to cease analog broadcasting and return one of their channels to the FCC.
 
Advertising Sales
 
General
 
Television station revenue is primarily derived from the sale of local and national advertising. All network-affiliated stations are required to carry advertising sold by their networks which reduces the amount of advertising time available for sale by stations. Stations sell the remaining advertising to be inserted in network programming and the advertising in non-network programming, retaining all of the revenue received from these sales. A national syndicated program distributor will often retain a portion of the available advertising time for programming it supplies in exchange for no fees or reduced fees charged to stations for such programming. These programming arrangements are referred to as barter programming.
 
Advertisers wishing to reach a national audience usually purchase time directly from the networks, or advertise nationwide on a case-by-case basis. National advertisers who wish to reach a particular region or local audience often buy advertising time directly from local stations through national advertising sales representative firms. Local businesses purchase advertising time directly from the stations’ local sales staff.
 
Advertising rates are based upon a number of factors, including:
 
 
a program’s popularity among the viewers that an advertiser wishes to target;
 
 
the number of advertisers competing for the available time;
 
 
the size and the demographic composition of the market served by the station;
 
 
the availability of alternative advertising media in the market area;
 
 
the effectiveness of the station’s sales forces;
 
 
development of projects, features and programs that tie advertiser messages to programming; and
 
 
the level of spending commitment made by the advertiser.

 
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Advertising rates are also determined by a station’s overall ability to attract viewers in its market area, as well as the station’s ability to attract viewers among particular demographic groups that an advertiser may be targeting. Advertising revenue is positively affected by strong local economies. Conversely, declines in advertising budgets of advertisers, particularly in recessionary periods, adversely affect the broadcast industry and as a result may contribute to a decrease in the revenue of broadcast television stations.
 
Seasonality
 
Advertising revenue is positively affected by national and regional political election campaigns, and certain events such as the Olympic Games or the Super Bowl. Stations’ advertising revenue is generally highest in the second and fourth quarters of each year, due in part to increases in consumer advertising in the spring and retail advertising in the period leading up to, and including, the holiday season. In addition, advertising revenue is generally higher during even-numbered years due to advertising placed by candidates for political offices and advertising aired during the Olympic Games.
 
Local Sales
 
Local advertising time is sold by each station’s local sales staff who call upon advertising agencies and local businesses, which typically include car dealerships, retail stores and restaurants. Compared to revenue from national advertising accounts, revenue from local advertising is generally more stable and more predictable. We seek to attract new advertisers to television and our eMedia platform and to increase the amount of advertising time sold to existing local advertisers by relying on experienced local sales forces with strong community ties, producing news and other programming with local advertising appeal and sponsoring or co-promoting local events and activities. We place a strong emphasis on the experience of our local sales staff and maintain an on-going training program for sales personnel.
 
National Sales
 
National advertising time is sold through national sales representative firms which call upon advertising agencies, whose clients typically include automobile manufacturers and dealer groups, telecommunications companies, fast food franchisers, and national retailers (some of which may advertise locally).
 
Network Affiliations
 
Each station that we own and operate, program or provide sales and other services to as of December 31, 2009 is affiliated with a network pursuant to an affiliation agreement, as described below:
 
Station
Market
Affiliation
Expiration
WTAJ
Johnstown-Altoona, PA
CBS
May 2010
WTVW
Evansville, IN
Fox
June 2010
WQRF
Rockford, IL
Fox
June 2010
KARD
Monroe, LA-El Dorado, AR
Fox
June 2010
KSFX
Springfield, MO
Fox
June 2010
WFXV
Utica, NY
Fox
June 2010
WFFT
Ft. Wayne, IN
Fox
June 2010
KCIT(1)
Amarillo, TX
Fox
June 2010
WFXP(1)
Erie, PA
Fox
June 2010
KJTL(1)
Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK
Fox
June 2010
WFXW(1)
Terre Haute, IN
Fox
June 2010
KHMT(1)
Billings, MT
Fox
June 2010
KFTA
Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR
Fox/NBC
June 2010
WTVX – DM(1)
West Palm Beach, FL
RTN
June 2010
KSAN(1)
San Angelo, TX
NBC
December 2010
KRBC(1)
Abilene-Sweetwater, TX
NBC
December 2010
WUTR(1)
Utica, NY
ABC
December 2010
WDHN
Dothan, AL
ABC
December 2010
WJET
Erie, PA
ABC
December 2010
KSVI
Billings, MT
ABC
December 2010
KMID
Odessa-Midland, TX
ABC
December 2010
WTVO(1)
Rockford, IL
ABC
December 2010
KAMC(1)
Lubbock, TX
ABC
December 2010
KQTV
St. Joseph, MO
ABC
December 2010
KARZ
Little Rock-Pine Bluff, AR
MyNetworkTV
August 2011
WPNY-LP
Utica, NY
MyNetworkTV
August 2011
WCFN
Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, IL
MyNetworkTV
August 2011
KCPN-LP(1)
Amarillo, TX
MyNetworkTV
August 2011
KJBO-LP(1)
Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK
MyNetworkTV
August 2011
WTVO – DM(1)
Rockford, IL
MyNetworkTV
August 2011
WCWJ
Jacksonville, FL
The CW
September 2011
WBRE
Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
NBC
December 2011
WTWO
Terre Haute, IN
NBC
December 2011
KFDX
Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK
NBC
December 2011
KSNF
Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS
NBC
December 2011
KTVE(1)
Monroe, LA—El Dorado, AR
NBC
December 2011
WUHF(1)
Rochester, NY
Fox
March 2012
WYZZ(1)
Peoria-Bloomington, IL
Fox
March 2012
KLST
San Angelo, TX
CBS
August 2012
KTAB
Abilene-Sweetwater, TX
CBS
December 2012
KODE(1)
Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS
ABC
December 2012
KNWA
Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR
NBC
January 2013
WROC
Rochester, NY
CBS
January 2013
KOLR(1)
Springfield, MO
CBS
June 2013
KLBK
Lubbock, TX
CBS
July 2013
WCIA
Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, IL
CBS
September 2013
WMBD
Peoria-Bloomington, IL
CBS
September 2013
KBTV
Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX
Fox
December 2013
KEYE – DM(1)
Austin, TX
Telemundo
October 2014
KAMR
Amarillo, TX
NBC
December 2014
KTAL
Shreveport, LA
NBC
December 2014
KARK
Little Rock-Pine Bluff, AR
NBC
December 2014
WHAG
Washington, DC/Hagerstown, MD(2)
NBC
December 2014
WYOU(1)
Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
CBS
June 2015
WLYH(3)
Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon-York, PA
The CW
September 2016
WTVX(1)
West Palm Beach, FL
The CW
August 2017
WLWC(1)
Providence, RI
The CW
August 2017
KEYE(1)
Austin, TX
CBS
August 2017
KUTV(1)
Salt Lake City, UT
CBS
August 2017
WTCN(1)
West Palm Beach, FL
MyNetworkTV
August 2017
KUSG(1)
Salt Lake City, UT
This TV
August 2017
WWHB(1)
West Palm Beach, FL
Azteca America
August 2017
         
(1)
These stations are owned by independent third parties. which maintain the network affiliation agreements.
(2)
Although WHAG is located within the Washington, DC DMA, its signal does not reach the entire Washington, DC metropolitan area. WHAG serves the Hagerstown, MD sub-market within the DMA.
(3)
Under a time brokerage agreement, Nexstar allows Newport Television License, LLC, Inc. to program most of WLYH’s broadcast time, sell its advertising time and retain the advertising revenue generated in exchange for monthly payments to Nexstar.
 
Each affiliation agreement provides the affiliated station with the right to broadcast all programs transmitted by the network with which it is affiliated. In exchange, the network has the right to sell a substantial majority of the advertising time during these broadcasts. In addition, some stations receive compensation from the network based on the hours of network programming they broadcast.
 
We expect all of the network affiliation agreements listed above to be renewed upon expiration.

 
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Competition
 
Competition in the television industry takes place on several levels: competition for audience, competition for programming and competition for advertising.
 
Audience. We compete for audience share specifically on the basis of program popularity. The popularity of a station’s programming has a direct effect on the adverting rates it can charge its advertisers. A portion of the daily programming on the stations that we own or provide services to is supplied by the network with which each station is affiliated. In those periods, the stations are dependent upon the performance of the network programs in attracting viewers. Stations program non-network time periods with a combination of self-produced news, public affairs and other entertainment programming, including movies and syndicated programs. The major television networks have also begun to sell their programming directly to the consumer via portable digital devices such as video iPods and cell phones which presents an additional source of competition for television broadcaster audience share. Other sources of competition for audience include home entertainment systems, such as VCRs, DVDs and DVRs; video-on-demand and pay-per-view; the Internet; and television game devices.
 
Although the commercial television broadcast industry historically has been dominated by the ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox television networks, other newer television networks and the growth in popularity of subscription systems, such as local cable and direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) systems which air exclusive programming not otherwise available in a market, have become significant competitors for the over-the-air television audience.
 
Programming. Competition for programming involves negotiating with national program distributors or syndicators that sell first-run and rerun packages of programming. Stations compete against in-market broadcast station operators for exclusive access to off-network reruns (such as Seinfeld) and first-run product (such as Entertainment Tonight) in their respective markets. Cable systems generally do not compete with local stations for programming, although various national cable networks from time to time have acquired programs that would have otherwise been offered to local television stations. Time Warner, Inc., General Electric Company, Viacom Inc., The News Corporation Limited and the Walt Disney Company each owns a television network and also owns or controls major production studios, which are the primary source of programming for the networks. It is uncertain whether in the future such programming, which is generally subject to short-term agreements between the studios and the networks, will be moved to the networks. Television broadcasters also compete for non-network programming unique to the markets they serve. As such, stations strive to provide exclusive news stories, unique features such as investigative reporting and coverage of community events and to secure broadcast rights for regional and local sporting events.
 
Advertising. Stations compete for advertising revenue with other television stations in their respective markets; and other advertising media such as newspapers, radio stations, magazines, outdoor advertising, transit advertising, yellow page directories, direct mail, local cable systems, DBS systems and the Internet. Competition for advertising dollars in the broadcasting industry occurs primarily within individual markets. Generally, a television broadcast station in a particular market does not compete with stations in other market areas.
 
Additional Competitive Factors. The broadcasting industry is continually faced with technological change and innovation which increase the popularity of competing entertainment and communications media. Further advances in technology may increase competition for household audiences and advertisers. The increased use of digital technology by cable systems and DBS, along with video compression techniques, will reduce the bandwidth required for television signal transmission. These technological developments are applicable to all video delivery systems, including over-the-air broadcasting, and have the potential to provide vastly expanded programming to highly targeted audiences. Reductions in the cost of creating additional channel capacity could lower entry barriers for new channels and encourage the development of increasingly specialized “niche” programming. This ability to reach very narrowly defined audiences is expected to alter the competitive dynamics for advertising expenditures. We are unable to predict the effect that these or other technological changes will have on the broadcast television industry or on the future results of our operations or the operations of the stations we provide services to.
 
Federal Regulation
 
Television broadcasting is subject to the jurisdiction of the FCC under the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (“the Communications Act”). The following is a brief discussion of certain provisions of the Communications Act and the FCC’s regulations and policies that affect the business operations of television broadcast stations. Over the years, Congress and the FCC have added, amended and deleted statutory and regulatory requirements to which station owners are subject. Some of these changes have a minimal business impact whereas others may significantly affect the business or operation of individual stations or the broadcast industry as a whole. The following discussion summarizes some of the statutory and regulatory rules and policies currently in effect. For more information about the nature and extent of FCC regulation of television broadcast stations you should refer to the Communications Act and the FCC’s rules, public notices and policies.

 
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License Grant and Renewal. The Communications Act prohibits the operation of broadcast stations except under licenses issued by the FCC. Television broadcast licenses are granted for a maximum term of eight years and are subject to renewal upon application to the FCC. The FCC is required to grant an application for license renewal if during the preceding term the station served the public interest, the licensee did not commit any serious violations of the Communications Act or the FCC’s rules, and the licensee committed no other violations of the Communications Act or the FCC’s rules which, taken together, would constitute a pattern of abuse. A majority of renewal applications are routinely granted under this standard. If a licensee fails to meet this standard the FCC may still grant renewal on terms and conditions that it deems appropriate, including a monetary forfeiture or renewal for a term less than the normal eight-year period.
 
After a renewal application is filed, interested parties, including members of the public, may file petitions to deny a renewal application, to which the licensee/renewal applicant is entitled to respond. After reviewing the pleadings, if the FCC determines that there is a substantial and material question of fact whether grant of the renewal application would serve the public interest, the FCC is required to hold a trial-type hearing on the issues presented. If, after the hearing, the FCC determines that the renewal applicant has met the renewal standard the FCC will grant the renewal application. If the licensee/renewal applicant fails to meet the renewal standard or show that there are mitigating factors entitling it to renewal subject to appropriate sanctions, the FCC can deny the renewal application. In the vast majority of cases where a petition to deny is filed against a renewal application, the FCC ultimately grants the renewal without a hearing. No competing application for authority to operate a station and replace the incumbent licensee may be filed against a renewal application.
 
In addition to considering rule violations in connection with a license renewal application, the FCC may sanction a station licensee for failing to observe FCC rules and policies during the license term, including the imposition of a monetary forfeiture.
 
The Communications Act prohibits the assignment or the transfer of control of a broadcast license without prior FCC approval.
 
Ownership Restrictions. The Communications Act limits the extent of non-U.S. ownership of companies that own U.S. broadcast stations. Under this restriction, a U.S. broadcast company such as ours may have no more than 25% non-U.S. ownership (by vote and by equity).
 
The FCC also has rules which establish limits on the ownership of broadcast stations. These ownership limits apply to attributable interests in a station licensee held by an individual, corporation, partnership or other entity. In the case of corporations, officers, directors and voting stock interests of 5% or more (20% or more in the case of qualified investment companies, such as insurance companies and bank trust departments) are considered attributable interests. For partnerships, all general partners and non-insulated limited partners are attributable. Limited liability companies are treated the same as partnerships. The FCC also considers attributable the holder of more than 33% of a licensee’s total assets (defined as total debt plus total equity), if that person or entity also provides over 15% of the station’s total weekly broadcast programming or has an attributable interest in another media entity in the same market which is subject to the FCC’s ownership rules, such as a radio or television station, cable television system or daily newspaper.
 
Local Ownership (Duopoly Rule). Under the current duopoly rule, a single entity is allowed to own or have attributable interests in two television stations in a market if (1) the two stations do not have overlapping service areas, or (2) after the combination there are at least eight independently owned and operating full-power television stations and one of the combining stations is not ranked among the top four stations in the DMA. The duopoly rule allows the FCC to consider waivers to permit the ownership of a second station only in cases where the second station has failed or is failing or unbuilt.
 
Under the duopoly rule, the FCC attributes toward the local television ownership limits another in-market station when one station owner programs a second in-market station pursuant to a time brokerage or local marketing agreement, if the programmer provides more than 15% of the second station’s weekly broadcast programming. However, local marketing agreements entered into prior to November 5, 1996 are exempt attributable interests until the FCC determines otherwise. This “grandfathered” period, when reviewed by the FCC, is subject to possible extension or termination.
 
In certain markets, we and Mission own and operate both full-power and low-power television broadcast stations (in Utica, Nexstar owns and operates WFXV and WPNY-LP; in Wichita Falls, Mission owns and operates KJTL and KJBO-LP; and in Amarillo, Mission owns and operates KCIT and KCPN-LP). The FCC’s duopoly rules and policies regarding ownership of television stations in the same market apply only to full-power television stations and not low-power television stations such as WPNY-LP, KJBO-LP and KCPN-LP.

 
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The only markets in which we currently are permitted to own two stations under the duopoly rule are the Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, Illinois market and the Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Arkansas market. However, we also are permitted to own two stations in the Fort Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers market pursuant to a waiver under the FCC’s rules permitting common ownership of a “satellite” television station in a market where a licensee also owns the “primary” station. In all of the markets where we have entered into local service agreements, except for two, we do not provide programming other than news (comprising less than 15% of the second station’s programming) to the second station and, therefore, we are not attributed with ownership of the second station. In the two markets where we provide more programming to the second station—WFXP in Erie, Pennsylvania and KHMT in Billings, Montana—the local marketing agreements were entered into prior to November 5, 1996. Therefore, we may continue to program these stations under the terms of these agreements until the rule is changed.
 
National Ownership. There is no nationwide limit on the number of television stations which a party may own.  However, the Communications Act and FCC’s rules limit the percentage of U.S. television households which a party may reach through its attributable interests in television stations to 39%.  The stations that Nexstar owns have a combined national audience reach of 8.8%.
 
Radio/Television Cross-Ownership Rule (One-to-a-Market Rule). In markets with at least 20 independently owned media outlets, ownership of one television station and up to seven radio stations, or two television stations (if allowed under the television duopoly rule) and six radio stations is permitted. If the number of independently owned media outlets is fewer than 20 but greater than or equal to 10, ownership of one television station (or two if allowed) and four radio stations is permitted. In markets with fewer than 10 independent media voices, ownership of one television station (or two if allowed) and one radio station is permitted. In calculating the number of independent media voices in a market, the FCC includes all radio and television stations, independently owned cable systems (counted as one voice), and independently owned daily newspapers which have circulation that exceeds 5% of the households in the market.
 
Local Television/Newspaper Cross-Ownership Rule. Under this rule, a party is prohibited from having an attributable interest in a television station and a daily newspaper except in cases where the market at issue is one of the 20 largest DMAs, and subject to other criteria and limitations.
 
As a result of the FCC’s 2006 rulemaking proceeding, which provided a comprehensive review of all of its media ownership rules, in February 2008, the FCC adopted modest changes to its newspaper cross-ownership rule, while retaining the rest of its rules as then currently in effect.  Multiple challenges to this proceeding were filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals, which remain pending.  Sometime during 2010, the FCC is expected to officially initiate the next statutorily-mandated review of its media ownership rules and request public comments thereon.
 
Local Television/Cable Cross-Ownership. There is no FCC rule prohibiting common ownership of a cable television system and a television broadcast station in the same area.
 
Cable “Must-Carry” or Retransmission Consent Rights. Every three years television broadcasters are required to make an election between “must-carry” or retransmission consent rights in connection with the carriage of their signal on cable television systems within their DMA. For a majority of our and Mission’s stations the most recent election was made October 1, 2008, for the three-year period beginning January 1, 2009.
 
If a broadcaster chooses to exercise its must-carry rights, it may request cable system carriage on its over-the-air channel or another channel on which it was carried on the cable system as of a specified date. A cable system generally must carry the station’s signal in compliance with the station’s carriage request, and in a manner that makes the signal available to all cable subscribers. However, must-carry rights are not absolute, and whether a cable system is required to carry the station on its system, or in the specific manner requested, depends on variables such as the location, size and number of activated channels of the cable system and whether the station’s programming duplicates, or substantially duplicates the programming of another station carried on the cable system. If certain conditions are met, a cable system may decline to carry a television station that has elected must-carry status, although it is unusual for all the required conditions to exist.
 
If a broadcaster chooses to exercise its retransmission consent rights, a cable television system which is subject to that election may not carry the station’s signal without the station’s consent. This generally requires the cable system and television station operator to negotiate the terms under which the broadcaster will consent to the cable system’s carriage of its station’s signal.
 
We and Mission have elected to exercise retransmission consent rights for all of our stations where we have a legal right to do so. We and Mission have negotiated retransmission consent agreements with substantially all of the cable systems which carry the stations’ signals.

 
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Direct-to-Home Satellite Services and Carriage Rights. Direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) providers are permitted to carry local channels, including “significantly viewed” out-of-market stations when local service is provided. Under certain circumstances, DBS providers also are permitted to provide network service from a station outside a local market for subscribers in the market who are “unserved” by a local station affiliated with the same network. In addition, DBS subscribers who were not receiving a digital signal as of December 8, 2004 may receive distant signals for digital television programming from their DBS provider if they were receiving the local analog signal of a network affiliate and the subscriber cannot receive a local digital signal of that network-affiliated station over-the-air.
 
Satellite carriers that provide any local-into-local service in a market must carry, upon request, all stations in that market that have elected mandatory carriage, and DBS operators are now carrying other local stations in local-into-local markets, including some noncommercial, independent and foreign language stations. However, satellite carriers are not required to carry duplicative network signals from a local market unless the stations are licensed to different communities in different states. Satellite carriers are required to carry all local television stations in a contiguous manner on their channel line-up and may not discriminate in their carriage of stations.
 
Commercial television stations make elections between retransmission consent and must-carry status for satellite services on the same schedule as cable elections, with the most recent elections made by October 1, 2008 for the three year period that began on January 1, 2009. DirecTV currently provides satellite carriage of our and Mission’s stations in the Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, Evansville, Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Ft. Wayne, Jacksonville, Johnstown-Altoona, Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Peoria-Bloomington, Rochester, Rockford, Shreveport, Springfield and Wilkes Barre-Scranton markets. Dish Network currently provides satellite carriage of our and Mission’s stations in the Abilene-Sweetwater, Amarillo, Beaumont-Port Arthur, Billings, Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, Dothan, Erie, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Hagerstown, Jacksonville, Johnstown-Altoona, Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS, Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Lubbock, Monroe, LA-El Dorado, AR, Odessa-Midland, Peoria-Bloomington, Rochester, Rockford, San Angelo, Shreveport, Springfield, Terre Haute, Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK and Wilkes Barre-Scranton markets. We and Mission have long-term carriage agreements with both DirecTV (expiring in 2011) and DISH Network (formerly EchoStar) (expiring in 2011) that provide for the carriage of the currently carried stations, as well as those subsequently added in new local-to-local markets, or those added by acquisition or other means.
 
Digital Television (“DTV”). In February 2009, President Obama signed into law legislation that established June 12, 2009 as the deadline for television broadcasters to complete their transition to DTV-only operations and return their analog spectrum to the FCC. The DTV transmission system delivers video and audio signals of higher quality (including high definition television) than the existing analog transmission system. DTV also has substantial capabilities for multiplexing (the broadcast of several channels of programs concurrently) and data transmission. The introduction of digital television requires consumers to purchase new television sets that are capable of receiving and displaying the DTV signals, or adapters to receive DTV signals and convert them to analog signals for display on their existing receivers.
 
On June 12, 2009 all full-power television broadcasters were required to cease operating in an analog format and operate exclusively in digital (DTV) format. As of December 31, 2009, all of Nexstar’s and Mission’s stations have completed the transition to digital operations; however, Nexstar is working with the FCC with respect to KMID’s authorization.
 
Television station operators may use their DTV signals to provide ancillary services, such as computer software distribution, Internet access, interactive materials, e-commerce, paging services, audio signals, subscription video, or data transmission services. To the extent a station provides such ancillary services it is subject to the same regulations as are applicable to other analogous services under the FCC’s rules and policies. Commercial television stations also are required to pay the FCC 5% of the gross revenue derived from all ancillary services provided over their DTV signals for which a station received a fee in exchange for the service or received compensation from a third party in exchange for transmission of material from that third party, not including commercial advertisements used to support broadcasting.

 
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Programming and Operation. The Communications Act requires broadcasters to serve “the public interest.” Television station licensees are required to present programming that is responsive to community problems, needs and interests and to maintain certain records demonstrating such responsiveness. The FCC may consider complaints from viewers concerning programming when it evaluates a station’s license renewal application, although viewer complaints also may be filed and considered by the FCC at any time. Stations also must follow various rules promulgated under the Communications Act that regulate, among other things:
 
 
political advertising (its price and availability);
 
 
sponsorship identification;
 
 
contest and lottery advertising;
 
 
obscene and indecent broadcasts;
 
 
technical operations, including limits on radio frequency radiation;
 
 
discrimination and equal employment opportunities;
 
 
closed captioning;
 
 
children’s programming;
 
 
program ratings guidelines; and
 
 
network affiliation agreements.
 
Employees
 
As of December 31, 2009, we had a total of 2,114 employees, comprised of 1,970 full-time and 144 part-time or temporary employees. As of December 31, 2009, 165 of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. We believe that our employee relations are satisfactory, and we have not experienced any work stoppages at any of our facilities. However, we cannot assure you that our collective bargaining agreements will be renewed in the future, or that we will not experience a prolonged labor dispute, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 
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Item 1A.                      Risk Factors
 
You should carefully consider the following risk factors, which we believe are the most significant risks related to our business, as well as the other information contained in this document.
 
Risks Related to Our Operations
 
The continued economic slowdown in the United States and the national and world-wide financial crisis may adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Among other things, these negative economic trends could adversely affect demand for television advertising, reduce the availability, and increase the cost, of short-term funds for liquidity requirements, and adversely affect our ability to meet long-term commitments. In addition, general trends in the television industry could adversely affect demand for television advertising as consumers turn to alternative media, including the Internet, for entertainment.  
 
The continued economic slowdown in the United States is likely to adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows by, among other things, reducing demand for local and national television advertising and making it more difficult for customers to pay their accounts. Moreover, television viewing among consumers has been negatively impacted by the increasing availability of alternative media, including the Internet. As a result, in recent years demand for television advertising has been declining and demand for advertising in alternative media has been increasing, and we expect this trend to continue.
 
Our ability to access funds under the Nexstar Senior Credit Facility (“Nexstar Facility”) depends, in part, on our compliance with certain financial covenants in the Nexstar Facility, including covenants based on EBITDA as defined in the Nexstar Facility. If our EBITDA is not sufficient to ensure compliance with these covenants, we might not be able to draw down funds under our revolving credit facility or it might be considered an event of default under the Nexstar Facility.  
 
Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, as have been experienced during 2009 and may continue in 2010, could adversely affect our ability to draw on our bank revolving credit facilities. Our access to funds under the revolving credit facilities is dependent on the ability of the banks that are parties to the facilities to meet their funding commitments. Those banks may not be able to meet their funding commitments to us if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity or if they experience excessive volumes of borrowing requests from us and other borrowers within a short period of time.  
 
Longer term disruptions in the capital and credit markets as a result of uncertainty, changing or increased regulation, reduced alternatives or failures of significant financial institutions could adversely affect our access to liquidity needed for our business. Any disruption could require us to take measures to conserve cash until the markets stabilize or until alternative credit arrangements or other funding for our business needs can be arranged. Such measures could include deferring capital expenditures and other discretionary uses of cash.  
 
We and Mission have a history of net losses.  
 
We and Mission had aggregate net losses of $12.6 million, $78.1 million and $19.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. We and Mission may not be able to achieve or maintain profitability. 
 
Our substantial debt could limit our ability to grow and compete.  
 
As of December 31, 2009, we and Mission had $670.4 million of debt, which represented 135.7% of our and Mission’s total combined capitalization. The companies’ high level of debt could have important consequences to our business. For example, it could:
 
•    limit our ability to borrow additional funds or obtain additional financing in the future;
 
•    limit our ability to pursue acquisition opportunities;
 
•    expose us to greater interest rate risk since the interest rate on borrowings under the senior credit facilities is variable;
 
•    limit our flexibility to plan for and react to changes in our business and our industry; and
 
•    impair our ability to withstand a general downturn in our business and place us at a disadvantage compared to our competitors that are less leveraged.
 
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Contractual Obligations” for disclosure of the approximate aggregate amount of principal indebtedness scheduled to mature.
 
We and Mission could also incur additional debt in the future. The terms of our and Mission’s senior credit facilities, as well as the indentures governing our publicly-held notes, limit, but do not prohibit us or Mission from incurring substantial amounts of additional debt. To the extent we or Mission incur additional debt we would become even more susceptible to the leverage-related risks described above.

 
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The agreements governing our debt contain various covenants that limit our management’s discretion in the operation of our business.  
 
Our senior credit facility and the indentures governing our publicly-held notes contain various covenants that restrict our ability to, among other things:
 
•    incur additional debt and issue preferred stock;  
 
•    pay dividends and make other distributions;  
 
•    make investments and other restricted payments;  
 
•    make acquisitions;  
 
•    merge, consolidate or transfer all or substantially all of our assets;  
 
•    enter into sale and leaseback transactions;  
 
•    create liens;  
 
•    sell assets or stock of our subsidiaries; and  
 
•    enter into transactions with affiliates.  
 
In addition, our senior credit facility requires us to maintain or meet certain financial ratios, including consolidated leverage ratios and interest coverage ratios. Future financing agreements may contain similar, or even more restrictive, provisions and covenants. As a result of these restrictions and covenants, our management’s ability to operate our business at its discretion is limited, and we may be unable to compete effectively, pursue acquisitions or take advantage of new business opportunities, any of which could harm our business. Mission’s senior credit facility contains similar terms and restrictions.  
 
If we fail to comply with the restrictions in present or future financing agreements, a default may occur. A default could allow creditors to accelerate the related debt as well as any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies. A default could also allow creditors to foreclose on any collateral securing such debt.  
 
Our senior credit facility agreement contains covenants which require us to comply with certain financial ratios, including: (a) maximum total and senior leverage ratios, (b) a minimum interest coverage ratio, and (c) a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. The covenants, which are calculated on a quarterly basis, include the combined results of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission. Mission’s senior credit facility agreement does not contain financial covenant ratio requirements; however it does include an event of default if Nexstar does not comply with all covenants contained in its credit agreement. The senior subordinated notes and senior discount notes contain restrictive covenants customary for borrowing arrangements of this type. 
 
As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all indentures governing the publicly-held notes. As of September 30, 2009, we were not in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior credit facility. On October 8, 2009, we amended our credit facility to modify certain covenants. See Note 11 of our consolidated financial statements in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a more complete discussion of the credit facility amendment. The October 8, 2009 amendment contained a limited waiver for the leverage ratios which cured the violation as of September 30, 2009 contained in the credit agreement governing our senior credit facility.  As of December 31, 2009, we were in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the publicly-held notes.
 
On March 30, 2009, we closed an offer to exchange $143,600,000 of the 7% senior subordinated notes due 2014 in exchange for $142,320,761 7% senior subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (the “PIK Notes”). Based on the financial covenants in the senior credit facility, the PIK Notes are not included in the debt amount used to calculate the total leverage ratio until January 2011.

 
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The industry-wide mandatory conversion to digital television could have an adverse impact on our business, as certain viewers that do not upgrade their technology to be able to receive digital signals could no longer be able to view our programming.  
 
Television stations in the U.S. transitioned from analog to digital broadcasts and had to phase-out analog broadcasting altogether by June 12, 2009. All of our and Mission’s stations are broadcasting with digital only signals. TV viewers who receive their signals over-the-air (instead of through multichannel video program distributors, which we refer to as MVPDs, such as cable, satellite, or fiber optic service) and who have older, analog-only television receivers, had to obtain digital-to-analog converters (or new digital televisions) and perhaps new antennas in order to continue watching television after June 12, 2009. The federal government established a program to provide eligible TV viewers with coupons to cover the expense of purchasing digital-to-analog converters (but not new antennas). However, due to technological differences in the way digital as compared to analog TV signals are received, it is possible that some viewers who received adequate analog signals over-the-air are not able to receive usable digital signals (even with digital-to-analog converters and new antennas) and, therefore, are not able to watch some or all of the stations they have been watching (unless they subscribe to an MVPD service).
 
Mission may make decisions regarding the operation of its stations that could reduce the amount of cash we receive under our local service agreements.  
 
Mission is 100% owned by an independent third party. Mission owns and operates 16 television stations as of December 31, 2009. We have entered into local service agreements with Mission, pursuant to which we provide services to Mission’s stations. In return for the services we provide, we receive substantially all of the available cash, after payment of debt service costs, generated by Mission’s stations. We also guarantee all of the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior credit facility, which were incurred primarily in connection with Mission’s acquisition of its stations. The sole shareholder of Mission has granted to us a purchase option to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent, for consideration equal to the greater of (1) seven times the station’s cash flow, as defined in the option agreement, less the amount of its indebtedness as defined in the option agreement or (2) the amount of its indebtedness.  
 
We do not own Mission or Mission’s television stations. However, as a result of our guarantee of the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior credit facility, our arrangements under the local service agreements and purchase option agreements with Mission, we are deemed under U.S. GAAP to have a controlling financial interest in Mission while complying with the FCC’s rules regarding ownership limits in television markets. In order for both us and Mission to comply with FCC regulations, Mission maintains complete responsibility for and control over the programming, finances, personnel and operations of its stations. As a result, Mission’s sole shareholder and officers can make decisions with which we disagree and which could reduce the cash flow generated by these stations and, as a consequence, the amounts we receive under our local service agreements with Mission. For instance, we may disagree with Mission’s programming decisions, which programming may prove unpopular and/or may generate less advertising revenue. Furthermore, subject to Mission’s agreement with its lenders, Mission’s sole shareholder could choose to pay himself a dividend.  
 
The revenue generated by stations we operate or provide services to could decline substantially if they fail to maintain or renew their network affiliation agreements on favorable terms, or at all.  
 
Due to the quality of the programming provided by the networks, stations that are affiliated with a network generally have higher ratings than unaffiliated independent stations in the same market. As a result, it is important for stations to maintain their network affiliations. All of the stations that we operate or provide services to have network affiliation agreements––12 stations have primary affiliation agreements with NBC, 11 with CBS, 9 with ABC, 15 with Fox, 6 with MyNetworkTV, 4 with The CW, 1 with This TV and 1 with Azteca America.  Additionally, three of the stations have secondary affiliation agreements – one with MyNetworkTV, one with RTN and one with Telemundo.  Each of NBC, CBS, ABC, RTN, Telemundo, Azteca America and This TV generally provides affiliated stations with up to 22 hours of prime time programming per week, while each of Fox, MyNetworkTV and The CW provides affiliated stations with up to 15 hours of prime time programming per week. In return, affiliated stations broadcast the respective network’s commercials during the network programming. Under the affiliation agreements with NBC, CBS and ABC, some of the stations we operate or provide services to also receive compensation from these networks.  
 
All of the network affiliation agreements of the stations that we own, operate, program or provide sales and other services to are scheduled to expire at various times beginning in May 2010 through August 2017.  
 
Network affiliation agreements are also subject to earlier termination by the networks under limited circumstances. For more information regarding these network affiliation agreements, see “Business—Network Affiliations.”  

 
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The loss of or material reduction in retransmission consent revenues could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.  
 
Nexstar’s retransmission consent agreements with cable operators, direct broadcast satellite operators, and others permit the operators to carry our stations’ signals in exchange for the payment of compensation to us from the system operators as consideration. The television networks have recently asserted to their local television station affiliates the networks’ position that they, as the owners or licensees of programming we broadcast and provide for retransmission, are entitled to a portion of the compensation under the retransmission consent agreements. Networks have proposed to include these provisions in their network affiliation agreements. Inclusion of these or similar provisions in our network affiliation agreements could materially reduce this revenue source to Nexstar and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.  
 
The FCC could decide not to grant renewal of the FCC license of any of the stations we operate or provide services to which would require that station to cease operations. 
 
Television broadcast licenses are granted for a maximum term of eight years and are subject to renewal upon application to the FCC. The FCC is required to grant an application for license renewal if, during the preceding term, the station served the public interest, the licensee did not commit any serious violations of the Communications Act or the FCC’s rules, and the licensee committed no other violations of the Communications Act or the FCC’s rules which, taken together, would constitute a pattern of abuse. A majority of renewal applications are routinely granted under this standard. If a licensee fails to meet this standard the FCC may still grant renewal on terms and conditions that it deems appropriate, including a monetary forfeiture or renewal for a term less than the normal eight-year period. 
 
On October 26, 2005, the Director of the Central Illinois Chapter of the Parents Television Council (“PTC”) submitted an informal objection to the application for renewal of license for Nexstar’s station WCIA in Champaign, Illinois, requesting the FCC withhold action on WCIA’s license renewal application until the FCC acts on the PTC’s complaint regarding an allegedly indecent broadcast on WCIA. 
 
On January 3, 2006, Cable America Corporation submitted a petition to deny the applications for renewal of license for Nexstar’s station KSFX and Mission’s station KOLR, both licensed to Springfield, Missouri. Cable America alleged that Nexstar’s local service agreements with Mission give Nexstar improper control over Mission’s operations. Nexstar and Mission submitted a joint opposition to this petition to deny and Cable America submitted a reply. Cable America subsequently requested that the FCC dismiss its petition. However, the petition remains pending with the FCC.
 
Nexstar and Mission began to submit renewal of license applications for their stations beginning in June 2004. We and Mission expect the FCC to renew the licenses for our stations in due course but cannot provide any assurances that the FCC will do so.
 
The loss of the services of our chief executive officer could disrupt management of our business and impair the execution of our business strategies. 
 
We believe that our success depends upon our ability to retain the services of Perry A. Sook, our founder and President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Sook has been instrumental in determining our strategic direction and focus. The loss of Mr. Sook’s services could adversely affect our ability to manage effectively our overall operations and successfully execute current or future business strategies. 
 
Our growth may be limited if we are unable to implement our acquisition strategy.  
 
We intend to continue our growth by selectively pursuing acquisitions of television stations. The television broadcast industry is undergoing consolidation, which may reduce the number of acquisition targets and increase the purchase price of future acquisitions. Some of our competitors may have greater financial or management resources with which to pursue acquisition targets. Therefore, even if we are successful in identifying attractive acquisition targets, we may face considerable competition and our acquisition strategy may not be successful. On October 8, 2009, we amended our credit facility and the amendment also specifically restricts our ability to pursue our acquisition strategy. 
 
FCC rules and policies may also make it more difficult for us to acquire additional television stations. Television station acquisitions are subject to the approval of the FCC and, potentially, other regulatory authorities. The need for FCC and other regulatory approvals could restrict our ability to consummate future transactions if, for example, the FCC or other government agencies believe that a proposed transaction would result in excessive concentration in a market, even if the proposed combinations may otherwise comply with FCC ownership limitations. 

 
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Growing our business through acquisitions involves risks and if we are unable to manage effectively our growth, our operating results will suffer. 
 
Since January 1, 2003, we have more than doubled the number of stations that we own, operate, program or provide sales and other services to, having acquired 20 stations and contracted to provide service to 17 additional stations. We will continue to actively pursue additional acquisition opportunities. To manage effectively our growth and address the increased reporting requirements and administrative demands that will result from future acquisitions, we will need, among other things, to continue to develop our financial and management controls and management information systems. We will also need to continue to identify, attract and retain highly skilled finance and management personnel. Failure to do any of these tasks in an efficient and timely manner could seriously harm our business. 
 
There are other risks associated with growing our business through acquisitions. For example, with any past or future acquisition, there is the possibility that: 
 
•    we may not be able to successfully reduce costs, increase advertising revenue or audience share or realize anticipated synergies and economies of scale with respect to any acquired station;
 
•    an acquisition may increase our leverage and debt service requirements or may result in our assuming unexpected liabilities;
 
•    our management may be reassigned from overseeing existing operations by the need to integrate the acquired business;
 
•    we may experience difficulties integrating operations and systems, as well as company policies and cultures;
 
•    we may fail to retain and assimilate employees of the acquired business; and
 
•    problems may arise in entering new markets in which we have little or no experience. 
 
The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our operating results, particularly during the period immediately following any acquisition.  
 
FCC actions may restrict our ability to create duopolies under local service agreements, which would harm our existing operations and impair our acquisition strategy.  
 
In some of our markets, we have created duopolies by entering into what we refer to as local service agreements. While these agreements take varying forms, a typical local service agreement is an agreement between two separately owned television stations serving the same market, whereby the owner of one station provides operational assistance to the other station, subject to ultimate editorial and other controls being exercised by the latter station’s owner. By operating or entering into local service agreements with more than one station in a market, we (and the other station) achieve significant operational efficiencies. We also broaden our audience reach and enhance our ability to capture more advertising spending in a given market.
 
While all of our existing local service agreements comply with FCC rules and policies, the FCC may not continue to permit local service agreements as a means of creating duopoly-type opportunities. 
 
On August 2, 2004, the FCC initiated a rule making proceeding to determine whether to make TV joint sales agreements attributable under its ownership rules. Comments and reply comments were filed in this proceeding in the fourth quarter of 2004. The FCC has not yet issued a decision in this proceeding. However, if the FCC adopts a joint sales agreement attribution rule for television stations we will be required to comply with the rule.
 
The FCC may decide to terminate “grandfathered” time brokerage agreements.  
 
The FCC attributes time brokerage agreements and local marketing agreements (“TBAs”) to the programmer under its ownership limits if the programmer provides more than 15% of a station’s weekly broadcast programming. However, TBAs entered into prior to November 5, 1996 are exempt attributable interests for now.
 
The FCC will review these “grandfathered” TBAs in the future. During this review, the FCC may determine to terminate the “grandfathered” period and make all TBAs fully attributable to the programmer. If the FCC does so, we and Mission will be required to terminate the TBAs for stations WFXP and KHMT unless the FCC simultaneously changes its duopoly rules to allow ownership of two stations in the applicable markets.

 
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The FCC may fail to grant a construction permit for KMID’s digital facilities.  
 
On December 8, 2008, Nexstar submitted an application to modify KMID’s construction permit to specify a new broadcast tower for KMID’s digital operations. The FCC requested further information regarding this application, which Nexstar submitted on September 8, 2009. The FCC has not yet granted KMID’s digital authorization; however, the FCC has granted KMID a special temporary authorization for the continued operation of KMID’s digital facilities during the pendency of its review. We believe the FCC will likely grant KMID’s digital authorization in the normal course. However, if the FCC ultimately denies KMID’s amended application, Nexstar will be required to cease operating KMID’s digital facilities.  
 
The level of foreign investments held by our principal stockholder, ABRY Partners, LLC and its affiliated funds (“ABRY”), may limit additional foreign investments made in us.  
 
The Communications Act limits the extent of non-U.S. ownership of companies that own U.S. broadcast stations. Under this restriction, a U.S. broadcast company such as ours may have no more than 25% non-U.S. ownership (by vote and by equity). Because our majority shareholder, ABRY has a substantial level of foreign investment, the amount of additional foreign investment that may be made in us is limited to approximately 12% of our total outstanding equity.  
 
The interest of our principal stockholder, ABRY, in other media may limit our ability to acquire television stations in particular markets, restricting our ability to execute our acquisition strategy.  
 
The number of television stations we may acquire in any market is limited by FCC rules and may vary depending upon whether the interests in other television stations or other media properties of persons affiliated with us are attributable under FCC rules. The broadcast or other media interest of our officers, directors and stockholders with 5% or greater voting power are generally attributable under the FCC’s rules, which may limit us from acquiring or owning television stations in particular markets while those officers, directors or stockholders are associated with us. In addition, the holder of otherwise non-attributable equity and/or debt in a licensee in excess of 33% of the total debt and equity of the licensee will be attributable where the holder is either a major program supplier to that licensee or the holder has an attributable interest in another broadcast station, cable system or daily newspaper in the same market.  
 
ABRY, our principal stockholder, is one of the largest private firms specializing in media and broadcasting investments. As a result of ABRY’s interest in us, we could be prevented from acquiring broadcast companies in markets where ABRY has an attributable interest in television stations or other media, which could impair our ability to execute our acquisition strategy. Our certificate of incorporation allows ABRY and its affiliates to identify, pursue and consummate additional acquisitions of television stations or other broadcast-related businesses that may be complementary to our business and therefore such acquisitions opportunities may not be available to us.  
 
We are controlled by one principal stockholder, ABRY, and its interests may differ from your interests.  
 
As a result of ABRY’s controlling interest in us, ABRY is able to exercise a controlling influence over our business and affairs. ABRY is able to unilaterally determine the outcome of any matter submitted to a vote of our stockholders, including the election and removal of directors and the approval of any merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets. In addition, five of our directors are or were affiliated with ABRY. ABRY’s interests may differ from the interests of other security holders and ABRY could take actions or make decisions that are not in the best interests of our security holders. Furthermore, this concentration of ownership by ABRY may have the effect of impeding a merger, consolidation, takeover or other business combination involving us or discouraging a potential acquirer from making a tender offer for our shares.  
 
Our certificate of incorporation, bylaws, debt instruments and Delaware law contain anti-takeover protections that may discourage or prevent a takeover of us, even if an acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders.  
 
Provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as well as provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law, could delay or make it more difficult to remove incumbent directors or for a third party to acquire us, even if a takeover would benefit our stockholders. The provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws: 
 
•    authorize the issuance of “blank check” preferred stock by our board of directors without a stockholder vote;  
 
•    do not permit cumulative voting in the election of directors, which would otherwise allow less than a majority of stockholders to elect director candidates; and  
 
•    set forth specific advance notice procedures for matters to be raised at stockholder meetings.  
 
The Delaware General Corporation Law prohibits us from engaging in “business combinations” with “interested shareholders” (with some exceptions) unless such transaction is approved in a prescribed manner. The existence of this provision could have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions not approved in advance by the board of directors, including discouraging attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for our common stock.

 
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In addition, a change in control would be an event of default under our senior credit facility and trigger the rights of holders of our publicly-traded notes to cause us to repurchase such notes. These events would add to the cost of an acquisition, which could deter a third party from acquiring us. 
 
We and Mission have a material amount of goodwill and intangible assets, and therefore we and Mission could suffer losses due to future asset impairment charges.
 
As of December 31, 2009, approximately $362.8 million, or 58.5%, of our and Mission’s combined total assets consisted of goodwill and intangible assets, including FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements.  We recorded an impairment charge of $16.2 million during the third quarter of 2009 that included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $8.8 million, related to 19 of our stations and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $7.4 million, related to four reporting units consisting of five of our television stations.  We recorded an impairment charge of $82.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2008 that included an impairment to the carrying value of FCC licenses of $41.4 million, related to 20 of our television stations; an impairment to the carrying value of network affiliation agreements of $2.1 million related to 3 of our television stations; and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $38.9 million, related to 10 reporting units consisting of 11 of our television stations. We and Mission test goodwill and FCC licenses annually, and on an interim date if factors or indicators become apparent that would require an interim test of these assets, in accordance with accounting and disclosure requirements for goodwill and other intangible assets. We and Mission test network affiliation agreements whenever circumstances or indicators become apparent the asset may not be recoverable through expected future cash flows. The methods used to evaluate the impairment of Nexstar’s and Mission’s goodwill and intangible assets would be affected by a significant reduction in operating results or cash flows at one or more of Nexstar’s and Mission’s television stations, or a forecast of such reductions, a significant adverse change in the advertising marketplaces in which Nexstar’s and Mission’s television stations operate, the loss of network affiliations, or by adverse changes to FCC ownership rules, among others, which may be beyond our or Mission’s control. If the carrying amount of goodwill and intangible assets is revised downward due to impairment, such non-cash charge could materially affect Nexstar’s and Mission’s financial position and results of operations. 
 
Risks Related to Our Industry  
 
Nexstar’s operating results are dependent on advertising revenue and as a result, Nexstar may be more vulnerable to economic downturns and other factors beyond Nexstar’s control than businesses not dependent on advertising.  
 
Nexstar derives revenue primarily from the sale of advertising time. Nexstar’s ability to sell advertising time depends on numerous factors that may be beyond Nexstar’s control, including:  
 
•    the health of the economy in the local markets where our stations are located and in the nation as a whole;  
 
•    the popularity of our programming;
 
•    fluctuations in pricing for local and national advertising;
 
•    the activities of our competitors, including increased competition from other forms of advertising-based media, particularly newspapers, cable television, Internet and radio;
 
•    the decreased demand for political advertising in non-election years; and
 
•    changes in the makeup of the population in the areas where our stations are located.
 
Because businesses generally reduce their advertising budgets during economic recessions or downturns, the reliance upon advertising revenue makes Nexstar’s operating results particularly susceptible to prevailing economic conditions. Our programming may not attract sufficient targeted viewership, and we may not achieve favorable ratings. Our ratings depend partly upon unpredictable and volatile factors beyond our control, such as viewer preferences, competing programming and the availability of other entertainment activities. A shift in viewer preferences could cause our programming not to gain popularity or to decline in popularity, which could cause our advertising revenue to decline. In addition, we and the programming providers upon which we rely may not be able to anticipate, and effectively react to, shifts in viewer tastes and interests in our markets.  
 
Because a high percentage of our operating expenses are fixed, a relatively small decrease in advertising revenue could have a significant negative impact on our financial results. 
 
Our business is characterized generally by high fixed costs, primarily for debt service, broadcast rights and personnel. Other than commissions paid to our sales staff and outside sales agencies, our expenses do not vary significantly with the increase or decrease in advertising revenue. As a result, a relatively small change in advertising prices could have a disproportionate effect on our financial results. Accordingly, a minor shortfall in expected revenue could have a significant negative impact on our financial results.

 
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Preemption of regularly scheduled programming by network news coverage may affect our revenue and results of operations.  
 
Nexstar may experience a loss of advertising revenue and incur additional broadcasting expenses due to preemption of our regularly scheduled programming by network coverage of a major global news event such as a war or terrorist attack. As a result, advertising may not be aired and the revenue for such advertising may be lost unless the station is able to run the advertising at agreed-upon times in the future. Advertisers may not agree to run such advertising in future time periods, and space may not be available for such advertising. The duration of such preemption of local programming cannot be predicted if it occurs. In addition, our stations and the stations we provide services to may incur additional expenses as a result of expanded news coverage of a war or terrorist attack. The loss of revenue and increased expenses could negatively affect our results of operations. 
 
If we are unable to respond to changes in technology and evolving industry trends, our television businesses may not be able to compete effectively. 
 
New technologies could also adversely affect our television stations. Information delivery and programming alternatives such as cable, direct satellite-to-home services, pay-per-view, the Internet, telephone company services, mobile devices, digital video recorders and home video and entertainment systems have fractionalized television viewing audiences and expanded the numbers and types of distribution channels for advertisers to access. Over the past decade, cable television programming services, other emerging video distribution platforms and the Internet have captured an increasing market share, while the aggregate viewership of the major television networks has declined. In addition, the expansion of cable and satellite television, the Internet and other technological changes have increased, and may continue to increase, the competitive demand for programming. Such increased demand, together with rising production costs, may increase our programming costs or impair our ability to acquire or develop desired programming.
 
In addition, video compression techniques, now in use with direct broadcast satellites, cable and wireless cable, are expected to permit greater numbers of channels to be carried within existing bandwidth. These compression techniques as well as other technological developments are applicable to all video delivery systems, including over-the-air broadcasting, and have the potential to provide vastly expanded programming to targeted audiences. Reduction in the cost of creating additional channel capacity could lower entry barriers for new channels and encourage the development of increasingly specialized niche programming, resulting in more audience fractionalization. This ability to reach very narrowly defined audiences may alter the competitive dynamics for advertising expenditures. We are unable to predict the effect that these and other technological changes will have on the television industry or on the future results of our television businesses.
 
If direct broadcast satellite companies do not carry the stations that we own and operate or provide services to, we could lose audience share and revenue. 
 
Direct broadcast satellite television companies are permitted to transmit local broadcast television signals to subscribers in local markets provided that they offer to carry all local stations in that market. However, satellite providers have limited satellite capacity to deliver local station signals in local markets. Satellite providers, such as DirecTV and Dish Network, carry our and Mission’s stations in only some of our markets and may choose not to carry local stations in any of our other markets. DirecTV currently provides satellite carriage of our and Mission’s stations in the Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, Evansville, Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Ft. Wayne, Jacksonville, Johnstown-Altoona, Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Peoria-Bloomington, Rochester, Rockford, Shreveport, Springfield and Wilkes Barre-Scranton markets. Dish Network currently provides satellite carriage of our and Mission’s stations in the Abilene-Sweetwater, Amarillo, Beaumont-Port Arthur, Billings, Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, Dothan, Erie, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Hagerstown, Jacksonville, Johnstown-Altoona, Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS, Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Lubbock, Monroe, LA-El Dorado, AR, Odessa-Midland, Peoria-Bloomington, Rochester, Rockford, San Angelo, Shreveport, Springfield, Terre Haute, Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK and Wilkes Barre-Scranton markets. In those markets in which the satellite providers do not carry local station signals, subscribers to those satellite services are unable to view local stations without making further arrangements, such as installing antennas and switches. Furthermore, when direct broadcast satellite companies do carry local television stations in a market, they are permitted to charge subscribers extra for such service. Some subscribers may choose not to pay extra to receive local television stations. In the event subscribers to satellite services do not receive the stations that we own and operate or provide services to, we could lose audience share which would adversely affect our revenue and earnings. 

 
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The FCC can sanction us for programming broadcast on our stations which it finds to be indecent.  
 
In 2004, the FCC began to impose substantial fines on television broadcasters for the broadcast of indecent material in violation of the Communications Act and its rules. The FCC also revised its indecency review analysis to more strictly prohibit the use of certain language on broadcast television. Because our and Mission’s stations’ programming is in large part comprised of programming provided by the networks with which the stations are affiliated, we and Mission do not have full control over what is broadcast on our stations, and we and Mission may be subject to the imposition of fines if the FCC finds such programming to be indecent.  Fines may be imposed on a television broadcaster for an indecency violation to a maximum of $325 thousand per violation.
 
Intense competition in the television industry could limit our growth and impair our ability to become profitable.  
 
As a television broadcasting company, we face a significant level of competition, both directly and indirectly. Generally we compete for our audience against all the other leisure activities in which one could choose to engage rather than watch television. Specifically, stations we own or provide services to compete for audience share, programming and advertising revenue with other television stations in their respective markets and with other advertising media, including newspapers, radio stations, cable television, DBS systems and the Internet.  
 
The entertainment and television industries are highly competitive and are undergoing a period of consolidation. Many of our current and potential competitors have greater financial, marketing, programming and broadcasting resources than we do. The markets in which we operate are also in a constant state of change arising from, among other things, technological improvements and economic and regulatory developments. Technological innovation and the resulting proliferation of television entertainment, such as cable television, wireless cable, satellite-to-home distribution services, pay-per-view and home video and entertainment systems, have fractionalized television viewing audiences and have subjected free over-the-air television broadcast stations to increased competition. We may not be able to compete effectively or adjust our business plans to meet changing market conditions. We are unable to predict what form of competition will develop in the future, the extent of the competition or its possible effects on our businesses.
 
The FCC could implement legislation and/or regulations that might have a significant impact on the operations of the stations we own and the stations we provide services to or the television broadcasting industry as a whole.  
 
The FCC has initiated proceedings to determine whether to make TV joint sales agreements attributable interests under its ownership rules; to determine whether it should establish formal rules under which broadcasters will be required to serve the local public interest; and to determine whether to modify or eliminate certain of its broadcast ownership rules, including the radio-television cross-ownership rule and the newspaper-television cross-ownership rule. A change to any of these rules may have significant impact on us and the stations we provide services to.  
 
In addition, the FCC may decide to initiate other new rule making proceedings on its own or in response to requests from outside parties, any of which might have such an impact. Congress also may act to amend the Communications Act in a manner that could impact our stations and the stations we provide services to or the television broadcast industry in general.  
 
The FCC may reallocate some portion of the spectrum available for use by television broadcasters to wireless broadband use which alteration could substantially impact our future operations and may reduce viewer access to our programming.
 
 
The FCC has initiated a proceeding to assess the availability of spectrum to meet future wireless broadband needs pursuant to which the FCC is examining whether some portion of the spectrum currently used for commercial broadcast television can be made available for wireless broadband use. The FCC has proposed requiring television stations to co-locate their antennas and/or reducing the amount of spectrum allocated to each television station from 6 megahertz to 3 megahertz. If the FCC determines to move forward with reducing the spectrum available to television broadcasters for their use, it may render our investment in digital facilities worthless and consequently reduce the useful lives of certain digital equipment, could require substantial additional investment to continue our operations, and may require viewers to invest in additional equipment or subscription services to continue receiving broadcast television signals.
 
Item 1B.                      Unresolved Staff Comments
 
None

 
20
 
 

 
Item 2.                          Properties
 
Nexstar owns and leases facilities in the following locations:
 
Station Metropolitan Area and Use
Owned or
Leased
Square
Footage/Acreage
Approximate Size
Expiration
of Lease
WBRE—Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
0.80 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
49,556 Sq. Ft.
Office-Studio—Williamsport News Bureau
Leased
460 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Office-Studio—Stroudsburg News Bureau
Leased
320 Sq. Ft.
4/30/11
Office-Studio—Scranton News Bureau
Leased
1,627 Sq. Ft.
11/30/11
Tower/Transmitter Site—Williamsport
33% Owned
1.33 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Sharp Mountain
33% Owned
0.23 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Blue Mountain
100% Owned
0.998 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Penobscot Mountain
100% Owned
20 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Pimple Hill
Leased
400 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
KARK/KARZ—Little Rock-Pine Bluff, AR
     
Office-Studio
Leased
34,835 Sq. Ft.
3/31/22
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
40 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
1 Sq. Ft.
4/5/11
       
KTAL—Shreveport, LA
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
2 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
16,000 Sq. Ft.
Equipment Building—Texarkana
100% Owned
0.0808 Acres
Office-Studio—Texarkana
Leased
2,941 Sq. Ft.
9/30/13
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
109 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
2,284 Sq. Ft.
       
WROC—Rochester, NY
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
3.9 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
48,864 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
0.24 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
2,400 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
50% Owned
1.90 Acres
       
WCIA/WCFN—Champaign-Springfield-Decatur, IL
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
20,000 Sq. Ft.
Office-Studio
100% Owned
1.5 Acres
Office-Studio—Sales Bureau
Leased
1,600 Sq. Ft.
1/31/12
Office-Studio—News Bureau
Leased
350 Sq. Ft.
2/28/13
Office-Studio—Decatur News Bureau
Leased
300 Sq. Ft.
5/31/10
Roof Top & Boiler Space—Danville Tower
Leased
20 Sq. Ft.
11/30/10
Tower/Transmitter Site—WCIA Tower
100% Owned
38.06 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Springfield Tower
100% Owned
2.0 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Dewitt Tower
100% Owned
1.0 Acres
       
WMBD—Peoria-Bloomington, IL
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
0.556 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
18,360 Sq. Ft.
Building-Transmitter Site
100% Owned
2,350 Sq. Ft.
Building-Transmitter Site
100% Owned
800 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
34.93 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
1.0 Acres
       
KBTV—Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX
     
Office-Studio(6)
Leased
8,000 Sq. Ft.
1/31/13
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
40 Acres
       
WTWO—Terre Haute, IN
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
4.774 Acres
Office-Studio—Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
17,375 Sq. Ft.
       
WJET—Erie, PA
     
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
2 Sq. Ft.
Office-Studio
100% Owned
9.87 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
15,533 Sq. Ft.
 

 
21
 
 


Station Metropolitan Area and Use
Owned or
Leased
Square
Footage/Acreage
Approximate Size
Expiration
of Lease
KFDX—Wichita Falls, TX—Lawton, OK
     
Office-Studio-Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
28.06 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
13,568 Sq. Ft.
       
KSNF—Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
13.36 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
13,169 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
240 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
KMID—Odessa-Midland, TX
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
1.127 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
14,000 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
69.87 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
0.322 Acres
       
KTAB—Abilene-Sweetwater, TX
     
Office-Studio(1)
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
25.55 Acres
       
KQTV—St Joseph, MO
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
3 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
15,100 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
9,360 Sq. Ft.
Offsite Storage
Leased
130 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
WDHN—Dothan, AL
     
Office-Studio- Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
10 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
7,812 Sq. Ft.
       
KLST—San Angelo, TX
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
7.31 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
8 Acres
       
WHAG—Washington, DC/Hagerstown, MD
     
Office-Studio
Leased
11,000 Sq. Ft.
6/12/12
Sales Office-Frederick
Leased
1,200 Sq. Ft.
8/10/10
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
11.2 Acres
5/12/21
       
WTVW—Evansville, IN
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
1.834 Acres
––
Office-Studio
100% Owned
14,280 Sq. Ft.
––
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
16.36 Acres
5/12/21
       
KSFX—Springfield, MO
     
Office-Studio(2)
Tower/Transmitter Site—Kimberling City
100% Owned
.25 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
0.5 Acres
5/12/21
       
WFFT—Fort Wayne, IN
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
21.84 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
0.5 Acres
5/12/21
       
KAMR—Amarillo, TX
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
26,000 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
110.2 Acres
5/12/21
Translator Site
Leased
0.5 Acres
Month to Month
       
KARD—Monroe, LA
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
14,450 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
26 Acres
5/12/21
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
80 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
KLBK—Lubbock, TX
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
11.5 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
0.5 Acres
5/12/21
       
WFXV—Utica, NY
     
Office-Studio(3)
Tower/Transmitter Site—Burlington Flats
100% Owned
6.316 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
160 Sq. Ft.
9/1/14
Tower/Transmitter Site—Cassville
Leased
96 Sq. Ft.
1/12/10
       
WPNY–LP—Utica, NY
     
Office-Studio(4)


 
22
 
 

 
Station Metropolitan Area and Use
Owned or
Leased
Square
Footage/Acreage
Approximate Size
Expiration
of Lease
KSVI—Billings, MT
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
9,700 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
10 Acres
5/12/21
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
75 Sq. Ft.
6/30/11
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
75 Sq. Ft.
10/31/15
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
75 Sq. Ft.
12/31/22
Tower/Transmitter Site—Rapeljie
Leased
1 Acre
2/1/11
Tower/Transmitter Site—Hardin
Leased
1 Acre
12/1/14
Tower/Transmitter Site—Columbus
Leased
75 Sq. Ft.
6/1/10
Tower/Transmitter Site—Sarpy
Leased
75 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Tower/Transmitter Site—Rosebud
Leased
1 Acre
Year to Year
Tower/Transmitter Site—Miles City
Leased
.25 Acre
3/23/11
Tower/Transmitter Site—Sheridan, WY
Leased
56 Sq. Ft.
12/31/10
Tower/Transmitter Site—McCullough Pks, WY
Leased
75 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
WQRF—Rockford, IL
     
Office-Studio(5)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
2,000 Sq. Ft.
5/12/21
       
WCWJ—Jacksonville, FL
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
19,847 Sq. Ft.
Office-Studio - Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
7.92 Acres
Building/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
200 Sq. Ft.
       
KFTA/KNWA—Fort Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR
     
Office
Leased
9,950 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Office
Leased
900 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Office-Studio
Leased
10,000 Sq. Ft.
7/31/14
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
216 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
936 Sq. Ft.
7/31/25
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
1.61 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Fort Smith
Leased
1,925 Sq. Ft.
9/1/11
Microwave Relay Site
100% Owned
166 Sq. Ft.
Microwave Site
Leased
216 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
WTAJ–Altoona-Johnstown, PA
     
Office-Studio
Leased
22,367 Sq. Ft.
5/31/14
Office-Johnstown
Leased
672 Sq. Ft.
2/28/11
Office-State College Bureau
Leased
7,200 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Office-Dubois Bureau
Leased
315 Sq. Ft.
9/30/10
Tower/Transmitter Site
Owned
4,400 Sq. Ft.
       
Corporate Office—Irving, TX
Leased
18,168 Sq. Ft.
12/31/13
       
Corporate Office Offsite Storage—Dallas, TX
Leased
475 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
         
(1)
The office space and studio used by KTAB are owned by KRBC.
(2)
The office space and studio used by KSFX are owned by KOLR.
(3)
The office space and studio used by WFXV are owned by WUTR.
(4)
The office space and studio used by WPNY-LP are owned by WUTR.
(5)
The office space and studio used by WQRF are owned by WTVO.
(6)
This office was destroyed by a fire in February 2009.
 
Mission owns and leases facilities in the following locations:
 
WYOU—Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
     
Office-Studio(1)
Tower/Transmitter Site—Penobscot Mountain
100% Owned
120.33 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Bald Mountain
100% Owned
7.2 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Williamsport
33% Owned
1.35 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Sharp Mountain
33% Owned
0.23 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site—Stroudsburg
Leased
10,000 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
WFXW—Terre Haute, IN
     
Office-Studio(2)
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
1 Acre
       
WFXP—Erie, PA
     
Office-Studio(3)
Tower/Transmitter Site(3)
       
KJTL—Wichita Falls, TX—Lawton, OK
     
Office-Studio(4)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
40 Acres
1/30/15
 

 
23
 
 


Station Metropolitan Area and Use
Owned or
Leased
Square
Footage/Acreage
Approximate Size
Expiration
of Lease
KJBO-LP—Wichita Falls, TX-Lawton, OK
     
Office-Studio(4)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
5 Acres
Year to Year
       
KODE—Joplin, MO-Pittsburg, KS
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
2.74 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
215 Sq. Ft.
5/1/27
       
KRBC—Abilene-Sweetwater, TX
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
5.42 Acres
Office-Studio
100% Owned
19,312 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site(9)
       
KTVE—Monroe, LA/El Dorado, AR
     
Office-Studio(10)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
2 Acres
4/30/32
Tower/Transmitter Site—El Dorado
Leased
3 Acres
4/30/32
Tower/Transmitter Site—Union Parrish
Leased
2.7 Acres
4/30/32
Tower/Transmitter Site—Bolding
Leased
11.5 Acres
4/30/32
       
KSAN—San Angelo, TX
     
Office-Studio(5)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
10 Acres
5/15/15
       
KOLR—Springfield, MO
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
30,000 Sq. Ft.
Office-Studio
100% Owned
7 Acres
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
0.5 Acres
5/12/21
       
KCIT/KCPN-LP—Amarillo, TX
     
Office-Studio(6)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
100 Acres
5/12/21
Tower/Transmitter Site—Parmer County, TX
Leased
80 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Tower/Transmitter Site—Guyman, OK
Leased
80 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
Tower/Transmitter Site—Curry County, NM
Leased
6 Acres
Month to Month
       
KAMC—Lubbock, TX
     
Office-Studio(7)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
40 Acres
5/12/21
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
1,200 Sq. Ft.
Month to Month
       
KHMT—Billings, MT
     
Office-Studio(8)
Tower/Transmitter Site
Leased
4 Acres
5/12/21
       
WUTR—Utica, NY
     
Office-Studio
100% Owned
12,100 Sq. Ft.
Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
21 Acres
       
WTVO—Rockford, IL
     
Office-Studio-Tower/Transmitter Site
100% Owned
20,000 Sq. Ft.
       
Corporate Office-Brecksville, OH
Leased
540 Sq. Ft.
10/31/10
         
 
(1)
The office space and studio used by WYOU are owned by WBRE.
 
(2)
The office space and studio used by WFXW are owned by WTWO.
 
(3)
The office space, studio and tower used by WFXP are owned by WJET.
 
(4)
The office space and studio used by KJTL and KJBO-LP are owned by KFDX.
 
(5)
The office space and studio used by KSAN are owned by KLST.
 
(6)
The office space and studio used by KCIT/KCPN-LP are owned by KAMR.
 
(7)
The office space and studio used by KAMC are owned by KLBK.
 
(8)
The office space and studio used by KHMT are owned by KSVI.
 
(9)
The tower/transmitter used by KRBC is owned by KTAB.
(10)
The office space and studio used by KTVE are owned by KARD.
 
Item 3.                      Legal Proceedings
 
From time to time, Nexstar and Mission are involved in litigation that arises from the ordinary operations of business, such as contractual or employment disputes or other general actions. In the event of an adverse outcome of these proceedings, Nexstar and Mission believe the resulting liabilities would not have a material adverse effect on Nexstar’s and Mission’s financial condition or results of operations.
 
Item 4.                      Reserved

 
24
 
 

 
PART II
 
Item 5.                      Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
Market Prices; Record Holders and Dividends
 
Our Class A Common Stock trades on The Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “NXST”.
 
The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices for our Class A Common Stock for the periods indicated, as reported by Nasdaq:
 
 
2009:
 
High
   
Low
 
1st Quarter 2009
  $ 0.94     $ 0.53  
2nd Quarter 2009
  $ 0.95     $ 0.64  
3rd Quarter 2009
  $ 3.67     $ 0.59  
4th Quarter 2009
  $ 4.07     $ 2.05  
                 
2008:
High
   
Low
 
1st Quarter 2008
  $ 8.94     $ 5.90  
2nd Quarter 2008
  $ 6.50     $ 4.09  
3rd Quarter 2008
  $ 3.92     $ 2.22  
4th Quarter 2008
  $ 2.06     $ 0.50  
 
The following table summarizes the outstanding shares of common stock held by shareholders of record as of March 2, 2010:
 
Type
Shares
Outstanding
Shareholders
of Record
Common—Class A
                  15,018,839
                  49(1)
Common—Class B
                  13,411,588
                  3
         
(1)
The majority of these shares are held in nominee names by brokers and other institutions on behalf of approximately 1,000 shareholders.
 
We have not paid and do not expect to pay any dividends or distribution on our common stock for the foreseeable future. We currently expect to retain future earnings, if any, for use in the operation and expansion of our business.
 
 
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans as of December 31, 2009
 
Plan Category
 
Number of
securities to be
issued upon
exercise of
outstanding
options
   
Weighted
average exercise
price of
outstanding
options
   
Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance
excluding securities
reflected in column (a)
 
   
(a)
   
(b)
   
(c)
 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
    3,726,000     $ 7.36       707,000  
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
    —              —   
Total
    3,726,000     $ 7.36       707,000  
 
For a more detailed description of our option plans and grants, we refer you to Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements included in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 

 
25
 
 

Comparative Stock Performance Graph
 
The following graph compares the total return of our Class A Common Stock based on closing prices for the period from December 31, 2004 through December 31, 2009 with the total return of the NASDAQ Composite Index, our peer index of pure play television companies used in 2008 and our peer index of pure play television companies used in 2009.  Our peer index used in 2009 consists of the following publicly traded companies:  Gray Television, Inc., LIN TV Corp. and Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (the “Peer Group 2009”).  Our peer index used in 2008 consists of the following publicly traded companies: ACME Communications, Inc., Gray Television, Inc., LIN TV Corp., Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. and Young Broadcasting, Inc. (the “Peer Group 2008”).  We changed our peer index in 2009 to eliminate companies that were no longer publicly traded (Granite Broadcasting Corporation and Hearst Argyle Television, Inc.) and also the ones that were no longer traded on a major stock exchange (ACME Communications, Inc. and Young Broadcasting, Inc.).  Hearst Argyle Television, Inc. , a constituent of our Peer Group 2008 prior to 2009, is not included in our Peer Group 2008 for the year ended December 31, 2009 as a result of its deregistration as a public company in connection with its privatization in June 2009.  Granite Broadcasting Corporation, a constituent of our Peer Group 2008 prior to 2007, is not included in our Peer Group 2008 for or subsequent to the year ended December 31, 2007 as a result of its deregistration as a public company in connection with its privatization in June 2007.  The graph assumes the investment of $100 in our Class A Common Stock and in each of the indices on December 31, 2004. The performance shown is not necessarily indicative of future performance.

 

 
   
12/31/04
   
12/31/05
   
12/31/06
   
12/31/07
   
12/31/08
   
12/31/09
 
Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (NXST)
  $ 100.00     $ 54.34     $ 50.43     $ 99.13     $ 5.54     $ 43.93  
NASDAQ Composite Index
  $ 100.00     $ 102.20     $ 112.68     $ 124.57     $ 74.71     $ 108.56  
Peer Group 2008
  $ 100.00     $ 80.01     $ 85.25     $ 77.62     $ 19.54     $ 34.13  
Peer Group 2009
  $ 100.00     $ 74.78     $ 77.48     $ 76.34     $ 17.10     $ 31.68  
 

 
26
 
 

Item 6.                      Selected Financial Data
 
We have derived the following consolidated statement of operations data for 2009, 2008, and 2007 and consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 from our consolidated financial statements included herein. We have derived the following consolidated statement of operations data for 2006 and 2005 and consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 from our 2007 Form 10-K filed on March 11, 2008 and our 2006 Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2007. This information should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our Consolidated Financial Statements and the related Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements which are included herein.
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
   
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Statement of Operations Data:
     
Net revenue
  $ 251,979     $ 284,919     $ 266,801     $ 265,169     $ 228,939  
Operating expenses (income):
                                       
Direct operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
    77,233       78,287       74,128       71,465       67,681  
Selling, general and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
    89,525       90,468       86,773       85,293       75,863  
Restructure Charge
    670                          
Non-cash contract termination fees
    191       7,167                    
Impairment of goodwill(1)
    7,360       38,856                    
Impairment of other intangible assets(2)
    8,804       43,539                    
Amortization of broadcast rights
    25,263       20,423       21,457       19,701       22,257  
Depreciation and amortization
    45,385       49,153       45,880       42,221       43,244  
Gain on asset exchange
    (8,093 )     (4,776 )     (1,962 )            
Loss on property held for sale
                            616  
Loss (gain) on asset disposal, net
    (2,560 )     (43 )     (17 )     639       668  
Income (loss) from operations
    8,201       (38,155 )     40,542       45,850       18,610  
Interest expense
    (39,236 )     (48,832 )     (55,040 )     (51,783 )     (47,260 )
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt
    18,567       2,897                   (15,715 )
Interest income
    51       713       532       760       213  
Other income, net
    3       2       —        —        380  
Loss before income taxes
    (12,414 )     (83,375 )     (13,966 )     (5,173 )     (43,772 )
Income tax benefit (expense).
    (200 )     5,316       (5,807 )     (3,819 )     (4,958 )
Net loss
    (12,614 )   $ (78,059 )   $ (19,773 )   $ (8,992 )   $ (48,730 )
         
(1)
The Company recognized impairment charges related to goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008. See Footnote 8 under Item 8 of this Form 10K for additional information.
(2)
The Company recognized impairment charges related to FCC licenses for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 and network affiliation agreements for the year ended December 31, 2008.  See Footnote 8 under Item 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information.

 
27
 
 

 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
   
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Basic and diluted loss per share:
                             
Net loss attributable to common shareholders
  $ (0.44 )   $ (2.75 )   $ (0.70 )   $ (0.32 )   $ (1.72 )
Weighted average number of shares outstanding:
                                       
Basic and diluted
    28,427       28,423       28,401       28,376       28,363  
Balance Sheet Data (end of period):
                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 12,752     $ 15,834     $ 16,226     $ 11,179     $ 13,487  
Working capital (deficit)
    36,875       27,391       (11,472 )     21,872       26,144  
Net intangible assets and goodwill
    362,762       390,540       494,092       519,450       494,231  
Total assets
    619,826       626,587       708,702       724,709       680,081  
Total debt
    670,374       662,117       681,176       681,135       646,505  
Total stockholders’ deficit
    (176,263 )     (165,156 )     (89,390 )     (73,290 )     (66,025 )
Cash Flow Data:
                                       
Net cash provided by (used for):
                                       
Operating activities
  $ 22,993     $ 60,648     $ 36,987     $ 54,462     $ 14,350  
Investing activities
    (35,590 )     (38,492 )     (18,608 )     (79,272 )     (26,358 )
Financing activities
    9,515       (22,548 )     (13,332 )     22,502       6,990  
Other Financial Data:
                                       
Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from asset sales
  $ 18,838     $ 30,687     $ 18,221     $ 23,751     $ 13,891  
Cash payments for broadcast rights
    9,315       8,239       8,376       8,284       9,704  
 
Item 7.                      Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with Item 6. “Selected Financial Data” and the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
As used in this discussion, unless the context indicates otherwise, “Nexstar” refers to Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., and “Mission” refers to Mission Broadcasting, Inc. All references to “we,” “our,” and “us” refer to Nexstar. All references to the “Company” refer to Nexstar and Mission collectively.
 
As a result of our controlling financial interest in Mission under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and in order to present fairly our financial position, results of operations and cash flows, we consolidate the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of Mission as if it were a wholly-owned entity. We believe this presentation is meaningful for understanding our financial performance. As discussed in Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have considered the method of accounting as required by interpretive guidance for the consolidation of variable interest entities, and have determined that we are required to continue consolidating Mission’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Therefore, the following discussion of our financial position and results of operations includes Mission’s financial position and results of operations.
 

 
28
 
 

Executive Summary
 
 
2009 Highlights
 
·  
Net revenue decreased 11.6% during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the year ended December 31, 2008, primarily from the decrease in political, local and national advertising revenue, partially offset by an increase in retransmission compensation. Gross political advertising revenue decreased $26.9 million or 81.9% for the year ended December 31, 2009. The decrease was attributed to the presidential and statewide and/or local races that occurred during 2008, compared to a nominal amount of political advertising in 2009.
 
·  
Gross local and national advertising revenue on a combined basis decreased $25.2 million, or 10.6% during the year ended December 31, 2009 due in large part to decrease in automotive-related advertising, our largest advertising category.
 
·  
eMedia revenue increased by approximately $1.5 million or 14.8% to $11.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $10.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008 as a result of expanding the products offered in this area and increased marketing efforts.
 
·  
On March 12, 2009, Nexstar closed on the acquisition of KARZ, the MyNetworkTV affiliate serving Little Rock, Arkansas, for a purchase price of $4.0 million. The purchase was for substantially all the assets of the station including broadcast rights, property and equipment, FCC licenses and goodwill and also included broadcast liabilities.
 
·  
On January 28, 2009, Nexstar entered into an agreement to acquire the assets of WCWJ, the CW affiliate serving the Jacksonville, Florida market, for $18.0 million (base) subject to working capital adjustments. The transaction closed on May 1, 2009.
 
·  
On March 23, 2009 we announced entry into an agreement with Four Points Media Group LLC (“Four Points”), owned by an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., whereby Nexstar provides management services for Four Points’ seven television stations located in four markets. Under the terms of the agreement, Nexstar receives a fixed annual management fee of $2.0 million, as well as annual incentive compensation based on increases of the broadcast cash flow of Four Points’ stations. The agreement provides for minimum compensation to Nexstar of $10.0 million if the Four Points stations are sold during the initial three-year term of the agreement. The agreement was effective beginning March 20, 2009.
 
·  
In May 2009, we completed regionalizing certain accounting and traffic functions as part of our efforts to reduce the Company’s overhead costs. We estimate this initiative will save the Company $2.2 million annually.
 
·  
We recorded an impairment charge of $16.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 that included an impairment to the carrying value of FCC licenses of $8.8 million, related to 19 of our television stations and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $7.4 million, related to four reporting units consisting of five of our television stations.
 
·  
During the year ended December 31, 2009, repayments totaling $21.5 million were made on Nexstar’s and Mission’s debt outstanding, of which $9.6 million was paid to retire $27.8 million of Nexstar’s 11.375% senior discount notes, $0.4 million was paid to retire $1.0 million of Nexstar’s 7% senior subordinated notes, $8.0 million were revolving loan repayments and $3.5 million were scheduled term loan maturities.
 
·  
On March 30, 2009, we completed the exchange of $143.6 million of 7% senior subordinated notes, due 2014 for $142.3 million of 7% senior subordinated payment-in-kind (“PIK”) notes, due 2014.
 
·  
As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all indentures governing the publicly-held notes.  As of September 30, 2009, we were not in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreement governing our senior secured credit facility.  On October 8, 2009, Nexstar amended its senior secured credit facility to modify certain terms of the underlying credit agreement.  The modifications included, but are not limited to, changes to financial covenants, including the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio and Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio, a general tightening of the exceptions to the negative covenants (principally by means of reducing the types and amounts of permitted transactions) and an increase to the interest rates and fees payable with respect to the borrowings under the amended credit agreement.  The October 8, 2009 debt amendment contained a limited waiver for the leverage ratios which cured the violation as of September 30, 2009.

 
29
 
 

 
 
Overview of Operations
 
We owned and operated 34 television stations as of December 31, 2009. Through various local service agreements, we programmed or provided sales and other services to 25 additional television stations, including 16 television stations owned and operated by Mission as of December 31, 2009. All of the stations that we program or provide sales and other services to, including Mission, are 100% owned by independent third parties.
 
The following table summarizes the various local service agreements we had in effect as of December 31, 2009 with Mission:
 
Service Agreements
Mission Stations
TBA Only(1)
WFXP and KHMT
SSA & JSA(2)
KJTL, KJBO-LP, KOLR, KCIT, KCPN-LP, KAMC, KRBC, KSAN, WUTR, WFXW, WYOU, KODE, WTVO and KTVE
         
(1)
We have a time brokerage agreement (“TBA”) with each of these stations which allows us to program most of each station’s broadcast time, sell each station’s advertising time and retain the advertising revenue generated in exchange for monthly payments to Mission.
(2)
We have both a shared services agreement (“SSA”) and a joint sales agreement (“JSA”) with each of these stations. The SSA allows the sharing of services including news production, technical maintenance and security, in exchange for our right to receive certain payments from Mission as described in the SSAs. The JSAs permit us to sell the station’s advertising time and retain a percentage of the net revenue from the station’s advertising time in return for monthly payments to Mission of the remaining percentage of net revenue, as described in the JSAs.
 
Our ability to receive cash from Mission is governed by these agreements. The arrangements under the SSAs and JSAs have had the effect of us receiving substantially all of the available cash, after debt service costs, generated by the stations listed above. The arrangements under the TBAs have also had the effect of us receiving substantially all of the available cash generated by the TBA stations listed above. We anticipate that, through these local service agreements, we will continue to receive substantially all of the available cash, after payments for debt service costs, generated by the stations listed above.
 
We also guarantee the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior secured credit facility. Similarly, Mission is a guarantor of our senior secured credit facility and the senior subordinated notes we have issued. In consideration of our guarantee of Mission’s senior credit facility, the sole shareholder of Mission has granted us a purchase option to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent, for consideration equal to the greater of (1) seven times the station’s cash flow, as defined in the option agreement, less the amount of its indebtedness as defined in the option agreement, or (2) the amount of its indebtedness. These option agreements (which expire on various dates between 2011 and 2018) are freely exercisable or assignable by us without consent or approval by the sole shareholder of Mission. We expect these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration.
 
We do not own Mission or Mission’s television stations. However, as a result of our guarantee of the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior credit facility, our arrangements under the local service agreements and purchase option agreements with Mission, we are deemed under U.S. GAAP to have a controlling financial interest in Mission while complying with the FCC’s rules regarding ownership limits in television markets. In order for both us and Mission to comply with FCC regulations, Mission maintains complete responsibility for and control over programming, finances, personnel and operations of its stations.
 
The operating revenue of our stations is derived primarily from broadcast advertising revenue, which is affected by a number of factors, including the economic conditions of the markets in which we operate, the demographic makeup of those markets and the marketing strategy we employ in each market. Most advertising contracts are short-term and generally run for a few weeks. For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, revenue generated from local advertising represented 74.1% and 72.2%, respectively, of our consolidated spot revenue (total of local and national advertising revenue, excluding political advertising revenue). The remaining advertising revenue represents inventory sold for national or political advertising. All national and political revenue is derived from advertisements placed through advertising agencies. The agencies receive a commission rate of 15.0% of the gross amount of advertising schedules placed by them. While the majority of local spot revenue is placed by local agencies, some advertisers place their schedules directly with the stations’ local sales staff, thereby eliminating the agency commission. Each station also has an agreement with a national representative firm that provides for sales representation outside the particular station’s market. Advertising schedules received through the national representative firm are for national or large regional accounts that advertise in several markets simultaneously. National commission rates vary within the industry and are governed by each station’s agreement.

 
30
 
 

 
Each of our stations and the stations we provide services to has a network affiliation agreement pursuant to which the network provides programming to the station during specified time periods, including prime time. Under the affiliation agreements with NBC, CBS and ABC, some of our stations and the stations we provide services to receive cash compensation for distributing the network’s programming over the air and for allowing the network to keep a portion of advertising inventory during those time periods. The affiliation agreements with Fox, MyNetworkTV and The CW do not provide for compensation. In recent years, in conjunction with the renewal of affiliation agreements with NBC, CBS and ABC, the amount of network compensation has been declining from year to year. We expect this trend to continue in the future. Therefore, revenue associated with network compensation agreements is expected to decline in future years and may be eliminated altogether at some point in time.
 
Each station acquires licenses to broadcast programming in non-news and non-network time periods. The licenses are either purchased from a program distributor for cash and/or the program distributor is allowed to sell some of the advertising inventory as compensation to eliminate or reduce the cash cost for the license. The latter practice is referred to as barter broadcast rights. The station records the estimated fair market value of the licenses, including any advertising inventory given to the program distributor, as a broadcast right asset and liability. Barter broadcast rights are recorded at management’s estimate of the value of the advertising time exchanged using historical advertising rates, which approximates the fair value of the program material received. The assets are amortized as a component of amortization of broadcast rights. Amortization is computed using the straight-line method based on the license period or usage, whichever yields the greater expense. The cash broadcast rights liabilities are reduced by monthly payments while the barter liability is amortized over the life of the contract as barter revenue.
 
Our primary operating expenses consist of commissions on advertising revenue, employee compensation and related benefits, newsgathering and programming costs. A large percentage of the costs involved in the operation of our stations and the stations we provide services to remains relatively fixed.
 
Seasonality
 
Advertising revenue is positively affected by strong local economies, national and regional political election campaigns, and certain events such as the Olympic Games or the Super Bowl. Because television broadcast stations rely on advertising revenue, declines in advertising budgets, particularly in recessionary periods, adversely affect the broadcast industry, and as a result may contribute to a decrease in the revenue of broadcast television stations. The stations’ advertising revenue is generally highest in the second and fourth quarters of each year, due in part to increases in consumer advertising in the spring and retail advertising in the period leading up to, and including, the holiday season. In addition, advertising revenue is generally higher during even-numbered years resulting from political advertising and advertising aired during the Olympic Games.
 
Industry Trends
 
Our net revenue decreased 11.6% to $252.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $284.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2008 primarily due to a decrease in political, local and national advertising revenue. Political advertising revenue was $5.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, a significant decrease from the $32.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The demand for political advertising is generally higher in even-numbered years, when congressional and presidential elections occur, than in odd-numbered years when there are no federal elections scheduled. During an election year, political advertising revenue makes up a significant portion of the increase in revenue in that year. However, even during an election year, political revenue is influenced by geography and the competitiveness of the election races. Since 2010 is another election year, we expect a significant increase in the political advertising revenue to be reported in 2010 in relation to the amount of political advertising reported in 2009.
 
The decrease in political revenue was accompanied by a decrease in local and national advertising revenue of $25.2 million, or 10.6%. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in automotive-related advertising, our largest advertising category, which represented approximately 17.0% and 22.7% of our core local and national advertising revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Our automotive-related advertising decreased approximately 33% for the year ended December 31, 2009 as compared to the same period in 2008. This trend has been primarily due to the current condition of the automotive industry and resulting decline in the demand for advertising from this business category.
 
The Television Bureau of Advertising has forecasted U.S. television spot advertising revenue (total of local and national advertising revenue, excluding political advertising revenue) in 2010 to increase by approximately 3.6% to 6.1% compared to 2009.

 
31
 
 

 
Station Acquisitions
 
On October 6, 2008, Nexstar entered into a purchase agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of KARZ (formerly KWBF), the MyNetworkTV affiliate serving the Little Rock, Arkansas market for $4.0 million. The acquisition gives Nexstar an opportunity to further utilize existing retransmission compensation contracts and also to achieve duopoly synergies within the Little Rock market.  In accordance with the purchase agreement, Nexstar made a down payment of $0.4 million in 2008. This acquisition closed on March 12, 2009 and the remaining $3.6 million was paid from available cash on hand.  Transaction costs such as legal, accounting, valuation and other professional services of $0.1 million were expensed as incurred.
 
On January 28, 2009, Nexstar entered into an agreement to acquire the assets of WCWJ, the CW affiliate serving the Jacksonville, Florida market, for $18.0 million (base) subject to working capital adjustments. Nexstar viewed this acquisition as an opportunity to leverage our management expertise and increase profitability of the station by overlaying our existing retransmission compensation contracts and incorporating our cost reduction strategies.  The transaction closed on May 1, 2009.  Cash available on hand was used to make a $1.0 million down payment in February 2009 and the remaining $16.2 million (net of working capital adjustment) was paid upon closing.  Transaction costs such as legal, accounting, valuation and other professional services of $0.3 million were expensed as incurred.
 
Refinancing of Long-Term Debt Obligations
 
On February 27, 2009, Nexstar Broadcasting, an indirect subsidiary of Nexstar, announced the commencement of an offer to exchange up to $143,600,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding $191,510,000 in aggregate principal amount of 7% senior subordinated notes due 2014 (the “Old Notes”) in exchange for (i) up to $142,320,761 in aggregate principal amount of Nexstar Broadcasting’s 7% senior subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (the “New Notes”), to be guaranteed by each of the existing guarantors to the Old Notes and (ii) cash. The total exchange price received by tendering holders of the Old Notes in the exchange offer included an early participation payment of $30.00 per $1,000 principal amount of Old Notes payable only to holders who tendered their Old Notes at or before March 10, 2009, which is in addition to the $93.10 per $1,000 principal amount of Old Notes payable to all holders who validly tendered their Old Notes on March 26, 2009. The exchange closed on March 30, 2009. The New Notes mature on January 15, 2014, unless earlier redeemed or repurchased. The New Notes are general unsecured senior subordinated obligations subordinated to all of Nexstar Broadcasting’s senior debt. Nexstar Broadcasting pays interest on the New Notes on January 15 and July 15 of each year, commencing on July 15, 2009. Interest is computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months. However, prior to January 15, 2011, the interest on the New Notes will not be cash interest. From the date of issuance through January 15, 2011, Nexstar Broadcasting pays interest on the New Notes entirely by issuing additional New Notes (the “PIK Interest”). PIK Interest accrues on the New Notes at a rate per annum equal to 0.5%, calculated on a semi-annual bond equivalent basis. From and after January 15, 2011, all New Notes (including those received as PIK Interest) will accrue interest in cash at a rate of 7% per annum, which interest will be payable semi-annually in cash on each January 15 and July 15, commencing on July 15, 2011.

 
32
 
 

 
Historical Performance
 
Revenue
 
The following table sets forth the principal types of revenue earned by the Company’s stations for the periods indicated and each type of revenue (other than trade and barter) as a percentage of total gross revenue, as well as agency commissions:
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Amount
   
%
   
Amount
   
%
   
Amount
   
%
 
   
(in thousands, except percentages)
 
Local
  $ 157,429       60.6     $ 171,552       57.0     $ 175,508       62.9  
National
    55,052       21.2       66,122       22.0       74,256       26.6  
Political
    5,949       2.3       32,886       10.9       4,308       1.6  
Retransmission compensation(1)
    24,252       9.3       14,393       4.8       11,810       4.2  
eMedia revenue
    11,687       4.5       10,180       3.4       5,113       1.8  
Network compensation
    2,136       0.8       3,523       1.1       4,364       1.6  
Other
    3,402       1.3       2,498       0.8       3,652       1.3  
Total gross revenue
    259,907       100.0       301,154       100.0       279,011       100.0  
Less: Agency commissions
    27,328       10.5       34,587       11.5       31,629       11.3  
Net broadcast revenue
    232,579       89.5       266,567       88.5       247,382       88.7  
Trade and barter revenue
    19,400               18,352               19,419          
Net revenue
  $ 251,979             $ 284,919             $ 266,801          
         
(1)
Retransmission compensation consists of a per subscriber-based compensatory fee and excludes advertising revenue generated from retransmission consent agreements, which is included in gross local advertising revenue.
 
 Results of Operations
 
The following table sets forth a summary of the Company’s operations for the periods indicated and their percentages of net revenue:
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Amount
   
%
   
Amount
   
%
   
Amount
   
%
 
   
(in thousands, except percentages)
 
Net revenue
  $ 251,979       100.0     $ 284,919       100.0     $ 266,801       100.0  
Operating expenses (income):
                                               
Corporate expenses
    18,561       7.4       15,473       5.4       13,348       5.0  
Station direct operating expenses, net of trade
    70,549       28.0       72,056       25.3       68,112       25.5  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    70,964       28.2       74,995       26.3       73,425       27.5  
Impairment of goodwill
    7,360       2.9       38,856       13.6              
Impairment of other intangible assets
    8,804       3.5       43,539       15.3              
Restructure charge
    670       0.3                          
Non-cash contract termination fees
    191       0.1       7,167       2.5              
Gain on asset exchange
    (8,093 )     (3.2 )     (4,776 )     (1.7 )     (1,962 )     (0.7 )
Loss (gain) on asset disposal, net
    (2,560 )     (1.0 )     (43 )           (17 )      
Trade and barter expense
    18,699       7.4       17,936       6.3       18,423       6.9  
Depreciation and amortization
    45,385       18.0       49,153       17.3       45,880       17.2  
Amortization of broadcast rights, excluding barter
    13,248       5.3       8,718       3.1       9,050       3.4  
Income (loss) from operations
  $ 8,201             $ (38,155 )           $ 40,542          
 


 
33
 
 

 
Year Ended December 31, 2009 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2008
 
Revenue
 
Gross local advertising revenue was $157.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $171.6 million for the same period in 2008, a decrease of $14.2 million, or 8.2%. Gross national advertising revenue was $55.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $66.1 million for the same period in 2008, a decrease of $11.0 million, or 16.7%. The combined net decrease in gross local and national advertising revenue of $25.2 million was largely the result of a $17.9 million decrease in automotive related advertising, our largest advertising category.  Also contributing to the overall decrease in local and national advertising were decreases in the following advertising categories:  fast food and restaurants - $0.9 million; department stores and retail - $1.0 million; furniture - $1.9 million; paid programming - $3.0 million; medical and healthcare - $1.5 million; and telcom - $2.0 million.  These decreases were partially offset by an increase in the radio, cable and newspaper category of $2.5 million and also the addition of stations KARZ and WCWJ in 2009, which contributed combined local and national advertising revenue of $6.8 million.
 
Gross political advertising revenue was $5.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $32.9 million for the same period in 2008, a decrease of $27.0 million, or 81.9%. The decrease in gross political revenue was attributed to presidential, statewide and/or local races (primarily in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Alabama, Missouri and Montana) that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2008 as compared to nominal political advertising during the year ended December 31, 2009.
 
Retransmission compensation was $24.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $14.4 million for the same period in 2008, an increase of $9.9 million, or 68.5%. The increase in retransmission compensation was primarily the result of cable agreements being renegotiated at higher rates at the end of 2008 and also the addition of KARZ and WCWJ in 2009.
 
eMedia revenue, representing revenue generated from non-television web-based advertising, was $11.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $10.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, an increase of $1.5 million or 14.8%. The increase in new media revenue was a result of offering new products in 2009, as well as the acquisition of WCWJ in May 2009.
 
Operating Expenses
 
Corporate expenses, related to costs associated with the centralized management of Nexstar’s and Mission’s stations, were $18.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $15.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, an increase of $3.1 million, or 20.0%. The increase during the year ended December 31, 2009 was primarily attributed to $2.9 million in fees associated with the March 2009 7% notes exchange offer and also an increase in legal and professional fees associated with the October 2009 amendment of the senior secured credit facility.
 
Station direct operating expenses, consisting primarily of news, engineering and programming, net of trade, and selling, general and administrative expenses were $141.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $147.1 million for the same period in 2008, a decrease of $5.6 million, or 3.8%. The decrease in station direct operating expenses, net of trade and selling, general and administrative expenses, is primarily attributed to decreases in national and local sales commissions resulting from lower national and local revenue and a reduction in payroll-related costs due to regionalizing certain accounting and traffic functions in 2009 offset in part by the acquisition of WCWJ.
 
Amortization of broadcast rights, excluding barter, was $13.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $8.7 million for the same period in 2008, an increase of $4.5 million, or 52.0%.  The increase was primarily due to the addition of stations WCWJ and KARZ, which included combined write-downs of $2.4 million.
 
Amortization of intangible assets was $23.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $28.1 million for the same period in 2008, a decrease of $4.4 million, or 15.7%. The decrease was primarily related to the write-off of an affiliation agreement in 2008 due to one of our stations changing network affiliations in January of 2009 and also reductions in carrying values of certain network affiliation agreements that were impaired in the second half of 2008.
 
Depreciation of property and equipment was $21.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $21.0 million for the same period in 2008, an increase of $0.7 million, or 3.1%.
 
For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, we recognized a non-cash gain of $8.1 million and $4.8 million, respectively from the exchange of equipment under an arrangement with Sprint Nextel Corporation.  The increase in this gain was due to the higher number of stations completing spectrum conversions in 2009 compared to 2008.

 
34
 
 

 
In February 2009, Nexstar began regionalizing certain accounting and traffic functions. As a result, approximately 93 employees were notified they would be terminated at various points in time through the end of May 2009. These employees were offered termination benefits that aggregated to $0.7 million. The Company recognized these costs ratably over the period of time between the notice of termination and the termination date.  Nexstar estimates the restructuring will save the Company approximately $2.2 million annually.  The Company incurred a $0.7 million charge during 2009 related to these benefits.
 
In 2009, the Company incurred a non-cash charge of $0.2 million related to the termination of national sales representation agreements at certain stations.  The Company incurred a similar type of charge in 2008 in the amount of $7.2 million related to a different group of stations.
 
The net gain on asset disposal of $2.6 million included gains of $2.3 million and $1.0 million related to the KSNF and KBTV casualty losses, respectively.
 
We recorded an impairment charge of $16.2 million during 2009 that included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $8.8 million, related to 19 of our television stations and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $7.4 million, related to four reporting units consisting of five of our television stations. In 2008, we recorded total impairment charges of $82.4 million that included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $41.4 million, related to 22 of our television stations; an impairment to the carrying value of network affiliation agreements of $2.1 million, related to three of our television stations; and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $38.9 million, related to 10 reporting units consisting of 11 of our television stations.  As required by the authoritative guidance for goodwill and other intangible assets, we tested our FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment at September 30, 2009, between the required annual tests, because we believed events had occurred and circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts and that our FCC licenses might be impaired.  These events and circumstances include the overall economic recession and a continued decline in demand for advertising at several of our stations.  See Note 8 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this document.
 
Income from Operations
 
Income from operations was $8.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a loss of $38.2 million for the same period in 2008, an increase of $46.4 million, or 121.5%. The increase was primarily the result of reductions in: 1) impairment charges, 2) direct operating expenses, 3) amortization of intangible assets and 4) non-cash contract termination fees, combined with increases in gains recognized on asset exchanges and disposals, partially offset by the decrease in net revenue and increases in corporate expenses and the amortization of broadcast rights.
 
Interest Expense
 
Interest expense, including amortization of debt financing costs, was $39.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $48.8 million for the same period in 2008, a decrease of $9.6 million, or 19.7%. The decrease in interest expense was primarily attributed to lower average interest rates for most of 2009 compared to 2008 combined with the $27.8 million reduction in the outstanding 11.375% notes period-over-period.  These decreases were partially offset by the increase in the amount outstanding under the revolving credit facility in 2009.
 
Gain on Extinguishment of Debt
 
In 2009, the Company purchased $27.8 million of its 11.375% notes and $1.0 million of its 7% notes for a total of $10.0 million, plus accrued interest of $1.0 million.  These transactions resulted in combined gains of $18.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009.  On October 16, 2008, Nexstar purchased $5 million (face value) of the Company’s outstanding 7% Notes. The cash paid was approximately $3.1 million which included approximately $0.1 million of accrued interest. On October 28, 2008, Nexstar purchased $2.5 million (face value) of the 7% Notes for approximately $1.5 million, which included approximately $0.1 million of accrued interest. As a result of these two transactions, Nexstar recognized a combined gain of $2.9 million in 2008. This amount is net of a $0.1 million pro-rata write-off of debt financing costs associated with the 7% Notes.
 
Income Taxes
 
Income tax expense was $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a benefit of $5.3 million for the same period in 2008, an increase in expense of $5.5 million. The increase was primarily due to the tax benefit recognized as a result of the $80.3 million impairment charge in 2008 compared to the $16.2 million impairment charge in 2009 on indefinite-lived assets. Our provision for income taxes is primarily created by an increase in the deferred tax liabilities position during the year arising from the amortizing of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for income tax purposes which are not amortized for financial reporting purposes. The impairment charge reduced the book value and therefore decreased the deferred tax liability position. No tax benefit was recorded with respect to the losses for 2009 and 2008, as the utilization of such losses is not likely to be realized in the foreseeable future.

 
35
 
 

 
Year Ended December 31, 2008 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2007.
 
Revenue
 
Gross local advertising revenue was $171.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $175.5 million for the same period in 2007, a decrease of $3.9 million, or 2.3%. Gross national advertising revenue was $66.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $74.3 million for the same period in 2007, a decrease of $8.2 million, or 11.0%. The combined net decrease in gross local and national advertising revenue of $12.1 million was primarily the result of a decrease in automotive related advertising, our largest advertising category.
 
Gross political advertising revenue was $32.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $4.3 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of $28.6 million, or 663.4%. The increase in gross political revenue was attributed to presidential, statewide and/or local races (primarily in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Alabama, Missouri and Montana) that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2008 as compared to nominal political advertising during the year ended December 31, 2007.
 
Retransmission compensation was $14.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $11.8 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of $2.6 million, or 22.0%. The increase in retransmission compensation was primarily the result of (1) additional subscriber base for certain content distributors in 2008 compared to 2007, (2) annual rate increases in 2008 for certain retransmission consent agreements, (3) the addition of new markets under retransmission consent agreements in 2008 and (4) renewal of various multi-year contracts at higher rates with certain distributors.
 
eMedia revenue, representing revenue generated from non-television web-based advertising, was $10.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $5.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. The increase in new media revenue was a result of having all of our markets complete implementation of this digital media platform initiative for all of 2008 as compared to 2007, in which complete implementation did not take place until June 2007. Also contributing to the increase is the introduction of additional products in this area.  
 
Operating Expenses
 
Corporate expenses, related to costs associated with the centralized management of Nexstar’s and Mission’s stations, were $15.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $13.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2007, an increase of $2.2 million, or 15.9%. The increase during the year ended December 31, 2008 was primarily attributed to an increase in legal and professional fees of $2.4 million.
 
Station direct operating expenses, consisting primarily of news, engineering and programming, net of trade, and selling, general and administrative expenses were $147.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $141.5 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of $5.6 million, or 3.9%. The increase in station direct operating expenses, net of trade and selling, general and administrative expense, is primarily attributed to (1) the addition of KTVE in 2008 and (2) payroll-related costs and commissions related to the growth in eMedia revenue. These increases were partially offset by a reduction in employee incentives.
 
Amortization of broadcast rights, excluding barter, was $8.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $9.1 million for the same period in 2007, a decrease of $0.4 million, or 3.7%.
 
Amortization of intangible assets was $28.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $25.7 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of $2.4 million, or 9.6%. The increase was primarily related to the acceleration of amortization of our NBC Network affiliation agreement at KBTV due to the station becoming a Fox affiliated station effective January 1, 2009.
 
Depreciation of property and equipment was $21.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $20.2 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of $0.8 million, or 4.0%. The increase in depreciation was due to a corresponding increase in property and equipment, including Mission’s acquisition of KTVE.
 
For the year ended December 31, 2008, we recognized a non-cash gain of $4.8 million from the exchange of equipment under an arrangement we first transacted with Sprint Nextel Corporation during the second quarter of 2007.
 
We recognized a $7.2 million non-cash charge related to the termination of the national sales representation contract.
 
We recorded an impairment charge of $82.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2008 that included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $41.4 million, related to 22 of our television stations; an impairment to the carrying value of network affiliation agreements of $2.1 million, related to 3 of our television stations; and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $38.9 million, related to 10 reporting units consisting of 11 of our television stations. See Note 8 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this document.

 
36
 
 

 
Income from Operations
 
Loss from operations was $38.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to income of $40.5 million for the same period in 2007, a decrease of $78.7 million, or 194.3%. The decrease was primarily the result of impairment charges as required by authoritative guidance for goodwill and other intangible assets partially offset by increases in net revenue.
 
Interest Expense
 
Interest expense, including amortization of debt financing costs, was $48.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $55.0 million for the same period in 2007, a decrease of $6.2 million, or 11.3%. The decrease in interest expense was primarily attributed to lower average interest rates during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 combined with the $46.9 million principal payment on our 11.375% senior discounted Notes on April 1, 2008, a $5.3 million dollar repurchase of the 11.375% Notes in September 2008 and a repurchase of $7.5 million of the 7% Notes in October 2008.
 
Gain on Extinguishment of Debt
 
On October 16, 2008, Nexstar purchased $5 million (face value) of the Company’s outstanding 7% Notes. The cash paid was approximately $3.1 million which included approximately $0.1 million of accrued interest. On October 28, 2008, Nexstar purchased $2.5 million (face value) of the 7% Notes for approximately $1.5 million, which included approximately $0.1 million of accrued interest. As a result of these two transactions, Nexstar recognized a combined gain of $2.9 million. This amount is net of a $0.1 million pro-rata write-off of debt financing costs associated with the 7% Notes.
 
Income Taxes
 
Income tax benefit was $5.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to income tax expense of $5.8 million for the same period in 2007, a decrease of $11.1 million. The decrease was primarily due to the tax benefit recognized as a result of the impairment charge on indefinite-lived assets. Our provision for income taxes is primarily created by an increase in the deferred tax liabilities position during the year arising from the amortizing of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for income tax purposes which are not amortized for financial reporting purposes. The impairment charge reduced the book value and therefore decreased the deferred tax liability position. No tax benefit was recorded with respect to the losses for 2008 and 2007, as the utilization of such losses is not likely to be realized in the foreseeable future.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
We and Mission are highly leveraged, which makes the Company vulnerable to changes in general economic conditions. Our and Mission’s ability to meet the future cash requirements described below depends on our and Mission’s ability to generate cash in the future, which is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other conditions, many of which are beyond our and Mission’s control. Based on current operations and anticipated future growth, we believe that our and Mission’s available cash, anticipated cash flow from operations and available borrowings under the Nexstar and Mission senior credit facilities will be sufficient to fund working capital, capital expenditure requirements, interest payments and scheduled debt principal payments for at least the next twelve months. In order to meet future cash needs we may, from time to time, borrow under credit facilities or issue other long- or short-term debt or equity, if the market and the terms of our existing debt arrangements permit, and Mission may, from time to time, borrow under its available credit facility. We will continue to evaluate the best use of Nexstar’s operating cash flow among its capital expenditures, acquisitions and debt reduction.

 
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Overview
 
The following tables present summarized financial information management believes is helpful in evaluating the Company’s liquidity and capital resources:
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
  $ 22,993     $ 60,648     $ 36,987  
Net cash used for investing activities
    (35,590 )     (38,492 )     (18,608 )
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
    9,515       (22,548 )     (13,332 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
  $ (3,082 )   $ (392 )   $ 5,047  
Cash paid for interest
  $ 29,215     $ 39,036     $ 40,575  
Cash paid for income taxes, net
  $ 523     $ 178     $ 51  
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 12,752     $ 15,834  
Long-term debt including current portion
  $ 670,374     $ 662,117  
Unused commitments under senior secured credit facilities(1)
  $ 20,500     $ 66,500  
         
(1)
Based on covenant calculations, as of December 31, 2009, $20.5 million of total unused revolving loan commitments under the Nexstar and Mission credit facilities were available for borrowing.
 
Cash Flows—Operating Activities
 
The comparative net cash flows provided by operating activities decreased by $37.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. The decrease was primarily due to our overall decrease in net revenue of $32.9 million combined with a decrease of $12.7 million resulting from the timing of collections of accounts receivable, partially offset by the decrease in cash paid for interest of $9.8 million.
 
Cash paid for interest decreased by $9.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. The decrease was due to a decrease in cash payments of interest on our and Mission’s bank debt combined with the reduction in our 11.375% notes outstanding. Cash payments of interest on our and Mission’s senior credit facilities were $11.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $19.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, a decrease of $8.4 million. The decrease was due to lower average interest rates in 2009 compared to 2008, partially offset by the increase in net borrowings under the revolving credit facility.
 
The comparative net cash flows provided by operating activities increased by $23.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. The increase was primarily due to (1) our increase in net revenue of $18.1 million, partially offset by an increase in direct operating and general and administrative expenses of $7.8 million, (2) an increase of $10.2 million resulting from the timing of collections for accounts receivable and (3) an increase of $2.3 million related to timing of interest payments on the 11.375% senior discount notes.
 
Cash paid for interest decreased by $1.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. The decrease was due to a decrease in cash payments of interest on our and Mission’s bank debt. Cash payments of interest on our and Mission’s senior credit facilities were $19.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $26.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2007, a decrease of $6.7 million. The decrease was due to lower average interest rates incurred during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 and a lower level of average debt outstanding in 2008 on the respective credit facilities. The decrease in cash interest paid on bank debt was partially offset by an increase in cash interest paid on the 11.375% senior discount notes, which required cash payments beginning in April 2008.
 
Nexstar and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Mission files its own separate federal income tax return. Additionally, Nexstar and Mission file their own state and local tax returns as are required. Due to our and Mission’s recent history of net operating losses, we and Mission currently do not pay any federal income taxes. These net operating losses may be carried forward, subject to expiration and certain limitations, and used to reduce taxable earnings in future years. Through the use of available loss carryforwards, it is possible that we and Mission may not pay significant amounts of federal income taxes in the foreseeable future.

 
38
 
 

Cash Flows—Investing Activities
 
The comparative net cash used for investing activities decreased by $2.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in purchases of property and equipment and the insurance proceeds for KBTV and KSNF, partially offset by the increase in acquisition-related payments.
 
The comparative net cash used for investing activities increased by $19.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. The increase was primarily due to increases in purchases of property and equipment and in acquisition-related payments.
 
Capital expenditures were $19.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $30.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The decrease was primarily attributable to more digital conversions occurring in 2008.
 
Capital expenditures were $30.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $18.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. The increase was primarily attributable to digital conversion expenditures, which were $23.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to $8.6 million for the same period in 2007.
 
Cash used for station acquisitions was $20.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, $8.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2008 and $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2007.
 
Acquisition-related payments for the year ended December 31, 2009 included $17.2 million related to the acquisition of WCWJ and $3.6 million for the remaining payment on KARZ.
 
Acquisition-related payments for the year ended December 31, 2008 included $7.9 million related to Mission’s acquisition of KTVE and $0.4 million for the down-payment on KARZ. The $0.4 million of acquisition-related payments in 2007 were for the down payment on the KTVE acquisition.
 
Cash Flows—Financing Activities
 
The comparative net cash from financing activities increased by $32.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008, primarily due to an increase in net borrowings under the revolving credit facility of $43.0 million combined with a reduction in net payments on our outstanding notes of $11.1 million, partially offset by consideration of $17.7 million paid to bondholders in the exchange of the 7% senior subordinated notes and an increase in payments for debt finance costs of $5.1 million.
 
The comparative net cash used for financing activities increased by $9.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007, primarily due to the repayment of $56.8 million of senior subordinated debt, partially offset by proceeds from the June 27, 2008 issuance of senior subordinated payment in kind (PIK) notes of $35 million and also $13.0 million less in net payments on the revolving credit facility.
 
 During 2009, we purchased $27.9 million and $1.0 million (both face amounts) of our 11.375% notes and 7% notes, respectively, for a total of $10.0 million.
 
On April 1, 2008, Nexstar redeemed $46.9 million of its outstanding 11.375% senior discount notes to ensure they are not “Applicable High Yield Discount Obligations” within the meaning of Section 163(i)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. In September 2008, the Company repurchased $5.3 million of the 11.375% notes at par as required by the terms of the senior subordinated PIK notes purchase agreement. In October 2008, Nexstar voluntarily repurchased $7.5 million of the outstanding 7% senior subordinated notes for approximately $4.6 million.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2009, there were $3.5 million of scheduled term loan maturities, $8.0 million of revolving loan repayments and $54.0 million of revolving loan borrowings under our and Mission’s senior secured credit facilities.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2008, there were $3.5 million of scheduled term loan maturities, $50.0 million of revolving loan repayments and $53.0 million of revolving loan borrowings under our and Mission’s senior secured credit facilities.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2007, there were $3.5 million of scheduled term loan maturities, $18.0 million of revolving loan repayments and $8.0 million of revolving loan borrowings under our and Mission’s senior secured credit facilities.
 
Although the Nexstar and Mission senior credit facilities now allow for the payment of cash dividends to common stockholders, we and Mission do not currently intend to declare or pay a cash dividend.
 
Future Sources of Financing and Debt Service Requirements
 
As of December 31, 2009, Nexstar and Mission had total combined debt of $670.4 million, which represented 135.7% of Nexstar and Mission’s combined capitalization. Our and Mission’s high level of debt requires that a substantial portion of cash flow be dedicated to pay principal and interest on debt which will reduce the funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes.

 
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The following table summarizes the approximate aggregate amount of principal indebtedness (undiscounted) scheduled to mature for the periods referenced as of December 31, 2009:
 
   
Total
   
2010
     
2011-2012
      2013-2014    
Thereafter
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Nexstar senior credit facility
  $ 226,329     $ 5,358     $ 220,971     $     $  
Mission senior credit facility
    172,360       1,727       170,633              
Senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014
    42,628                   42,628        
7% senior subordinated notes due 2014
    47,910                   47,910        
7% senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014
    143,600                   143,600        
11.375% senior discount notes due 2013
    49,981       —        —        49,981       —   
    $ 682,808     $ 7,085     $ 391,604     $ 284,119     $  
 
We make semiannual interest payments on our 7% Notes on January 15th and July 15th of each year. We make semiannual interest payments on our 11.375% Notes April 1st and October 1st of each year. Our senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014 will begin paying cash interest in July 2010 and our 7% senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014 will begin paying cash interest in 2011.  Interest payments on our and Mission’s senior credit facilities are generally paid every one to three months and are payable based on the type of interest rate selected.
 
 The terms of the Nexstar and Mission senior credit facilities, as well as of the indentures governing our publicly-held notes, limit, but do not prohibit us or Mission from incurring substantial amounts of additional debt in the future.
 
We do not have any rating downgrade triggers that would accelerate the maturity dates of our debt. However, a downgrade in our credit rating could adversely affect our ability to renew existing, or obtain access to new, credit facilities or otherwise issue debt in the future and could increase the cost of such facilities.
 
Debt Covenants
 
Our senior secured credit facility agreement contains covenants which require us to comply with certain financial ratios, including: (a) maximum total and senior leverage ratios, (b) a minimum interest coverage ratio, and (c) a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. The covenants, which are calculated on a quarterly basis, include the combined results of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission. Mission’s senior credit facility agreement does not contain financial covenant ratio requirements; however it does include an event of default if Nexstar does not comply with all covenants contained in its credit agreement. The senior subordinated notes and senior discount notes contain restrictive covenants customary for borrowing arrangements of this type.
 
As of December 31, 2009, we were in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the publicly-held notes.
 
As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all indentures governing the publicly-held notes.  As of September 30, 2009, we were not in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreement governing our senior secured credit facility.  On October 8, 2009, Nexstar amended its senior secured credit facility to modify certain terms of the underlying credit agreement.  The modifications included, but are not limited to, changes to financial covenants, including the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio and Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio, a general tightening of the exceptions to the negative covenants (principally by means of reducing the types and amounts of permitted transactions) and an increase to the interest rates and fees payable with respect to the borrowings under the amended credit agreement.  The October 8, 2009 debt amendment contained a limited waiver for the leverage ratios which cured the violation as of September 30, 2009.  The following table compares the old and new covenant requirements.

 
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Prior
 
As Amended
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio:
     
 July 1, 2009 through September 30, 2009
6.50 to 1.00
 
6.75 to 1.00
 October 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009
6.50 to 1.00
 
8.75 to 1.00
 January 1, 2010 through March 31, 2010
6.50 to 1.00
 
9.50 to 1.00
 April 1, 2010 through June 30, 2010
6.50 to 1.00
 
10.25 to 1.00
 July 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010
6.25 to 1.00
 
9.25 to 1.00
October 1, 2010 through and including March 31, 2011
6.25 to 1.00
 
7.75 to 1.00
April 1, 2011 and thereafter
6.00 to 1.00
 
6.00 to 1.00
       
Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio:
     
 July 1, 2009 through September 30, 2009
4.50 to 1.00
 
5.50 to 1.00
 October 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009
4.50 to 1.00
 
7.00 to 1.00
 January 1, 2010 through March 31, 2010
4.25 to 1.00
 
7.00 to 1.00
 April 1, 2010 through June 30, 2010
4.25 to 1.00
 
7.50 to 1.00
 July 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010
4.25 to 1.00
 
6.75 to 1.00
October 1, 2010 through and including March 31, 2011
4.25 to 1.00
 
5.50 to 1.00
April 1, 2011 and thereafter
4.00 to 1.00
 
4.00 to 1.00
 
The Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement revises the calculation of Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio to exclude the netting of cash and cash equivalents against total debt. 
 
On an annual basis following the delivery of Nexstar's Broadcasting, Inc.'s year end financial statements, the Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement requires mandatory prepayments of principal, as well as a permanent reduction in revolving credit commitments, subject to a computation of excess cash flow for the preceding fiscal year. The amended agreement also places additional restrictions on the use of proceeds from asset sales, equity issuances, or debt issuances (with the result that such proceeds, subject to certain exceptions, be used for mandatory prepayments of principal and permanent reductions in revolving credit commitments), and includes an anti-cash hoarding provision which requires that the Company utilize unrestricted cash and cash equivalent balances in excess of $15.0 million to repay principal amounts outstanding, but not permanently reduce capacity, under the revolving credit facility.
 
The Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement also revised the interest rate provisions.  As amended, borrowings under the Facility may bear interest at either (i) a Eurodollar Rate, which has been amended to include an interest rate floor equal to 1% or (ii) a Base Rate, which, as amended,  is defined as the greater of (1) the sum of 1/2 of 1% plus the Federal Funds Rate, (2) Bank of America, N.A.'s prime rate and (3) the sum of (x) 1% plus (y) the Eurodollar Rate.  The definition of applicable margin was changed to eliminate the pricing grid and replace it with a fixed rate.  As amended, the applicable margin for Eurodollar loans is a rate per annum equal to 4% and the applicable margin for Base Rate loans is a rate per annum equal to 3%.
 
On October 8, 2009, Mission also amended its credit facility and made changes to its credit agreement that generally mirror the changes made to the Nexstar credit agreement.
 
The Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement expanded certain cross-default provisions such that the breach of certain warranties, representations or covenants under the Amended Mission Credit Agreement now constitute an event of default under the Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement.
 
In conjunction with the amendment to our credit agreement and the related collateralization of company-owned real estate, $1.7 million related to professional and legal fees were recognized as administrative expense as incurred.  Additionally, Nexstar and Mission paid $5.4 million in bank fees related to the debt amendment, which were capitalized and are being amortized over the remaining term of the credit facility.
 
On March 30, 2009, we closed an offer to exchange $143,600,000 of the 7% senior subordinated notes due 2014 in exchange for $142,320,761 7% senior subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (the “PIK Notes”). Based on the financial covenants in the senior secured credit facility, the PIK Notes are not included in the debt amount used to calculate the total leverage ratio until January 2011.
 
We believe the consummation of the debt amendment will allow us to maintain compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior secured facility and the indentures governing our publicly held notes for a period of at least the next twelve months from December 31, 2009.

 
41
 
 

 
Cash Expenditures for Digital Television (“DTV”) Conversion
 
On June 12, 2009 all full-power television broadcasters were required to cease operating in an analog format and operate exclusively in digital (DTV) format. As of December 31, 2009, all of Nexstar’s and Mission’s stations have completed the transition to digital operations; however, Nexstar is working with the FCC with respect to KMID’s authorization.  
 
DTV conversion expenditures were $8.4 million, $23.3 million and $8.6 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.
 
No Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
At December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, we did not have any relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as entities often referred to as structured finance or variable interest entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. All of our arrangements with Mission are on-balance sheet arrangements. We are, therefore, not materially exposed to any financing, liquidity, market or credit risk that could arise if we had engaged in such relationships.
 
Contractual Obligations
 
The following summarizes Nexstar’s and Mission’s contractual obligations at December 31, 2009, and the effect such obligations are expected to have on the Company’s liquidity and cash flow in future periods:
 
   
Total
   
2010
      2011-2012       2013-2014    
Thereafter
 
   
(dollars in thousands)
 
Nexstar senior credit facility
  $ 226,329     $ 5,358     $ 220,971     $     $  
Mission senior credit facility
    172,360       1,727       170,633              
Senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014
    42,628                   42,628        
7% senior subordinated notes due 2014
    47,910                   47,910        
7% senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014
    143,600                   143,600        
11.375% senior discount notes due 2013
    49,981                   49,981        
Cash interest on debt
    143,358       32,315       78,501       32,542        
Broadcast rights current cash commitments (1)
    14,415       8,126       4,956       1,333        
Broadcast rights future cash commitments
    9,374       1,875       6,776       682       41  
Executive employee contracts(2)
    22,568       7,681       11,500       3,387        
Operating lease obligations
    61,082       4,606       9,107       8,726       38,643  
Total contractual cash obligations
  $ 933,605     $ 61,688     $ 502,444     $ 330,789     $ 38,684  
         
(1)
Excludes broadcast rights barter payable commitments recorded on the financial statements at December 31, 2009 in the amount of $14.4 million.
(2)
Includes the employment contracts for all corporate executive employees and general managers of our stations.
 
As discussed in Note 18, “Income Taxes” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, we adopted interpretive guidance related to accounting for uncertainty in income taxes as of January 1, 2007. At December 31, 2009, we had $3.7 million of unrecognized tax benefits. This liability represents an estimate of tax positions that the corporation has taken in its tax returns which may ultimately not be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities. The resolution of these tax positions may not require cash settlement due to the existence of net operating loss carryforwards.
 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
 
Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to goodwill and intangible assets, bad debts, broadcast rights, trade and barter, income taxes, commitments and contingencies. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
 
For an overview of our significant accounting policies, we refer you to Note 2 of our consolidated financial statements in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We believe the following critical accounting policies are those that are the most important to the presentation of our consolidated financial statements, affect our more significant estimates and assumptions, and require the most subjective or complex judgments by management.

 
42
 
 

 
Consolidation of Mission and Variable Interest Entities
 
Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of independently-owned Mission and certain other entities when it has been determined that the Company is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (“VIE”). Under U.S. GAAP, a company must consolidate an entity when it has a “controlling financial interest” resulting from ownership of a majority of the entity’s voting rights. Accounting rules expand the definition of controlling financial interest to include factors other than equity ownership and voting rights.
 
In applying accounting and disclosure requirements, we must base our decision to consolidate an entity on quantitative and qualitative factors that indicate whether or not we are absorbing a majority of the entity’s economic risks or receiving a majority of the entity’s economic rewards. Our evaluation of the “risks and rewards” model must be an ongoing process and may alter as facts and circumstances change.
 
Mission is included in our consolidated financial statements because we believe we have a controlling financial interest in Mission as a result of local service agreements we have with each of Mission’s stations, our guarantee of the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior credit facility and purchase options (which expire on various dates between 2011 and 2018) granted by Mission’s sole shareholder which will permit us to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent. We expect these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration.
 
In addition, generally in connection with acquisitions, the Company enters into time brokerage agreements (“TBA”) and begins programming and selling advertising for a station before receiving FCC consent to the transfer of the station’s ownership and broadcast license. We include a station programmed under a TBA in our consolidated financial statements because we believe that we have a controlling financial interest in the station as a result of the Company assuming the credit risk of advertising revenue it sells on the station, its obligation to pay for substantially all the station’s reasonable operating expenses, as required under the TBA agreement, and in connection with our entry into a purchase agreement, that the sale of the station and transfer of the station’s broadcast license will occur within a reasonable period of time.
 
Valuation of Goodwill and Intangible Assets
 
Approximately $362.8 million, or 58.5%, of our total assets as of December 31, 2009 consisted of intangible assets. Intangible assets principally include FCC licenses, goodwill and network affiliation agreements. If the fair value of these assets is less than the carrying value, we may be required to record an impairment charge.
 
As required by authoritative guidance, we test the impairment of our FCC licenses annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such assets might be impaired. The impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of FCC licenses with their carrying amount on a station-by-station basis using a discounted cash flow valuation method, assuming a hypothetical startup scenario.
 
Also as required by authoritative guidance, we test the impairment of our goodwill annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. The first step of the goodwill impairment test compares the fair value of the market (“reporting unit”) to its carrying amount, including goodwill.  We aggregate our stations by market for purposes of our goodwill and license impairment testing and we believe that our markets are most representative of our broadcast reporting units because we view, manage and evaluate our stations on a market basis.  The fair value of a reporting unit is determined through the use of a discounted cash flow analysis. The valuation assumptions used in the discounted cash flow model reflect historical performance of the reporting unit and the prevailing values in the markets for broadcasting properties. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by performing an assumed purchase price allocation, using the reporting unit’s fair value (as determined in the first step described above) as the purchase price. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess but not more than the carrying value of goodwill.
 
In accordance with authoritative guidance for accounting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets, the Company tests network affiliation agreements whenever events or circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable, relying on a number of factors including operating results, business plans, economic projections and anticipated future cash flows. An impairment in the carrying amount of a network affiliation agreement is recognized when the expected future operating cash flow derived from the operations to which the asset relates is less than its carrying value.

 
43
 
 

 
We tested our network affiliation, FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment as of September 30, 2009, between the required annual tests, because we believed events had occurred and circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts and that our FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements might be impaired. These events included the overall economic recession and the continued decline in advertising revenues at some of our television stations. We recorded an impairment charge of $16.2 million as a result of that test which included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $8.8 million, related to 19 of our television stations and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $7.4 million, related to four reporting units consisting of five of our television stations.
 
We completed our annual test for impairment of goodwill and FCC licenses as of December 31, 2009 which resulted in no additional impairment charge.  The Company has four reporting units with a carrying value of goodwill in the amount of $23.3 million that could be potentially at risk for impairment.  Our annual test for impairment indicated that the fair value exceeded the carrying value of these reporting units by 20%.
 
We tested our network affiliation, FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment as of September 30, 2008, between the required annual tests, because we believed events had occurred and circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts and that our FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements might be impaired. These events included the decline in overall economic conditions and the resulting decline in advertising revenues at some of our television stations. We recorded an impairment charge of $48.5 million as a result of that test which included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $19.7 million, related to 12 of our television stations; an impairment to the carrying value of network affiliation agreements of $1.0 million, related to 3 of our television stations; and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $27.8 million, related to 5 reporting units consisting of 6 of our television stations.
 
We performed our annual test for impairment at December 31, 2008 and due to the continued decline in overall economic conditions during the fourth quarter of 2008 and the further decline in our forecasts for advertising revenues at some stations, the Company recorded an additional $33.9 million in impairment charges, for an annual total of $82.4 million. Of the additional $33.9 million impairment charges, $21.7 million was for FCC licenses, related to 21 of our television stations, $1.1 million was for network affiliation agreements related to 2 television stations, and $11.1 million was for goodwill, related to 8 reporting units consisting of 10 of our television stations.
 
Further deterioration in the advertising marketplaces in which Nexstar and Mission operate could lead to further impairment and reduction of the carrying value of the Company’s goodwill and intangible assets, including FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements. If such a condition were to occur, the resulting non-cash charge could have a material adverse effect on Nexstar and Mission’s financial position and results of operations.
 
The tables below illustrate how assumptions used in the fair value calculations varied from period to period in 2009 and 2008. The increase in the discount rate between third and fourth quarter 2008 reflects the volatility of stock prices of public companies within the media sector along with the increase in the corporate borrowing rate. The changes in the market growth rates and operating profit margins reflect the general economic pressures impacting both the national and a number of local economies, and specifically, national and local advertising expenditures in the markets where our stations operate.
 
The assumptions used in the valuation testing have certain subjective components including anticipated future operating results and cash flows based on our own internal business plans as well as future expectations about general economic and local market conditions.
 
We based the valuation of FCC licenses on the following basic assumptions:
 
 
September 30, 2009
December 31, 2008
September 30, 2008
Market growth rates
0.0% to 8.5%
2.0% to 2.8%
2.0% to 2.8%
Operating profit margins
11.5% to 33.7%
11.9% to 33.7%
12.1% to 34.1%
Discount rate
10.5%
10.8%
9.5%
Tax rate
35.2% to 40.6%
34.0% to 40.6%
34.0% to 40.6%
Capitalization rate
7.5% to 8.5%
8.0% to 8.8%
6.8% to 7.5%
 
We based the valuation of network affiliation agreements on the following basic assumptions:
 
 
September 30, 2009
December 31, 2008
September 30, 2008
Market growth rates
0.0% to 4.0%
2.0% to 2.8%
2.0% to 2.8%
Operating profit margins
20.0% to 34.7%
20.0% to 42.1%
14.3% to 42.6%
Discount rate
10.5%
10.8%
9.5%
Tax rate
35.2% to 40.6%
34.0% to 40.6%
34.0% to 40.6%
Capitalization rate
7.8% to 8.5%
8.0% to 8.8%
6.8% to 7.5%
 


 
44
 
 

 
We based the valuation of goodwill on the following basic assumptions:

 
September 30, 2009
December 31, 2008
September 30, 2008
Market growth rates
0.0% to 8.5%
2.0% to 2.8%
2.0% to 2.8%
Operating profit margins
20.0% to 42.8%
20.0% to 42.1%
20.0% to 42.6%
Discount rate
10.5%
10.8%
9.5%
Tax rate
35.2% to 40.6%
34.0% to 40.6%
34.0% to 40.6%
Capitalization rate
7.5% to 8.5%
8.0% to 8.8%
6.8% to 7.5%
 
The assumptions utilized for our annual impairment assessment for FCC licenses and goodwill as of December 31, 2009 were consistent with those utilized at September 30, 2009.
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. We evaluate the collectability of our accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where we are aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, we record a specific reserve to reduce the amounts recorded to what we believe will be collected. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in their inability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. Allowance for doubtful accounts was $0.8 million at both December 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
Broadcast Rights Carrying Amount
 
Broadcast rights are stated at the lower of unamortized cost or net realizable value. Cash broadcast rights are initially recorded at the amount paid or payable to program distributors for the limited right to broadcast the distributors programming. Barter broadcast rights are recorded at our estimate of the fair value of the advertising time exchanged, which approximates the fair value of the programming received. The fair value of the advertising time exchanged is estimated by applying average historical rates for specific time periods. Amortization of broadcast rights is computed using the straight-line method based on the license period or programming usage, whichever period yields the shorter life. The current portion of broadcast rights represents those rights available for broadcast which will be amortized in the succeeding year. When projected future net revenue associated with a program is less than the current carrying amount of the program broadcast rights, for example, due to poor ratings, we write-down the unamortized cost of the broadcast rights to equal the amount of projected future net revenue. If the expected broadcast period was shortened or cancelled we would be required to write-off the remaining value of the related broadcast rights to operations on an accelerated basis or possibly immediately. As of December 31, 2009, the amounts of current broadcast rights and non-current broadcast rights were $15.4 million and $10.7 million, respectively.
 
Trade and Barter Transactions
 
We trade certain advertising time for various goods and services. These transactions are recorded at the estimated fair value of the goods or services received. We barter advertising time for certain program material. These transactions, except those involving exchange of advertising time for network programming, are recorded at management’s estimate of the fair value of the advertising time exchanged, which approximates the fair value of the program material received. The fair value of advertising time exchanged is estimated by applying average historical advertising rates for specific time periods. We recorded barter revenue of $12.0 million, $11.7 million and $12.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Trade revenue of $7.4 million, $6.6 million and $7.0 million was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. We incurred trade and barter expense of $18.7 million, $17.9 million and $18.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. 
 
Income Taxes
 
We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is applied against net deferred tax assets if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. While we have considered future taxable income and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance, in the event that we were to determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our deferred tax assets in the future, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be charged to income in the period such a determination was made.

 
45
 
 

 
On January 1, 2007, we adopted interpretive guidance related to income taxes, which addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under this guidance, we may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities. The determination is based on the technical merits of the position and presumes that each uncertain tax position will be examined by the relevant taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For interest and penalties relating to income taxes we recognize these items as components of income tax expense.
 
Stock Option Expense Recognition
 
Effective January 1, 2006, we adopted authoritative guidance related to share-based payment, which requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the financial statements based on their fair value. We recognize the expense related to our stock options over the period that the employee is required to provide services, and only to the extent the awards vest. Therefore, we apply an estimated forfeiture rate assumption to adjust compensation cost for the effect of those employees that are not expected to complete the requisite service period and will forfeit nonvested options. We base the forfeiture rate assumption on Nexstar’s historical experience of award forfeitures, and as necessary, adjusted for certain events that are not expected to recur during the expected term of the option.
 
We determine the fair value of employee stock options at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Our valuation of employee stock options relies on assumptions of factors we are required to input into the Black-Scholes model. These assumptions are highly subjective and involve an estimate of future uncertain events. The option pricing model requires us to input factors for expected stock price volatility and the expected term until exercise of the option award. Due to our limited history of publicly traded shares, we combine our historical stock price data and volatilities of peer companies in the television broadcasting industry when determining expected volatility. Based on a lack of historical option exercise experience, we use the weighted-average of the holding periods for all options granted to determine the expected term assumption. Utilizing historical exercise and post-vesting cancellation experience of Nexstar’s stock option awards, the expected term is the average interval between the grant and exercise or post-vesting cancellation dates.
 
Claims and Loss Contingencies
 
In the normal course of business, we are party to various claims and legal proceedings. We record a liability for these matters when an adverse outcome is probable and the amount of loss is reasonably estimated. We consider a combination of factors when estimating probable losses, including judgments about potential actions by counterparties.
 
Nonmonetary Asset Exchanges
 
In connection with a spectrum allocation exchange ordered by the FCC within the 1.9 GHz band, Sprint Nextel Corporation (“Nextel”) is required to replace certain existing analog equipment with comparable digital equipment. The Company has agreed to accept the substitute equipment that Nextel will provide and in turn must relinquish its existing equipment to Nextel. Neither party will have any continuing involvement in the equipment transferred following the exchange. We account for this arrangement as an exchange of assets in accordance with accounting and disclosure requirements for exchanges of nonmonetary assets.
 
These transactions are recorded at the estimated fair market value of the equipment received. We derive our estimate of fair market value from the most recent prices paid to manufacturers and vendors for the specific equipment we acquire. As equipment is exchanged, the Company records a gain to the extent that the fair market value of the equipment received exceeds the carrying amount of the equipment relinquished.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
In June 2009 the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“the FASB”) issued the FASB Accounting Standards Codification™ (“the Codification”). The Codification is the official single source of authoritative U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). All existing accounting standards are superseded. All other accounting guidance not included in the Codification is considered non-authoritative. The Codification also includes all relevant Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) guidance organized using the same topical structure in separate sections within the Codification. The Codification was effective for our September 30, 2009 financial statements. The Codification does not change existing GAAP. The principal impact on our financial statements from the Codification adoption is limited to disclosures as all references to authoritative accounting literature are now referenced in accordance with the Codification. 

 
46
 
 

 
In June 2009, the FASB issued an amendment to the accounting and disclosure requirements for the consolidation of VIE’s.  This amendment requires an analysis to determine whether a variable interest gives the entity a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. The amendment requires an ongoing reassessment and eliminates the quantitative approach previously required for determining whether an entity is the primary beneficiary. This amendment is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this amendment on our consolidated financial statements.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued an amendment to the accounting and disclosure requirements for transfers of financial assets.  This amendment removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity. This amendment also clarifies the requirements for isolation and limitations on portions of financial assets that are eligible for sale accounting. The amendment is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this amendment on our consolidated financial statements.
 
In May 2009, the FASB issued a general standard of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. This standard became effective for our second quarter ended June 30, 2009.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued a new accounting and disclosure requirement, which increases the frequency of fair value disclosures from an annual to a quarterly basis. The guidance relates to fair value disclosures for any financial instruments that are not currently reflected on the balance sheet at fair value. The new authoritative guidance is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  We adopted this guidance in the second quarter of 2009, and it did not impact our financial position or results of operations.  It did, however, result in additional disclosures related to the fair value of our debt.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued guidance for estimating fair values when there is no active market or where the price inputs being used represent distressed sales and identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009. We adopted this guidance in the second quarter of 2009, and it did not have any effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. 
 
In April 2008, the FASB issued guidance related to the determination of the useful life of intangible assets. This guidance amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under the accounting and disclosure requirements related to goodwill and other intangible assets. This new guidance also provides additional disclosure requirements related to recognized intangible assets. We adopted this guidance in January 2009 and it did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations. 
 
In January 2008, we adopted the FASB’s accounting and disclosure requirements related to fair value measurements as they pertain to financial assets and liabilities. The adoption did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations. These new requirements established a framework for measuring fair value, and enhanced the disclosures for fair value measurements. This authoritative guidance applies when other accounting pronouncements require or permit fair value measurements, but it does not require new fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued a one-year deferral for the application of this standard as it pertains to non-financial assets and liabilities. We adopted this standard for non-financial assets and liabilities in the first quarter of 2009. There were no material effects on our financial statements upon adoption of this new accounting pronouncement; however, this pronouncement could have a material impact in future periods.
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued authoritative guidance related to business combinations, as well as guidance for the accounting and reporting of noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements.  These new standards significantly change the accounting for and reporting of business combination transactions and noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated financial statements. We adopted these standards on January 1, 2009. The impact of adopting the standard related to business combinations will be primarily limited to business combinations occurring on or after January 1, 2009. Adoption of the guidance related to noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements had no impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 
47
 
 
 
 
Item 7A.             Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to our long-term debt obligations.
 
All term loan borrowings at December 31, 2009 under the senior credit facilities bear interest at 5.0%, which represented the base rate, or LIBOR, plus the applicable margin, as defined. Revolving loan borrowings at December 31, 2009 under Nexstar’s senior credit facility bear interest at 5.0% and 6.25%, which represented the base rate, or LIBOR, plus the applicable margin, as defined. All revolving loan borrowings at December 31, 2009 under Mission’s senior credit facility bear interest at 5.0%, which represented the base rate, or LIBOR, plus the applicable margin, as defined. Interest is payable in accordance with the credit agreements.
 
The following table estimates the changes to cash flow from operations as of December 31, 2009 if interest rates were to fluctuate by 100 or 50 basis points, or BPS (where 100 basis points represents one percentage point), for a twelve-month period:
 
   
Interest rate decrease
   
Interest rate increase
 
   
100 BPS
   
50 BPS
   
50 BPS
   
100 BPS
 
   
(in thousands)
   
(in thousands)
 
Senior credit facilities
  $ 3,987     $ 1,993     $ (1,993 )   $ (3,987 )
 
Our 7% Notes, 7% PIK Notes, Senior Subordinated PIK Notes and 11.375% Notes are fixed rate debt obligations and therefore do not result in a change in our cash flow from operations. As of December 31, 2009, we have no financial instruments in place to hedge against changes in the benchmark interest rates on this fixed rate debt.
 
The fair value of long-term fixed interest rate debt is also subject to interest rate risk. Generally, the fair value of fixed interest rate debt will increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. The estimated fair value of the Company’s total long-term debt at December 31, 2009 was approximately $583.9 million, which was approximately $86.5 million less than its carrying value. Fair values are determined from quoted market prices where available or based on estimates made by investment banking firms.
 
Given the interest rates that were in effect at December 31, 2008, as of that date, we estimated that our cash flows from operations would have increased by approximately $3.6 million and $1.8 million, respectively, for a 100 BPS and 50 BPS interest rate decrease, and decreased by approximately $1.8 million and $3.6 million, respectively, for a 50 BPS and 100 BPS interest rate increase. The estimated fair value of the Company’s total long-term debt at December 31, 2008 was approximately $442.5 million, which was approximately $219.6 million less than its carrying value.
 
Impact of Inflation
 
We believe that our results of operations are not affected by moderate changes in the inflation rate.
 
Item 8.                      Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
Our Financial Statements are filed with this report. The Financial Statements and Supplementary Data are included in Part IV, Item 15(a) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
Item 9.                      Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
None.
 
Item 9A.                      Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Nexstar’s management, with the participation of its President and Chief Executive Officer along with its Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation as of the end of the period covered by this report of the effectiveness of the design and operation of Nexstar’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
 
Based upon that evaluation, Nexstar’s President and Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this report, Nexstar’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to Nexstar’s management, including its President and Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 
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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
During the quarterly period as of the end of the period covered by this report, there have been no changes in Nexstar’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, its internal control over financial reporting.
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
Nexstar’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Nexstar’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
Management assessed the effectiveness of Nexstar’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 based upon the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework. Based on management’s assessment, we have concluded that, as of December 31, 2009, Nexstar’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
 
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
 
Item 9B.                      Other Information
 
None.

 
49
 
 

 
PART III
 
 
Item 10.                      Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
 
Information concerning directors that is required by this Item 10 will be set forth in the Proxy Statement to be provided to stockholders in connection with our 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Proxy Statement”) under the headings “Directors and Nominees for Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Item 11.                      Executive Compensation
 
Information required by this Item 11 will be set forth in the Proxy Statement under the headings “Compensation of Executive Officers” and “Director Compensation,” which information is incorporated herein by reference. Information specified in Items 402(k) and 402(l) of Regulation S-K and set forth in the Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference.
 
Item 12.                      Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management, and Related Stockholder Matters
 
Information required by this Item 12 will be set forth in the Proxy Statement under the headings “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management,” and “Compensation of Executive Officers,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Item 13.                      Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
Information required by this Item 13 will be set forth in the Proxy Statement under the heading “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Item 14.                      Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
Information required by this Item 14 will be set forth in the Proxy Statement under the heading “Ratification of the Selection of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.

 
50
 
 

 
PART IV
 
Item 15.                      Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
 
(a) Documents filed as part of this report:
 
(1) Financial Statements. The following financial statements of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. have been included on pages F-1 through F-47 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
 
 
See the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements on page F-1 for a list of financial statements filed with this report.
 
The audited financial statements of Mission Broadcasting, Inc. as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009 as filed in Mission Broadcasting, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K are incorporated by reference in this report.
 
(2) Financial Statement Schedules. The schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts appears in Note 25 to the financial statements filed as part of this report.
 
(3) Exhibits. The exhibits filed in response to Item 601 of Regulation S-K are listed in the Exhibit Index beginning on page E-1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 

 
51
 
 

SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
     
 
By:
/s/PERRY A. SOOK
     Perry A. Sook
 
Its:
President and Chief Executive Officer
     
     
 
By:
/s/THOMAS E. CARTER
      Thomas E. Carter
   
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
Dated: March 15, 2010
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 15, 2010.
 
 
Name
 
Title
     
/s/PERRY A. SOOK
 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Perry A. Sook
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
     
/s/THOMAS E. CARTER
 
Chief Financial Officer
Thomas E. Carter
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
     
/s/JAY M. GROSSMAN
 
Director
Jay M. Grossman
   
     
/s/ROYCE YUDKOFF
 
Director
Royce Yudkoff
   
     
/s/TOMER YOSEF-OR
 
Director
Tomer Yosef-Or
   
     
/s/ERIK BROOKS
 
Director
Erik Brooks
   
     
/s/BRENT STONE
 
Director
Brent Stone
   
     
/s/GEOFF ARMSTRONG
 
Director
Geoff Armstrong
   
     
/s/I. MARTIN POMPADUR
 
Director
I. Martin Pompadur
   
     
/s/MICHAEL DONOVAN
 
Director
Michael Donovan
   
     
/s/LISBETH MCNABB
 
Director
Lisbeth McNabb
   

 
52
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
       F-2
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2009 and 2008
       F-3
   
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
       F-4
   
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Deficit for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
       F-5
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
       F-6
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
       F-7
 
 
 

 
F-1
 
 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc:

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.  We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for uncertain tax positions in 2007.



/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP
Dallas, Texas
March 15, 2010


 
F-2
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2009 and 2008
(in thousands, except share information)
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
ASSETS
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 12,752     $ 15,834  
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $844 and $832, respectively.
    62,860       53,190  
Current portion of broadcast rights
    15,414       14,273  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    1,845       1,562  
Deferred tax asset
    15       15  
Total current assets
    92,886       84,874  
Property and equipment, net
    144,281       135,878  
Broadcast rights
    10,701       9,289  
Goodwill
    109,059       115,632  
FCC licenses
    127,487       125,057  
Other intangible assets, net
    126,216       149,851  
Other noncurrent assets
    8,605       5,400  
Deferred tax asset
    591       606  
Total assets
  $ 619,826     $ 626,587  
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
               
Current liabilities:
               
Current portion of debt
  $ 7,085     $ 3,485  
Current portion of broadcast rights payable
    16,447       14,745  
Accounts payable
    6,812       9,433  
Accrued expenses
    12,189       12,484  
Taxes payable
    363       512  
Interest payable
    4,625       8,591  
Deferred revenue
    7,424       7,167  
Other liabilities
    1,066       1,066  
Total current liabilities
    56,011       57,483  
Debt
    663,289       658,632  
Broadcast rights payable
    12,469       10,953  
Deferred tax liabilities
    38,433       38,664  
Deferred revenue
    1,999       1,802  
Deferred gain on sale of assets
    4,495       4,931  
Deferred representation fee incentive
    5,583       6,003  
Other liabilities
    13,810       13,275  
Total liabilities
    796,089       791,743  
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Stockholders’ deficit:
               
Preferred stock—$0.01 par value, authorized 200,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively
           
Common stock:
               
Class A Common—$0.01 par value, authorized 100,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 15,018,839 and 15,013,839 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively
    150       150  
Class B Common—$0.01 par value, authorized 20,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 13,411,588 at both December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively
    134       134  
Class C Common—$0.01 par value, authorized 5,000,000 shares; none issued and outstanding at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively
           
Additional paid-in capital
    400,093       398,586  
Accumulated deficit
    (576,640 )     (564,026 )
Total stockholders’ deficit
    (176,263 )     (165,156 )
Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit
  $ 619,826     $ 626,587  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 

 
F-3
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Net revenue
  $ 251,979     $ 284,919     $ 266,801  
Operating expenses (income):
                       
Direct operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
    77,233       78,287       74,128  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
    89,525       90,468       86,773  
Restructure charge
    670              
Non-cash contract termination fees
    191       7,167        
Impairment of goodwill
    7,360       38,856        
Impairment of other intangible assets
    8,804       43,539        
Amortization of broadcast rights
    25,263       20,423       21,457  
Amortization of intangible assets
    23,705       28,129       25,671  
Depreciation
    21,680       21,024       20,209  
Gain on asset exchange
    (8,093 )     (4,776 )     (1,962 )
Gain on asset disposal, net
    (2,560 )     (43 )     (17 )
Total operating expenses
    243,778       323,074       226,259  
Income (loss) from operations
    8,201       (38,155 )     40,542  
Interest expense, including amortization of debt financing costs and debt discounts
    (39,236 )     (48,832 )     (55,040 )
Gain on extinguishment of debt
    18,567       2,897        
Interest and other income
    54       715       532  
Loss before income taxes
    (12,414 )     (83,375 )     (13,966 )
Income tax (expense) benefit
    (200 )     5,316       (5,807 )
Net loss
  $ (12,614 )   $ (78,059 )   $ (19,773 )
Net loss per common share:
                       
Basic and diluted
  $ (0.44 )   $ (2.75 )   $ (0.70 )
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
                       
Basic and diluted
    28,427       28,423       28,401  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 

 
F-4
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
(in thousands, except share information)
 
   
Common Stock
                   
   
Class A
   
Class B
   
Class C
                   
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
   
Accumulated
Deficit
   
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
(Deficit)
 
Balance at January 1, 2007
    14,316,810     $ 143       13,411,588     $ 134       662,529     $ 7     $ 394,120     $ (467,694 )   $ (73,290 )
Adjustment for the cumulative effect of adopting interpretive guidance related to income taxes
                                              1,500       1,500  
Stock based compensation expense
                                        2,009             2,009  
Issuance of common shares related to exercise of stock options
    24,000                                     153             153  
Issuance of common shares related to restricted stock award
    2,500                                     11             11  
Exchange of Class C common shares for Class A common shares
    662,529       7                   (662,529 )     (7 )                  
Net loss
    —        —        —        —        —        —        —        (19,773 )     (19,773 )
Balance at December 31, 2007
    15,005,839       150       13,411,588       134                   396,293       (485,967 )     (89,390 )
Stock based compensation expense
                                        2,255             2,255  
Issuance of common shares related to exercise of stock options
    8,000                                     38             38  
Net loss
    —        —        —        —        —        —        —        (78,059 )     (78,059 )
Balance at December 31, 2008
    15,013,839       150       13,411,588       134                   398,586       (564,026 )     (165,156 )
Stock based compensation expense
                                        1,494             1,494  
Issuance of common shares related to exercise of stock options
    5,000                                     13             13  
Net loss
    —        —        —        —        —        —        —        (12,614 )     (12,614 )
Balance at December 31, 2009
    15,018,839     $ 150       13,411,588     $ 134       —      $     $ 400,093     $ (576,640 )   $ (176,263 )
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 

 
F-5
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
(in thousands)
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net loss
  $ (12,614 )   $ (78,059 )   $ (19,773 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
                       
Deferred income taxes
    (216 )     (5,877 )     5,380  
Provision for bad debts
    1,159       959       1,112  
Depreciation of property and equipment
    21,680       21,024       20,209  
Amortization of intangible assets
    23,705       28,129       25,671  
Amortization of debt financing costs
    1,483       1,099       1,067  
Amortization of broadcast rights, excluding barter
    13,248       8,718       9,050  
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets
    16,164       82,395        
Amortization of deferred representation fee incentive
    (611 )     (442 )      
Payments for broadcast rights
    (9,315 )     (8,239 )     (8,376 )
Gain on asset disposal, net
    (2,560 )     (43 )     (17 )
Payment-in-kind interest on debt
    5,201       2,137        
Gain on asset exchange
    (8,093 )     (4,776 )     (1,962 )
Gain on extinguishment of debt
    (18,567 )     (2,897 )      
Deferred gain recognition
    (436 )     (437 )     (436 )
Amortization of debt discount
    7,033       3,983       13,526  
Stock-based compensation expense including restricted stock award
    1,494       2,255       2,020  
Non-cash contract termination
    191       7,167        
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
                       
Accounts receivable
    (10,420 )     2,278       (7,947 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    (542 )     1,236       (167 )
Taxes receivable
          351       (104 )
Other noncurrent assets
    279       (489 )     (546 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    (2,144 )     (2,739 )     (2,618 )
Taxes payable
    (149 )     34       478  
Interest payable
    (3,966 )     2,092       (158 )
Deferred revenue
    454       304       114  
Other noncurrent liabilities
    535       485       464  
Net cash provided by operating activities
    22,993       60,648       36,987  
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
Additions to property and equipment
    (19,028 )     (30,793 )     (18,541 )
Proceeds from sale of assets
    190       106       320  
Acquisition of broadcast properties
    (20,756 )     (7,923 )      
Down payment on acquisition of station
          (400 )     (387 )
Proceeds from insurance on casualty loss
    4,004       518       —   
Net cash used for investing activities
    (35,590 )     (38,492 )     (18,608 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
Repayment of long-term debt
    (21,446 )     (110,282 )     (21,485 )
Proceeds from long-term debt
    54,000       53,000       8,000  
Consideration paid to bondholders for debt exchange
    (17,677 )            
Proceeds from issuance of common shares related to exercise of stock options
    13       38       153  
Payments for debt financing costs
    (5,375 )     (304 )      
Proceeds from senior subordinated PIK notes
    —        35,000       —   
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
    9,515       (22,548 )     (13,332 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (3,082 )     (392 )     5,047  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    15,834       16,226       11,179  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $ 12,752     $ 15,834     $ 16,226  
Supplemental schedule of cash flow information:
                       
                         
Cash paid during the period for:
                       
Interest
  $ 29,215     $ 39,036     $ 40,575  
Income taxes, net
  $ 523     $ 178     $ 51  
Non-cash investing activities:
                       
Capitalization of software
  $     $ 4,976     $  
Acquisition of equipment
  $ 793     $ 1,792     $  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 

 
F-6
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1. Business Operations
 
As of December 31, 2009, Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (“Nexstar”) owned, operated, programmed or provided sales and other services to 59 television stations, all of which were affiliated with the NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, MyNetworkTV, The CW, ThisTV, RTN, Azteca America or Telemundo television networks, in markets located in New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Alabama, Utah, Florida, Montana, Rhode Island and Maryland. Through various local service agreements, Nexstar provided sales, programming and other services to 25 stations owned and/or operated by independent third parties. Nexstar operates in one reportable television broadcasting segment. The economic characteristics, services, production process, customer type and distribution methods for Nexstar’s operations are substantially similar and are therefore aggregated as a single reportable segment.
 
Nexstar is highly leveraged, which makes it vulnerable to changes in general economic conditions. Nexstar’s ability to repay or refinance its debt will depend on, among other things, financial, business, market, competitive and other conditions, many of which are beyond Nexstar’s control.
 
Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, as have been experienced during 2008 and 2009, could adversely affect our ability to draw on our bank revolving credit facilities. Our access to funds under the revolving credit facilities is dependent on the ability of the banks that are parties to the facilities to meet their funding commitments. Those banks may not be able to meet their funding commitments to us if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity or if they experience excessive volumes of borrowing requests from us and other borrowers within a short period of time.
 
Liquidity and Management Plans
 
Our senior secured credit facility agreement contains covenants which require us to comply with certain financial ratios, including: (a) maximum total and senior leverage ratios, (b) a minimum interest coverage ratio, and (c) a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. The covenants, which are calculated on a quarterly basis, include the combined results of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission. Mission’s senior secured credit facility agreement does not contain financial covenant ratio requirements; however it does include an event of default if Nexstar does not comply with all covenants contained in its credit agreement. The senior subordinated notes and senior discount notes contain restrictive covenants customary for borrowing arrangements of this type. As of December 31, 2009, we were in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the publicly-held notes.
 
As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all indentures governing the publicly-held notes.  As of September 30, 2009, we were not in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior secured credit facility.  On October 8, 2009, we amended our credit facility to modify certain covenants.  See Note 11 for a more complete discussion of the credit facility amendment.  The October 8, 2009 debt amendment contained a limited waiver for the leverage ratios which cured the violation as of September 30, 2009.
 
On March 30, 2009, we closed an offer to exchange $143,600,000 of the 7% senior subordinated notes due 2014 in exchange for $142,320,761 7% senior subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (the “PIK Notes”). Based on the financial covenants in the senior secured credit facility, the PIK Notes are not included in the debt amount used to calculate the total leverage ratio until January 2011.
 
We believe the consummation of the debt amendment will allow us to maintain compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreements governing our senior secured facility and the indentures governing our publicly held notes for a period of at least the next twelve months from December 31, 2009.
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Principles of Consolidation
 
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Nexstar and its subsidiaries. Also included in the financial statements are the accounts of independently-owned Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (“Mission”) (Nexstar and Mission are collectively referred to as “the Company”) and may include certain other entities when it is determined that the Company is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (“VIE”) in accordance with interpretive guidance for the consolidation of variable interest entities.
 
All intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 
F-7
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
Mission
 
Mission is included in these consolidated financial statements because Nexstar is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in Mission for financial reporting purposes as a result of (a) local service agreements Nexstar has with the Mission stations, (b) Nexstar’s guarantee of the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior credit facility and (c) purchase options (which expire on various dates between 2011 and 2018) granted by Mission’s sole shareholder which will permit Nexstar to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) consent. The Company expects these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration. As of December 31, 2009, the assets of Mission consisted of current assets of $2.6 million (excluding broadcast rights), broadcast rights of $4.8 million, FCC licenses of $20.7 million, goodwill of $18.7 million, other intangible assets of $25.5 million, property and equipment of $28.6 million and other noncurrent assets of $2.1 million. Substantially all of Mission’s assets, except for its FCC licenses, collateralize its secured debt obligation. See Note 21 for presentation of condensed consolidating financial information of the Company, which includes the accounts of Mission.
 
Nexstar has entered into local service agreements with Mission to provide sales and/or operating services to the Mission stations. The following table summarizes the various local service agreements Nexstar had in effect with Mission as of December 31, 2009:
 
Service Agreements
Mission Stations
TBA Only(1)
WFXP and KHMT
SSA & JSA(2)
KJTL, KJBO-LP, KOLR, KCIT, KCPN-LP, KAMC, KRBC, KSAN, WUTR, WFXW, WYOU, KODE, WTVO and KTVE
         
(1)
Nexstar has a time brokerage agreement (“TBA”) with each of these stations which allows Nexstar to program most of each station’s broadcast time, sell each station’s advertising time and retain the advertising revenue generated in exchange for monthly payments to Mission.
(2)
Nexstar has both a shared services agreement (“SSA”) and a joint sales agreement (“JSA”) with each of these stations. The SSA allows the Nexstar station in the market to provide services including news production, technical maintenance and security, in exchange for Nexstar’s right to receive certain payments from Mission as described in the SSAs. The JSA permits Nexstar to sell the station’s advertising time and retain a percentage of the net revenue from the station’s advertising time in return for monthly payments to Mission of the remaining percentage of net revenue, as described in the JSAs.
 
Nexstar’s ability to receive cash from Mission is governed by these agreements. The arrangements under the SSAs and JSAs have had the effect of Nexstar receiving substantially all of the available cash, after debt service costs, generated by the stations listed above. The arrangements under the TBAs have also had the effect of Nexstar receiving substantially all of the available cash generated by the TBA stations listed above. Nexstar anticipates that, through these local service agreements, it will continue to receive substantially all of the available cash, after payments for debt service costs, generated by the stations listed above.
 
Nexstar also guarantees the obligations incurred under Mission’s senior secured credit facility (see Note 11). Mission is a guarantor of Nexstar’s senior secured credit facility and the senior subordinated notes issued by Nexstar (see Note 11). In consideration of Nexstar’s guarantee of Mission’s senior credit facility, the sole shareholder of Mission has granted Nexstar a purchase option to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent, for consideration equal to the greater of (1) seven times the station’s cash flow, as defined in the option agreement, less the amount of its indebtedness as defined in the option agreement, or (2) the amount of its indebtedness. These option agreements (which expire on various dates between 2011 and 2018) are freely exercisable or assignable by Nexstar without consent or approval by the sole shareholder of Mission. The Company expects these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration.
 
Nexstar does not own Mission or Mission’s television stations; however, Nexstar is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in them under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) while complying with the FCC’s rules regarding ownership limits in television markets. In order for both Nexstar and Mission to comply with FCC regulations, Mission maintains complete responsibility for and control over programming, finances, personnel and operations of its stations.

 
F-8
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
Variable Interest Entities
 
The Company may determine that a station is a VIE as a result of local service agreements entered into with the owner-operator of stations in markets in which the Company owns and operates a station. Local service agreement is a general term used to refer to a contract between two separately owned television stations serving the same market, whereby the owner-operator of one station contracts with the owner-operator of the other station to provide it with administrative, sales and other services required for the operation of its station. Nevertheless, the owner-operator of each station retains control and responsibility for the operation of its station, including ultimate responsibility over all programming broadcast on its station.
 
VIEs in connection with local service agreements entered into with stations in markets in which the Company owns and operates a station are discussed below.
 
Nexstar has determined that it has variable interests in WYZZ, the Fox affiliate in Peoria, Illinois and WUHF, the Fox affiliate in Rochester, New York, each owned by a subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (“Sinclair”), as a result of outsourcing agreements it has entered into with Sinclair. Nexstar has evaluated its arrangements with Sinclair and has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of the variable interests, and therefore, has not consolidated these stations under applicable accounting standards. Under the outsourcing agreements with Sinclair, Nexstar pays for certain operating expenses of WYZZ and WUHF, and therefore may have unlimited exposure to any potential operating losses. Nexstar’s management believes that Nexstar’s minimum exposure to loss under the Sinclair outsourcing agreements consist of the fees paid to Sinclair. Additionally, Nexstar indemnifies the owners of WHP, WYZZ and WUHF from and against all liability and claims arising out of or resulting from its activities, acts or omissions in connection with the agreements. The maximum potential amount of future payments Nexstar could be required to make for such indemnification is undeterminable at this time.
 
Nexstar also has determined that it had a variable interest in KTVE, the NBC affiliate in El Dorado, Arkansas, during the time it was owned by Piedmont Television of Monroe/El Dorado, LLC (“Piedmont’), as a result of a JSA and SSA entered into with Piedmont.  Nexstar’s JSA and SSA with Piedmont terminated upon Mission’s acquisition of KTVE on January 16, 2008. Prior to the acquisition date Nexstar did not consolidate KTVE as we determined that we were not the primary beneficiary prior to that date.
 
Nexstar also has determined that it has a variable interest in WHP, the CBS affiliate in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, which is owned by Newport Television License, LLC (“Newport Television”), as a result of Nexstar becoming successor-in-interest to a TBA entered into by a former owner of WLYH. Nexstar has evaluated its arrangements with Newport Television and has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of the variable interests, and therefore, has not consolidated these stations.
 
Nexstar entered into a management services agreement with Four Points Media Group Holdings LLC (“Four Points”) effective March 20, 2009.  Four Points owns and operates seven individual stations in four markets.  Under this agreement, Nexstar manages the stations for Four Points but does not have ultimate control over the policies or operations of the stations.  In return for managing the stations, Nexstar receives a fixed annual management fee of $2.0 million per year, as well as annual incentive compensation based on incremental broadcast cash flow of the Four Points’ stations.  Nexstar is also entitled to a share of the equity profits if the stations are sold while the agreement is in effect.  The agreement provides for a minimum compensation of $10.0 million to Nexstar if the Four Points stations are sold during the initial three year term of the agreement.  Nexstar has concluded that this agreement gives Nexstar a variable interest in Four Points.  We have evaluated the business arrangement with Four Points and concluded that Nexstar is not the primary beneficiary of the variable interest and therefore, we do not consolidate Four Points’ financial results into our own.  Nexstar must indemnify Four Points for any claim or liability that arises out of Nexstar’s acts or omissions related to the agreement.   For this reason, the maximum exposure to loss as a result of our agreement with Four Points is not determinable.
 
Basis of Presentation
 
    Certain prior year financial statement amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
 
Local Service Agreements
 
The Company enters into local service agreements with stations generally in connection with pending acquisitions subject to FCC approval or in markets in which the Company owns and operates a station. Local service agreement is a general term used to refer to a contract between two separately-owned television stations serving the same market, whereby the owner-operator of one station contracts with the owner-operator of the other station to provide it with administrative, sales and other services required for the operation of its station. Nevertheless, the owner-operator of each station retains control and responsibility for the operation of its station, including ultimate responsibility over all programming broadcast on the station. Local service agreements include time brokerage agreements (“TBA”), shared service agreements (“SSA”), joint sales agreements (“JSA”) and outsourcing agreements.

 
F-9
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
Under the terms of a TBA, the Company makes specific periodic payments to the other station’s owner-operator in exchange for the right to provide programming and sell advertising on a portion of the other stations broadcast time. Under the terms of an SSA, the Company’s station in the market bears the costs of certain services and procurements performed on behalf of another station, in exchange for the Company’s right to receive specific periodic payments. Under the terms of a JSA, the Company makes specific periodic payments to the station’s owner-operator in exchange for the right to sell advertising during a portion of the station’s broadcast time. Under TBAs, the Company retains all of the advertising revenue it generates, and under JSAs it retains a percentage of the advertising revenue it generates. Under an outsourcing agreement, the Company’s station provides or is provided various non-programming related services to or by another station in exchange for payment from the owner-operator.
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and use assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure for contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. The more significant estimates made by management include those relating to the allowance for doubtful accounts, trade and barter transactions, income taxes, the recoverability of broadcast rights, the carrying amounts, recoverability and useful lives of intangible assets and the fair value of non-monetary asset exchanges. Actual results may vary from estimates used.
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents.
 
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
The Company’s accounts receivable consist primarily of billings to its customers for advertising spots aired and also includes amounts billed for production and other similar activities. Trade receivables normally have terms of 30 days and the Company has no interest provision for customer accounts that are past due. The Company maintains an allowance for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. Management evaluates the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where management is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, an allowance is recorded to reduce their receivable amount to an amount estimated to be collected.
 
Concentration of Credit Risk
 
Financial instruments which potentially expose the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Cash deposits are maintained with several financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits; however, the Company believes these deposits are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit and are not subject to any unusual credit risk. A significant portion of the Company’s accounts receivable are due from local and national advertising agencies. The Company does not require collateral from its customers, but maintains reserves for potential credit losses. Management believes that the allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate, but if the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, additional allowances may be required. The Company has not experienced significant losses related to receivables from individual customers or by geographical area.

 
F-10
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
Revenue Recognition
 
The Company’s revenue is primarily derived from the sale of television advertising. Total revenue includes cash and barter advertising revenue, net of agency commissions, retransmission compensation, network compensation and other broadcast related revenues.
 
 
Advertising revenue is recognized, net of agency commissions, in the period during which the commercial is aired.
 
 
Retransmission compensation is recognized based on the number of subscribers over the contract period.
 
 
Other revenues, which include web-based revenue, revenue from the production of client advertising spots and other similar activities from time to time, are recognized in the period during which the services are provided.
 
 
Network compensation is either recognized when the Company’s station broadcasts specific network programming based upon a negotiated hourly-rate, or on a straight-line basis based upon the total negotiated compensation to be received by the Company over the term of the agreement.
 
The Company barters advertising time for certain program material. These transactions, except those involving exchange of advertising time for network programming, are recorded at management’s estimate of the fair value of the advertising time exchanged, which approximates the fair value of the program material received. The fair value of advertising time exchanged is estimated by applying average historical advertising rates for specific time periods. Revenue from barter transactions is recognized as the related advertisement spots are broadcast. The Company recorded $12.0 million, $11.7 million and $12.4 million of barter revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 respectively.
 
Barter expense is recognized at the time program broadcast rights assets are used. The Company recorded $12.0 million, $11.7 million and $12.4 million of barter expense for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, which was included in amortization of broadcast rights in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.
 
The Company trades certain advertising time for various goods and services. These transactions are recorded at the estimated fair value of the goods or services received. Revenue from trade transactions is recognized when the related advertisement spots are broadcast. The Company recorded $7.4 million, $6.6 million and $7.0 million of trade revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 
Trade expense is recognized when services or merchandise received are used. The Company recorded $6.7 million, $6.2 million and $6.0 million of trade expense for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, which was included in direct operating expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.
 
Broadcast Rights and Broadcast Rights Payable
 
The Company records rights to programs, primarily in the form of syndicated programs and feature movie packages obtained under license agreements for the limited right to broadcast the suppliers’ programming when the following criteria are met: 1) the cost of each program is known or reasonably determinable, 2) the license period has begun, 3) the program material has been accepted in accordance with the license agreement, and 4) the programming is available for use. Broadcast rights are initially recorded at the amount paid or payable to program suppliers; or, in the case of barter transactions, at management’s estimate of the fair value of the advertising time exchanged using historical advertising rates, which approximates the fair value of the program material received. Broadcast rights are stated at the lower of unamortized cost or net realizable value. The current portion of broadcast rights represents those rights available for broadcast which will be amortized in the succeeding year. Amortization of broadcast rights is computed using the straight-line method based on the license period or programming usage, whichever period yields the shorter life. Broadcast rights liabilities are reduced by monthly payments to program suppliers; or, in the case of barter transactions, are amortized over the life of the associated programming license contract as a component of trade and barter revenue. When projected future net revenue associated with a program is less than the current carrying amount of the program broadcast rights, for example, due to poor ratings, the Company write-downs the unamortized cost of the broadcast rights to equal the amount of projected future net revenue. If the expected broadcast period was shortened or cancelled, the Company would be required to write-off the remaining value of the related broadcast rights on an accelerated basis or possibly immediately. Such reductions in unamortized costs is included in amortization of broadcast rights in the consolidated statement of operations.

 
F-11
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
Property and Equipment
 
Property and equipment is stated at cost or estimated fair value at the date of acquisition for trade transactions. The cost and related accumulated depreciation applicable to assets sold or retired are removed from the accounts and the gain or loss on disposition is recognized. Major renewals and betterments are capitalized and ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to expense in the period incurred. Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets ranging from 3 to 39 years (see Note 7).
 
Network Affiliation Agreements
 
Network affiliation agreements are stated at estimated fair value at the date of acquisition using a discounted cash flow method. Amortization is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 15 years.
 
Each of the Company’s stations has a network affiliation agreement pursuant to which the broadcasting network provides programming to the station during specified time periods, including prime time. Under the affiliation agreements with NBC, CBS and ABC, some of the Company’s stations receive compensation for distributing the network’s programming over the air and for allowing the network to keep a portion of advertising inventory during those time periods. The affiliation agreements with Fox, MyNetworkTV and The CW do not provide for compensation.
 
Intangible Assets
 
Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill, broadcast licenses (“FCC licenses”) and network affiliation agreements that are stated at estimated fair value at the date of acquisition using a discounted cash flow method. The Company’s goodwill and FCC licenses are considered to be indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not amortized but instead are tested for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such assets might be impaired. Network affiliation agreements are subject to amortization computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 15 years.
 
As required by authoritative guidance for goodwill and other intangible assets, we test our FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment annually or whenever we believe events have occurred and circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts. The impairment test for FCC licenses consists of a station-by-station comparison of the carrying amount of FCC licenses with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis. The impairment test for goodwill utilizes a two-step fair value approach. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the station (“reporting unit”) to its carrying amount. The fair value of a reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flows analysis. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by performing an assumed purchase price allocation, using the reporting unit fair value (as determined in Step 1) as the purchase price. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
 
In accordance with authoritative guidance for accounting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets, the Company tests network affiliation agreements whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable, relying on a number of factors including operating results, business plans, economic projections and anticipated future cash flows. An impairment in the carrying amount of a network affiliation agreement is recognized when the expected future operating cash flow derived from the operation to which the asset relates is less than its carrying value. The impairment test for network affiliation agreements consists of a station-by-station comparison of the carrying amount of network affiliation agreements with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis. See Note 8 for additional information.
 
Debt Financing Costs
 
Debt financing costs represent direct costs incurred to obtain long-term financing and are amortized to interest expense over the term of the related debt. Previously capitalized debt financing costs are expensed and included in loss on extinguishment of debt if the Company determines that there has been a substantial modification of the related debt. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, debt financing costs of $8.4 million and $4.8 million, respectively, were included in other noncurrent assets.

 
F-12
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
The Company reports comprehensive income or loss and its components in accordance with FASB accounting and disclosure requirements. Comprehensive loss includes, in addition to net loss, items of other comprehensive income (loss) representing certain changes in equity that are excluded from net loss and instead are recorded as a separate component of stockholders’ equity (deficit). During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company had no items of other comprehensive income (loss) and, therefore, comprehensive income (loss) does not differ from reported net loss.
 
Advertising Expense
 
The cost of advertising is expensed as incurred. The Company incurred advertising costs in the amount of $1.9 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, which were included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.
 
Financial Instruments
 
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, broadcast rights payable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates fair value due to their short-term nature. The interest rates on the Company’s term loan and revolving credit facilities are adjusted regularly to reflect current market rates. See Note 11 for the fair value of the Company’s debt.
 
Stock-Based Compensation
 
Nexstar maintains stock-based employee compensation plans which are described more fully in Note 15.  On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted authoritative guidance related to share-based payment, which requires companies to expense the fair value of employee stock options and other forms of stock-based employee compensation in the financial statements. This expense is recognized in selling, general and administrative expense in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.  
 
Income Taxes
 
The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is applied against net deferred tax assets if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Nexstar and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Mission files its own separate federal income tax return.
 
On January 1, 2007, the Company adopted interpretive guidance related to income taxes that addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under this guidance, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities. The determination is based on the technical merits of the position and presumes that each uncertain tax position will be examined by the relevant taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For interest and penalties relating to income taxes the Company recognizes these items as components of income tax expense.
 
Loss Per Share
 
Basic loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted loss per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares and dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. Potential common shares consist of stock options and the unvested portion of restricted stock granted to employees. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 there was no difference between basic and diluted net loss per share since the effect of potential common shares were anti-dilutive due to the net losses, and therefore excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share.

 
F-13
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
The following table summarizes information about anti-dilutive potential common shares (not presented in thousands):
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(weighted-average shares outstanding)
 
Stock options excluded as the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price of the common stock
    3,415,940       3,646,712       1,075,247  
In-the-money stock options excluded as the Company had a net loss during the period
    181,359       8,435       2,532,904  
Unvested restricted stock
    —        —        151  
 
Nonmonetary Asset Exchanges
 
In 2004, the FCC approved a spectrum allocation exchange between Spring Nextel Corporation (“Nextel”) and public safety entities to eliminate interference being caused to public safety radio licensees by Nextel’s operations. As part of this spectrum exchange, the FCC granted Nextel the right to certain spectrum within the 1.9 GHz band that is currently used by television broadcasters. In order to utilize this spectrum, Nextel is required to relocate the broadcasters to new spectrum by replacing all analog equipment currently used by broadcasters with comparable digital equipment. The Company has agreed to accept the substitute equipment that Nextel will provide and in turn must relinquish its existing equipment back to Nextel. This transition began on a market by market basis beginning in the second quarter of 2007. We account for this arrangement as an exchange of assets in accordance with accounting and disclosure requirements for exchanges of nonmonetary assets. The equipment the Company receives under this arrangement is recorded at their estimated fair market value and depreciated over estimated useful lives ranging from 5 to 15 years. Management’s determination of the fair market value is derived from the most recent prices paid to manufacturers and vendors for the specific equipment acquired. As equipment is exchanged, the Company records a gain to the extent that the fair market value of the equipment received exceeds the carrying amount of the equipment relinquished.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
In June 2009 the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“the FASB”) issued the FASB Accounting Standards Codification™ (“the Codification”). The Codification is the official single source of authoritative U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). All existing accounting standards are superseded. All other accounting guidance not included in the Codification is considered non-authoritative. The Codification also includes all relevant Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) guidance organized using the same topical structure in separate sections within the Codification. The Codification was effective for our September 30, 2009 financial statements. The Codification does not change existing GAAP. The principal impact on our financial statements from the Codification adoption is limited to disclosures as all references to authoritative accounting literature are now referenced in accordance with the Codification. 
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued an amendment to the accounting and disclosure requirements for the consolidation of VIE’s.  This amendment requires an analysis to determine whether a variable interest gives the entity a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. The amendment requires an ongoing reassessment and eliminates the quantitative approach previously required for determining whether an entity is the primary beneficiary. This amendment is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this amendment on our consolidated financial statements.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued an amendment to the accounting and disclosure requirements for transfers of financial assets.  This amendment removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity. This amendment also clarifies the requirements for isolation and limitations on portions of financial assets that are eligible for sale accounting. The amendment is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this amendment on our consolidated financial statements. 
 
In May 2009, the FASB issued a general standard of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued.  This standard became effective for our second quarter ended June 30, 2009.

 
F-14
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—(Continued)
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued a new accounting and disclosure requirement which increases the frequency of fair value disclosures from an annual to a quarterly basis. The guidance relates to fair value disclosures for any financial instruments that are not currently reflected on the balance sheet at fair value. The new authoritative guidance is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  We adopted this guidance in the second quarter of 2009, and it did not impact our financial position or results of operations.  It did, however, result in additional disclosures related to the fair value of our debt.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued guidance for estimating fair values when there is no active market or where the price inputs being used represent distressed sales and identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009. We adopted this guidance in the second quarter of 2009, and it did not have any effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. 
 
In April 2008, the FASB issued guidance related to the determination of the useful life of intangible assets. This guidance amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under the accounting and disclosure requirements related to goodwill and other intangible assets. This new guidance also provides additional disclosure requirements related to recognized intangible assets. We adopted this guidance in January 2009 and it did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations. 
 
In January 2008, we adopted the FASB’s accounting and disclosure requirements related to fair value measurements as they pertain to financial assets and liabilities. The adoption did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations. These new requirements established a framework for measuring fair value, and enhanced the disclosures for fair value measurements. This authoritative guidance applies when other accounting pronouncements require or permit fair value measurements, but it does not require new fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued a one-year deferral for the application of this standard as it pertains to non-financial assets and liabilities. We adopted this standard for non-financial assets and liabilities in the first quarter of 2009. There were no material effects on our financial statements upon adoption of this new accounting pronouncement; however, this pronouncement could have a material impact in future periods.
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued authoritative guidance related to business combinations, as well as guidance for the accounting and reporting of noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements.  These new standards significantly change the accounting for and reporting of business combination transactions and noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated financial statements. We adopted these standards on January 1, 2009. The impact of adopting the standard related to business combinations will be primarily limited to business combinations occurring on or after January 1, 2009. Adoption of the guidance related to noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements had no impact on our financial position or results of operations.
 
3. Fair Value Measurements
 
The Company adopted effective January 1, 2008 the FASB’s accounting and disclosure requirements pertaining to fair value measurements for financial assets and financial liabilities measured on a recurring basis. These requirements apply to all financial assets and financial liabilities that are being measured and reported on a fair value basis. There was no impact for adoption of this standard to the Consolidated Financial Statements as it relates to financial assets and financial liabilities. The new standard requires disclosure that establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure about fair value measurements. The standard requires fair value measurement be classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:
 
Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;
 
Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability;
 
Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).
 
The Company invests in short-term interest bearing obligations with original maturities less than 90 days, primarily money market funds. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes. As of December 31, 2009, there were no investments in marketable securities.

 
F-15
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
3. Fair Value Measurements—(Continued)
 
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company had $7.4 million and $12.0 million, respectively, invested in a money market investment. These investments are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The Company has determined that the money market investment is defined as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. As of December 31, 2009, the fair value of the money market investment approximates its carrying value.
 
In February 2008, the FASB deferred the effective date of the above standard to January 1, 2009 for all nonfinancial assets and liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis (that is, at least annually). The Company adopted this standard on January 1, 2009 and it did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
 
See Note 4 in these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for fair value disclosures related to acquisitions, Note 8 in these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for fair value disclosures related to goodwill and FCC licenses and Note 11 in these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for fair value disclosures related to the Company’s debt.
 
4. Acquisitions
 
Purchase Acquisitions
 
During 2009 and 2008, the Company consummated the acquisitions listed below. These acquisitions have been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and, accordingly, the purchase price was allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value on the acquisition date. The excess of the purchase price over the fair values assigned to the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. The consolidated financial statements include the operating results of each business from the date of acquisition.
 
Station
Network 
Affiliation
Market
Date Acquired
  Acquired By
WCWJ
The CW
Jacksonville, Florida
May 1, 2009
Nexstar
KARZ
My Network TV
Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Arkansas
March 12, 2009
Nexstar
KTVE
NBC
Monroe, Louisiana, El Dorado, Arkansas
January 16, 2008
Mission
 
WCWJ
 
On January 28, 2009, Nexstar entered into an agreement to acquire the assets of WCWJ, the CW affiliate serving the Jacksonville, Florida market, for $18.0 million (base) subject to working capital adjustments. Nexstar viewed this acquisition as an opportunity to leverage our management expertise and increase profitability of the station by overlaying our existing retransmission compensation contracts and incorporating our cost reduction strategies.  The transaction closed on May 1, 2009.  Cash available on hand was used to make a $1.0 million down payment in February 2009 and the remaining $16.2 million (net of working capital adjustment) was paid upon closing.  Transaction costs such as legal, accounting, valuation and other professional services of $0.3 million were expensed as incurred.
 
The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
 
 
(in thousands)
Accounts receivable
 
$
1,310
 
Current portion of broadcast rights
   
2,078
 
Prepaids and other current assets
   
28
 
Property and equipment
   
4,172
 
Long-term portion of broadcast rights
   
3,371
 
FCC license
   
8,561
 
Goodwill
   
96
 
Other intangible assets
   
70
 
Total assets acquired
   
19,686
 
Less: current portion of broadcast rights payable
   
808
 
Less: accounts payable
   
177
 
Less: accrued expenses
   
50
 
Less: long-term portion of broadcast rights payable
   
1,495
 
         
Net assets acquired
 
$
17,156
 

 
F-16
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
4. Acquisitions—(Continued)
 
The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on recognized valuation techniques including the income approach for intangible assets.  Goodwill of $0.1 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to future expense reductions utilizing management’s leverage in programming and other station operating costs. 
 
WCWJ’s revenue of $6.5 million and net loss of $0.8 million for the period May 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009 have been included in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for 2009.
 
KARZ
 
On October 6, 2008, Nexstar entered into a purchase agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of KARZ (formerly KWBF), the MyNetworkTV affiliate serving the Little Rock, Arkansas market for $4.0 million. The acquisition gives Nexstar an opportunity to further utilize existing retransmission compensation contracts and also to achieve duopoly synergies within the Little Rock market.  In accordance with the purchase agreement, Nexstar made a down payment of $0.4 million in 2008. This acquisition closed on March 12, 2009 and the remaining $3.6 million was paid from available cash on hand.  Transaction costs such as legal, accounting, valuation and other professional services of $0.1 million were expensed as incurred. 
 
The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
 
 
(in thousands)
Current portion of broadcast rights
 
$
263
 
Property and equipment
   
878
 
Long-term portion of broadcast rights
   
379
 
FCC license
   
2,673
 
Goodwill
   
335
 
Total assets acquired
   
4,528
 
Less: current portion of broadcast rights payable
   
262
 
Less: long-term portion of broadcast rights payable
   
266
 
         
Net assets acquired
 
$
4,000
 
 
The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on recognized valuation techniques including the income approach for intangible assets.  Goodwill of $0.3 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The fair value assigned to goodwill is attributable to the synergies achieved by adding KARZ to our pre-existing station in the Little Rock market, KARK.
 
KARZ’s revenue of $1.5 million and net income of $1.3 million for the period February 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009 (post TBA) have been included in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for 2009.
 
Unaudited Pro Forma Information
 
The following unaudited pro forma information has been presented as if the acquisition of WCWJ and KARZ had occurred on January 1, 2008:

   
Year
Ended
December 31, 2009
   
Year
Ended
December 31, 2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Net revenue
 
$
254,819
   
$
295,739
 
Loss before income taxes
   
(12,580
)
   
(84,717
)
Net loss
   
(12,780
)
   
(79,401
)
 
 
The above selected unaudited pro forma information is presented for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of results of operations in future periods or results that would have been achieved had the Company owned the acquired stations during the specified period.

 
F-17
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
4. Acquisitions—(Continued)
 
KTVE
 
On June 27, 2007, Mission entered into a purchase agreement with Piedmont Television Holdings LLC to acquire substantially all the assets of KTVE, the NBC affiliate serving the Monroe, Louisiana/El Dorado, Arkansas market. On January 16, 2008, Mission completed the acquisition of KTVE for total additional consideration of $8.3 million, inclusive of transaction costs of $0.5 million which is included in goodwill. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, Mission made a down payment of $0.4 million against the purchase price in June 2007 and paid the remaining $7.4 million, exclusive of transaction costs, on January 16, 2008 from available cash on hand. Upon closing the purchase of KTVE, Mission entered into a JSA and SSA with Nexstar-owned KARD, the Fox affiliate in the market, whereby KARD provides local news, sales and other non-programming services to KTVE.
 
The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Accounts receivable
  $ 1,081  
Current portion of broadcast rights
    408  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    12  
Property and equipment
    3,534  
Intangible assets
    3,808  
Goodwill
    2,802  
Total assets acquired
    11,645  
Less: current portion of broadcast rights payable
    152  
Less: accounts payable
    113  
Less: deferred gain on lease
    2,216  
Less: accrued expenses and other liabilities
    854  
Net assets acquired
  $ 8,310  
 
Of the $3.8 million of acquired intangible assets, $2.7 million was assigned to FCC licenses that are not subject to amortization and $1.1 million was assigned to network affiliation agreements (estimated useful life of 15 years). Subsequent to the acquisition, the Company obtained additional information related to a lease assumed in the acquisition which resulted in recording an increase to goodwill and deferred liabilities of $2.2 million. Goodwill of $2.8 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
 
Unaudited Pro Forma Information
 
The following unaudited pro forma information has been presented as if the acquisition of KTVE had occurred on January 1, 2007:
 
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2008
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2007
 
   
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Net revenue
  $ 285,169     $ 273,312  
Income (loss) from operations
    (38,149 )     41,033  
Loss before income taxes
    (83,388 )     (13,931 )
Net loss
    (78,077 )     (19,850 )
Basic and diluted net loss per share
    (2.75 )     (0.70 )
 
The above selected unaudited pro forma information is presented for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of results of operations in future periods or results that would have been achieved had the Company owned the acquired station during the specified period.

 
F-18
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
5. Pending Transactions
 
On April 11, 2006, Nexstar and Mission filed an application with the FCC for consent to assignment of the license of KFTA Channel 24 (Ft. Smith, Arkansas) from Nexstar to Mission. Consideration for this transaction was set at $5.6 million. On August 28, 2006, Nexstar and Mission entered into a local service agreement whereby (a) Mission pays Nexstar $5 thousand per month for the right to broadcast Fox programming on KFTA during the Fox network programming time periods and (b) Nexstar pays Mission $20 thousand per month for the right to sell all advertising time on KFTA within the Fox network programming time periods. Also in 2006, Mission entered into an affiliation agreement with the Fox network which provides Fox programming to KFTA. The local service agreement between Nexstar and Mission will terminate upon assignment of KFTA’s FCC license from Nexstar to Mission. Upon completing the assignment of KFTA’s license, Mission plans to enter into a JSA and SSA with Nexstar-owned KNWA in Fort Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Arkansas, whereby KNWA will provide local news, sales and other non-programming services to KFTA. On March 11, 2008, the FCC granted the application to assign the license for KFTA from Nexstar to Mission. The grant contained conditions which Nexstar is currently appealing. Nexstar’s KNWA Channel 51, licensed to Rogers, Arkansas, has renewed its affiliation agreement for KNWA to continue as the NBC affiliate in Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Arkansas through 2014.  
 
6. Local Service Agreements
 
The Company enters into local service agreements with stations generally in connection with pending acquisitions subject to FCC approval or in markets in which the Company owns and operates a station. Local service agreement is a general term used to refer to a contract between two separately owned television stations serving the same market, whereby the owner-operator of one station contracts with the owner-operator of the other station to provide it with administrative, sales and other services required for the operation of its station. Nevertheless, the owner-operator of each station retains control and responsibility for the operation of its station, including ultimate responsibility over all programming broadcast on its station.
 
The various local service agreements entered into by the Company are discussed below.
 
Local Service Agreements with Mission
 
Nexstar has entered into various local service agreements with each of Mission’s stations.
 
Nexstar has TBAs with two Mission stations. Under these agreements, Nexstar programs most of each station’s broadcast time, sells each station’s advertising time and retains the advertising revenue it generates in exchange for monthly payments, as defined in the agreement, to Mission. The arrangements under the TBAs have had the effect of Nexstar receiving substantially all of the available cash generated by the Mission stations.
 
Nexstar has SSAs and JSAs with the remaining Mission stations. Under the SSAs, the Nexstar station in the market bears the costs of certain services and procurements, in exchange for monthly payments from Mission, as defined in the agreement. Under the JSAs, Nexstar sells each Mission station’s advertising time and retains a percentage of the net revenue from the station’s advertising in exchange for monthly payments to Mission of the remaining percentage of net revenue, as defined in the agreement. The arrangements under these agreements have had the effect of Nexstar receiving substantially all of the available cash, after payment of debt service costs, generated by the Mission stations.
 
On August 28, 2006, Nexstar and Mission entered into a TBA whereby (a) Mission pays Nexstar $5 thousand per month for the right to broadcast Fox programming on KFTA during the Fox network programming time periods and (b) Nexstar pays Mission $20 thousand per month for the right to sell all advertising time on KFTA within the Fox network programming time periods. The TBA arrangement between Nexstar and Mission will terminate upon Mission’s assignment of KFTA’s FCC license from Nexstar. Upon completion of the assignment of KFTA’s license, Mission plans to enter into JSA and SSA agreements with Nexstar-owned KNWA whereby KNWA will provide local news, sales and other non-programming services to KFTA.
 
The impact of all the local service agreements between Nexstar and Mission is eliminated in consolidation.
 
Other Local Service Agreements
 
Local service agreements entered into with other independent third parties which impact the Company’s 2007, 2008 and 2009 consolidated financial statements are discussed below.

 
F-19
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
6. Local Service Agreements—(Continued)
 
As successor to an agreement entered into by TSGH, former owner of WLYH, The CW affiliate in Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon-York, Pennsylvania, Nexstar has a TBA with Newport Television. Under the TBA, Nexstar allows Newport Television to program most of WLYH’s broadcast time, sell its advertising time and retain the advertising revenue generated in exchange for monthly payments to Nexstar. The TBA expires in 2015. This agreement became effective for Nexstar on December 29, 2006 in conjunction with its acquisition of WTAJ and WLYH from TSGH. Nexstar received payments from the owners of WLYH (Clear Channel TV Inc. in 2007 and Newport Television in 2008 and 2009) under the TBA of $50 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.
 
As successor to agreements entered into effective March 21, 2001 by Quorum Broadcast Holdings, LLC, Nexstar had a JSA and SSA with Piedmont Television of Monroe/El Dorado LLC (“Piedmont”), the licensee of KTVE, the NBC affiliate television station in El Dorado, Arkansas. Under the JSA, Nexstar permitted Piedmont to sell to advertisers all of the time available for commercial advertisements on KARD, the Nexstar television station in the market. The JSA also entitled Piedmont to all revenue attributable to commercial advertisements it sells on KARD. During the term of the JSA, Piedmont was obligated to pay Nexstar a monthly fee based on the combined operating cash flow of KTVE and KARD, as defined in the agreement. Under the SSA, Nexstar and Piedmont shared the costs of certain services and procurements, which they individually required in connection with the ownership and operation of their respective station. Nexstar received payments from Piedmont under the JSA agreement of $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. The agreement between Piedmont and Nexstar terminated on January 16, 2008.
 
In conjunction with Mission’s acquisition of KTVE, the NBC affiliate in the Monroe, Louisiana—El Dorado, Arkansas market, effective January 16, 2008, it entered into a SSA and JSA with Nexstar. The terms of the SSA and JSA are comparable to the terms of the SSAs and JSAs between Nexstar and Mission as discussed in Note 2—”Mission.”
 
Effective December 1, 2001, Nexstar entered into an outsourcing agreement with a subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (“Sinclair”), the licensee of WYZZ, the Fox affiliate in Peoria, Illinois. Under the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar provides certain non-programming related engineering, production, sales and administrative services for WYZZ through WMBD, the Nexstar television station in the market. During the term of the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar is obligated to pay Sinclair a monthly fee based on the combined operating cash flow of WMBD and WYZZ, as defined in the agreement, which expires December 31, 2013.  Fees under the outsourcing agreement paid to Sinclair in the amount of $0.7 million, $0.9 million and $0.9 million were included in the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 
Effective September 1, 2005, Nexstar entered into an outsourcing agreement with a subsidiary of Sinclair, the licensee of WUHF, the Fox affiliate in Rochester, New York. Under the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar provides certain non programming related engineering, production, sales and administrative services for WUHF through WROC, the Nexstar television station in the market. During the term of the outsourcing agreement, Nexstar is obligated to pay Sinclair a monthly fee based on the combined operating cash flow of WROC and WUHF, as defined in the agreement, which expires December 31, 2013.  Fees under the outsourcing agreement paid to Sinclair in the amount of $2.4 million, $3.1 million and $2.4 million were included in the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 
F-20
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
7. Property and Equipment
 
Property and equipment consisted of the following:
 
   
Estimated
useful life
(years)
   
2009
   
2008
 
         
(in thousands)
 
Buildings and building improvements
    39     $ 35,651     $ 34,401  
Land and land improvements
    N/A-39       6,809       5,938  
Leasehold improvements
 
term of lease
      2,757       2,751  
Studio and transmission equipment
    5-15       197,728       175,923  
Office equipment and furniture
    3-7       23,972       24,079  
Vehicles
    5       10,416       10,200  
Construction in progress
    N/A       4,514       28,291  
              281,847       281,583  
Less: accumulated depreciation
            (137,566 )     (145,705 )
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation
          $ 144,281     $ 135,878  
 
The Company recorded depreciation expense in the amounts of $21.7 million, $21.0 million and $20.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 
In February 2006, President Bush signed into law legislation that established February 17, 2009 as the deadline for television broadcasters to complete their transition to digital transmission and return their analog spectrum to the FCC. In February 2009, President Obama extended this deadline to June 12, 2009. As a result, the Company reassessed the estimated useful lives of its analog transmission equipment and has accelerated the depreciation of certain equipment affected by the digital conversion. Equipment having a net book value of approximately $9.8 million as of February 1, 2006, which was previously being depreciated over various remaining useful lives which extended from 2010 to 2020, was fully depreciated as of February 17, 2009.  During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 the accelerated depreciation of analog transmission equipment increased depreciation expense and net loss by approximately $0.3 million ($0.01 per basic and diluted share), $2.3 million ($0.08 per basic and diluted share) and $2.3 million ($0.08 per basic and diluted share), respectively.
 
On May 11, 2001, an entity acquired by Nexstar sold certain of its telecommunications tower facilities for cash and then entered into noncancelable operating leases with the buyer for tower space. In 2001, in connection with this transaction a $9.1 million gain on the sale was deferred and is being recognized over the lease term which expires in May 2021. The deferred gain at December 31, 2009 and 2008 was approximately $4.9 million and $5.4 million, respectively ($0.4 million was included in current liabilities at December 31, 2009 and 2008).
 
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, included in net property and equipment is approximately $4.0 million and $4.6 million of costs related to the purchase of software. The asset is being amortized over 10 years, based on the life of the contract. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, $0.3 million representing the current portion of the remaining liability associated with this contract is included in other current liabilities and $3.9 million and $4.3 million representing the long-term portion of the remaining liability associated with this contract is included in other non-current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
 
8. Intangible Assets and Goodwill
 
Intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following:
 
         
December 31,2009
   
December 31, 2009
 
   
Estimated
useful life (years)
   
Gross
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Net
   
Gross
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Net
 
                                           
Network affiliation agreements
    15     $ 344,662     $ (221,945 )   $ 122,717     $ 344,662     $ (199,159 )   $ 145,503  
Other definite-lived intangible assets
    1-15       13,455       (9,956 )     3,499       13,385       (9,037 )     4,348  
Total intangible assets subject to amortization
          $ 358,117     $ (231,901 )   $ 126,216     $ 358,047     $ (208,196 )   $ 149,851  

 
F-21
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
8. Intangible Assets and Goodwill—(Continued)
 
We recorded an impairment charge of $16.2 million during the third quarter of 2009 that included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $8.8 million, related to 19 of our stations and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $7.4 million, related to four reporting units consisting of five of our television stations.  As required by the authoritative guidance for goodwill and other intangible assets, we tested our FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment at September 30, 2009, between the required annual tests, because we believed events had occurred and circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts and that our FCC licenses might be impaired.  These events and circumstances include the overall economic recession and a continued decline in demand for advertising at several of our stations.
 
We completed our annual test for impairment of goodwill and FCC licenses as of December 31, 2009 which resulted in no additional impairment charge.
 
As required by authoritative guidance for goodwill and other intangible assets and authoritative guidance for accounting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets, we tested our network affiliation agreements, FCC licenses and goodwill for impairment at September 30, 2008, because we believed events had occurred and circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts and that our FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements might be impaired. These events included the decline in overall economic conditions and the resulting decline in advertising revenues at some of our television stations. We recorded an impairment charge of $48.5 million that included an impairment to the carrying values of FCC licenses of $19.7 million, related to 12 of our television stations; an impairment to the carrying value of network affiliation agreements of $1.0 million, related to 3 of our television stations; and an impairment to the carrying values of goodwill of $27.8 million, related to 5 reporting units consisting of 6 of our television stations.
 
We performed our annual test for impairment at December 31, 2008 and due to the continued decline in overall economic conditions during the fourth quarter of 2008 and the further decline in our forecasts for advertising revenues at some stations, the Company recorded an additional $33.9 million in impairment charges in the fourth quarter 2008, for an annual total of $82.4 million. Of the additional $33.9 million impairment charges, $21.7 million was for FCC licenses, related to 21 of our television stations, $1.1 million was for network affiliation agreements related to 2 television stations, and $11.1 million was for goodwill, related to 8 reporting units consisting of 10 of our television stations.
 
An impairment in the carrying amount of a network affiliation agreement is recognized when the expected future operating cash flow derived from the operation to which the asset relates to is less than its carrying value. The impairment charge for network affiliation agreements represents a station-by-station comparison of the carrying amount of network affiliation agreements with their fair value, using a discounted cash flow analysis.
 
The impairment test for FCC licenses consists of a station-by-station comparison of the carrying amount of FCC licenses with their fair value, using a discounted cash flows analysis.
 
The impairment test for goodwill utilizes a two-step fair value approach. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the market (“reporting unit”) to its carrying amount.  We aggregate our stations by market for purposes of our goodwill and license impairment testing and we believe that our markets are most representative of our broadcast reporting units because we view, manage and evaluate our stations on a market basis.  The fair value of a reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flows analysis. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by performing an assumed purchase price allocation, using the reporting unit’s fair value (as determined in Step 1) as the purchase price. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
 
Determining the fair value of reporting units requires our management to make a number of judgments about assumptions and estimates that are highly subjective and that are based on unobservable inputs. The actual results may differ from these assumptions and estimates; and it is possible that such differences could have a material impact on our financial statements. In addition to the various inputs (i.e. market growth, operating profit margins, discount rates) that we use to calculate the fair value of our FCC licenses and reporting units, we evaluate the reasonableness of our assumptions by comparing the total fair value of all our reporting units to our total market capitalization; and by comparing the fair value of our reporting units or television stations, and FCC licenses to recent television station sale transactions.

 
F-22
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
8. Intangible Assets and Goodwill—(Continued)
 
As noted above, we are required under authoritative guidance to test our indefinite-lived intangible assets on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that these assets might be impaired. As a result, if the current economic trends continue and the credit and capital markets continue to be disrupted, it is possible that we may record further impairments in the future.
 
The estimated useful life of network affiliation agreements contemplates renewals of the underlying agreements based on Nexstar’s and Mission’s historical ability to renew such agreements without significant cost or modifications to the conditions from which the value of the affiliation was derived. These renewals can result in estimated useful lives of individual affiliations ranging from 12 to 20 years. Management has determined that 15 years is a reasonable estimate within the range of such estimated useful lives.
 
Total amortization expense from definite-lived intangibles for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $23.7 million, $28.1 million and $25.7 million, respectively.
 
The following table presents the Company’s estimate of amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter for definite-lived intangibles assets as of December 31, 2009 (in thousands):
 
Year ending December 31,
     
2010
  $ 23,682  
2011
  $ 23,329  
2012
  $ 23,003  
2013
  $ 17,438  
2014
  $ 10,390  
Thereafter
  $ 28,374  
 
The aggregate carrying value of indefinite-lived intangible assets, consisting of FCC licenses and goodwill, at December 31, 2009 and 2008 was $236.5 million and $240.7 million, respectively. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization, but are tested for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such assets might be impaired. The use of an indefinite life for FCC licenses contemplates the Company’s historical ability to renew their licenses, that such renewals generally may be obtained indefinitely and at little cost, and that the technology used in broadcasting is not expected to be replaced in the foreseeable future. Therefore, cash flows derived from the FCC licenses are expected to continue indefinitely.
 
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, are as follows: 

   
2009
   
2008
 
     
(in thousands)
 
Goodwill
 
$
154,488
   
$
151,686
 
Accumulated impairment losses
   
(38,856
)
   
 
Balance as of January 1
 
$
115,632
   
$
151,686
 
 
Acquisitions
   
431
     
2,802
 
Impairment
   
(7,360
)
   
(38,856
)
Reclassification of asset
   
356
     
 

Goodwill
 
$
155,275
   
$
154,488
 
Accumulated impairment losses
   
(46,216
)
   
(38,856
)
Balance as of December 31, 2009 and 2008
 
$
109,059
   
$
115,632
 

 
F-23
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
8. Intangible Assets and Goodwill—(Continued)
 
The changes in the carrying amount of FCC licenses for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
     
(in thousands)
 
FCC licenses
 
$
166,455
   
$
163,795
 
Accumulated impairment losses
   
(41,398
)
   
 
Balance as of January 1
 
$
125,057
   
$
163,795
 
 
Acquisitions
   
11,234
     
2,660
 
Impairment
   
(8,804
)
   
(41,398
)

FCC licenses
 
$
177,689
   
$
166,455
 
Accumulated impairment losses
   
(50,202
)
   
(41,398
)
Balance as of December 31, 2009 and 2008
 
$
127,487
   
$
125,057
 
 
During 2009, the consummation of the acquisitions of KARZ and WCWJ increased goodwill and FCC licenses by $0.4 million and $11.2 million, respectively.  During 2009, the Company reclassified certain amounts that totaled $0.4 million representing goodwill that was improperly classified as property and equipment when recording the fair value of KTVE assets, which were acquired in 2008.
 
The fair value measurements of our goodwill and FCC licenses are as follows using the three-level fair value hierarchy established by authoritative accounting guidance for the year ended December 31, 2009:
 

 
 
 
Quoted prices in active markets (Level 1)
 
 
Significant observable inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant unobservable inputs
(Level 3)
   
 
Total gains (losses)
 
       
(in thousands)
 
                 
Goodwill
      $ 109,059     $ (7,360 )
FCC licenses
      $ 127,487     $ (8,804 )
 
Determining the fair value of our television stations requires our management to make a number of judgments about assumptions and estimates that are highly subjective and that are based on unobservable inputs or assumptions.  The actual results may differ from these assumptions and estimates; and it is possible that such differences could have a material impact on our financial statements.
 
9. Restructure Charge
 
In February 2009, Nexstar began regionalizing certain accounting and traffic functions. As a result, approximately 93 employees were notified they would be terminated at various points in time through the end of May 2009. These employees were offered termination benefits that aggregated to $0.7 million. To receive any of the termination payments, the employees had to remain employed through their respective termination dates, as specified in the termination agreement. The Company recognized these costs ratably over the period of time between the notice of termination and the termination date.

 
F-24
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
10. Accrued Expenses
 
Accrued expenses consisted of the following:
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Compensation and related taxes
  $ 2,716     $ 3,102  
Sales commissions
    1,338       1,550  
Employee benefits
    897       947  
Property taxes
    362       444  
Other accruals related to operating expenses
    6,876       6,441  
    $ 12,189     $ 12,484  
 
11. Debt
 
Long-term debt consisted of the following:

   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Term loans
  $ 321,689     $ 325,174  
Revolving credit facilities
    77,000       31,000  
7% senior subordinated notes due 2014, net of discount of $929 and $1,708
    46,981       190,778  
7% senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014, net of discount of $10,559
    132,296        
11.375% senior discount notes due 2013
    49,981       77,820  
Senior subordinated PIK notes due 2014, net of discount of $0 and $416
    42,427       37,345  
      670,374       662,117  
Less: current portion
    (7,085 )     (3,485 )
    $ 663,289     $ 658,632  
 
On October 8, 2009, Nexstar amended its senior secured credit facility to modify certain terms of the underlying credit agreement.  The modifications included, but are not limited to, changes to financial covenants, including the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio and Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio, a general tightening of the exceptions to the negative covenants (principally by means of reducing the types and amounts of permitted transactions) and an increase to the interest rates and fees payable with respect to the borrowings under the amended credit agreement.
 
The Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement revises the calculation of leverage ratios to exclude the netting of cash and cash equivalents against total debt.
 
On an annual basis following the delivery of Nexstar's Broadcasting, Inc.'s year end financial statements, the Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement requires mandatory prepayments of principal, as well as a permanent reduction in revolving credit commitments, subject to a computation of excess cash flow for the preceding fiscal year. The amended agreement also places additional restrictions on the use of proceeds from asset sales, equity issuances, or debt issuances (with the result that such proceeds, subject to certain exceptions, be used for mandatory prepayments of principal and permanent reductions in revolving credit commitments), and includes an anti-cash hoarding provision which requires that the Company utilize unrestricted cash and cash equivalent balances in excess of $15.0 million to repay principal amounts outstanding, but not permanently reduce capacity, under the revolving credit facility.
 
The Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement also revised the interest rate provisions.  As amended, borrowings under the Facility may bear interest at either (i) a Eurodollar Rate, which has been amended to include an interest rate floor equal to 1% or (ii) a Base Rate, which, as amended,  is defined as the greater of (1) the sum of 1/2 of 1% plus the Federal Funds Rate, (2) Bank of America, N.A.'s prime rate and (3) the sum of (x) 1% plus (y) the Eurodollar Rate.  The definition of applicable margin was changed to eliminate the pricing grid and replace it with a fixed rate.  As amended, the applicable margin for Eurodollar loans is a rate per annum equal to 4% and the applicable margin for Base Rate loans is a rate per annum equal to 3%.
 
On October 8, 2009, Mission also amended its credit facility and made changes to its credit agreement that generally mirror the changes made to the Nexstar credit agreement.

 
F-25
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
11. Debt—(Continued)
 
The Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement expanded certain cross-default provisions such that the breach of certain warranties, representations or covenants under the Amended Mission Credit Agreement now constitute an event of default under the Amended Nexstar Credit Agreement.
 
In conjunction with the amendment to our credit agreement and the related collateralization of company-owned real estate, $1.7 million related to professional and legal fees were recognized as administrative expense as incurred.  Additionally, Nexstar and Mission paid $5.2 million in bank fees related to the debt amendment, which were capitalized and are being amortized over the remaining term of the credit facility.
 
The Nexstar Senior Secured Credit Facility
 
The Nexstar senior secured credit facility (the “Nexstar Facility”) consists of a Term Loan B and a $82.5 million revolving loan. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, Nexstar had $156.3 million and $158.1 million, respectively, outstanding under its Term Loan B and $70.0 million and $24.0 million, respectively outstanding under its revolving loan at each of these dates.
 
The Term Loan B matures in October 2012 and is payable in consecutive quarterly installments amortized at 0.25% quarterly, with the remaining 93.25% due at maturity. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, repayments of Nexstar’s Term Loan B totaled $1.8 million per year, all of which were scheduled maturities. The revolving loan is not subject to incremental reduction and matures in April 2012. During the year ended December 31, 2009, repayments of Nexstar’s revolving loan totaled $8.0 million and borrowings under Nexstar’s revolving loan totaled $54.0 million. Nexstar Broadcasting is required to prepay borrowings outstanding under the Nexstar Facility with certain net proceeds, recoveries and excess cash flows as defined in the credit facility agreement.
 
Interest rates are selected at Nexstar Broadcasting’s option and the applicable margin is adjusted quarterly as defined in the credit facility agreement. The total weighted average interest rate of the Nexstar Facility was 5.02% and 3.35% at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Interest is payable periodically based on the type of interest rate selected. Additionally, Nexstar Broadcasting is required to pay quarterly commitment fees on the unused portion of its revolving loan commitment of 0.75% per annum, based on the consolidated senior leverage ratio of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission for that particular quarter.
 
The Mission Senior Secured Credit Facility
 
The Mission senior secured credit facility (the “Mission Facility”) consists of a Term Loan B and a $15.0 million revolving loan. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, Mission had $165.4 million and $167.1 million, respectively, outstanding under its Term Loan B and $7.0 million outstanding under its revolving loan at both dates.
 
Terms of the Mission Facility, including repayment, maturity and interest rates, are the same as the terms of the Nexstar Facility described above. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, repayments of Mission’s Term Loan B totaled $1.7 million for each year. Interest rates are selected at Mission’s option and the applicable margin is adjusted quarterly as defined in the credit facility agreement. The total weighted average interest rate of the Mission Facility was 5.0% and 3.19% at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
Unused Commitments and Borrowing Availability
 
Based on covenant calculations, as of December 31, 2009, the company had $20.5 million of total unused revolving loan commitments under the Nexstar and Mission credit facilities, all of which was available for borrowing.
 
Senior Subordinated Notes
 
On December 30, 2003, Nexstar Broadcasting issued $125.0 million of 7% senior subordinated notes (the “7% Notes”) at par. The 7% Notes mature on January 15, 2014. Interest is payable every six months in arrears on January 15 and July 15. The 7% Notes are guaranteed by all of the domestic existing and future restricted subsidiaries of Nexstar Broadcasting and by Mission. The 7% Notes are general unsecured senior subordinated obligations subordinated to all of the Company’s senior secured credit facilities. The 7% Notes are redeemable on or after January 15, 2009, at declining premiums. The proceeds of the offering were used to finance an acquisition.
 
The 7% Notes discussed above have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 in accordance with the terms of a registration rights agreement.

 
F-26
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
11. Debt—(Continued)
 
On April 1, 2005, Nexstar Broadcasting issued $75.0 million at a price of 98.01%. Proceeds obtained under the offering were net of a $1.1 million payment provided to investors purchasing the notes which was included as a component of the discount.
 
On January 15, 2009, Nexstar purchased approximately $1.0 million of its outstanding 7% senior subordinated notes for $0.4 million, plus accrued interest of $1 thousand.  This transaction resulted in a gain of $0.6 million for 2009.  On October 16, 2008, Nexstar purchased $5.0 million (face value) of the Company’s outstanding 7% Notes. The cash paid was approximately $3.1 million which included approximately $0.1 million of accrued interest. On October 28, 2008, Nexstar purchased $2.5 million (face value) of the 7% Notes for approximately $1.5 million, which included approximately $0.1 million of accrued interest. As a result of these two transactions, Nexstar recognized a combined gain of $2.9 million in 2008. This amount is net of a $0.1 million pro-rata write-off of debt financing costs associated with the 7% Notes.
 
On February 27, 2009, Nexstar Broadcasting, an indirect subsidiary of Nexstar, announced the commencement of an offer to exchange up to $143,600,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding $191,510,000 in aggregate principal amount of 7% senior subordinated notes due 2014 (the “Old Notes”) in exchange for (i) up to $142,320,761 in aggregate principal amount of Nexstar Broadcasting’s 7% senior subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (the “New Notes”), to be guaranteed by each of the existing guarantors to the Old Notes and (ii) cash. The total exchange price received by tendering holders of the Old Notes in the exchange offer included an early participation payment of $30.00 per $1,000 principal amount of Old Notes payable only to holders who tendered their Old Notes at or before March 10, 2009, which is in addition to the $93.10 per $1,000 principal amount of Old Notes payable to all holders who validly tendered their Old Notes on March 26, 2009. The exchange closed on March 30, 2009. The New Notes mature on January 15, 2014, unless earlier redeemed or repurchased. The New Notes are general unsecured senior subordinated obligations subordinated to all of Nexstar Broadcasting’s senior debt. Nexstar Broadcasting pays interest on the New Notes on January 15 and July 15 of each year, commencing on July 15, 2009. Interest is computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months. However, prior to January 15, 2011, the interest on the New Notes will not be cash interest. From the date of issuance through January 15, 2011, Nexstar Broadcasting pays interest on the New Notes entirely by issuing additional New Notes (the “PIK Interest”). PIK Interest accrues on the New Notes at a rate per annum equal to 0.5%, calculated on a semi-annual bond equivalent basis. From and after January 15, 2011, all New Notes (including those received as PIK Interest) will accrue interest in cash at a rate of 7% per annum, which interest will be payable semi-annually in cash on each January 15 and July 15, commencing on July 15, 2011. As a result of the exchange offer and the subsequently accrued PIK interest, Nexstar now has approximately $142.9 million in aggregate principal of New Notes outstanding and approximately $47.9 million in aggregate principal amount of Old Notes outstanding.  The effective interest rate on the Old and New Notes approximates the stated interest rate.  Total cash consideration paid to tendering bondholders was $17.7 million. The exchange transaction was accounted for as a modification of existing debt.  In connection with the issuance of the senior subordinated PIK notes, $142.3 million of the debt exchange resulted in a non cash transaction in the statement of cash flows.  The Company incurred $2.9 million in fees related to the transaction, including banking fees, legal fees and accounting fees, which were charged to selling, general and administrative expenses.
 
Senior Subordinated PIK Notes
 
On June 27, 2008, Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. issued senior subordinated payment-in-kind notes due 2014 (the “PIK Notes”) in aggregate principal amount of $35.6 million at a purchase price equal to 98.25% or $35.0 million. The transaction closed on June 30, 2008.
 
The PIK Notes bear interest at the rate of: (a) 12% per annum from June 30, 2008 to January 15, 2010, payable entirely during such period by increasing the principal amount of the Notes by an amount equal to the amount of interest then due (“Payment-in-Kind Interest”); (b) 13% per annum, payable entirely in cash, from January 16, 2010 to July 15, 2010; (c) 13.5% per annum, payable entirely in cash, from July 16, 2010 to January 15, 2011; (d) 14.0% per annum, payable entirely in cash, from January 16, 2011 to July 15, 2011; (e) 14.5% per annum, payable entirely in cash, from July 16, 2011 to January 15, 2012; and (f) 15% per annum, payable entirely in cash, thereafter. The Notes shall bear interest on the increased principal amount thereof from and after the applicable interest payment date on which a payment of payment-in-kind interest is made.  The effective interest rate on these Notes approximates the stated interest rate.  The Notes mature on January 15, 2014, unless earlier redeemed or repurchased.  The PIK Notes are general unsecured senior subordinated obligations subordinated to all of the Company’s senior secured credit facilities.
 
In December 2009, the Company filed a registration statement, effective December 31, 2009, that registered the senior subordinated PIK Notes under the Securities Act of 1933 in accordance with the terms of a registration rights agreement.

 
F-27
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
11. Debt—(Continued)
 
Senior Discount Notes
 
On March 27, 2003, Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. (“Nexstar Finance Holdings”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar, issued $130.0 million principal amount at maturity of 11.375% senior discount notes (the “11.375% Notes”) at a price of 57.442%.  The effective interest rate on the 11.375% Notes approximates the stated interest rate.  The 11.375% Notes mature on April 1, 2013. Each 11.375% Note will have an accreted value at maturity of $1,000. The 11.375% Notes began accruing cash interest on April 1, 2008 with payments due every six months in arrears on April 1 and October 1. On April 1, 2008, Nexstar redeemed a principal amount of notes outstanding of $46.9 million sufficient to ensure that the 11.375% Notes will not be “Applicable High Yield Discount Obligations” within the meaning of Section 163(i)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. In September 2008, Nexstar repurchased $5.3 million of these notes at par, pursuant to the purchase agreement pertaining to the senior subordinated PIK Notes. Debt financing costs of $0.1 million were expensed in conjunction with the repurchase. On various dates throughout January and February 2009, Nexstar purchased some of the outstanding 11.375% senior discount notes issued by Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. with a total face value of $27.8 million for $9.6 million, plus accrued interest of $1.0 million. These transactions resulted in total gains of $18.0 million in 2009.  The 11.375% Notes are general unsecured senior obligations effectively subordinated to the Nexstar Facility and are structurally subordinated to the 7% Notes, 7% PIK Notes and senior subordinated PIK Notes.
 
The 11.375% Notes discussed above have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 in accordance with the terms of a registration rights agreement.
 
Guarantee of Subordinated and Discount Notes
 
On September 29, 2004, Nexstar executed full and unconditional guarantees with respect to the 7% Notes, each issued by Nexstar Broadcasting, an indirect subsidiary of Nexstar, and the 11.375% Notes issued by Nexstar Finance Holdings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar. Mission is a guarantor of the senior subordinated notes issued by Nexstar Broadcasting.
 
Collateralization and Guarantees of Debt
 
The bank credit facilities described above are collateralized by a security interest in substantially all the combined assets, excluding FCC licenses, of Nexstar and Mission. Nexstar and its subsidiaries guarantee full payment of all obligations incurred under the Mission Facility in the event of Mission’s default. Similarly, Mission is a guarantor of the Nexstar Facility and the senior subordinated notes issued by Nexstar Broadcasting.
 
In consideration of Nexstar’s guarantee of Mission’s senior credit facility, the sole shareholder of Mission has granted Nexstar a purchase option to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of each Mission station, subject to FCC consent. These option agreements (which expire on various dates between 2011 and 2018) are freely exercisable or assignable by Nexstar without consent or approval by the sole shareholder of Mission. The Company expects these option agreements to be renewed upon expiration.
 
The 11.375% Notes are general unsecured senior obligations effectively subordinated to the Nexstar facility and are structurally subordinated to the 7% Notes, 7% PIK Notes and senior subordinated PIK Notes.
 
Debt Covenants
 
The Nexstar Facility contains covenants which require the Company to comply with certain financial covenant ratios, including (1) a maximum total combined leverage ratio of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission of 8.75 times the last twelve months operating cash flow (as defined in the credit agreement) at December 31, 2009, (2) a maximum combined senior leverage ratio of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission of 7.00 times the last twelve months operating cash flow at December 31, 2009, (3) a minimum combined interest coverage ratio of 1.50 to 1.00, and (4) a fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.15 to 1.00.  Although the Nexstar and Mission senior credit facilities allow for payment of cash dividends to common stockholders, Nexstar and Mission do not currently intend to declare or pay a cash dividend. The covenants, which are formally calculated on a quarterly basis, are based on the combined results of Nexstar Broadcasting and Mission. Mission’s bank credit facility agreement does not contain financial covenant ratio requirements, but does provide for default in the event Nexstar does not comply with all covenants contained in its credit agreement. As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all indentures governing the publicly-held notes.  As of September 30, 2009, we were not in compliance with all covenants contained in the credit agreement governing our senior secured credit facility.  The October 8, 2009 debt amendment contained a limited waiver for the leverage ratios which cured the violation as of September 30, 2009.  As of December 31, 2009, we are in compliance with all of our covenants.

 
F-28
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
11. Debt—(Continued)
 
In order to make further borrowings under the Nexstar Facility, Nexstar Broadcasting is required to be in compliance with these and other covenants including the requirement that there shall not have occurred any material adverse effect on the operational business assets, properties, condition (financial or otherwise) or prospects of the Company.
 
Fair Value of Debt
 
The aggregate carrying amounts and estimated fair value of Nexstar’s and Mission’s debt were as follows:
 
   
December 31, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Fair Value
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Fair Value
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Term loans(1)
  $ 321,689     $ 301,254     $ 325,174     $ 293,388  
Revolving credit facilities(1)
  $ 77,000     $ 72,865     $ 31,000     $ 27,829  
7% Senior subordinated notes(2)
  $ 46,981     $ 36,645     $ 190,778     $ 78,219  
7% senior subordinated PIK notes(2)
  $ 132,296     $ 103,191     $     $  
Senior subordinated PIK notes(2)
  $ 42,427     $ 28,214     $ 37,345     $ 16,805  
Senior discount notes(2)
  $ 49,981     $ 41,734     $ 77,820     $ 26,264  
         
(1)
The fair value of bank credit facilities is computed based on borrowing rates currently available to Nexstar and Mission for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities.  These fair value measurements are considered Level 3 (significant and unobservable).
(2)
The fair value of Nexstar’s fixed rate debt is estimated based on bid prices obtained from an investment banking firm that regularly makes a market for these financial instruments.  These fair value measurements are considered Level 2 (significant and observable).
 
Debt Maturities
 
At December 31, 2009, scheduled maturities of Nexstar’s and Mission’s debt (undiscounted) are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
Year ended December 31,
     
2010
  $ 7,085  
2011
    3,485  
2012
    388,119  
2013
    49,981  
2014
    234,138  
Thereafter
    —   
    $ 682,808  
 
12. Contract Termination
 
On March 31, 2008, Nexstar signed a ten year agreement for national sales representation with two units of Katz Television Group, a subsidiary of Katz Media Group (“Katz”), transferring 24 stations in 14 of its markets from Petry Television Inc. (“Petry”) and Blair Television Inc. (“Blair”). Nexstar, Blair, Petry and Katz entered into a termination and mutual release agreement under which Blair agreed to release Nexstar from its future contractual obligations in exchange for payments totaling $8.0 million. The payments will be paid by Katz on behalf of Nexstar as an inducement for Nexstar to enter into the new long-term contract with Katz. Nexstar recognized a $7.2 million charge associated with terminating the contracts, which is reflected as non-cash contract termination fees in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations. The $7.2 million charge was calculated as the present value of the future payments to be made by Katz. The liability established as a result of the termination represents an incentive received from Katz that will be accounted for as a termination obligation, and will be recognized as a non-cash reduction to operating expenses over the term of the agreement with Katz.

 
F-29
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
12. Contract Termination—(Continued)
 
Effective May 1, 2009 we signed another agreement to transfer the remaining Nexstar stations to Katz and its related companies.  Moving these contracts resulted in Nexstar cancelling multiple contracts with Blair.  As a result, Blair has sued the Company for additional termination fees.  Katz has indemnified the Company for all expenses related to the settlement and defense of this lawsuit.  Termination of these contracts resulted in a non-cash contract termination fee of $191 thousand.  The associated termination incentive will be recognized as a reduction in operating expenses over the ten year contract term.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the current portion of these deferred amounts of approximately $0.7 million was included in other current liabilities and the long-term portion in the amount of approximately $5.6 million and $6.0 million, respectively was included in deferred representation fee incentive in the accompanying condensed balance sheet.  The Company recognized $0.8 million and $0.6 million of these incentives as a reduction of selling, general and administrative expense for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
13. Other Noncurrent Liabilities
 
Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following:
 
   
December 31, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
Deferred rent
  $ 7,679     $ 7,222  
Software agreement obligation
    3,931       4,281  
Other
    2,200       1,772  
    $ 13,810     $ 13,275  
 
14. Common Stock
 
In May 2007, Banc of America Capital Investors L.P. converted 662,529 non-voting shares of Nexstar Class C common stock into an equivalent number of voting shares of Nexstar Class A common stock.
 
The holders of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share and the holders of Class B common stock are entitled to 10 votes per share. Holders of Class A common stock and Class B common stock generally vote together as a single class on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders. Holders of Class C common stock have no voting rights.
 
The shares of Class B common stock and Class C common stock are convertible as follows: (i) holders of shares of Class B common stock or Class C common stock may elect at any time to convert their shares into an equal number of shares of Class A common stock; or (ii) the Class B common stock will automatically convert into Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis if the holder transfers to anyone other than a certain group of shareholders; or (iii) if Class B common stock represents less than 10.0% of the total common stock outstanding, all of the Class B common stock will automatically convert into Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis.
 
The Common stockholders are entitled to receive cash dividends, subject to the rights of holders of any series of Preferred Stock, on an equal per share basis.
 
15. Stock-Based Compensation Plans
 
Stock-Based Compensation
 
The Company measures compensation cost related to stock options based on the grant-date fair value of the award using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and recognizes it ratably, less estimated forfeitures, over the vesting term of the award. At January 1, 2006, the aggregate value of the unvested portion of previously issued stock options was approximately $6.1 million. Compensation cost related to these stock options is being recognized as expense ratably over the remaining vesting period of the awards which become fully-vested in 2010.
The weighted-average assumptions used in the Black-Scholes calculation for option grants during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

   
2009
 
   
2008
 
   
2007
 
 
Expected volatility
    82.27 %     54.25 %     48.06 %
Risk-free interest rates
    3.10 %     3.07 %     3.63 %
Expected term
 
6.0 years
   
5.34 years
   
6.0 years
 
Dividend yields
    0 %     0 %     0 %
Fair value per share of options granted
  $ 0.61     $ 2.35     $ 4.55  

 
F-30
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
15. Stock-Based Compensation Plans—(Continued)
 
The expected volatility assumption used for stock option grants in 2009, 2008 and 2007 is based on a combination of the historical market prices of Nexstar’s common stock and volatilities of peer companies in the television broadcasting industry over the expected term of the granted option. The Company utilized peer company data due to Nexstar’s limited history of publicly traded shares. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the expected term assumption represents the weighted-average period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding, giving consideration to vesting periods and historical exercise and post-vesting cancellation experience. Prior to adopting the current accounting and disclosure requirements for share-based payments, expected volatility was based solely on the historical market prices of Nexstar’s common stock and expected term equaled the vesting period of the stock option. The risk-free interest rates used are based on the daily U.S. Treasury yield curve rate in effect at the time of the grant having a period commensurate with the expected term assumption.
 
The Company does not currently recognize a tax benefit resulting from compensation costs expensed in the financial statements because the Company provides a valuation allowance against the deferred tax asset resulting from this type of temporary difference since it expects that it will not have sufficient future taxable income to realize such benefit.
 
Description and Activity of Stock-Based Compensation Plans
 
Nexstar has two stock-based employee compensation plans: the 2006 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) and the 2003 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan (the “2003 Plan”) (collectively, the “Equity Plans”), which provide for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and performance awards to directors, employees of Nexstar or consultants. Approved by Nexstar’s shareholders on May 30, 2006, a maximum of 1,500,000 shares of Nexstar’s Class A common stock can be issued under the 2006 Plan. Under the 2003 Plan, a maximum of 3,000,000 shares of Nexstar’s Class A common stock can be issued. As of December 31, 2009, a total of 434,000 shares and 273,000 shares were available for future grant under the 2006 Plan and 2003 Plan, respectively.
 
As of December 31, 2009, options to purchase 3,726,000 shares of Nexstar’s Class A common stock were outstanding under the Equity Plans. Options are granted with an exercise price at least equal to the fair market value of the underlying shares of common stock on the date of the grant, vest over five years and expire ten years from the date of grant. Except as otherwise determined by the compensation committee or with respect to the termination of a participant’s services in certain circumstances, including a change of control, no grant may be exercised within six months of the date of the grant. Upon the employee’s termination, all nonvested options are forfeited immediately and any unexercised vested options are canceled from 30 to 180 days following the termination date. Nexstar intends to issue new shares of its Class A common stock when options are exercised.
 
During 2006, Nexstar granted 30,000 shares of restricted stock under the 2003 Plan. This award vested monthly in increments of 2,500 shares and became fully vested as of January 23, 2007. The fair value of the award totaled $140 thousand, which was based on the market price of Nexstar’s common stock on the date of grant, and was recognized as an expense ratably over the vesting period. Nexstar recorded $11 thousand and $129 thousand of compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, related to the restricted stock, which was included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.

 
F-31
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
15. Stock-Based Compensation Plans—(Continued)
 
The following table summarizes stock award activity and related information for all of Nexstar’s Equity Plans for the year ended December 31, 2009 (not presented in thousands):
 
         
Outstanding Options
 
   
Shares
Available
for Grant
   
Shares
   
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (Years)
   
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value(2)
 
Balance at January 1, 2009
    723,000       3,715,000     $ 8.13              
Options granted
    (585,000 )     585,000     $ 0.85              
Options exercised
          (5,000 )   $ 2.58              
Options forfeited/cancelled
    569,000       (569,000 )   $ 5.69              
Balance at December 31, 2009
    707,000       3,726,000     $ 7.36       6.44     $ 1,824,050  
Exercisable at December 31, 2009
            2,396,991     $ 9.07       5.43     $ 3,660  
Fully vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2009
            3,673,773     $ 7.41       6.42     $ 1,736,054  
         
(1)
All options granted during the year ended December 31, 2009 had an exercise price equal to the grant-date market price.
(2)
Aggregate intrinsic value includes effects of estimated forfeitures and represents the difference between the closing market price of Nexstar’s common stock on the last day of the fiscal period, which was $4.05 on December 31, 2009, and the exercise price multiplied by the number of options outstanding.
 
At December 31, 2009, there was approximately $2.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to stock options that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.8 years.
 
The following table summarizes information about options outstanding as of December 31, 2009 (not presented in thousands):
 
Options Outstanding
   
Options Exercisable
 
Range of
Exercise Prices
   
Number
Outstanding at
12/31/09
   
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
   
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Number
Exercisable at
12/31/09
   
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
$ 0.75 - $4.99       1,734,000       7.48     $ 3.39       808,000     $ 4.59  
$ 5.00 - $6.99       55,000       7.71     $ 5.38       18,000     $ 5.38  
$ 7.00 - $8.99       520,000       4.95     $ 8.62       520,000     $ 8.62  
$ 9.00 - $13.99       632,000       7.80     $ 9.17       272,000     $ 9.36  
$ 14.00 - $14.49       785,000       3.96     $ 14.01       778,991     $ 14.01  
          3,726,000                       2,396,991          
 
16. Gain on Asset Exchange
 
In 2004, the FCC approved a spectrum allocation exchange between Sprint Nextel Corporation (“Nextel”) and certain public safety entities to eliminate interference being caused to public safety radio licensees by Nextel’s operations on certain frequencies. As part of this spectrum exchange, the FCC granted Nextel the right to certain spectrum within the 1.9 GHz band that is currently used by television broadcasters to carry their programming by microwave link to their studio or transmitter sites. In order to utilize this spectrum, Nextel is required to relocate spectrum used by broadcasters in the 1.9 GHz band to spectrum on different frequencies by, in part, replacing all analog equipment associated with those microwave link facilities being used by broadcasters with comparable digital equipment. The Company has agreed to accept the substitute equipment that Nextel has provided and will provide and in turn must relinquish all of its analog equipment back to Nextel. This transition began on a market by market basis beginning in the second quarter of 2007. Each piece of equipment the Company receives and has received under this arrangement is recorded at its estimated fair market value and is depreciated over its estimated useful life ranging from 5 to 15 years. Management’s determination of the fair market value is derived from the most recent prices paid to manufacturers and vendors for the specific equipment acquired. As equipment is exchanged, the Company records a gain to the extent that the fair market value of the equipment received exceeds the carrying amount of the equipment relinquished. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company recognized gains of $8.1 million, $4.8 million and $2.0 million, respectively from the exchange of this equipment.

 
F-32
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
17. Gain on Casualty Loss
 
On February 2, 2009, the building in Port Arthur, Texas suffered extensive fire damage resulting in a total loss of the building. The operations previously performed in this building had been moved to Little Rock, Arkansas prior to the fire. The building was fully insured and the payout on the claim resulted in a net gain of $1.0 million. 
 
On May 8, 2009, a transmission tower at KSNF collapsed, damaging a portion of the facility and nearby property.  The settlement of the claim resulted in a net gain of $2.3 million, which is included in gain on asset disposal, net.  Of the insurance proceeds received, $0.5 million was related to business interruption.
 
18. Income Taxes
 
The provision (benefit) for income taxes consisted of the following components:
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Current tax expense (benefit):
                 
Federal
  $     $     $ (100 )
State
    413       560       528  
      413       560       428  
Deferred tax expense (benefit):
                       
Federal
    (209 )     (5,327 )     5,308  
State
    (4 )     (549 )     71  
      (213 )     (5,876 )     5,379  
Income tax expense (benefit)
  $ 200     $ (5,316 )   $ 5,807  
 
The provision for income taxes differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% to loss from operations before income taxes. The sources and tax effects of the differences were as follows:
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Tax benefit at 35% statutory federal rate
  $ (4,345 )   $ (29,181 )   $ (4,888 )
Change in valuation allowance
    3,873       13,915       10,684  
State and local taxes, net of federal benefit
    (482 )     (1,051 )     (86 )
Adjustment to tax reserve liability
                (100 )
Nondeductible goodwill impairment
    262       10,794        
Other permanent differences
    892       207       197  
Income tax expense (benefit)
  $ 200     $ (5,316 )   $ 5,807  
 

 
F-33
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
18. Income Taxes—(Continued)
 
The components of the net deferred tax liability were as follows:
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Deferred tax assets:
           
Net operating loss carryforwards
  $ 154,552     $ 150,188  
Other intangible assets
    5,961       8,575  
Deferred revenue
    3,644       3,482  
Deferred gain on sale of assets
    1,907       2,077  
Other
    11,503       10,205  
Total deferred tax assets
    177,567       174,527  
Valuation allowance
    (169,510 )     (166,783 )
Net deferred tax assets
    8,057       7,744  
Deferred tax liabilities:
               
Property and equipment
    (7,451 )     (7,124 )
Goodwill
    (11,830 )     (12,088 )
FCC licenses
    (26,603 )     (26,576 )
Total deferred tax liabilities
    (45,884 )     (45,788 )
Net deferred tax liability
  $ (37,827 )   $ (38,044 )
 
The provision for income tax is primarily comprised of deferred income taxes created by an increase in the deferred tax liabilities position during the year resulting from the amortization of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for income tax purposes which are not amortized for financial reporting purposes. The provision was offset, in part, by the impact of the impairment charge which reduced the carrying value of goodwill and other indefinite-lived assets for financial reporting purposes and decreased the related deferred tax liability.  The deferred tax liabilities do not reverse on a scheduled basis and are not used to support the realization of deferred tax assets. The Company’s deferred tax assets primarily result from federal and state net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”). The Company’s NOLs are available to reduce future taxable income if utilized before their expiration. The Company has provided a valuation allowance for certain deferred tax assets as it believes they may not be realized through future taxable earnings.
 
On May 18, 2006, the State of Texas enacted legislation to change its existing franchise tax from a tax based on taxable capital or earned surplus to a tax based on modified gross revenue (“Margin Tax”). The former Texas franchise tax structure remained in existence until the end of 2006. Beginning in 2007, the Margin Tax imposes a 1% tax on revenues, less certain costs, as specified in the legislation, generated from Texas activities. Additionally, the legislation provides a temporary credit for Texas business loss carryovers existing through 2006 to be utilized as an offset to the Margin Tax. On June 15, 2007, the Texas Governor signed legislation that provided various technical corrections to the Texas Margin Tax. Based on the changes provided in this newly enacted tax law, the Company adjusted its temporary credit for Texas business loss carryovers to be utilized as an offset to the Margin Tax and a related deferred tax asset during the second quarter of 2007. The effect of the revision made to the temporary credit increased the Company’s deferred tax assets position resulting in approximately a $0.5 million reduction in the deferred state income tax provision for the year ended December 31, 2007.

 
F-34
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
18. Income Taxes—(Continued)
 
As discussed in Note 2, the Company adopted interpretive guidance related to uncertainty surrounding tax benefits on January 1, 2007. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the total amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2009
  $ 3,677  
Increases in tax positions from prior years
     
Decreases in tax positions from prior years
     
Increases in tax positions for current year
     
Settlements
     
Lapse in statute of limitations
    —   
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2009
  $ 3,677  
 
Interest expense and penalties related to the Company’s uncertain tax positions would be reflected as a component of income tax expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company did not accrue interest on the unrecognized tax benefits as an unfavorable outcome upon examination would not result in a cash outlay but would reduce NOLs subject to a valuation allowance.
 
As of December 31, 2009, the total gross unrecognized tax benefits were approximately $3.7 million. If recognized, this amount would result in a favorable effect on the Company’s effective tax rate excluding impact on the Company’s valuation allowance position. The Company does not expect the amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly change in the next twelve months.
 
The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. The Company is subject to U.S. federal tax examinations for years after 2005.  Additionally, any NOLs that were generated in prior years and will be utilized in the future may also be subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. State jurisdictions that remain subject to examination are not considered significant.
 
The valuation allowance increased for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 by $2.7 million and $14.6 million primarily related to the generation of current year net operating losses, the benefit of which may not be realized.
 
At December 31, 2009, the Company has NOLs available of approximately $430.2 million which are available to reduce future taxable income if utilized before their expiration. The federal NOLs begin to expire in 2009 through 2029 if not utilized. Utilization of NOLs in the future may be limited if changes in the Company’s ownership occurs.  

 
F-35
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
19. FCC Regulatory Matters
 
Television broadcasting is subject to the jurisdiction of the FCC under the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the “Communications Act”). The Communications Act prohibits the operation of television broadcasting stations except under a license issued by the FCC, and empowers the FCC, among other things, to issue, revoke, and modify broadcasting licenses, determine the location of television stations, regulate the equipment used by television stations, adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of the Communications Act and impose penalties for the violation of such regulations. The FCC’s ongoing rule making proceedings could have a significant future impact on the television industry and on the operation of the Company’s stations and the stations it provides services to. In addition, the U.S. Congress may act to amend the Communications Act in a manner that could impact the Company’s stations, the stations it provides services to and the television broadcast industry in general.
 
Some of the more significant FCC regulatory matters impacting the Company’s operations are discussed below.
 
Digital Television (“DTV”) Conversion
 
In February 2009, President Obama signed into law legislation that established June 12, 2009 as the deadline for television broadcasters to complete their transition to DTV-only operations and return their analog spectrum to the FCC. The DTV transmission system delivers video and audio signals of higher quality (including high definition television) than the existing analog transmission system. DTV also has substantial capabilities for multiplexing (the broadcast of several channels of programs concurrently) and data transmission. The introduction of digital television requires consumers to purchase new television sets that are capable of receiving and displaying the DTV signals, or adapters to receive DTV signals and convert them to analog signals for display on their existing receivers.
 
On June 12, 2009 all full-power television broadcasters were required to cease operating in an analog format and operate exclusively in digital (DTV) format. As of December 31, 2009, all of Nexstar’s and Mission’s stations have completed the transition to digital operations; however, Nexstar is working with the FCC with respect to KMID’s authorization.  
 
DTV conversion expenditures were $8.4 million, $23.3 million and $8.6 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.
 
Media Ownership
 
In 2006, the FCC initiated a rulemaking proceeding which provides for a comprehensive review of all of its media ownership rules, as required by the Communications Act. The Commission considered rules relating to ownership of two or more TV stations in a market, ownership of local TV and radio stations by daily newspapers in the same market, cross-ownership of local TV and radio stations, and changes to how the national TV ownership limits are calculated. In February 2008, the FCC adopted modest changes to its newspaper broadcast cross-ownership rule while retaining the rest of its ownership rules then currently in effect.  Multiple challenges to this proceeding were filed with the U.S. Courts of Appeal.  The court proceedings remain pending.  The FCC will be making a further review of its media ownership rules in 2010.
 
The FCC is required by statute to review its media ownership rules every four years and to eliminate those rules it finds no longer serve the “public interest, convenience and necessity”.  During 2009, the FCC held a series of hearings designed to evaluate possible changes to its rules.  Sometime during 2010, the FCC is expected to officially initiate the next statutorily-mandated review of its media ownership rules and request public comments thereon.

 
F-36
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
20. Commitments and Contingencies
 
Broadcast Rights Commitments
 
Broadcast rights acquired for cash under license agreements are recorded as an asset and a corresponding liability at the inception of the license period. Future minimum payments arising from unavailable future broadcast license commitments outstanding are as follows at December 31, 2009 (in thousands):
 
Year ended December 31,
     
2010
  $ 1,875  
2011
    4,596  
2012
    2,180  
2013
    414  
2014
    268  
Thereafter
    41  
Future minimum payments for unavailable cash broadcast rights
  $ 9,374  
 
Unavailable broadcast rights commitments represent obligations to acquire cash program rights for which the license period has not commenced and, accordingly, for which no asset or liability has been recorded.
 
Operating Leases
 
The Company leases office space, vehicles, towers, antennae sites, studio and other operating equipment under noncancelable operating lease arrangements expiring through April 2032.  Charges to operations for such leases aggregated approximately $6.2 million, $6.1 million and $5.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Future minimum lease payments under these operating leases are as follows at December 31, 2009 (in thousands):
 
Year ended December 31,
     
2010
  $ 4,606  
2011
    4,593  
2012
    4,514  
2013
    4,564  
2014
    4,162  
Thereafter
    38,643  
    $ 61,082  
 
Guarantee of Mission Debt
 
Nexstar and its subsidiaries guarantee full payment of all obligations incurred under Misson’s senior credit facility agreement. In the event that Mission is unable to repay amounts due under its credit facility, Nexstar will be obligated to repay such amounts. The maximum potential amount of future payments that Nexstar would be required to make under this guarantee would be generally limited to the amount of borrowings outstanding under the Mission credit facility. At December 31, 2009, Mission had $172.4 million outstanding under its senior credit facility.
 
Indemnification Obligations
 
In connection with certain agreements that the Company enters into in the normal course of its business, including local service agreements, business acquisitions and borrowing arrangements, the Company enters into contractual arrangements under which the Company agrees to indemnify the third party to such arrangement from losses, claims and damages incurred by the indemnified party for certain events as defined within the particular contract. Such indemnification obligations may not be subject to maximum loss clauses and the maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these indemnification arrangements may be unlimited. Historically, payments made related to these indemnifications have been immaterial and the Company has not incurred significant costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification agreements.

 
F-37
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
20. Commitments and Contingencies—(Continued)
 
Collective Bargaining Agreements
 
As of December 31, 2009, certain technical, production and news employees at six of the Company’s stations are covered by collective bargaining agreements. The Company believes that employee relations are satisfactory and has not experienced any work stoppages at any of its stations. However, there can be no assurance that the collective bargaining agreements will be renewed in the future or that the Company will not experience a prolonged labor dispute, which could have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, or results of operations.
 
Litigation
 
From time to time, the Company is involved with claims that arise out of the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, any resulting liability with respect to these claims would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information
 
Senior Discount Notes
 
The following condensed consolidating financial information presents the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company, each of its 100%, directly or indirectly, owned subsidiaries. This information is presented in lieu of separate financial statements and other related disclosures pursuant to Regulation S-X Rule 3-10 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, “Financial Statements of Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities Registered or being Registered.”  
 
The Nexstar column presents the parent company’s financial information (not including any subsidiaries). The Nexstar Holdings column presents its financial information (not including any subsidiaries). The Nexstar Broadcasting column presents the financial information of Nexstar Broadcasting. The Mission column presents the financial information of Mission, an entity which Nexstar Broadcasting is required to consolidate as a variable interest entity (see Note 2).
 
Prior periods have been reclassified to conform to current presentation.
 
The Company and its subsidiaries have the following notes outstanding:
 
 
1.  
Nexstar Holdings, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar, has 11.375% senior discount notes (“11.375% Notes”) due in 2013. The 11.375% Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Nexstar but not guaranteed by any other entities. 
 
 
2.  
Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexstar Holdings, has the following notes outstanding: 
 
(a)             7% Senior Subordinated Notes (“7% Notes”) due 2014. The 7% Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Nexstar and Mission. These notes are not guaranteed by any other entities.
 
(b)             7% Senior Subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (“7% PIK Notes”).  The 7% PIK Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Nexstar and Mission.  These notes are not guaranteed by any other entities.
 
(c)             Senior Subordinated PIK Notes due 2014 (“Senior Subordinated PIK Notes”). The Senior Subordinated PIK Notes currently bear interest at 12% subject to increases over time. The Senior Subordinated PIK Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Nexstar. The Senior Subordinated PIK Notes are not guaranteed by Mission or any other entity. 
 
Neither Mission nor Nexstar Broadcasting has any subsidiaries.

 
F-38
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

BALANCE SHEET
December 31, 2009
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
ASSETS
                                   
Current assets:
                                   
Cash and cash equivalents
  $     $ 11,849     $ 903     $     $     $ 12,752  
Due from Mission
          13,370                   (13,370 )      
Other current assets
    —        75,466       4,668       —        —        80,134  
Total current assets
          100,685       5,571             (13,370 )     92,886  
Investments in subsidiaries eliminated upon consolidation
    (75,125 )                 (16,856 )     91,981        
Amounts due from parents eliminated upon consolidation
          4,146                   (4,146 )      
Property and equipment, net
          115,671       28,610                   144,281  
Goodwill
          90,330       18,729                   109,059  
FCC licenses
          106,789       20,698                   127,487  
Other intangible assets, net
          100,699       25,517                   126,216  
Other noncurrent assets
    —        15,197       3,906       794       —        19,897  
Total assets
  $ (75,125 )   $ 533,517     $ 103,031     $ (16,062 )   $ 74,465     $ 619,826  
LIABILITIES AND
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)
                                               
Current liabilities:
                                               
Current portion of debt
  $     $ 5,358     $ 1,727     $     $     $ 7,085  
Due to Nexstar Broadcasting
                13,370             (13,370 )      
Other current liabilities
    —        42,331       5,174       1,421       —        48,926  
Total current liabilities
          47,689       20,271       1,421       (13,370 )     56,011  
Debt
          442,675       170,633       49,981             663,289  
Amounts due to subsidiary eliminated upon consolidation
    (3,513 )                 7,659       (4,146 )      
Other noncurrent liabilities
    (3 )     60,009       16,781       2       —        76,789  
Total liabilities
    (3,516 )     550,373       207,685       59,063       (17,516 )     796,089  
Stockholders’ equity (deficit):
                                               
Common stock
    284                               284  
Other stockholders’ equity (deficit)
    (71,893 )     (16,856 )     (104,654 )     (75,125 )     91,981       (176,547 )
Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)
    (71,609 )     (16,856 )     (104,654 )     (75,125 )     91,981       (176,263 )
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)
  $ (75,125 )   $ 533,517     $ 103,031     $ (16,062 )   $ 74,465     $ 619,826  
 

 
F-39
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

BALANCE SHEET
December 31, 2008
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
ASSETS
                                   
Current assets:
                                   
Cash and cash equivalents
  $     $ 14,408     $ 1,426     $     $     $ 15,834  
Due from Mission
          15,468                   (15,468 )      
Other current assets
    —        64,369       4,665       6       —        69,040  
Total current assets
          94,245       6,091       6       (15,468 )     84,874  
Investments in subsidiaries eliminated upon consolidation
    (65,139 )                 15,553       49,586        
Amounts due from parents eliminated upon consolidation
          (33 )                 33        
Property and equipment, net
          106,609       29,269                   135,878  
Goodwill
          96,997       18,635                   115,632  
FCC licenses
          102,362       22,695                   125,057  
Other intangible assets, net
          119,186       30,665                   149,851  
Other noncurrent assets
    1       11,261       2,723       1,310       —        15,295  
                                                 
Total assets
  $ (65,138 )   $ 530,627     $ 110,078     $ 16,869     $ 34,151     $ 626,587  
LIABILITIES AND
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)
                                               
Current liabilities:
                                               
Current portion of debt
  $     $ 1,758     $ 1,727     $     $     $ 3,485  
Due to Nexstar Broadcasting
                15,468             (15,468 )      
Other current liabilities
    —        44,621       7,037       2,212       128       53,998  
Total current liabilities
          46,379       24,232       2,212       (15,340 )     57,483  
Debt
          408,452       172,360       77,820             658,632  
Amounts due to subsidiary eliminated upon consolidation
    (2,006 )                 1,973       33        
Other noncurrent liabilities
    (3 )     60,243       15,513       3       (128 )     75,628  
Total liabilities
    (2,009 )     515,074       212,105       82,008       (15,435 )     791,743  
Stockholders’ equity (deficit):
                                               
Common stock
    284                               284  
Other stockholders’ equity (deficit)
    (63,413 )     15,553       (102,027 )     (65,139 )     49,586       (165,440 )
Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)
    (63,129 )     15,553       (102,027 )     (65,139 )     49,586       (165,156 )
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)
  $ (65,138 )   $ 530,627     $ 110,078     $ 16,869     $ 34,151     $ 626,587  

 
F-40
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)
  $     $ 243,591     $ 8,388     $     $     $ 251,979  
Revenue between consolidated entities
    —        7,425       25,435       —        (32,860 )     —   
Net revenue
    —        251,016       33,823       —        (32,860 )     251,979  
Operating expenses:
                                               
Direct operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
          71,423       5,810                   77,233  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
          86,728       2,790       7             89,525  
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities
          25,435       7,425             (32,860 )      
Restructure charge
          670                         670  
Non-cash contract termination fee
          191                         191  
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets
          13,906       2,258                   16,164  
Amortization of broadcast rights
          20,582       4,681                   25,263  
Amortization of intangible assets
          18,557       5,148                   23,705  
Depreciation
          18,022       3,658                   21,680  
Gain on asset exchange
            (5,708 )     (2,385 )                 (8,093 )
(Gain) loss on property and asset disposal, net
    —        (2,588 )     28       —        —        (2,560 )
Total operating expenses
    —        247,218       29,413       7       (32,860 )     243,778  
Income (loss) from operations
          3,798       4,410       (7 )           8,201  
Interest expense, including amortization of debt financing costs
          (27,027 )     (6,056 )     (6,153 )           (39,236 )
Gain on extinguishment of debt
          565             18,002             18,567  
Equity in loss of subsidiaries
    (9,987 )                 (21,829 )     31,816        
Other income, net
    —        49       5       —        —        54  
Loss before income taxes
    (9,987 )     (22,615 )     (1,641 )     (9,987 )     31,816       (12,414 )
Income tax (expense) benefit
    —        786       (986 )     —        —        (200 )
Net (loss) income
  $ (9,987 )   $ (21,829 )   $ (2,627 )   $ (9,987 )   $ 31,816     $ (12,614 )
 

 
F-41
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)
  $     $ 278,284     $ 6,635     $     $     $ 284,919  
Revenue between consolidated entities 
    —        8,090       35,283       —        (43,373 )     —   
Net revenue
    —        286,374       41,918       —        (43,373 )     284,919  
Operating expenses:
                                               
Direct operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
          71,882       6,405                   78,287  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
    1       87,872       2,595                   90,468  
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities 
          35,283       8,090             (43,373 )      
Non-cash contract termination fee
          7,167                         7,167  
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets
            70,957       11,438                   82,395  
Amortization of broadcast rights
          15,694       4,729                   20,423  
Amortization of intangible assets
          22,726       5,403                   28,129  
Depreciation
          17,687       3,337                   21,024  
(Gain) loss on asset exchange
            (3,907 )     (869 )                 (4,776 )
(Gain) loss on property and asset disposal, net
    —        253       (352 )     56       —        (43 )
Total operating expenses
    1       325,614       40,776       56       (43,373 )     323,074  
Income (loss) from operations
    (1 )     (39,240 )     1,142       (56 )           (38,155 )
Interest expense, including amortization of debt financing costs
          (28,641 )     (9,472 )     (10,719 )           (48,832 )
Gain on extinguishment of debt
          2,897                         2,897  
Equity in loss of subsidiaries
    (70,518 )                 (59,743 )     130,261        
Other income, net
    —        662       53       —        —        715  
Loss before income taxes
    (70,519 )     (64,322 )     (8,277 )     (70,518 )     130,261       (83,375 )
Income tax (expense) benefit
    —        4,579       737       —        —        5,316  
Net (loss) income
  $ (70,519 )   $ (59,743 )   $ (7,540 )   $ (70,518 )   $ 130,261     $ (78,059 )
 

 
F-42
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2007
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
Net broadcast revenue (including trade and barter)
  $     $ 260,075     $ 6,726     $     $     $ 266,801  
Revenue between consolidated entities
    —        7,860       30,556       —        (38,416 )     —   
Net revenue
    —        267,935       37,282       —        (38,416 )     266,801  
Operating expenses (income):
                                               
Direct operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
          68,980       5,148                   74,128  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
    (105 )     84,598       2,280                   86,773  
Local service agreement fees between consolidated entities
          30,556       7,860             (38,416 )      
Amortization of broadcast rights
          17,188       4,269                   21,457  
Amortization of intangible assets
          20,309       5,362                   25,671  
Depreciation
          16,983       3,241             (15 )     20,209  
Gain on asset exchange
          (1,645 )     (317 )                 (1,962 )
Loss (gain) on asset disposal, net
    —        (109 )     92       —        —        (17 )
Total operating expenses (income)
    (105 )     236,860       27,935       —        (38,431 )     226,259  
Income from operations
    105       31,075       9,347             15       40,542  
Interest expense, including amortization of debt financing costs
          (29,099 )     (12,344 )     (13,597 )           (55,040 )
Equity in loss of subsidiaries
    (15,853 )                 (2,256 )     18,109        
Other income, net
    —        440       92       —        —        532  
Income (loss) before income taxes
    (15,748 )     2,416       (2,905 )     (15,853 )     18,124       (13,966 )
Income tax expense
    —        (4,672 )     (1,135 )     —        —        (5,807 )
Net (loss) income
  $ (15,748 )   $ (2,256 )   $ (4,040 )   $ (15,853 )   $ 18,124     $ (19,773 )
 

 
F-43
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
Cash flows provided by (used for) operating activities
  $     $ 19,815     $ 4,196     $ 9,561     $ (10,579 )   $ 22,993  
Cash flows from investing activities:
                                               
Additions to property and equipment
          (17,857 )     (1,171 )                 (19,028 )
Acquisition of broadcast properties and related transaction costs
          (20,756 )                       (20,756 )
Other investing activities
    —        4,194       —        —        —        4,194  
Net cash used for investing activities
    —        (34,419 )     (1,171 )     —        —        (35,590 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
                                               
Repayment of long-term debt
          (10,158 )     (1,727 )     (9,561 )           (21,446 )
Proceeds from revolver draws
          54,000                         54,000  
Consideration paid to bondholders for debt exchange
          (17,677 )                       (17,677 )
Payments for debt financing costs
          (3,554 )     (1,821 )                 (5,375 )
Inter-company dividends paid
          (10,579 )                 10,579        
Other financing activities
    —        13       —        —        —        13  
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
    —        12,045       (3,548 )     (9,561 )     10,579       9,515  
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
          (2,559 )     (523 )                 (3,082 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    —        14,408       1,426       —        —        15,834  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $     $ 11,849     $ 903     $     $     $ 12,752  
 

 
F-44
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
Cash flows provided by operating activities
  $     $ 56,563     $ 8,768     $ 52,180     $ (56,864 )   $ 60,648  
Cash flows from investing activities:
                                               
Additions to property and equipment
          (22,607 )     (8,186 )                 (30,793 )
Acquisition of broadcast properties and related transaction costs
                (7,923 )                 (7,923 )
Down payment on acquisition of stations
            (400 )                             (400 )
Other investing activities
    —        46       578       —        —        624  
Net cash used for investing activities
    —        (22,961 )     (15,531 )     —        —        (38,492 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
                                               
Proceeds from debt issuance
          35,000                         35,000  
Repayment of long-term debt
          (56,375 )     (1,727 )     (52,180 )           (110,282 )
Proceeds from revolver draws
          53,000                         53,000  
Payments for debt financing costs
          (304 )                       (304 )
Inter-company dividends paid
          (56,864 )                 56,864        
Other financing activities
    —        38       —        —        —        38  
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
    —        (25,505 )     (1,727 )     (52,180 )     56,864       (22,548 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
          8,098       (8,490 )                 (392 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    —        6,310       9,916       —        —        16,226  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $     $ 14,408     $ 1,426     $     $     $ 15,834  
 

 
F-45
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
21. Condensed Consolidating Financial Information—(Continued)

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2007
(in thousands)
 
   
Nexstar
   
Nexstar
Broadcasting
   
Mission
   
Nexstar
Holdings
   
Eliminations
   
Consolidated
Company
 
Cash flows provided by (used for) operating activities
  $ (153 )   $ 33,232     $ 3,908     $     $     $ 36,987  
Cash flows from investing activities:
                                               
Additions to property and equipment, net
          (16,080 )     (2,461 )                 (18,541 )
Down payment on acquisition of stations
                (387 )                 (387 )
Other investing activities
    —        314       6       —        —        320  
Net cash used for investing activities
    —        (15,766 )     (2,842 )     —        —        (18,608 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
                                               
Repayment of long-term debt
          (19,758 )     (1,727 )                 (21,485 )
Proceeds from revolver draws
          1,000       7,000                   8,000  
Other financing activities
    153       —        —        —        —        153  
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities 
    153       (18,758 )     5,273       —        —        (13,332 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
          (1,292 )     6,339                   5,047  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    —        7,602       3,577       —        —        11,179  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $     $ 6,310     $ 9,916     $     $     $ 16,226  
 
22. Employee Benefits
 
Nexstar and Mission have established retirement savings plans under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Plans”). The Plans cover substantially all employees of Nexstar and Mission who meet minimum age and service requirements, and allow participants to defer a portion of their annual compensation on a pre-tax basis. Employer contributions to the Plans may be made at the discretion of Nexstar and Mission. In 2009 and 2008, neither Nexstar or Mission made contributions to the Plans. Nexstar recorded contributions of $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. Mission recorded contributions of $17 thousand year ended December 31, 2007.
 
Under a collective bargaining agreement, the Company contributes three percent (3%) of the gross monthly payroll of certain covered employees toward their pension benefits. Employees must have completed 90 days of service to be eligible for the contribution. The Company’s pension benefit contribution totaled $26 thousand, $20 thousand and $25 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 
23. Related Party Transactions
 
Pursuant to a management services agreement, Mission paid compensation to its sole shareholder in the amount of $0.4 million, $0.3 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, which was included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.

 
F-46
 
 

NEXSTAR BROADCASTING GROUP, INC.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)
 
24. Unaudited Quarterly Data
 
   
Quarter Ended
 
   
March 31,
2009
   
June 30,
2009
   
September 30,
2009(3)
   
December 31,
2009
 
   
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Net revenue
  $ 55,468     $ 62,152     $ 60,399     $ 73,960  
Income (loss) from operations
    (1,311 )     9,044       (13,633 )     14,101  
Income (loss) before income taxes
    7,431       149       (22,296 )     2,302  
Net income (loss)
    6,052       (1,242 )     (18,391 )     967  
Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share
  $ 0.21     $ (0.04 )   $ (0.65 )   $ 0.03  
Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding
    28,425       28,425       28,426       28,430  

   
Quarter Ended
 
   
March 31,
2008
   
June 30,
2008
   
September 30,
2008(1)
   
December 31,
2008(2)
 
   
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Net revenue
  $ 63,712     $ 70,618     $ 70,275     $ 80,314  
Income (loss) from operations
    (61 )     16,166       (36,799 )     (17,461 )
Income (loss) before income taxes
    (13,649 )     5,511       (48,331 )     (26,906 )
Net income (loss)
    (15,328 )     3,877       (45,328 )     (21,280 )
Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share
  $ (0.54 )   $ 0.14     $ (1.59 )   $ (0.75 )
Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding
    28,418       28,422       28,425       28,425  
         
(1)
The Company recognized impairment charges to goodwill, FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements of $ 27.8 million, $19.7 million and $1.0 million, respectively, in the third quarter of 2008. See Footnote 8 for additional information.
(2)
The Company recognized impairment charges to goodwill, FCC licenses and network affiliation agreements of $11.1 million, $21.7 million and $1.1 million, respectively, in the fourth quarter of 2008. See Footnote 8 for additional information.
(3)
The Company recognized impairment charges to goodwill and FCC licenses of $7.4 million and $8.8 million, respectively, in the third quarter of 2009.  See Footnote 8 for additional information.
 
 25. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Rollforward
 
   
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
   
Additions
Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
   
Deductions(1)
   
Balance at
End of
Period
 
Year ended December 31, 2007
  $ 1,061     $ 1,112     $ (965 )   $ 1,208  
Year ended December 31, 2008
    1,208       959       (1,335 )     832  
Year ended December 31, 2009
    832       1,159       (1,147 )     844  
         
(1)
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.
 
Valuation Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets Rollforward
 
   
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
   
Additions
Charged to
Costs and
Expenses(1)
   
Additions
Charged to
Other
Accounts
   
Deductions(2)
   
Balance at
End of
Period
 
Year ended December 31, 2007
  $ 154,509     $ 10,684     $     $ (13,045 )   $ 152,148  
Year ended December 31, 2008
    152,148       13,915       720             166,783  
Year ended December 31, 2009
    166,783       3,874             (1,147 )     169,510  
         
(1)
Increase in valuation allowance related to the generation of net operating losses and other deferred tax assets.
(2)
Decrease in valuation allowance associated with adjustments to certain deferred tax assets and their related allowance.

 
F-47
 
 

 

Exhibit No.
 
Exhibit Index
 
  3.1
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
  3.2
Amended and Restated By-Laws of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
  4.1
Specimen Class A Common Stock Certificate. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
  4.2
Form of Stockholders Agreement among Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., ABRY Broadcast Partners II, L.P., ABRY Broadcast Partners III, L.P., Perry A. Sook and the other stockholders named therein. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
  4.3
Indenture, among Nexstar Finance Holdings, L.L.C., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and The Bank of New York, dated as of March 27, 2003. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2003 (File No. 333-68964) filed by Nexstar Finance Holdings, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc.)
   
  4.4
Indenture, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., the guarantors defined therein and The Bank of New York, dated as of December 30, 2003. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.91 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
  4.5
Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2005, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc., and The Bank of New York, as Trustee. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 6, 2005)
   
  4.6
Indenture dated as of June 30, 2008, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and The Bank of New York, as Trustee. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on July 7, 2008)
   
  4.7
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of June 30, 2008, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., as Guarantor, and The Bank of New York, as Trustee. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on July 7, 2008)
   
  4.8
Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2009, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc., as guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 3, 2009)
   
  4.9
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2009, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc., as guarantor, and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., as parent guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 3, 2009)
   
10.1
Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of January 5, 1998, by and between Perry A. Sook and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., as amended on January 5, 1999. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)#
   
10.2
Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated as of May 10, 2001, by and between Perry A. Sook and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)#
   
10.3
Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of January 5, 1998, by and between Shirley Green and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., as amended on December 31, 1999. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)#
   
10.4
Second Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of February 6, 2002, by and between Shirley Green and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 (File No. 333-68964) filed by Nexstar Finance Holdings, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc.)#
   
10.5
Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1999, by and between Richard Stolpe and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)#
 
 
E-1
 
 
 
   
10.6
Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2001, by and among Mission Broadcasting of Joplin, Inc., GOCOM Broadcasting of Joplin, LLC and GOCOM of Joplin License Sub, LLC. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 (File No. 333-68964) filed by Nexstar Finance Holdings, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc.)
   
10.7
Time Brokerage Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2001, by and between GOCOM of Joplin License Sub, LLC and Mission Broadcasting of Joplin, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.25 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 (File
No. 333-68964) filed by Nexstar Finance Holdings, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc.)
   
10.8
Outsourcing Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2001, by and among WYZZ, Inc., WYZZ License, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of Peoria, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 (File No. 333-68964) filed by Nexstar Finance Holdings, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc.)
   
10.9
Option Agreement, dated as of June 1, 1999, among Mission Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, L.P. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.42 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.10
Shared Services Agreement, dated as of June 1, 1999, among Mission Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, L.P. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.43 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.11
Agreement of the Sale of Commercial Time, dated as of June 1, 1999, among Mission Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, L.P. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.44 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.12
Option Agreement, dated as of May 19, 1998, among Bastet Broadcasting, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting of Northeastern Pennsylvania, L.P. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.45 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.13
Shared Services Agreement, dated as of January 5, 1998, between Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.P. and Bastet Broadcasting, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.46 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.14
Option Agreement, dated as of November 30, 1998, among Bastet Broadcasting, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.47 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.15
Time Brokerage Agreement, dated as of April 1, 1996, by and between SJL Communications, L.P. and NV Acquisitions Co. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.48 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.16
Amendment, dated as of July 31, 1998, to Time Brokerage Agreement, dated as of April 1, 1996, between SJL Communications, L.P. and NV Acquisitions Co. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.49 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.17
Option Agreement, dated as of April 1, 2002, by and between Mission Broadcasting of Joplin, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of Joplin, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.50 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.18
Shared Services Agreement, dated as of April 1, 2002, by and between Mission Broadcasting of Joplin, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of Joplin, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.51 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
 
E-2
 
 
10.19
Amendment to Option Agreements, dated as of October 18, 2002, among Mission Broadcasting, Inc., David Smith, Nexstar Broadcasting of Northeastern Pennsylvania, L.L.C., Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C., Nexstar Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, L.L.C., and Nexstar Broadcasting of Joplin, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.54 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.20
Modifications to Employment Agreement, dated as of September 26, 2002, by and between Perry A. Sook and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.55 to Amendment No. 2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.21
Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 13, 2002, by and among LIN Television Corporation, TVL Broadcasting of Abilene, Inc., Abilene Broadcasting, L.L.C. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.47 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.22
Local Marketing Agreement, dated as of December 13, 2002, by and among LIN Television Corporation, TVL Broadcasting of Abilene, Inc., Abilene Broadcasting, L.L.C. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.48 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.23
Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2002, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C., Nexstar Broadcasting of Little Rock, L.L.C., Nexstar Broadcasting of Dothan, L.L.C., Morris Network, Inc., United Broadcasting Corporation, KARK-TV, Inc. and Morris Network of Alabama, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.49 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.24
Time Brokerage Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2002, by and between KARK-TV, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of Little Rock, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.50 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.25
Time Brokerage Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2002, by and between Morris Network of Alabama, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of Dothan, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.51 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 (File
No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.26
Shared Services Agreement, dated as of June 13, 2003, by and between Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of Abilene, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.63 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.27
Option Agreement, dated as of June 13, 2003, among Mission Broadcasting, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting of Abilene, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.64 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.28
Shared Services Agreement, dated as of May 9, 2003, by and between Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of the Midwest, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2003 (File No. 333-62916-02) filed by Mission Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.29
Agreement for the Sale of Commercial Time, dated as of May 9, 2003, by and between Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting of the Midwest, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2003 (File No. 333-62916-02) filed by Mission Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.30
Option Agreement, dated as of May 9, 2003, among Mission Broadcasting, Inc., David Smith and Nexstar Broadcasting of the Midwest, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2003 (File No. 333-62916-02) filed by Mission Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.31
Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of September 11, 2000, by and between Timothy Busch and Nexstar Broadcasting of Rochester, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.68 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.32
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of August 14, 2002, by and between Timothy Busch and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.69 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.33
Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2003, by and between Brian Jones and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.70 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
 
E-3
 
 
   
10.34
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of May 12, 2003, by and between Timothy C. Busch and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.76 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.35
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of August 28, 2003, by and between Timothy C. Busch and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.77 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.36
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of August 28, 2003, by and between Brian Jones and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.78 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.37
Limited Consent, Waiver and Seventh Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of September 5, 2003, among Quorum Broadcasting Company, Inc., Quorum Broadcasting Company, LLC, VHR Broadcasting, Inc., Mission Broadcasting of Amarillo, Inc., Quorum Broadcast Holdings, LLC, Quorum Broadcast Holdings, Inc., the Lenders parties thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.81 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.38
Amendment No. 1 to the Reorganization Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2003, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting Group, L.L.C. and Quorum Broadcast Holdings, LLC. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2003 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.39
Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of October 13, 2003, by and between Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and J.D.G. Television, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2003 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.40
Time Brokerage Agreement, dated as of October 13, 2003, by and between Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and J.D.G. Television, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2003 (File No. 333-62916) filed by Nexstar Finance, L.L.C. and Nexstar Finance, Inc.)
   
10.41
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of August 28, 2003, by and between Richard Stolpe and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.87 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.42
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of August 25, 2003, by and between Perry A. Sook and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.43
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of August 28, 2003, by and between Shirley Green and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-86994) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)#
   
10.44
First Restated Security Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2003 by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. in favor of Bank of America, N.A., as collateral agent. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.87 to the Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.45
First Restated Pledge and Security Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2003, by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. in favor of Bank of America, N.A., as collateral agent. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.88 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
 
E-4
 
 
   
 10.46
First Restated Guaranty, dated as of December 30, 2003, executed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. for Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.’s Guaranteed Obligations in favor of the guaranteed parties defined therein. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.89 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.47
First Restated Guaranty, dated as of December 30, 2003, executed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. for Mission Broadcasting, Inc.’s Guaranteed Obligations in favor of the guaranteed parties defined therein. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.90 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
10.48
Amendment to Agreement for Sale of Commercial Time, dated December 30, 2003, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (KAMC-KLBK). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.91 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.49
Amendment to Shared Services Agreement, dated December 30, 2003, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (KAMC-KLBK). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.92 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.50
Amendment to Agreement for Sale of Commercial Time, dated December 30, 2003, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (KOLR-KSFX). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.93 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.51
Amendment to Shared Services Agreement, dated December 30, 2003, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (KOLR-KSFX). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.94 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.52
Amendment to Agreement for Sale of Commercial Time, dated January 1, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (KCIT-KAMR). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.95 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.53
Amendment to Shared Services Agreement, dated January 1, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (KCIT-KAMR). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.96 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.54
Amendment to Agreement for Sale of Commercial Time, dated January 13, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (WFXW-WTWO). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.97 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.55
Amendment to Shared Services Agreement, dated January 13, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (WFXW-WTWO). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.98 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.56
Agreement for Sale of Commercial Time, dated April 1, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (WUTR-WFXV). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.99 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.57
Shared Services Agreement, dated April 1, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (WUTR-WFXV). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.100 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.58
Amendment to Agreement for Sale of Commercial Time, dated January 1, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. (as successor to Nexstar Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, L.P.) and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (f/k/a Mission Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, Inc.) (KJBO-KFDX). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.101 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.59
Amendment to Shared Services Agreement, dated January 1, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. (as successor to Nexstar Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, L.P.) and Mission Broadcasting, Inc. (f/k/a Mission Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, Inc.) (KJBO-KFDX). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.102 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-114963) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
 
E-5
 
 
10.60
Purchase Agreement, dated May 21, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Jewell Television Corporation. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2004 (File No. 333-62916-01) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.61
Time Brokerage Agreement, dated May 21, 2004, by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and Jewell Television Corporation. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2004 (File No. 333-62916-01) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc.)
   
10.62
Guarantee issued by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. with respect to 7% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on October 1, 2004)
   
10.63
Guarantee issued by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. with respect to 12% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on October 1, 2004)
   
10.64
Guarantee issued by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. with respect to 11.375% Senior Discount Notes due 2013. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on October 1, 2004)
   
10.65
Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of April 1, 2005, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., certain of its subsidiaries from time to time parties to the Credit Agreement, the several banks and other financial institutions or entities from time to time parties thereto, Bank of America, N.A., as the Administrative Agent for the Lenders, and UBS Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Syndication Agents. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 6, 2005)
   
10.66
First Amendment and Confirmation (Guarantee Agreement), dated as of April 1, 2005, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. as Guarantors and Bank of America, N.A. as Collateral Agent, on behalf of the Majority Lenders (as defined therein). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 6, 2005)
   
10.67
Nexstar First Amendment and Confirmation Agreement to Nexstar Guaranty of Mission Obligations, dated April 1, 2005, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 6, 2005)
   
10.68
Guarantee, dated as of April 1, 2005, of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. executed pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of December 30, 2003, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, as amended and supplemented by the Supplemental Indenture (as defined therein). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 6, 2005)
   
10.69
Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of April 1, 2005, among Mission Broadcasting, Inc., the several banks and other financial institutions or entities from time to time parties thereto, Bank of America, N.A., as the Administrative Agent for the Lenders, and UBS Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Syndication Agents. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-62916-02) filed by Mission Broadcasting, Inc. on April 7, 2005)
   
10.70
First Amendment and Confirmation Agreement to Mission Guarantee of Nexstar Obligations, dated as of April 1, 2005, by and among Mission Broadcasting, Inc. as Guarantor and Bank of America, N.A. as Collateral Agent, on behalf of the Majority Lenders (as defined therein). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-62916-02) filed by Mission Broadcasting, Inc. on April 7, 2005)
   
10.71
Confirmation Agreement for the Smith Pledge Agreement, dated as of April 1, 2005, by David S. Smith and Bank of America, N.A. as Collateral Agent. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-62916-02) filed by Mission Broadcasting, Inc. on April 7, 2005)
   
10.72
First Amendment, dated as of October 20, 2005, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, among Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc., Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Bank of America, N.A. (as Administrative Agent), UBS Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (as Co-Syndication Agents) and several Lenders named therein. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.121 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on March 16, 2006)
 
E-6
 
 
   
10.73
Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2006 (entered into by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on July 26, 2006), by and between Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and Television Station Group Holdings, LLC. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2006 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on November 8, 2006)
   
10.74
Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 27, 2007 (entered into by Mission Broadcasting, Inc. on June 27, 2007), by, between and among Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and Piedmont Television Holdings LLC, Piedmont Television Communications LLC, Piedmont Television of Monroe/El Dorado LLC and Piedmont Television of Monroe/El Dorado License LLC. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2007 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on August 8, 2007)
   
10.75
Addendum to Employment Agreement, dated as of July 2, 2007, by and between Perry A. Sook and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2007 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on August 8, 2007)#
   
10.76
Executive Employment Agreement between Timothy Busch and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on August 12, 2008)#
   
10.77
Executive Employment Agreement between Brian Jones and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on August 12, 2008)#
   
10.78
Purchase Agreement, dated June 27, 2008, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and certain initial purchasers named therein. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on July 3, 2008)
   
10.79
Guarantee, dated as of June 30, 2008, of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. executed pursuant to the Indenture dated as of June 30, 2008 by and between Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. and The Bank of New York, as amended and supplemented by the Supplemental Indenture referred to above. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on July 7, 2008)
   
10.80
Addendum to Executive Employment Agreement between Perry A. Sook and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.93 to Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on March 31, 2009)#
   
10.81
Guarantee, dated as of March 30, 2009, of Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. executed pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2009, among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc., as guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee, as amended and supplemented by the First Supplemental Indenture referenced above (included as part of Exhibit 4.2).  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 3, 2009)
   
10.82
Registration Rights Agreement, dated March 30, 2009, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Mission Broadcasting, Inc. and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. and UBS Securities LLC for the benefit of holders of PIK Notes.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on April 3, 2009)
   
10.83
Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of July 13, 2009, by and between Thomas E. Carter and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on August 12, 2009)#
   
10.84
Second Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 8, 2009, by and among Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Nexstar Finance Holdings, Inc., Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc., Bank of America, N.A., Banc of America Securities LLC, UBS Securities LLC, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and the several Banks parties thereto.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on October 15, 2009)
   
14.1
Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. Code of Ethics. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (File No. 000-50478) filed by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.)
   
21.1
Subsidiaries of the registrant.*
   
23.1
Consent issued by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP on March 15, 2010.*
   
31.1
Certification of Perry A. Sook pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
   
31.2
Certification of Thomas E. Carter pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
   
32.1
Certification of Perry A. Sook pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350.*
   
32.2
Certification of Thomas E. Carter pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350.*
         
#
Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
*
Filed herewith
 

E-7