NEW YORK TIMES CO
10-K, 2000-03-14
NEWSPAPERS: PUBLISHING OR PUBLISHING & PRINTING
Previous: NEW YORK TIMES CO, PRER14A, 2000-03-14
Next: NEWCOR INC, 10-K405, 2000-03-14




================================================================================

                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549

                             ----------------------

                                    FORM 10-K

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

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 26, 1999        COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-5837

                                The New York Times Company
                  (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)



             New York                                            13-1102020
  (State or other jurisdiction of                            (I.R.S. Employer
  incorporation or organization)                            Identification No.)

  229 West 43rd Street, New York, N.Y.                              10036
(Address of principal executive offices)                          (Zip Code)

        Registrant's telephone number, including area code (212) 556-1234
           Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

                                                      Name of each exchange on
        Title of each class                                which registered
          ---------------                             ------------------------
Class A Common Stock of $.10 par value                 New York Stock Exchange

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

                                 Not Applicable
                                (Title of class)

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 and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for
the past 90 days. Yes |X| 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 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. |_|

The aggregate market value of Class A Common Stock held by non-affiliates as of
February 28, 2000, was approximately $5.76 billion. As of such date,
non-affiliates held 93,870 shares of Class B Common Stock. There is no active
market for such stock.

The number of outstanding shares of each class of the registrant's common stock
as of February 28, 2000, was as follows: 171,847,239 shares of Class A Common
Stock and 847,158 shares of Class B Common Stock.

                Document incorporated by reference                    Part
                 --------------------------------                     ----
      Proxy Statement for the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders..... III

================================================================================
<PAGE>

                       INDEX TO THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

                                 1999 FORM 10-K

                                -----------------

                                     PART I

Item No.                                                                    Page
- -------                                                                     ----

 1. Business..............................................................    1
      Introduction........................................................    1
      Newspapers..........................................................    1
        The New York Times................................................    1
          Circulation.....................................................    1
          Advertising.....................................................    2
          Production and Distribution.....................................    2
          Related Businesses..............................................    3
        New England Newspaper Group.......................................    4
          The Boston Globe................................................    4
            Circulation...................................................    4
            Advertising...................................................    4
            Production and Distribution...................................    5
        Regional Newspapers...............................................    5
        Times Company Digital.............................................    5
      Broadcasting........................................................    6
      Magazines...........................................................    7
      Investments.........................................................    7
      Forest Products Investments and Other Joint Venture.................    7
        Forest Product Investments........................................    7
        Other Joint Venture...............................................    8
      Raw Materials.......................................................    8
      Competition  .......................................................    9
      Employees...........................................................    9
        Labor Relations...................................................    9
 2. Properties............................................................   11
 3. Legal Proceedings.....................................................   11
 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders...................   12
      Executive Officers of the Registrant................................   12

                                     PART II

 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder
    Matters...............................................................   13
 6. Selected Financial Data...............................................   13
 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
    Results of Operations.................................................   13
 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data...........................   13
 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
    Financial Disclosure..................................................   14

                                    PART III

10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant....................   14
11. Executive Compensation................................................   14
12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management........   14
13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions........................   14

                                     PART IV

14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K.......   14
<PAGE>
                                                                               1


                                     PART I
ITEM 1. Business.

INTRODUCTION

The New York Times Company (the "Company") was incorporated on August 26, 1896,
under the laws of the State of New York. The Company is a diversified media
company including newspapers, television and radio stations, magazines,
electronic information and publishing, Internet businesses, and forest products
investments. Financial information about industry segments is incorporated by
reference to Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements on page F-32 of
this report.

The Company currently classifies its businesses into the following segments:

o     Newspapers: The New York Times ("The Times"); the New England Newspaper
      Group, consisting of The Boston Globe, a daily newspaper, the Boston
      Sunday Globe (both editions, "The Globe") and the Worcester Telegram &
      Gazette, in Worcester, Massachusetts (acquired January 7, 2000); 18 other
      daily and three non-daily newspapers in Alabama, California, Florida,
      Louisiana, North Carolina and South Carolina ("Regional Newspapers");
      newspaper distributors in the New York City and Boston metropolitan areas;
      news, photo and graphics services and news and features syndication;
      TimesFax; The New York Times Index; and licensing of electronic databases
      and microform, CD-ROM products, and the trademarks and copyrights of The
      Times and The Globe.

      Additionally, Times Company Digital, a division of the Company but not a
      separate segment for financial reporting purposes in 1999, operates the
      Company's major Internet businesses, which include the following Web
      sites: NYTimes.com (www.nytimes.com); Boston.com (www.boston.com),
      NYToday.com (www.nytoday.com), WineToday.com (www.winetoday.com),
      GolfDigest.com (www.golfdigest.com) and Abuzz (www.abuzz.com). The
      financial results of all of these Internet businesses, except
      GolfDigest.com, are included in the results of the Newspaper Group. The
      financial results of GolfDigest.com are included in the results of the
      Magazine Group.

o     Broadcasting: television stations WREG-TV in Memphis, Tennessee; WTKR-TV
      in Norfolk, Virginia; KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; WNEP-TV in
      Scranton, Pennsylvania; WHO-TV in Des Moines, Iowa; WHNT-TV in Huntsville,
      Alabama; WQAD-TV in Moline, Illinois; and KFSM-TV in Fort Smith, Arkansas;
      and radio stations WQXR(FM) and WQEW(AM) in New York City.

o     Magazines: Golf Digest, Golf World and Golf Shop Operations.

o     Forest Products Investments and Other Joint Ventures: Minority equity
      interests in a Canadian newsprint company and a supercalendered paper
      manufacturing partnership in Maine, and a one-half interest in the
      International Herald Tribune.

NEWSPAPERS

The Newspaper Group segment consists of two categories: Newspapers (consisting
of The Times, the New England Newspaper Group, 21 Regional Newspapers, newspaper
distributors, and certain related businesses) and Times Company Digital, of
which the following Web sites are included in the results of the Newspaper Group
for 1999: NYTimes.com, Boston.com, NYToday.com, WineToday.com, and Abuzz.com.

The New York Times

Circulation

The Times is a standard-size daily (Monday through Saturday) and Sunday
newspaper which commenced publication in 1851. The Times is circulated in each
of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and worldwide. Approximately 60% of
the weekday (Monday through Friday) circulation is sold in the 31 counties that
make up the greater New York City area, which

<PAGE>
2


includes New York City, Westchester and parts of upstate New York, Connecticut
and New Jersey; 40% is sold elsewhere. On Sundays, approximately 56% of the
circulation is sold in the greater New York City area and 44% elsewhere.
According to reports filed with the Audit Bureau of Circulations ("ABC"), an
independent agency that audits the circulation of most U.S. newspapers and
magazines, for the six-month period ended September 30, 1999, of all seven-day
United States newspapers, The Times's daily circulation was the largest and its
Sunday circulation was the largest.

The Times's average weekday and Sunday circulations for the two 12-month periods
ended September 30, 1998, and September 30, 1999, as audited by ABC (except as
indicated), are shown in the table below:

                                              Weekday (Mon. - Fri.)     Sunday
                                              ---------------------     ------
                                                     (Thousands of copies)

       1999 (unaudited).....................        1,109.7            1,671.2

       1998.................................        1,088.1            1,638.9

Approximately 60% of the weekday circulation and 55% of the larger Sunday
circulation were sold through home and office delivery in 1999. During the year
ended December 26, 1999, the average weekday circulation of The Times increased
approximately 16,100 copies above 1998 to approximately 1,110,200 copies and the
average Sunday circulation increased by approximately 23,300 copies above 1998
to approximately 1,668,100 copies.

Advertising

Total advertising volume in The Times for the two years ended December 27, 1998,
and December 26, 1999, as measured by The Times, is shown in the table below.
The "National" heading in the table below includes such categories as
entertainment, financial, magazine and general advertising.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Full Run
                                       ------------------------------------                            Preprint
                                        Retail       National    Classified     Zoned       Total(1)   Copies
                                        Inches       Inches      Inches         Inches      Inches     Distributed
                                        ------       --------    ----------     -------     --------   -----------
                                                            (Inches and Preprints in Thousands)
         <S>                            <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>         <C>          <C>
         1999.......................    567.3        1,582.1       984.1        1,015.7     4,149.2      427,857

         1998.......................    587.2        1,392.7       996.9        1,019.6     3,996.4      343,070
</TABLE>

The table includes volume for The New York Times Magazine, which published 3,651
pages of advertising in 1999, compared with 3,176 pages in 1998.

Advertising rates for The Times increased an average of 6% in January 1999, and
7% in January 2000.

Based on recent data provided by Competitive Media Reporting, Inc., an
independent agency that measures advertising sales volume and estimates
advertising revenue, and The Times's internal analysis, The Times believes that
it ranks first by a substantial margin in advertising revenue in the general
weekday and Sunday newspaper field in the New York City metropolitan area.

Production and Distribution

Generally, The Times is printed at its production and distribution facilities in
Edison, New Jersey, and Flushing, New York, as well as the regional print sites
described below.

The Edison and Flushing facilities print all sections of the weekday and Sunday
newspapers (except The New York Times Magazine and the Sunday Television
section) for distribution in the New York metropolitan area. Both facilities
have the capacity to print in color and have modern, automated presses,
packaging and distribution equipment.

- ----------
(1) All totals exclude preprint inches.
<PAGE>
                                                                               3


The Times has agreements with two commercial printing companies to print its
Sunday Television section and The New York Times Magazine.

The editions of The Times distributed outside of the New York City area are
printed under contract at the following sites:

       Region(1)           Print Sites
       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Midwest             Chicago, IL; Canton, OH
       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Northeast           Billerica, MA(2); Springfield, VA
       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Southeast           Atlanta, GA; Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Lakeland, FL(3)
       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Southwest           Austin, TX; Phoenix, AZ
       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
       West                Torrance and Concord, CA; Tacoma, WA; Denver, CO(4)
       -------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Times currently has agreements with various newspapers and other delivery
agents located in the United States and Canada to deliver The Times in their
respective markets and, in some cases, to expand current markets. The agreements
include various arrangements for delivery on Sundays and daily to homes and
newsstands.

A subsidiary of the Company, City & Suburban Delivery Systems, Inc. ("City &
Suburban"), operates a wholesale newspaper distribution business that
distributes The Times and other newspapers and periodicals in New York City,
Long Island (New York), the counties of Westchester (New York) and Fairfield
(Connecticut) and New Jersey. Approximately 85% of The Times's single-copy daily
circulation and 82% of its single-copy Sunday circulation in the New York City
metropolitan area are delivered by City & Suburban. Approximately 86% of The
Times's daily home-delivered circulation and 90% of its Sunday home-delivered
circulation in the New York City metropolitan area are delivered to depots by
City & Suburban.

Related Businesses

Name                                Description of Business
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Business Information Services       Produces online computer databases and The
                                    New York Times Index, a print publication

                                    Licenses LEXIS/NEXIS, Dow Jones Business
                                    Information Services, Bell & Howell
                                    Information and Learning, The Dialog Corp.,
                                    Online Computer Library Center and Reuters
                                    to store, market and distribute the
                                    Company's online computer databases

                                    Also licenses Bell & Howell Information and
                                    Learning to produce and sell The New York
                                    Times Index and The Times on microfilm and
                                    CD-ROM
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times News Services
Division:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times News Service     Transmits articles, graphics and photographs
                                    from The Times, The Globe and other
                                    publications to approximately 650 newspapers
                                    and magazines in the United States and in
                                    more than 50 countries worldwide
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times Syndicate        Markets other supplemental news services and
                                    feature material, graphics and photographs
                                    from The Times and other leading news
                                    sources to newspapers and magazines around
                                    the world
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYT Television                      Pursues certain programming ventures
                                    utilizing The Times and other content
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- ----------
(1)   Most advance sections of the Sunday newspaper distributed in these areas
      are printed at Edison, New Jersey, Flushing, New York, and Concord,
      California.
(2)   At The Globe.
(3)   At the Company's regional newspaper, The Ledger.
(4)   Commenced in 2000.
<PAGE>
4


New England Newspaper Group

The Boston Globe

The Globe is owned and published by the Company's subsidiary, Globe Newspaper
Company, Inc. ("The Globe" may also be used to refer to Globe Newspaper Company,
Inc.).

On January 7, 2000, the Company acquired the Worcester Telegram & Gazette
("Worcester"), in Worcester, Massachusetts. Commencing in the year 2000, The
Globe and Worcester will be divisions of the Company's New England Newspaper
Group.

Circulation

The Globe is a standard-size daily (Monday through Saturday) and Sunday
newspaper which commenced publication in 1872, and was acquired by the Company
in 1993. The Globe is distributed throughout New England, although its
circulation is concentrated in the Boston metropolitan area. According to ABC
reports, as of September 26, 1999, the weekday (Monday through Friday)
circulation of The Globe was the 14th largest of any weekday newspaper;
circulation of the Sunday edition was the tenth largest of any Sunday newspaper
published in the United States; and its daily and Sunday circulation was the
largest of all newspapers published in either Boston or New England.

The Globe's average weekday and Sunday paid circulation for the two 12-month
periods ended March 28, 1999, and March 29, 1998, as audited by ABC, are shown
in the table below:

                                              Weekday (Mon. - Fri.)    Sunday
                                              ---------------------    ------
                                                       (Thousands of copies)

      1999......................................     470.0              741.2

      1998......................................     474.9              754.0

During the year ended December 26, 1999, the average weekday circulation of The
Globe decreased approximately 1,000 copies below 1998 to approximately 468,900
copies and the average Sunday circulation decreased by approximately 16,700
copies below 1998 to approximately 728,500 copies.

Approximately 74% of the weekday circulation and 64% of the larger Sunday
circulation were sold through home or office delivery; the remainder were sold
primarily on newsstands.

Advertising

The Globe's total advertising volume by category of advertising for the two
years ended December 26, 1999, for all editions, as measured by The Globe, is
set forth below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Full Run
                                       ------------------------------------                            Preprint
                                        Retail       National    Classified      Zoned      Total(1)   Copies
                                        Inches       Inches      Inches          Inches     Inches     Distributed
                                        ------       --------    ----------      ------     --------   -----------
                                                            (Inches and Preprints in Thousands)
         <S>                            <C>           <C>        <C>              <C>       <C>          <C>
         1999 ......................    667.5         753.1      1,354.3          256.2     3,031.1      801,842

         1998.......................    701.9         697.4      1,350.5          278.9     3,028.7      787,016
</TABLE>

Advertising rates in each category of advertising were adjusted in 1999. The
latest increase in certain retail advertising rates occurred on September 1,
1999. Increases in classified and national advertising rates were effective as
of April 1, 1999, and July 1, 1999. These rate increases ranged from 2% to 6%.

- ----------
(1)   All totals exclude preprint inches.
<PAGE>
                                                                               5


Based on information supplied by major daily newspapers published in New England
and assembled by the New England Newspaper Association, Inc., for the 12-month
period ending December 26, 1999, The Globe ranked first in advertising inches
among all newspapers published in Boston and New England.

Production and Distribution

All editions of The Globe are printed and prepared for delivery at its main
Boston plant or its Billerica, Massachusetts, satellite plant.

Virtually all of The Globe's home-delivered circulation is delivered through The
Globe's distribution subsidiary, Community Newsdealers, Inc. Direct single-copy
distribution by The Globe and its subsidiary Retail Sales, Inc. accounted for
65% and 58% of the average weekday and Sunday single-copy distribution in 1999.

Regional Newspapers

The Company currently owns 18 daily and in most cases, Sunday, and three
non-daily smaller-city newspapers.

                               Daily Newspapers
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Gadsden Times (Ala.)                   The Gainesville Sun (Fla.)
The Tuscaloosa News (Ala.)                 The Ledger (Lakeland, Fla.)
Times Daily (Florence, Ala.)               Daily World (Opelousas, La.)
Santa Barbara News-Press (Calif.)          The Courier (Houma, La.)
The Press Democrat (Santa Rosa, Calif.)    The Daily Comet (Thibodaux, La.)
Daily News (Palatka, Fla.)                 The Dispatch (Lexington, N.C.)
Lake City Reporter (Fla.)                  Times-News (Hendersonville, N.C.)
Sarasota Herald-Tribune (Fla.)             Wilmington Morning Star (N.C.)
Star-Banner (Ocala, Fla.)                  Spartanburg Herald-Journal (S.C.)

          Non-Daily Newspapers
- ---------------------------------------
Marco Island Eagle (Fla.)
The News-Leader (Fernandina Beach, Fla.)
The News-Sun (Sebring/Avon Park, Fla.)

The Regional Newspapers' circulation for the years ended December 26, 1999, and
December 27, 1998, is shown in the table below:

                             Daily Weekday        Non-Daily        Sunday(1)
                             -------------        ---------        ---------
                                            (Thousands of Copies)

      1999.................      732.7              32.4             779.5

      1998.................      736.8              32.6             787.6

Advertising volume, stated on the basis of six columns per page, was 16,187,100
inches in 1999, compared with 16,073,900 inches in 1998. Preprints distributed
in 1999 were 1,115,303,000, compared with 1,082,712,000 in 1998.

On February 17, 2000, the Company made a decision to offer for sale the Santa
Barbara News-Press, the Daily World, the Daily News, the Lake City Reporter, The
News-Sun, The News-Leader and the Marco Island Eagle.

Times Company Digital

Times Company Digital operates the Company's major Internet businesses, which
include the following Web sites:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYTimes.com                         Exclusive Internet access to the complete
                                    contents of The Times, plus enhanced
                                    features, regularly updated breaking news
                                    and The New York Times Learning Network, an
                                    offering to parents, students and teachers
                                    of grades 3-12 (www.nytimes.com/learning).
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYToday.com                         Information concerning life in New York
                                    City, including neighborhood news,
                                    classifieds and entertainment and restaurant
                                    reviews and listings.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- ----------
(1)   Includes fourteen daily newspapers and does not include one non-daily
      newspaper with a Sunday edition.
<PAGE>
6


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boston.com                          Information concerning Boston and New
                                    England and featuring exclusive Internet
                                    access to the complete contents of The
                                    Globe.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WineToday.com                       News and information about wine, including a
                                    searchable database containing expert
                                    tastings of over 5,000 wines from around the
                                    world.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GolfDigest.com                      Custom news, features and instructional
                                    information for golfers featuring exclusive
                                    Internet access to the complete contents of
                                    Golf Digest, Golf World and Golf Digest
                                    Woman.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abuzz.com                           Community-building question and answer Web
                                    site featuring the Abuzz technology.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In July 1999, the Company acquired Abuzz Technologies, Inc., which has developed
techniques for directing information queries to the persons most capable of
answering them and archiving the resulting communication dialogue for future
use.

BROADCASTING

The Company's television and radio stations are operated under licenses from the
Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") and are subject to FCC regulations.
Radio and television license renewals are now normally granted for terms of
eight years.

      Station                                     License Expiration Date
      -------------------------------------------------------------------
      WTKR-TV (Norfolk, Va.)                      October 1, 2004
      -------------------------------------------------------------------
      WHNT-TV (Huntsville, Ala.)                  April 1, 2005
      KFSM-TV (Ft. Smith, Ark.)                   June 1, 2005
      WREG-TV (Memphis, Tenn.)                    August 1, 2005
      WQAD-TV (Moline, Ill.)                      December 1, 2005
      -------------------------------------------------------------------
      WHO-TV (Des Moines, Iowa)                   February 1, 2006
      KFOR-TV (Oklahoma City, Okla.)              June 1, 2006
      -------------------------------------------------------------------
      WNEP-TV (Scranton, Penn.)                   August 1, 2007
      -------------------------------------------------------------------
      WQXR(FM) (New York, NY)                     June 1, 2006
      WQEW(AM) (New York, NY)                     June 1, 2006
      -------------------------------------------------------------------

The Company anticipates that its future applications for renewal of its station
licenses will result in the licenses being renewed for eight-year periods.

All of the television stations have three principal sources of revenue: local
advertising sold to advertisers in the immediate geographic areas of the
stations, national spot advertising (sold to national clients by individual
stations rather than networks), and compensation paid by the networks for
carrying commercial network programs.

                            Market's                 Network
      Station               Nielsen Ranking(1)       Affiliation      Band
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      WREG-TV               40                       CBS              VHF
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      WTKR-TV               42                       CBS              VHF
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      KFOR-TV               45                       NBC              VHF
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      WNEP-TV               51                       ABC              UHF(2)
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      WHO-TV                70                       NBC              VHF
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      WHNT-TV               82                       CBS              UHF(2)
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      WQAD-TV               88                       ABC              VHF
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------
      KFSM-TV               118                      CBS              VHF
      ----------------------------------------------------------------------

- ----------
(1)   According to Nielsen Media Research, a research company that measures
      audiences for television stations.
(2)   All other stations in this market are also in the UHF band.
<PAGE>
                                                                               7


The Company's two radio stations serve the New York City metropolitan area.
WQXR(FM) is currently the only commercial classical music station serving this
market, which is the nation's largest radio audience. In December 1998, the
Company entered into a Time Brokerage Agreement with ABC, Inc., under which ABC,
Inc. is providing substantially all of the programming for WQEW(AM) for an
eight-year period. Under a separate option agreement, ABC, Inc. has acquired the
right to purchase WQEW(AM) at the end of the eight-year period.

MAGAZINES

The Magazine Group segment includes: Magazines (including those publications set
forth in the table below) and related activities in the golf field.

As of December 26, 1999, the Company published the magazines listed in the chart
below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                       Percentage                   Percentage
                                                                                       Increase                     Increase
                                                                                       (Decrease) in                (Decrease) in
                                                                                       Average                      Advertising
                                            Subject/                   Average         Circulation    Advertising   Pages
Magazine                Frequency           Audience     Rate Base     Circulation(1)  Over 1998      Pages(2)      Over 1998
- --------------------    ------------------  --------     ---------     -----------     -------------  -----------   -------------
<S>                     <C>                 <C>          <C>           <C>                 <C>           <C>           <C>
Golf Digest             Monthly             Golf         1,550,000     1,553,900            0.4          1,540          10.7
Golf World              46 issues per year  Golf           150,000       158,000           (1.3)         1,299          (1.7)
Golf Shop Operations    10 issues per year  Golf trade      17,500(3)     17,700           (0.6)           858         (19.3)
</TABLE>

Times Company Digital, a division of the Company (described above), operates
GolfDigest.com. In 2000, Golf Digest Woman will be launched as a separate
publication.

INVESTMENTS

The Company has minority equity investments in:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TheStreet.com                       An online provider of financial and
                                    investment news and commentary.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Classified Ventures                 A national online network providing
                                    classified advertising through both
                                    nationally branded and local affiliate Web
                                    sites.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CareerPath.com                      An employment database on the Internet.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OVATION                             A visual and performing arts cable
                                    television network.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WineShopper.com                     First Web site to offer nationwide wine
                                    sales.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOREST PRODUCTS INVESTMENTS AND OTHER JOINT VENTURE

The Company has ownership interests in one newsprint mill and one
supercalendered (glossy paper used in magazines) paper mill (the "Forest
Products Investments") and the International Herald Tribune.

Forest Products Investments

The Company has a 49% equity interest in a Canadian newsprint company, Donohue
Malbaie Inc. ("Malbaie"). The other 51% is owned by Donohue, Inc. ("Donohue"), a
publicly-traded Canadian company whose voting shares are controlled by Quebecor,
a Canadian publishing company. On February 11, 2000, Abitibi-Consolidated, Inc.
announced that it will offer to purchase all of the shares of Donohue and that
Quebecor has agreed to sell its shares to Abitibi-Consolidated Inc. Malbaie
purchases pulp from Donohue and manufactures newsprint from this raw material on
the paper machine it owns within the Donohue paper mill at Clermont, Quebec.
Malbaie is wholly dependent upon Donohue for its pulp. In 1999 Malbaie

- ----------
(1)   As reported by the publisher to ABC or the Business Publications
      Association.
(2)   As reported by the publisher to Publisher's Information Bureau ("PIB");
      or, in the case of Golf Shop Operations, as calculated by the publisher
      using the same methodology as for PIB.
(3)   For this trade publication, the average print order is disclosed as the
      applicable measure for advertisers.
<PAGE>
8


produced 216,000 metric tons of newsprint, 52,000 tons of which were sold to the
Company, with the balance sold to Donohue for resale.

The Company has an equity interest in a partnership operating a supercalendered
paper mill in Maine, Madison Paper Industries ("Madison"). The Company's
interest in Madison is 40%. Madison produces supercalendered paper at its
facility in Madison, Maine. Madison purchases all of its wood from local
suppliers, mostly under long-term contracts. In 1999 Madison produced 175,000
metric tons, 12,000 tons of which were sold to the Company.

The debt of Malbaie and Madison is not guaranteed by the Company.

Malbaie and Madison are subject to comprehensive environmental protection laws,
regulations and orders of provincial, federal, state and local authorities of
Canada or the United States (the "Environmental Laws"). The Environmental Laws
impose effluent and emission limitations and require Malbaie and Madison to
obtain, and operate in compliance with the conditions of, permits and other
governmental authorizations ("Governmental Authorizations"). Malbaie and Madison
follow policies and operate monitoring programs to ensure compliance with
applicable Environmental Laws and Governmental Authorizations and to minimize
exposure to environmental liabilities. Various regulatory authorities
periodically review the status of the operations of Malbaie and Madison. Based
on the foregoing, the Company believes that Malbaie and Madison are in
substantial compliance with such Environmental Laws and Governmental
Authorizations.

Other Joint Venture

The Company and The Washington Post Company each own a one-half interest in the
International Herald Tribune S.A.S., which publishes the International Herald
Tribune. The newspaper is edited in Paris and printed in Athens, Bangkok,
Bologna, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, London, Madrid, Marseille,
New York, Paris, Singapore, Tel Aviv, The Hague, Tokyo, Toulouse and Zurich.

RAW MATERIALS

The primary raw materials used by the Company are newsprint and supercalendered
and coated paper. Neither the Company nor any of its businesses is dependent on
any one supplier of paper.

In 1999 and 1998, the Company used the following types and quantities of paper
(all amounts in metric tons):

                                                         Coated,
                                                         Supercalendered
    Publication                   Newsprint              and Other Paper
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  1999        1998       1999     1998
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------
    The Times(1)                  322,000     312,000    26,000   22,000
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------
    The Globe(1)                  141,000     141,000     4,000    4,000
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------
    Regional Newspapers           100,500      98,500        --       --
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------
    Magazine Group                     --          --    10,200    9,900
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------
    Total                         563,500     551,500    40,200   35,900
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------

The paper used by The Times, The New York Times Magazine, The Globe, the
Regional Newspapers and the magazines published by the Magazine Group was
purchased under long-term contracts with unrelated suppliers and related
suppliers in which the Company holds equity interests (see "Forest Products
Investments").

- ----------
(1)   The Times and The Globe use coated, supercalendered or other paper for The
      New York Times Magazine and The Globe's Sunday Magazine.
<PAGE>
                                                                               9


COMPETITION

The Times competes with newspapers of general circulation in New York City and
its suburbs, as well as with national publications such as The Wall Street
Journal and USA Today. The Times also competes with magazines, television,
radio, direct mail, the Internet and other media.

The Globe competes with other daily, weekly and national newspapers distributed
in Boston, its neighboring suburbs and the greater New England region,
including, among others, The Boston Herald (daily and Sunday). The Globe also
competes with other communications media, such as direct mail, magazines, radio,
the Internet and television.

The Regional Newspapers and the International Herald Tribune compete with a
variety of other advertising media in their respective markets.

The magazines published by the Company compete directly with other golfing
publications as well as with general interest magazines and other media,
primarily broadcast and cable television.

All of the Company's television stations compete directly with other television
stations in their respective markets and with other video services, such as
cable network programming carried on local cable systems and satellite-to-home
systems and, to a lesser extent, with the Internet. WQXR(FM) competes for
listeners with WNYC(FM) (a non-commercial station) for the classical music
audience and for listeners and revenues with many adult-audience commercial
radio stations and other media in New York City and surrounding suburbs.

The New York Times Syndicate's operations compete with several other syndicated
features and supplemental news services.

EMPLOYEES

As of December 26, 1999, the Company had approximately 13,400 full-time
equivalent employees.

                                The Times            4,900
                                The Globe            3,200
                      Regional Newspapers            3,500
                          Broadcast Group              900
                           Magazine Group              200
                    Times Company Digital              300
          Corporate/Shared Service Center              400
                                                    ------
                            Total Company           13,400
                                                    ======

Labor Relations

Approximately 3,690 full-time equivalent employees of The Times and City &
Suburban are represented by 16 unions for collective bargaining purposes.
Approximately 30 employees of Times Company Digital are represented by the
Newspaper Guild of New York.

The Times has collective bargaining agreements in effect through at least March
30, 2003, with all of its unions except: the New York Mailers' Union and the
Paperhandlers' Union, both of which have contracts expiring March 30, 2000, that
cover approximately 430 full-time production employees; and the International
Brotherhood of Electricians, which has a contract expiring March 30, 2002, that
covers approximately five full-time maintenance employees.

City & Suburban's collective bargaining agreement with its drivers' union
expires March 30, 2008; its six agreements with its truck maintenance and
building maintenance unions (covering approximately 37 full-time employees)
expire in 2000; and its agreement with its support staff union (covering
approximately 14 full-time employees) expired in 1995. City & Suburban is in the
process of negotiating successor agreements.
<PAGE>
10


The Times's agreement with its printing pressmens' union (which covers
approximately 450 production employees) provides that wages for the 2000-2005
period are to be negotiated by the parties. If the negotiations do not result in
an agreement, the issue of wages for this period is to be submitted to binding
arbitration for resolution.

Approximately 2,100 full-time equivalent employees of The Globe are represented
by 12 unions. In 1999 The Globe concluded its negotiations with the Boston Globe
Employees Association, an affiliate of The Newspaper Guild representing
non-production employees, for a three-year contract effective January 1, 1998
through December 31, 2000.

The Globe has a six-year contract with Boston Mailers Union No. 1 which extends
until December 31, 2001. The Globe concluded negotiations with five other
production unions, one for a three-year contract effective January 1, 1999,
through December 31, 2001, a second for a four-year contract effective January
1, 1999, through December 31, 2002, two for six-year contracts effective January
1, 1999, through December 31, 2004, and one for a ten-year contract effective
January 1, 1997, through December 31, 2006, with a provision permitting at
specified times after December 31, 2002, negotiation of wages. Four other
production unions have contracts that expired December 31, 1998. Negotiations
have commenced for successor contracts. The Globe expects to conclude these
negotiations during 2000. One other production union has a contract that
continues to be in effect through December 31, 2001. This contract is open for
negotiation of wages. The Globe expects to complete negotiation on this contract
during 2000.

Approximately one-fourth of the 655 full-time equivalent employees of Worcester
are represented by four unions. Contracts with three production unions expire
October 8, 2000, August 31, 2002, and November 30, 2002, respectively. The
Providence Newspaper Guild was certified as the bargaining agent for newsroom
employees in 1993. Negotiations are ongoing.

The Company cannot predict the timing or the outcome of the various negotiations
described above.

Two other entities owned by the Company (The Press Democrat and WQXR(FM)) also
have collective bargaining agreements covering certain of their employees.
<PAGE>
                                                                              11



ITEM 2. Properties.

The general character, location, terms of occupancy and approximate size of the
Company's principal plants and other materially important properties at December
26, 1999, are listed below.

  General Character             Approximate Area in    Approximate Area in
  of Property                   Square Feet (Owned)    Square Feet (Leased)
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Newspaper Publishing:
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Printing plants, business
  and editorial offices,
  garages and warehouse
  space located in:
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  New York, NY                         714,000               107,500
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Flushing, NY                              --               515,000(1)
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Edison, NJ                                --             1,300,000(2)
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Boston, MA                           652,000                    --
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Billerica, MA                        290,000                    --
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Westwood, MA                         115,000                    --
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Other locations                    1,324,600               548,000
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Broadcasting
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Business offices, studios
  and transmitters at
  various locations                    324,820                26,725
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Magazine Publishing                   87,000                34,500
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total                              3,507,420             2,531,725
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------

ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings.

There are various legal actions that have arisen in the ordinary course of
business and are now pending against the Company. Such actions are usually for
amounts greatly in excess of the payments, if any, that may be required to be
made. It is the opinion of management after reviewing such actions with legal
counsel to the Company that the ultimate liability which might result from such
actions will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial
statements.

- ----------
(1)   The Company is leasing a 31-acre site in Flushing, New York, where its
      printing and distribution plant is located, and has the option to purchase
      the property at any time prior to the end of the lease in 2019.
(2)   The Edison production and distribution facility is occupied pursuant to a
      long-term lease with renewal and purchase options.

<PAGE>
12


ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

Not applicable.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Employed By         Position(s) As Of
Name                               Age     Registrant Since    March 13, 2000
- ---------------------------        ---     ----------------    --------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>          <C>            <C>
Corporate Officers

Arthur Sulzberger, Jr.             48           1978           Chairman (since 1997) and Publisher of The Times
                                                                  (since 1992)

Russell T. Lewis                   52           1966(1)        President (since 1996) and Chief Executive Officer (since 1997);
                                                                  Chief Operating Officer (1996 to 1997); President and General
                                                                  Manager of The Times (1993 to 1996)

Michael Golden                     50           1984           Vice Chairman and Senior Vice President (since 1997); Vice
                                                                  President, Operations Development (1996 to 1997); Executive Vice
                                                                  President, Sports/Leisure Magazines and Publisher of Tennis
                                                                  (1994 to 1995)

Cynthia H. Augustine               42           1986(2)        Senior Vice President (since 1998), Human Resources; Partner in
                                                                  Sabin, Bermant and Gould LLP (1994 to 1998)

John M. O'Brien                    57           1960           Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (since 1998);
                                                                  Senior Vice President (1996 to 1998), Operations; Executive Vice
                                                                  President (1992 to 1996) and Deputy General Manager (1991 to
                                                                  1996) of The Times

Solomon B. Watson IV               55           1974           Senior Vice President (since 1996); Vice President (1990 to 1996);
                                                                  General Counsel (since 1989)

Laura J. Corwin                    55           1980           Vice President (since 1997); Secretary (since 1989) and Corporate
                                                                  Counsel (1993 to 1997)

James C. Lessersohn                45           1987           Vice President and Treasurer (since 1999); Vice President,
                                                                  Corporate Planning (1997 to 1999); Managing Director, Corporate
                                                                  Planning (1994 to 1997)

Stuart Stoller                     44           1996           Vice President and Corporate Controller (since 1996); Controller of
                                                                  Coopers and Lybrand L.L.P. (1995); Senior Vice President,
                                                                  Control and Accounting, of R. H. Macy & Co., Inc. (1993 to 1995)
</TABLE>

- ----------
(1)   Mr. Lewis left the Company in 1973 and returned in 1977.
(2)   Ms. Augustine left the Company in 1993 and returned in 1998.
<PAGE>
                                                                              13


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Employed By         Position(s) As Of
Name                               Age     Registrant Since    March 13, 2000
- ---------------------------        ---     ----------------    --------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>          <C>            <C>
Operating Unit Executives

Leonard P. Forman                  54           1974(1)        President and Chief Executive Officer, The New York Times Company
                                                                  Magazine Group, Inc. (since 1998); Senior Vice President
                                                                  (1996-1998), Corporate Development, New Ventures and Electronic
                                                                  Businesses; President and Chief Executive Officer of
                                                                  NYNEX/Newsday electronic service joint venture (1995)

Richard H. Gilman                  49           1983           Publisher of The Globe (since 1999); Senior Vice President,
                                                                  Operations (1993 to 1998) and Circulation (1998 to 1999) of The
                                                                  Times

Lynn O. Matthews                   55           1973           President and Chief Operating Officer, The New York Times Company
                                                                  Regional Newspaper Group (since 2000); Publisher, Sarasota
                                                                  Herald-Tribune (1991-2000)

Martin A. Nisenholtz               44           1995           Chief Executive Officer, Times Company Digital, Inc. (since 1999);
                                                                  President, The New York Times Electronic Media Company
                                                                  (1995-1999); Corporate Director, Content Strategy, Ameritech
                                                                  Corporation (1994 to 1995)

C. Frank Roberts                   56           1970           Vice President, Broadcasting (since 1986); President, The New York
                                                                  Times Company Broadcast Group (since 1985)

Janet L. Robinson                  49           1983           President and General Manager of The Times (since 1996); Senior
                                                                  Vice President, Advertising of The Times (1995-1996); Vice
                                                                  President (1993-1995) and Director (1994-1995) of Advertising of
                                                                  The Times
</TABLE>

                                     PART II

ITEM 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder
          Matters.

The information required by this item appears at page F-40 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data.

The information required by this item appears at page F-1 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
          of Operations.

The information required by this item appears at pages F-3 to F-12 of this Form
10-K.

ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

The information required by this item appears at pages F-13 to F-37 and page
F-39 to F-40 of this Form 10-K.

- ----------
(1)   Mr. Forman left the Company in 1986 and returned in 1996.
<PAGE>
14


ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
          Financial Disclosure.

Not applicable.

                                    PART III

ITEM 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.

In addition to the information set forth under the caption "Executive Officers
of the Registrant" in Part I of this Form 10-K, the information required by this
item is incorporated by reference to the sections entitled "Section 16(a)
Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance," "Proposal Number 1 - Election of
Directors," and "Interest of Directors in Certain Transactions of the Company,"
but only up to and not including the section entitled "Certain Information About
the Board of Directors," of the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2000 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 11. Executive Compensation.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the
sections entitled "Compensation of Directors; Liability and Reimbursement
Insurance" and "Compensation of Executive Officers," but only up to and not
including the section entitled "Performance Presentation," of the Company's
Proxy Statement for the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the
sections entitled "Solicitation of Proxies," "Voting Securities of The Company,"
"Principal Holders of Common Stock," "Security Ownership of Management,"
"Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance," "The 1997 Trust," and
"Globe Voting Trust" of the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2000 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the
sections entitled "Interest of Directors in Certain Transactions of the
Company," "Compensation of Executive Officers," but only up to and not including
the section entitled "Performance Presentation," of the Company's Proxy
Statement for the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

                                     PART IV

ITEM 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K.

(A)   DOCUMENTS FILED AS PART OF THIS REPORT

(1)   Financial Statements and Supplemental Schedules

(a)   The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company are filed as part of
      this Form 10-K and are set forth on pages F-13 to F-37. The report of
      Deloitte & Touche LLP, Independent Auditors, dated January 28, 2000
      (February 17, 2000, as to Note 18), is set forth on page F-38 of this Form
      10-K.

(b)   The following additional consolidated financial information is filed as
      part of this Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the
      Consolidated Financial Statements set forth on pages F-13 to F-37.
      Schedules not included with this additional consolidated financial
      information have been omitted either because they are not applicable or
      because the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial
      Statements at the aforementioned pages.

<PAGE>
                                                                              15


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                               Page
                                                                                               ----
               <S>                                                                          <C>
               Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.......................................    Exhibit 12
               Independent Auditors' Consent............................................    Exhibit 23
               Consolidated Schedules for the Three Years Ended December 26, 1999:
                     II--Valuation and Qualifying Accounts...............................       S-1
</TABLE>

Separate financial statements and supplemental schedules of associated companies
accounted for by the equity method are omitted in accordance with the provisions
of Rule 3-09 of Regulation S-X.

(2)   Exhibits

(3.1)       Certificate of Incorporation as amended and restated to reflect
            amendments effective June 19, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated August 11, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(3.2)       By-laws as amended through May 21, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated August 11, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(4)         The Company agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request a copy
            of any instrument with respect to long-term debt of the Company and
            any subsidiary for which consolidated or unconsolidated financial
            statements are required to be filed, and for which the amount of
            securities authorized thereunder does not exceed 10% of the total
            assets of the Company and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

(9.1)       Globe Voting Trust Agreement, dated as of October 1, 1993, as
            amended effective October 1, 1995 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 11, 1996, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.1)      The Company's Executive Incentive Compensation Plan as amended
            through December 20, 1990 (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form
            10-K dated March 1, 1991, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.2)      The Company's 1991 Executive Stock Incentive Plan, as amended
            through December 16, 1999.

(10.3)      The Company's 1991 Executive Cash Bonus Plan, as amended through
            April 15, 1999 (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's 10-Q dated May
            12, 1999, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.4)      The Company's Non-Employee Directors' Stock Option Plan, as amended
            through December 16, 1999.

(10.5)      The Company's Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, as amended and
            restated through January 1, 1993 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 11, 1996, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.6)      Amendment No. 1, dated May 1, 1997, to the Company's Supplemental
            Executive Retirement Plan (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form
            10-Q dated March 30, 1997, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.7)      Lease (short form) between the Company and Z Edison Limited
            Partnership, dated April 8, 1987 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 27, 1988, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.7.1)    Amendment to Lease between the Company and Z Edison Limited
            Partnership, dated May 14, 1997 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated November 10, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.7.2)    Second Amendment to Lease between the Company and Z Edison Limited
            Partnership, dated June 30, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated November 10, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.8)      Agreement of Lease, dated as of December 15, 1993, between The City
            of New York, Landlord, and the Company, Tenant (as successor to New
            York City Economic Development Corporation (the "EDC"), pursuant to
            an Assignment and Assumption of Lease With Consent, made as of
            December 15, 1993, between the EDC, as
<PAGE>
16


            Assignor, to the Company, as Assignee) (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.9)      Funding Agreement #1, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.10)     Funding Agreement #2, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.11)     Funding Agreement #3, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.12)     Funding Agreement #4, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.13)     New York City Public Utility Service Power Service Agreement, made
            as of May 3, 1993, between The City of New York, acting by and
            through its Public Utility Service, and The New York Times Newspaper
            Division of the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form
            10-K dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.14)     Employment Agreement, dated May 19, 1993, between API, Globe
            Newspaper Company and William O. Taylor (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.15)     API's 1989 Stock Option Plan (filed as Annex F-1 to API's Proxy
            Statement-Joint Prospectus, dated as of April 28, 1989, contained in
            API's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration Statement No.
            33-28373) declared effective April 28, 1989, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.16)     Globe Newspaper Company, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement
            Plan, as amended effective December 16, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to
            the Company's Form 10-K dated February 26, 1999, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.17)     API's 1990 Stock Option Plan (Restated 1991) (filed as Exhibit 1 to
            API's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter ended June 30,
            1991 (Commission File No. 1-10251), and incorporated by reference
            herein).

(10.18)     The Company's Deferred Executive Compensation Plan, as amended
            effective December 8, 1999.

(10.19)     The Company's Non-Employee Directors Deferral Plan (filed as an
            Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-Q dated November 12, 1997, and
            incorporated by reference herein).

(10.20)     Distribution Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1998, by and among
            the Company, Morgan Stanley & Co., Incorporated, Chase Securities
            Inc. and Salomon Smith Barney Inc. (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 8-K dated September 24, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.21)     Exchange Rate Agency Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1998, by
            and between the Company and Morgan Stanley Dean Witter (filed as an
            Exhibit to the Company's Form 8-K dated September 24, 1998, and
            incorporated by reference herein).

(10.22)     Calculation Agent Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1998, by and
            between the Company and The Chase Manhattan Bank (filed as an
            Exhibit to the Company's Form 8-K dated September 24, 1998, and
            incorporated by reference herein).

(10.23)     Employment Agreement, dated as of September 1, 1999, between the
            Company and Martin Nisenholtz.

(12)        Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
<PAGE>
                                                                              17


(21)        Subsidiaries of the Company.

(23)        Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.

(27)        Financial Data Schedules.

(B)   REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

      The Company did not file any reports on Form 8-K during the fiscal year
ended December 26, 1999.
<PAGE>
18


                                   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.

Date:  March 14, 2000
                                (Registrant)

                                THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

                                By:            /S/ LAURA J. CORWIN
                                   ---------------------------------------------
                                   Laura J. Corwin, Vice President and Secretary


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature                 Title                                  Date
- ---------                 -----                                  ----

ARTHUR OCHS SULZBERGER    Chairman Emeritus, Director            March 14,  2000

ARTHUR SULZBERGER, JR.    Chairman, Director (Principal          March 14,  2000
                            Executive Officer)

RUSSELL T. LEWIS          Chief Executive Officer,               March 14,  2000
                            President and Director

MICHAEL GOLDEN            Vice Chairman, Senior Vice             March 14,  2000
                            President and Director

JOHN F. AKERS             Director                               March 14,  2000

BRENDA C. BARNES          Director                               March 14,  2000

RAUL E. CESAN             Director                               March 14,  2000

RICHARD L. GELB           Director                               March 14,  2000

ROBERT A. LAWRENCE        Director                               March 14,  2000

ELLEN R. MARRAM           Director                               March 14,  2000

JOHN M. O'BRIEN           Senior Vice President and              March 14,  2000
                            Chief Financial Officer
                            (Principal Financial Officer)

CHARLES H. PRICE II       Director                               March 14,  2000

HENRY B. SCHACHT          Director                               March 14,  2000

DONALD M. STEWART         Director                               March 14,  2000

STUART STOLLER            Vice President, Corporate              March 14,  2000
                            Controller (Principal Accounting
                            Officer)

JUDITH P. SULZBERGER      Director                               March 14,  2000
<PAGE>

                                 EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
Number                                 Description
- -------                                -----------

(3.1)       Certificate of Incorporation as amended and restated to reflect
            amendments effective June 19, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated August 11, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(3.2)       By-laws as amended through May 21, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated August 11, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(4)         The Company agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request a copy
            of any instrument with respect to long-term debt of the Company and
            any subsidiary for which consolidated or unconsolidated financial
            statements are required to be filed, and for which the amount of
            securities authorized thereunder does not exceed 10% of the total
            assets of the Company and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

(9.1)       Globe Voting Trust Agreement, dated as of October 1, 1993, as
            amended effective October 1, 1995 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 11, 1996, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.1)      The Company's Executive Incentive Compensation Plan as amended
            through December 20, 1990 (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form
            10-K dated March 1, 1991, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.2)      The Company's 1991 Executive Stock Incentive Plan, as amended
            through December 16, 1999.

(10.3)      The Company's 1991 Executive Cash Bonus Plan, as amended through
            April 15, 1999 (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's 10-Q dated May
            12, 1999, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.4)      The Company's Non-Employee Directors' Stock Option Plan, as amended
            through December 16, 1999.

(10.5)      The Company's Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, as amended and
            restated through January 1, 1993 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 11, 1996, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.6)      Amendment No. 1, dated May 1, 1997, to the Company's Supplemental
            Executive Retirement Plan (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form
            10-Q dated March 30, 1997, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.7)      Lease (short form) between the Company and Z Edison Limited
            Partnership, dated April 8, 1987 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 27, 1988, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.7.1)    Amendment to Lease between the Company and Z Edison Limited
            Partnership, dated May 14, 1997 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated November 10, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.7.2)    Second Amendment to Lease between the Company and Z Edison Limited
            Partnership, dated June 30, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-Q dated November 10, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.8)      Agreement of Lease, dated as of December 15, 1993, between The City
            of New York, Landlord, and the Company, Tenant (as successor to New
            York City Economic Development Corporation (the "EDC"), pursuant to
            an Assignment and Assumption of Lease With Consent, made as of
            December 15, 1993, between the EDC, as Assignor, to the Company, as
            Assignee) (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K dated
            March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).
<PAGE>

(10.9)      Funding Agreement #1, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.10)     Funding Agreement #2, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.11)     Funding Agreement #3, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.12)     Funding Agreement #4, dated as of December 15, 1993, between the EDC
            and the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K
            dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.13)     New York City Public Utility Service Power Service Agreement, made
            as of May 3, 1993, between The City of New York, acting by and
            through its Public Utility Service, and The New York Times Newspaper
            Division of the Company (filed as an Exhibit to the Company's Form
            10-K dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by reference herein).

(10.14)     Employment Agreement, dated May 19, 1993, between API, Globe
            Newspaper Company and William O. Taylor (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 10-K dated March 21, 1994, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.15)     API's 1989 Stock Option Plan (filed as Annex F-1 to API's Proxy
            Statement-Joint Prospectus, dated as of April 28, 1989, contained in
            API's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration Statement No.
            33-28373) declared effective April 28, 1989, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.16)     Globe Newspaper Company, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement
            Plan, as amended effective December 16, 1998 (filed as an Exhibit to
            the Company's Form 10-K dated February 26, 1999, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.17)     API's 1990 Stock Option Plan (Restated 1991) (filed as Exhibit 1 to
            API's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter ended June 30,
            1991 (Commission File No. 1-10251), and incorporated by reference
            herein).

(10.18)     The Company's Deferred Executive Compensation Plan, as amended
            effective December 8, 1999.

(10.19)     The Company's Non-Employee Directors Deferral Plan (filed as an
            Exhibit to the Company's Form 10-Q dated November 12, 1997, and
            incorporated by reference herein).

(10.20)     Distribution Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1998, by and among
            the Company, Morgan Stanley & Co., Incorporated, Chase Securities
            Inc. and Salomon Smith Barney Inc. (filed as an Exhibit to the
            Company's Form 8-K dated September 24, 1998, and incorporated by
            reference herein).

(10.21)     Exchange Rate Agency Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1998, by
            and between the Company and Morgan Stanley Dean Witter (filed as an
            Exhibit to the Company's Form 8-K dated September 24, 1998, and
            incorporated by reference herein).

(10.22)     Calculation Agent Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1998, by and
            between the Company and The Chase Manhattan Bank (filed as an
            Exhibit to the Company's Form 8-K dated September 24, 1998, and
            incorporated by reference herein).

(10.23)     Employment Agreement, dated as of September 1, 1999, between the
            Company and Martin Nisenholtz.

(12)        Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.

(21)        Subsidiaries of the Company.

(23)        Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.

(27)        Financial Data Schedules.
<PAGE>

                           THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

                              1999 Financial Report

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Contents                                                                   Page

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selected Financial Data.................................................    F-1

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
  and Results of Operations.............................................    F-3

Consolidated Statements of Income.......................................   F-13

Consolidated Balance Sheets.............................................   F-14

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows...................................   F-16

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity.........................   F-18

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements..........................   F-19

Independent Auditors' Report............................................   F-38

Management's Responsibilities Report....................................   F-38

Quarterly Information...................................................   F-39

Market Information......................................................   F-40

Ten-Year Supplemental Financial Data....................................   F-41
<PAGE>

                                                                             F-1

                             SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                         Years Ended
                                                         --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         December 26,   December 27,    December 28,   December 29,   December 31,
(In thousands, except per share and employee data)               1999           1998            1997           1996           1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                       <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>            <C>
REVENUES AND INCOME
Revenues                                                  $ 3,130,629    $ 2,936,705     $ 2,866,418    $ 2,628,271    $ 2,428,124
Operating profit                                              571,282        515,220         455,102        173,280        232,749
Income before income taxes and extraordinary item             538,464        505,520         437,365        197,909        233,839
Extraordinary item, net of tax - debt extinguishment(1)            --         (7,716)             --             --             --
Net income                                                    310,177        278,914         262,301         84,534        135,860
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL POSITION
Property, plant and equipment - net                       $ 1,218,396    $ 1,326,196     $ 1,366,931    $ 1,358,029    $ 1,266,609
Total assets                                                3,495,802      3,465,109       3,623,183      3,539,871      3,389,704
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations                  598,327        597,818         535,428        636,632        637,873
Common stockholders' equity                                 1,448,658      1,531,470       1,729,297      1,623,523      1,610,437
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK
Basic earnings per share
     Earnings before extraordinary item                   $      1.77    $      1.52     $      1.36    $       .43    $       .70
     Extraordinary item, net of tax - debt
        extinguishment(1)                                          --           (.04)             --             --             --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Net income                                           $      1.77    $      1.48     $      1.36    $       .43    $       .70
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share
     Earnings before extraordinary item                   $      1.73    $      1.49     $      1.33    $       .43    $       .70
     Extraordinary item, net of tax - debt
        extinguishment(1)                                          --           (.04)             --             --             --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Net income                                           $      1.73    $      1.45     $      1.33    $       .43    $       .70
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends                                                 $       .41    $       .37     $       .32    $       .29    $       .28
Common stockholders' equity                               $      8.08    $      7.94     $      8.77    $      8.25    $      8.27
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEY RATIOS
Operating profit to revenues(2)                                    19%            18%             16%            12%            10%
Return on average common stockholders' equity(2)                   21%            17%             15%            11%             8%
Return on average total assets(2)                                   9%             8%              7%             5%             4%
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
     to total capitalization                                       29%            28%             24%            28%            28%
Current assets to current liabilities                             .91            .82             .92            .74            .91
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT EMPLOYEES                                 13,400         13,200          13,100         12,800         12,300
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

All earnings per share amounts for special items on the following page are the
same for basic and diluted earnings per share unless otherwise noted.
(1)   See Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)   Key operating ratios exclude special items from income as noted on page
      F-2.

<PAGE>
F-2


Income used in computing the key operating ratios on page F-1 exclude the
following special items:

1999

This item reduced earnings per share by $.05.

o     The Company recorded a $15.5 million pre-tax charge ($8.9 million
      after-tax) principally for work force reduction charges ("Buyouts") at The
      Boston Globe (see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
      Statements).

1998

These items reduced earnings per share by $.03.

o     The Company recorded a $4.6 million pre-tax gain ($2.6 million after-tax)
      from the sale of equipment (see Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated
      Financial Statements).

o     The Company recorded a $7.7 million after-tax extraordinary item in
      connection with its repurchase of $78.1 million of its $150.0 million,
      8.25% notes due in 2025 (see Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated
      Financial Statements).

o     The Company recorded an $8.0 million pre-tax gain ($4.5 million after-tax)
      from the satisfaction of a post-closing requirement related to the sale of
      assets of its tennis, sailing and ski magazines in 1997 (see Note 2 of the
      Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     The Company recorded a $5.4 million pre-tax charge ($3.1 million
      after-tax) for Buyouts (see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated
      Financial Statements).

1997

These items increased earnings per share by $.07.

o     The Company recorded an $18.0 million favorable tax adjustment resulting
      from the completion of its federal income tax audits for periods through
      1992 (see Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     The Company recorded aggregate pre-tax gains totaling $10.4 million ($5.7
      million after-tax) from the sale of assets of its tennis, sailing and ski
      magazines and certain small properties, net of costs associated with the
      exit of a golf tee-time reservation operation (see Note 2 of the Notes to
      the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     The Company recorded a $10.1 million pre-tax noncash charge ($5.7 million
      after-tax) relating to the adoption of Emerging Issues Task Force Issue
      No. 97-13, Accounting for Costs Incurred in Connection with a Consulting
      Contract or an Internal Project That Combines Business Process
      Reengineering and Information Technology Transformation ("EITF 97-13")
      (see Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     The Company recorded an $8.5 million pre-tax charge ($4.7 million
      after-tax) for Buyouts (see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated
      Financial Statements).

1996

These items reduced basic earnings per share by $.53 and diluted earnings per
share by $.51.

o     The Company recorded a $126.8 million pre-tax noncash charge ($94.5
      million after-tax) relating to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
      No. 121, Accounting for Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived
      Assets To Be Disposed Of ("SFAS 121 charge").

o     The Company recorded pre-tax gains totaling $32.9 million ($17.5 million
      after-tax) from the sale of a building and the realization of a gain
      contingency from the disposition of a paper mill in a prior year.

o     The Company recorded a $44.1 million pre-tax charge ($24.4 million
      after-tax) for Buyouts.

1995

These items had no net effect on earnings per share.

o     The Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $11.3 million ($5.0 million
      after-tax) from the sale of several small regional newspapers.

o     The Company recorded a $10.1 million pre-tax charge ($5.9 million
      after-tax) for Buyouts.

<PAGE>
                                                                             F-3

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

OVERVIEW

In 1999 newspapers contributed 92% of the Company's $3.1 billion in revenues,
while broadcasting accounted for 5% and magazines accounted for 3%.

Advertising revenues were 72% and circulation revenues were 22% of the Company's
total revenues in 1999, and newspaper distribution operations and database
royalties principally made up the balance.

Newsprint is the major component of the Company's cost of raw materials.
Newsprint market prices in 1999 decreased from 1998 and are expected to rise in
2000 over 1999 levels.

Below is a chart of the Company's consolidated costs and expenses for the three
years ended December 26, 1999.

All percentages presented below for consolidated costs and expenses include
production costs as well as selling, general and administrative expenses.

Components of Consolidated Costs and Expenses

   [The following table was depicted as a bar chart in the printed material.]

                                       1999       1998      1997
                                       ----       ----      ----
Wages and Benefits                      42%        41%       42%
Raw Materials                           13%        15%       14%
Other Operating Costs                   37%        36%       37%
Depreciation & Amortization              8%         8%        7%
                                       ----       ----      ----
                                       100%       100%      100%

Consolidated Costs and Expenses
as a Percentage of Revenues

   [The following table was depicted as a bar chart in the printed material.]

                                       1999       1998      1997
                                       ----       ----      ----
Wages and Benefits                      35%        34%       36%
Raw Materials                           10%        12%       11%
Other Operating Costs                   31%        30%       31%
Depreciation & Amortization              6%         6%        6%
                                       ----       ----      ----
                                        82%        82%       84%

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS

The Company's consolidated financial results for 1999, 1998 and 1997 were as
follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    % Change
                                                                  ------------
(In millions, except per
share data)                        1999        1998        1997   99-98  98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues                       $3,130.6    $2,936.7    $2,866.4     6.6    2.5
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit               $  571.3    $  515.2    $  455.1    10.9   13.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before
  special items                $  319.1    $  282.6    $  249.1    12.9   13.5
Special items                      (8.9)       (3.7)       13.2       *      *
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income                     $  310.2    $  278.9    $  262.3    11.2    6.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per
  share before
  special items                $   1.78    $   1.48    $   1.26    20.3   17.5
Special items                      (.05)       (.03)        .07    66.7      *
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per
  share                        $   1.73    $   1.45    $   1.33    19.3    9.0
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For an explanation of special items, see "Special Items" on page F-5.

All references to earnings per share in this Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are to diluted
earnings per share. Years presented each comprise 52 weeks.

*Represents percentages greater than or equal to 100%.

Revenues were $3.1 billion in 1999, up 6.6% from $2.9 billion in 1998. In 1998
revenues were up 2.5% from $2.9 billion in 1997. On a comparable basis, adjusted
for dispositions, revenues increased 4.3% in 1998. The effect of dispositions on
revenues in 1999 was nominal. Revenues in 1999 improved mostly as a result of
higher advertising rates, increased advertising volume and an improved
advertising mix. Revenues in 1998 improved as a result of higher advertising
rates and volume.

Operating profit for 1999 increased 10.9% to $571.3 million from $515.2 million
in 1998. Operating profit for 1999, exclusive of special items, rose 12.7% to
$586.7 million from $520.6 million in 1998. The increases were mainly due to
higher advertising revenues and lower newsprint expense at the Company's
newspapers.

In 1998 operating profit rose 13.2% to $515.2 million from $455.1 million in
1997. Operating profit for 1998, exclusive of special items, rose 9.9% to $520.6
million from $473.7 million in 1997. The improvement in operating profit was
mainly due to higher advertising revenues at the Company's newspapers and
tighter cost controls throughout the Company, despite higher newsprint expense.

<PAGE>
F-4


Net income for 1999 increased 11.2% to $310.2 million from $278.9 million in
1998. Net income for 1999, exclusive of special items, rose 12.9% to $319.1
million from $282.6 million in 1998. The increases were primarily attributable
to higher advertising revenues and lower newsprint expense.

Net income in 1998 increased 6.3% to $278.9 million from $262.3 million in 1997.
Net income for 1998, exclusive of special items, rose 13.5% to $282.6 million
from $249.1 million in 1997. The increases in net income were primarily
attributable to higher advertising revenues.

The Company's consolidated EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation
and amortization) for 1999 increased 7.9% to $786.7 million. EBITDA for 1999
increased 9.9% to $802.1 million, excluding special items. EBITDA for 1998 rose
11.6% to $729.4 million from $653.4 million. Excluding special items, EBITDA for
1998 rose 10.3% to $729.9 million from $661.6 million in 1997.

EBITDA is presented because it is a widely accepted indicator of funds available
to service debt, although it is not a measure of liquidity or of financial
performance under generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). The EBITDA
presented may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other
companies. The Company believes that EBITDA, while providing useful information,
should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to net income or cash
flows as determined under GAAP.

OPERATING EXPENSES

Consolidated operating expenses were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   % Change
                                                              -----------------
(In millions)              1999        1998        1997       99-98       98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Production costs
  Raw materials        $  321.4    $  354.9    $  324.7       (9.4)        9.3
  Wages and benefits      621.3       608.2       584.0        2.2         4.1
  Other                   436.1       418.1       381.8        4.3         9.5
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total production
  costs                 1,378.8     1,381.2     1,290.5       (0.2)        7.0
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selling, general and
  administrative
  expenses              1,180.5     1,040.3     1,120.8       13.5        (7.2)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                  $2,559.3    $2,421.5    $2,411.3        5.7         0.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Production costs for 1999 were flat compared to 1998 at $1.4 billion. Lower
newsprint expense was primarily offset by higher compensation and contracted
printing costs associated with The New York Times newspaper's national
expansion.

In 1998 production costs increased 7.0% to $1.4 billion. That increase was
mainly due to higher newsprint expense offset by lower costs as a result of the
divestiture of certain properties.

Selling, general and administrative ("SGA") expenses for 1999, exclusive of
special items, increased 14.4% to $1.2 billion from 1998, principally as a
result of higher incentive compensation tied to improved earnings, increased
costs associated with The New York Times newspaper's national expansion and
higher promotional spending. SGA expenses for 1998, exclusive of special items,
decreased 8.2% to $1.0 billion from $1.1 billion in 1997, principally from lower
compensation and promotional costs and lower costs as a result of the
divestiture of certain properties in 1997.

OTHER ITEMS

Joint Ventures

Income from joint ventures decreased to $17.9 million in 1999 from $21.0 million
in 1998. In 1998 income from joint ventures increased to $21.0 million from
$14.0 million in 1997. The fluctuations year over year are primarily a result of
varying levels of paper prices at the mills in which the Company has equity
interests.

Interest Expense

Interest expense, net increased to $50.7 million in 1999 from $43.3 million in
1998. The increase was principally due to additional borrowings to fund the
Company's share repurchase program. In 1998 interest expense, net increased to
$43.3 million from $42.1 million in 1997. The increase was primarily the result
of a reduction in capitalized interest, partially offset by lower interest
expense on long-term borrowings.

Total interest income and capitalized interest were $1.8 million in 1999, $3.8
million in 1998 and $8.3 million in 1997.

Taxes

The Company's annual effective income tax rates were 42.4% in 1999, 43.3% in
1998 and 44.1% in 1997. These effective income tax rates exclude the tax effects
of special items. The decline in the effective income tax rates was primarily
attributable to lower state and local income taxes.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

Diluted earnings per share in 1999 were $1.78, up 20.3% from $1.48 in 1998, and
up 17.5% from $1.26 in 1997, excluding special items. The increases were mostly
due to stronger advertising revenues in the Newspaper Group and lower
outstanding share levels resulting from the Company's share repurchase program.

Diluted earnings per share as reported in the Company's Consolidated Statements
of Income were $1.73 in 1999, $1.45 in 1998 and $1.33 in 1997. The effect of
repurchases on diluted earnings per share was an increase to earnings per share
of $.07 in 1999 and $.05 in 1998.

The average basic Class A and Class B common shares outstanding were 175.6
million in 1999, 188.8 million in 1998 and 193.0 million in 1997. The average
diluted Class A and Class B common shares outstanding were 179.2 million in
1999, 192.8 million in 1998 and 197.2 million in 1997.

<PAGE>
                                                                             F-5


SPECIAL ITEMS

Over the past three years, the Company has realized gains on the disposition of
certain assets and favorably settled a federal tax audit. The Company also
recorded expenses for a noncash accounting charge, Buyouts, and a debt
extinguishment (see Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements). These items were as follows:

1999

This item reduced net income by $8.9 million and earnings per share by $.05.

o     A $15.5 million pre-tax charge principally for Buyouts at The Boston
      Globe (see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

1998

These items reduced net income by $3.7 million and earnings per share by $.03.

o     A $4.6 million pre-tax gain from the sale of equipment. This gain
      increased earnings per share by $.01 (see Note 2 of the Notes to the
      Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     A $7.7 million after-tax extraordinary charge in connection with the
      Company's repurchase of $78.1 million of its $150.0 million, 8.25% notes
      due in 2025. This charge reduced earnings per share by $.04 (see Note 7 of
      the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     An $8.0 million pre-tax gain from the satisfaction of a post-closing
      requirement related to the 1997 sale of the Company's assets of its
      tennis, sailing and ski magazines. This gain increased earnings per share
      by $.02 (see Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
      Statements).

o     A $5.4 million pre-tax charge for Buyouts: $2.5 million (The Boston
      Globe), $3.0 million (Magazine Group), $1.9 million (Broadcast Group)
      offset by a reversal of $2.0 million (Corporate). This charge reduced
      earnings per share by $.02 (see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated
      Financial Statements).

1997

These items increased net income by $13.2 million and earnings per share by
$.07.

o     A $10.4 million pre-tax gain from the sale of assets of the Company's
      tennis, sailing and ski magazines and certain small properties, net of
      costs associated with the exit of a golf tee-time reservation operation.
      This gain increased earnings per share by $.03 (see Note 2 of the Notes to
      the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     A $10.1 million pre-tax charge resulting from a noncash charge relating to
      the adoption of EITF 97-13. This charge reduced earnings per share by $.03
      (see Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     An $18.0 million after-tax gain resulting from a favorable tax adjustment
      from the completion of the Company's federal income tax audits for periods
      through 1992. This gain increased earnings per share by $.09 (see Note 8
      of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

o     An $8.5 million pre-tax charge for Buyouts: $7.5 million (Newspaper Group)
      and $1.0 million (Corporate). This charge reduced earnings per share by
      $.02 (see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

<PAGE>
F-6

OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION

REVENUES, EBITDA AND OPERATING PROFIT

Consolidated revenues, EBITDA and operating profit by business segment were as
follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   % Change
(In millions)                 1999         1998         1997    99-98     98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues
   Newspapers             $2,869.9     $2,664.4     $2,557.1      7.7      4.2
   Broadcast                 150.1        151.2        144.5     (0.7)     4.6
   Magazines                 110.6        121.1        164.8     (8.7)   (26.5)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total segment revenues    $3,130.6     $2,936.7     $2,866.4      6.6      2.5
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EBITDA
   Newspapers             $  724.9     $  644.3     $  594.2     12.5      8.4
   Broadcast                  63.2         62.8         57.3      0.7      9.6
   Magazines                  19.4         17.7         21.0      9.4    (15.5)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Segment
   EBITDA                 $  807.5     $  724.8     $  672.5     11.4      7.8
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Profit
   Newspapers             $  556.3     $  477.8     $  434.1     16.4     10.1
   Broadcast                  45.8         45.1         39.4      1.6     14.6
   Magazines                  18.1         22.1         28.3    (18.4)   (22.0)
   Unallocated
     corporate expenses      (48.9)       (29.8)       (46.7)   (64.0)    36.1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total segment operating
   profit                 $  571.3     $  515.2     $  455.1     10.9     13.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Newspaper Group

For the years presented, the Newspaper Group includes The New York Times ("The
Times"), The Boston Globe ("The Globe"), 21 regional newspapers ("The
Regionals"), newspaper distributors, a news service, a features syndicate,
TimesFax, licensing operations of the New York Times databases and microfilm and
Internet-related ventures.

The Company acquired certain assets and liabilities of the Worcester Telegram &
Gazette on January 7, 2000, and the related results of operations are not
included herein. Beginning in 2000 the Worcester Telegram & Gazette and The
Globe will be presented as the New England Newspaper Group.

Internet-related revenues and operating losses are principally from NYTimes.com,
NYToday.com, Boston.com, WineToday.com, Abuzz and Web sites of The Regionals.
See "Proposed Public Offering of Securities" on page F-9 for additional
information regarding the Company's Internet Operations.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    % Change
(In millions)                 1999        1998        1997      99-98     98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues
   Newspapers             $2,839.4    $2,646.9    $2,546.0       7.3       4.0
   Internet                   30.5        17.5        11.1      74.7      57.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total revenues         $2,869.9    $2,664.4    $2,557.1       7.7       4.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EBITDA
   Newspapers             $  741.5    $  656.1    $  601.4      13.0       9.1
   Internet                  (16.6)      (11.8)       (7.2)    (41.1)    (64.8)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total EBITDA           $  724.9    $  644.3    $  594.2      12.5       8.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Profit (Loss)
   Newspapers             $  577.9    $  490.8    $  441.4      17.7      11.2
   Internet                  (21.6)      (13.0)       (7.3)    (65.7)    (79.3)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Profit    $  556.3    $  477.8    $  434.1      16.4      10.1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Newspaper Group's operating profit for 1999 rose to $556.3 million, compared
with $477.8 million in 1998. For 1999 operating profit rose to $571.6 million,
compared with $480.3 million in 1998, excluding special items. The improvement
primarily resulted from higher advertising revenues and lower newsprint expense.
In 1999 the Company's newsprint expense fell 10.9%, which resulted from a
decrease in the cost of newsprint of 12.9% and an increase in consumption of
2.0% due to strong advertising compared with 1998.

Revenues grew to $2.9 billion in 1999, up 7.7% from $2.7 billion in 1998. The
increase in revenue was primarily due to higher advertising rates and volume and
an improved advertising mix. Performance was strongest at The Times and The
Globe, where advertising revenues climbed 12.6% and 6.5%. Both newspapers
benefited from strong national advertising including increased business from
technology companies, and Internet businesses. At The Regionals, advertising
revenues were also strong, due in part to the success of Celebrate 2000, a
comprehensive program of millennium-related advertising, circulation and
promotion initiatives. Across the Newspaper Group there was also a slight
increase in circulation revenue. Other revenue increased $10.2 million in 1999
principally due to a special printing project at The Globe.

The Newspaper Group's operating profit for 1998 rose to $477.8 million, compared
with $434.1 million in 1997. In 1998 operating profit rose to $480.3 million,
compared with $441.6 million in 1997, excluding special items. The improvement
was mainly from higher advertising revenues and cost containment, despite an
increase of 12.9% in newsprint expense. In 1998 the Company's newsprint expense
rose 8.8% and consumption increased 4.1% compared with 1997.

Revenues grew to $2.7 billion in 1998, up 4.2% from $2.6 billion in 1997. The
increases in revenues for 1998 over 1997 were primarily due to higher
advertising rates and volume, as well as a slight increase in circulation
revenues.

<PAGE>
                                                                             F-7


Advertising, circulation and other revenue, by major product of the Newspaper
Group, were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 % Change
(In millions)               1999       1998       1997       99-98      98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times
   Advertising          $1,192.0   $1,058.9   $  989.5       12.6         7.0
   Circulation             452.6      440.6      426.0        2.7         3.4
   Other                   144.4      142.1      144.2        1.6        (1.4)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                $1,789.0   $1,641.6   $1,559.7        9.0         5.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Boston Globe
   Advertising          $  477.5   $  448.2   $  440.3        6.5         1.8
   Circulation             133.7      133.4      134.5        0.2        (0.8)
   Other                    14.0        8.2        7.8       70.7         5.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                $  625.2   $  589.8   $  582.6        6.0         1.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regional Newspapers
   Advertising          $  362.7   $  341.7   $  323.2        6.1         5.7
   Circulation              76.9       77.3       77.6       (0.5)       (0.4)
   Other                    16.1       14.0       14.0       15.6          --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                $  455.7   $  433.0   $  414.8        5.3         4.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Newspaper Group
   Advertising          $2,032.2   $1,848.8   $1,753.0        9.9         5.5
   Circulation             663.2      651.3      638.1        1.8         2.1
   Other                   174.5      164.3      166.0        6.2        (1.0)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                $2,869.9   $2,664.4   $2,557.1        7.7         4.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Advertising volume for The Times, The Globe and The Regionals was as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Inches in thousands,
preprints in                                                        % Change
thousands                                                        ---------------
of copies)                   1999          1998          1997     99-98   98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times
   Retail                   567.3         587.2         606.8     (3.4)    (3.2)
   National               1,582.1       1,392.7       1,330.8     13.6      4.7
   Classified               984.1         996.9         971.1     (1.3)     2.7
   Zoned                  1,015.7       1,019.6       1,034.6     (0.4)    (1.4)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                  4,149.2       3,996.4       3,943.3      3.8      1.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Preprints              427,857       343,070       318,490     24.7      7.7
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Boston Globe
   Retail                   667.5         701.9         729.6     (4.9)    (3.8)
   National                 753.1         697.4         629.6      8.0     10.6
   Classified             1,354.3       1,350.5       1,346.1      0.3      0.4
   Zoned                    256.2         278.9         304.5     (8.2)    (8.2)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                  3,031.1       3,028.7       3,009.8      0.1      0.6
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Preprints              801,842       787,016       729,228      1.9      7.9
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regional Newspapers
   Retail                 7,575.4       7,884.4       7,830.4     (3.9)     0.7
   National                 285.0         252.7         274.9     12.8     (8.0)
   Classified             7,870.3       7,460.4       7,086.7      5.5      5.3
   Zoned                    456.4         476.4         453.9     (4.2)     4.8
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                 16,187.1      16,073.9      15,645.9      0.7      2.7
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Preprints            1,115,303     1,082,712     1,013,200      3.0      6.9
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Circulation for The Times, The Globe and The Regionals was as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Weekday                      Sunday
                              ---------------------       ----------------------
(Copies in thousands)            1999      % Change         1999       % Change
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Circulation
The New York Times            1,110.2          1.5       1,668.1           1.4
The Boston Globe                468.9         (0.2)        728.5          (2.2)
Regional Newspapers             732.7         (0.6)        779.5          (1.0)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Weekday                      Sunday
                              ---------------------       ----------------------
(Copies in thousands)            1998      % Change          1998      % Change
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Circulation
The New York Times            1,094.1           0.5       1,644.8         (0.4)
The Boston Globe                469.9          (1.1)        745.2         (1.3)
Regional Newspapers             736.8           0.5         787.6         (0.1)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Circulation growth for The Times was primarily due to additional availability
and promotion in major markets across the nation combined with programs to
improve the quality and levels of its home delivery circulation base.
Additionally, The Times and The Globe have continued to make improvements in
delivery and customer service to attract new readers and retain existing ones.
These improvements included the use of The Times's and The Globe's Web sites for
new subscriptions and customer service.

Broadcast Group

The Broadcast Group is comprised of eight network-affiliated television stations
and two radio stations.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                % Change
(In millions)              1999       1998       1997       99-98      98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues                 $150.1     $151.2     $144.5       (0.7)        4.6
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EBITDA                     63.2       62.8       57.3        0.7         9.6
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Profit         $ 45.8     $ 45.1     $ 39.4        1.6        14.6
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Broadcast Group's operating profit was $45.9 million in 1999, $47.0 million
in 1998 and $39.4 million in 1997, excluding Buyouts.

Revenues and operating profit varied in the three years presented primarily as a
result of the level of political advertising revenue in each year. Additionally,
the Broadcast Group employed tight cost controls to aid profitability.

<PAGE>
F-8


Magazine Group

This group consists of three golf publications and related activities in the
golf field.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   % Change
(In millions)                         1999     1998     1997     99-98    98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Magazines                        $110.6   $115.3   $154.8     (4.1)    (25.5)
   Non-Compete
     Agreement                          --      5.8     10.0        *         *
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Revenues                      $110.6   $121.1   $164.8     (8.7)    (26.5)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EBITDA                              $ 19.4   $ 17.7   $ 21.0      9.4     (15.5)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Profit
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Magazines                        $ 18.1   $ 16.3   $ 18.3     10.8     (11.2)
   Non-Compete
     Agreement                          --      5.8     10.0        *         *
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Profit              $ 18.1   $ 22.1   $ 28.3    (18.4)    (22.0)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Magazine Group's operating profit declined in 1999 to $18.1 million from
$22.1 million in 1998 and $28.3 million in 1997. On a comparable basis,
excluding divestitures and income from a non-compete agreement, revenues in 1999
decreased by 3.3% compared to 1998 and 1997. Consolidation in the golf equipment
industry and a competitive rate environment adversely affected the Group's
performance in 1999 and 1998. The revenue related to the non-compete agreement
ceased in July 1998. In 1998 operating profit was also negatively affected by a
$3.0 million charge for Buyouts, and was positively affected by the absence of
losses related to a golf tee-time reservation operation that the Company exited
in late 1997. In November 1997 the Company completed the sale of assets of its
tennis, sailing and ski magazines and certain small properties (see Note 2 of
the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Net cash provided by operating activities was $601.1 million in 1999, compared
with $496.9 million in 1998 and $449.7 million in 1997. The increases were
primarily due to higher earnings and improvements in working capital. Operating
cash flow was primarily used for share repurchases, capital expenditures,
acquisitions and dividend payments to stockholders.

Net cash used in investing activities was $82.9 million in 1999, compared with
$56.2 million in 1998 and $116.7 million in 1997. The increase of $26.7 million
in 1999 was primarily due to additional minority interest investments in
Internet-related companies. The 1999 increase was partially offset by reduced
levels of capital expenditures. The decrease in 1998 from 1997 was principally
from reduced capital expenditures.

Net cash used in financing activities was $490.4 million in 1999, compared with
$511.6 million in 1998 and $265.3 million in 1997. The decrease of $21.2 million
in 1999 was primarily related to the debt extinguishment in 1998. The increase
in 1998 over 1997 was principally from increased levels of stock repurchases.

Cash generated from the Company's operations and the funds available from
external sources are expected to be adequate to cover all cash requirements,
including working capital needs, stock repurchases, planned capital expenditures
and acquisitions, and dividend payments to stockholders.

The ratio of current assets to current liabilities rose to 91.3% at December 26,
1999, from 82.1% at December 27, 1998 as a result of a higher cash balance and a
lower level of short-term borrowings. Long-term debt and capital lease
obligations, as a percentage of total capitalization, were 29.2% at December 26,
1999, and 28.1% at December 27, 1998. This increase was principally from
reductions in stockholders' equity and increases in debt associated with stock
repurchases.

FINANCING

In July 1999 the Company increased its borrowing capacity under a revolving
credit agreement to $200.0 million from $100.0 million. That agreement expires
in June 2000. An additional $200.0 million revolving credit agreement remains
unchanged and expires in July 2002. The Company has a total of $400.0 million in
revolving credit agreements, which require, among other provisions, specified
levels of stockholders' equity. The amount of stockholders' equity over required
levels was $509.2 million at December 26, 1999, compared with $600.8 million at
December 27, 1998. The decrease in the level of unrestricted stockholders'
equity is mainly due to stock repurchases.

The revolving credit agreements permit borrowings, which bear interest at the
Company's option (i) for domestic borrowings: based on a certificates of deposit
rate, a Federal Funds rate, a base rate or a quoted rate; or (ii) for Eurodollar
borrowings: based on the LIBOR rate, plus various margins based on the Company's
credit rating.

In July 1999 the Company increased its ability to issue commercial paper from
$300.0 million to $400.0 million, which is supported by the Company's revolving
credit agreements. Borrowings are in the form of unsecured notes sold at a
discount with maturities ranging up to 270 days.

The Company had no commercial paper outstanding at December 26, 1999. At
December 27, 1998, the Company had $124.1 million in commercial paper
outstanding with an annual weighted average interest rate of 5.3% and an average
of 41 days to maturity.

<PAGE>
                                                                             F-9


On August 21, 1998, the Company filed a $300.0 million shelf registration
statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission for unsecured
debt securities that may be issued by the Company from time to time. The
registration statement became effective August 28, 1998. On September 24, 1998,
the Company filed a prospectus supplement to allow the issuance of up to $300.0
million in medium-term notes. As of December 26, 1999, the Company had issued a
total of $198.0 million, excluding unamortized debt costs, under the medium-term
note program. The notes have maturity dates ranging from October 8, 2003,
through November 18, 2009, and pay interest semi-annually with rates ranging
from 5.0% to 7.125%.

In October 1993 the Company issued $200.0 million of senior notes. Five-year
senior notes totaling $100.0 million matured in October 1998, while the
remaining $100.0 million in notes are due in April 2000.

In 1998, the Company made a tender offer for any and all of its $150.0 million
of outstanding publicly-held 8.25% debentures due March 15, 2025. The debenture
holders tendered $78.1 million of the outstanding debentures. The Company
financed the purchase of the debentures with available cash and through its
existing commercial paper facility. By replacing higher rate long-term
borrowings with lower-rate short-term alternatives, the Company reduced interest
expense and generated a positive return on a net present value basis. Total cash
paid in connection with the tender offer was approximately $89.3 million. The
Company incurred a charge to operations in 1998 of $13.7 million ($7.7 million
after-tax) in connection with this debt extinguishment (see Note 7 of the Notes
to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

The Company's total long-term debt, including current portion and capital
leases, was $701.2 million at December 26, 1999, and $599.7 million at December
27, 1998. The increase is primarily attributable to the issuance of additional
medium-term notes. Total additional borrowings available under all financing
arrangements amounted to $502.0 million as of December 26, 1999, and $272.0
million as of January 28, 2000. Total debt, including current portion and
capital leases, as of January 28, 2000, amounted to $931.2 million. This
increase of $230.0 million from December 26, 1999, is primarily from the
acquisition of the Worcester Telegram & Gazette on January 7, 2000 (see
Acquisitions/Dispositions on page F-10).

PROPOSED PUBLIC OFFERING OF SECURITIES

On January 20, 2000, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized, subject
to shareholder approval, the issuance of a new class of stock. On January 28,
2000, the Company filed a registration statement with the Securities and
Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form S-3 (the "Form S-3") related to a proposed
initial public offering of a new class of common stock ("Class C Stock") which
is intended to track the performance of the Company's Internet business
division, Times Company Digital (the "TCD group").

After shareholder approval and the completion of the proposed stock offering,
the Company intends to separate for financial reporting purposes the TCD group
and the "NYT group" (the Company excluding the TCD group except for a retained
interest in the TCD group) (See Note 19 of the Notes to the Consolidated
Financial Statements). The NYT group includes all of the other business
segments: Newspaper, Broadcast and Magazines, except for the businesses that
comprise the TCD group. The NYT group also includes a retained interest in the
TCD group which is currently 100%. This retained interest will decline to
reflect the issuance of Class C Stock to the public.

For segment reporting purposes, the Company currently provides financial data on
its Internet operations which are included in the Newspaper Group (the "Internet
Operations"). The Internet Operations principally include all Internet-related
operations of the Company. However, the operating results of the Internet
Operations are not indicative of the operating results of the TCD group's
operations. The TCD group includes NYTimes.com, NYToday.com, Boston.com,
WineToday.com, GolfDigest.com and Abuzz.com. The Internet Operations also
include various Internet operations of The Regionals and exclude GolfDigest.com.
The TCD group's operating results as presented in the financial statements
included in the Form S-3 and in Note 19 of the Notes to the Consolidated
Financial Statements reflect the effect of various inter-group agreements and
policies, including a license agreement, a services agreement and established
tax sharing policies.

Beginning in 2000, and coinciding with the effective date of these various
arrangements (January 1, 2000), the Company's management has determined that its
reportable segments will consist of newspapers, broadcast, magazines and the
operations of the TCD group. These segments will be evaluated regularly by key
management in assessing performance and allocating resources.
<PAGE>
F-10

ACQUISITIONS/DISPOSITIONS

The Company acquired an Internet knowledge management concern ("Abuzz") on July
22, 1999, for $5.1 million in cash and $25.0 million in the stock of the
Company's subsidiary that acquired Abuzz ("Acquisition Subsidiary") (see Note 2
in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). In the event that the
Company has not issued Class C Stock to the public by December 31, 2000, the
former stockholders of Abuzz and certain optionees of Acquisition Subsidiary
have the right to require Acquisition Subsidiary to redeem their shares for an
amount no less than $25.0 million in aggregate. After the Class C Stock is
issued, the Company may be required to issue additional shares of Class C Stock,
if Acquisition Subsidiary's shares held by former shareholders of Abuzz and
certain optionees of Acquisition Subsidiary are exchangeable into Class C Stock
at or below a value of $25.0 million. The Company has reflected this $25.0
million in "Accrued expenses" on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets as of
December 26, 1999.

Upon completion of the issuance of Class C Stock to the public, shares of
Acquisition Subsidiary stock may be exchanged for Class C Stock at an exchange
ratio intended to maintain the same percentage of ownership in the TCD group
immediately prior to the public issuance as the exchanged shares held in
Acquisition Subsidiary. If this exchange had occurred at December 26, 1999, the
former stockholders of Abuzz would have been entitled to exchange their shares
in Acquisition Subsidiary for 4.2% of Class C Stock.

On January 7, 2000, the Company acquired certain assets and liabilities of a
newspaper, the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, in Worcester, Mass., for
approximately $295.0 million in cash. The cost of this acquisition was funded
through the Company's commercial paper and medium-term note programs.

On February 17, 2000, the Company made a decision to offer for sale the Santa
Barbara News-Press in Santa Barbara, Calif., Daily World in Opelousas, La.,
Daily News in Palatka, Fla., Lake City Reporter in Lake City, Fla., The News-Sun
in Sebring/Avon Park, Fla., The News-Leader in Fernandina Beach, Fla., and Marco
Island Eagle in Marco Island, Fla. The net assets of these newspapers have been
included in the caption "Assets held for sale" in the Company's Consolidated
Balance Sheets as of December 26, 1999, at their carrying value. The sale is
expected to be completed by December 31, 2000. The results of the operations for
these newspapers are not material to the Company.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

The Company estimates that capital expenditures for 2000 will range from $120.0
million to $140.0 million, compared with $73.4 million in 1999, $81.6 million in
1998 and $160.2 million in 1997. The 1998 capital expenditures exclude $78.0
million related to the Company's Edison facility lease renegotiations (see Note
14 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION

The Company expects that depreciation and amortization expense will be $205.0
million to $210.0 million for 2000, compared with $197.5 million in 1999, $188.2
million in 1998 and $173.9 million in 1997.

YEAR 2000 DISCLOSURE

We have completed the implementation of our year 2000 remediation plan on a
timely basis, and such remediation plan as implemented addressed all mission
critical systems. We are not aware of any adverse effects of year 2000 issues on
the Company. This includes the Company's systems and operations, and vendor,
customer and service provider relationships.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In June 1998 the Financial Accounting Standard's Board ("FASB") issued Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 133, Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities ("SFAS No. 133"), which is effective for all
quarters of fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. SFAS No. 133 requires
that an entity recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities and
measure those instruments at fair value. Unless the entity can treat the
derivative as a hedge according to certain criteria, the entity may be required
to deduct any changes in the derivative's fair value from its operating income.
In June 1999 the FASB issued SFAS No. 137, Accounting for Derivative Instruments
and Hedging Activities-Deferral of the Effective Date of Financial Accounting
Standards Statement No. 133 ("SFAS No. 137"). SFAS No. 137 amended the effective
date for SFAS No. 133 from June 15, 1999, to June 15, 2000. The Company is
currently determining the effect of SFAS No. 133 and SFAS No. 137 on the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

FACTORS THAT COULD AFFECT OPERATING RESULTS

This Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements. Additional written and oral
forward-looking statements may be made by the Company from time to time in SEC
filings and otherwise. The Company cautions readers that results predicted by
forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, those relating to the
Company's:

o     future business prospects
o     revenues
o     working capital
o     liquidity
o     capital needs
o     interest costs and
o     income

are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. The
risks and uncertainties include those listed below as well as other risks and
factors identified from time to time in the Company's filings with the SEC.

<PAGE>
                                                                            F-11


ADVERTISING REVENUES

Advertising is the Company's most significant source of revenue. Competition
from other forms of media available in the Company's various markets, including
direct marketing and the Internet, affects the Company's ability to attract and
retain advertisers and to increase advertising rates. Advertising could be
negatively affected by an economic downturn in any of the Company's markets.

Advertising revenues cause the Company's quarterly consolidated results to vary
by season. Second-quarter and fourth-quarter advertising volume is higher than
first- and third-quarter volume since economic activity tends to be lower after
the holidays and in the summer. National and local economic conditions,
particularly in the New York City and Boston metropolitan regions, affect the
levels of the Company's retail, national and most particularly, classified
advertising revenue. Structural changes in the retail environment may also
depress the level of advertising revenue.

CIRCULATION REVENUES

Circulation is a significant source of revenue for the Company. Circulation
revenue and the Company's ability to achieve price increases for its print
products are affected by competition from other publications and other forms of
media available in the Company's various markets. Decreased consumer spending on
discretionary items like newspapers and magazines and the decreasing number of
newspaper readers among young people could also negatively affect circulation.

PAPER PRICES

Newsprint and magazine paper are the Company's most important raw material and
represent a significant portion of the Company's operating costs. The Company's
operating results could be adversely affected to the extent that such
historically volatile raw material prices increase materially.

LABOR RELATIONS

Advances in technology and other factors have allowed the Company to lower costs
by reducing the size of its work force. There is no assurance that the Company
will continue to be able to reduce costs in this way. A significant portion of
the Company's employees are unionized and the Company's results could be
adversely affected if labor negotiations were to restrict its ability to
maximize the efficiency of its operations. In addition, if the Company
experienced labor unrest, its ability to produce and deliver its largest
products could be impaired.

NEW PRODUCTS IN NEW MARKETS

There are substantial uncertainties associated with the Company's efforts to
develop new products and services for evolving markets. The success of these
ventures will be determined by the Company's efforts, and in some cases by those
of its partners, fellow investors and licensees. Initial timetables for the
introduction and development of new products or services may not be achieved and
price/profitability targets may not prove feasible. External factors, such as
the development of competitive alternatives and market response, may cause new
markets to move in unanticipated directions.

The Company may also consider the acquisition of specific properties or
businesses that fall outside its traditional lines of business if it deems such
properties sufficiently attractive.

PRODUCT PORTFOLIO; ACQUISITIONS

From time to time, the Company evaluates the various components of its portfolio
of products and may, as a result, buy or sell different properties. Such
acquisitions or divestitures may affect the Company's costs, revenues and
profitability.

Acquisitions involve risks, including difficulties in integrating acquired
operations, diversions of management resources, debt incurred in financing such
acquisitions and unanticipated problems and liabilities.

<PAGE>
F-12


TELEVISION BROADCASTING

The Company's television stations are subject to continuing technological and
regulatory developments that may affect their future profitability. The advent
of digital broadcasting is one such development. The Federal Communications
Commission ("FCC") adopted rules in 1997 under which all television stations are
required to change to a new system of digital broadcasting. The direct hardware
cost of this change will be substantial and the new digital stations are
unlikely to produce significant additional revenue until consumers have
purchased a substantial number of digital television receivers or until other
sources of revenue to be derived from the digital spectrum have been developed.
Additionally, the new digital transmission systems to be used by television
stations, cable systems and direct broadcast satellites could greatly increase
the number of electronic video services with which the Company's stations
compete.

INTERNET BUSINESSES

The Company expects to make substantial investments in its Internet businesses
for the foreseeable future. These are highly risky businesses which are likely
to incur losses. The Company's Internet businesses have a limited operating
history, are dependent on advertising revenue and the continued growth and
acceptance of the Internet and subject to all risks of Internet businesses, such
as evolving regulation and technology, changes in consumer preferences and
intense competition.

                          ----------------------------

The foregoing list of factors should not be construed as exhaustive or as any
admission regarding the adequacy of disclosure made by the Company.

The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.

MARKET RISK

The Company's qualitative and quantitative market risk is principally associated
with market interest rate fluctuations related to its debt obligations and stock
market price fluctuations with respect to marketable securities (see Note 7 and
Note 15 to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). Any such market
risks are not considered significant by the Company.

<PAGE>
                                                                            F-13


                        CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    Years Ended
                                                   ---------------------------------------------
                                                   December 26,    December 27,     December 28,
(In thousands, except per share data)                      1999            1998             1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                 <C>             <C>              <C>
REVENUES
Advertising                                         $ 2,254,932     $ 2,073,540      $ 1,999,844
Circulation                                             686,478         677,703          670,258
Other                                                   189,219         185,462          196,316
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                 3,130,629       2,936,705        2,866,418
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Production costs
     Raw materials                                      321,397         354,872          324,654
     Wages and benefits                                 621,260         608,152          584,016
     Other                                              436,183         418,196          381,790
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                 1,378,840       1,381,220        1,290,460
Selling, general and administrative expenses          1,180,507       1,040,265        1,120,856
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                 2,559,347       2,421,485        2,411,316
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING PROFIT                                        571,282         515,220          455,102
Income from joint ventures                               17,900          21,014           13,990
Interest expense, net                                    50,718          43,333           42,115
Net gain on dispositions of assets                           --          12,619           10,388
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes and extraordinary item       538,464         505,520          437,365
Income taxes                                            228,287         218,890          175,064
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before extraordinary item                        310,177         286,630          262,301
Extraordinary item, net of tax                               --          (7,716)              --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME                                          $   310,177     $   278,914      $   262,301
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average number of common shares outstanding
     Basic                                              175,587         188,762          193,040
     Diluted                                            179,244         192,846          197,150
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share
     Earnings before extraordinary item             $      1.77     $      1.52      $      1.36
     Extraordinary item, net of tax                          --            (.04)              --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Net income                                     $      1.77     $      1.48      $      1.36
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share
     Earnings before extraordinary item             $      1.73     $      1.49      $      1.33
     Extraordinary item, net of tax                          --            (.04)              --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Net income                                     $      1.73     $      1.45      $      1.33
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends per share                                 $       .41     $       .37      $       .32
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

<PAGE>
F-14


                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            December 26,     December 27,
(In thousands)                                                                      1999             1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                           <C>              <C>
ASSETS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CURRENT ASSETS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents                                                     $   63,861       $   35,991
Accounts receivable (net of allowances: 1999 - $39,749; 1998 - $34,364)          366,754          331,933
Inventories                                                                       28,650           32,287
Deferred income taxes                                                             53,611           40,612
Assets held for sale                                                              37,796               --
Other current assets                                                              64,236           71,994
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current assets                                                             614,908          512,817
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTMENT IN JOINT VENTURES                                                     121,940          122,273
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Land                                                                              67,149           71,935
Buildings, building equipment and improvements                                   789,504          818,811
Equipment                                                                      1,307,365        1,307,869
Construction and equipment installations in progress                              31,145           24,885
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total - at cost                                                                2,195,163        2,223,500
Less accumulated depreciation                                                    976,767          897,304
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Property, plant and equipment - net                                            1,218,396        1,326,196
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTANGIBLE ASSETS ACQUIRED
Costs in excess of net assets acquired                                         1,223,944        1,204,021
Other intangible assets acquired                                                 436,674          428,974
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                                          1,660,618        1,632,995
Less accumulated amortization                                                    355,600          305,422
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intangible assets acquired - net                                               1,305,018        1,327,573
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MISCELLANEOUS ASSETS                                                             235,540          176,250
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                                         $3,495,802       $3,465,109
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

<PAGE>
                                                                            F-15


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      December 26,       December 27,
(In thousands, except share data)                                                             1999               1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                    <C>                <C>
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Commercial paper outstanding                                                           $        --        $   124,100
Accounts payable                                                                           191,706            163,783
Accrued payroll and other related liabilities                                              105,257             87,265
Accrued expenses                                                                           193,553            166,761
Unexpired subscriptions                                                                     80,161             81,080
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations                            102,837              1,867
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities                                                                  673,514            624,856
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER LIABILITIES
Long-term debt                                                                             512,627            513,695
Capital lease obligations                                                                   85,700             84,123
Deferred income taxes                                                                      141,033            165,268
Other                                                                                      634,270            545,697
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total other liabilities                                                                  1,373,630          1,308,783
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities                                                                        2,047,144          1,933,639
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Serial preferred stock of $1 par value - authorized 200,000 shares - none issued                --                 --
Common stock of $.10 par value
     Class A - authorized 300,000,000 shares; issued: 1999 - 177,971,194;
         1998 - 185,763,418 (including treasury shares: 1999 - 5,000,000;
         1998 - 5,000,000)                                                                  17,797             18,576
    Class B - convertible - authorized 847,240 shares; issued: 1999 - 847,240;
         1998 - 849,602 (including treasury shares: 1999 - none and 1998 - none)                85                 85
Retained earnings                                                                        1,600,743          1,677,469
Common stock held in treasury, at cost                                                    (173,137)          (162,051)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         1,445,488          1,534,079
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
    Unrealized gain on marketable securities                                                 5,753                 --
    Foreign currency translation adjustments                                                (2,583)            (2,609)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)                                          3,170             (2,609)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity                                                               1,448,658          1,531,470
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                                                  $ 3,495,802        $ 3,465,109
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

<PAGE>
F-16


                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                      Years Ended
                                                                                    ------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    December 26,     December 27,     December 28,
(In thousands)                                                                              1999             1998             1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                    <C>              <C>              <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net income                                                                             $ 310,177        $ 278,914        $ 262,301

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
        Depreciation and amortization                                                    197,493          188,237          173,897
        Business process/technology reengineering charge                                      --               --           10,100
        Undistributed earnings of affiliates                                              (4,839)          (2,822)          (3,494)
        Net gain on dispositions                                                              --          (12,619)         (10,388)
        Deferred income taxes                                                            (44,632)          (2,010)         (26,559)
        Long-term retirement benefit obligations                                          38,452           33,643           25,556
        Other - net                                                                       13,108           (4,446)          10,913

   Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions/dispositions
        Accounts receivable - net                                                        (38,743)            (646)         (29,216)
        Inventories                                                                        3,122             (153)           1,152
        Other current assets                                                              43,121           36,449           17,315
        Accounts payable                                                                  29,263          (25,797)           7,064
        Accrued payroll and accrued expenses                                              53,583            9,691            6,686
        Unexpired subscriptions                                                              990           (1,541)           4,359
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities                                                601,095          496,900          449,686
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Net proceeds from dispositions                                                            11,434           23,661           39,727

Additions to property, plant and equipment                                               (73,407)         (81,578)        (160,168)

Other investing proceeds                                                                   8,704           14,725           10,560

Other investing payments                                                                 (29,589)         (12,974)          (6,782)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities                                                    (82,858)         (56,166)        (116,663)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Commercial paper (repayments) borrowings - net                                          (124,100)         124,100          (45,500)

Long-term obligations
   Increase                                                                              103,861           98,433               --
   Reduction                                                                              (2,358)        (190,847)          (3,847)

Capital shares
   Issuance                                                                               27,961            7,208            9,930
   Repurchase                                                                           (423,715)        (480,857)        (162,615)

Dividends paid to stockholders                                                           (72,016)         (69,600)         (61,865)

Preferred stock redemption                                                                    --               --           (1,753)

Other financing proceeds                                                                      --               --              344
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in financing activities                                                   (490,367)        (511,563)        (265,306)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and short-term investments                                27,870          (70,829)          67,717

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year                                    35,991          106,820           39,103
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year                                       $  63,861        $  35,991        $ 106,820
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplemental Disclosures
to Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-17


        SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES TO CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

CASH FLOW INFORMATION

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Years Ended
                                           ------------------------------------------
                                           December 26,   December 27,   December 28,
(In thousands)                                     1999           1998           1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>            <C>            <C>
Cash payments during the year for
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Interest (net of amount capitalized)       $ 50,050       $ 49,025       $ 39,122
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Income taxes                               $210,951       $177,261       $169,115
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

1.    In February 1999 the Company purchased a minority interest in
      TheStreet.com for $15.6 million, of which $3.6 million was in cash and
      $12.0 million represents an irrevocable credit for future advertising to
      be used by TheStreet.com through February 2003. Investment and deferred
      revenue accounts were increased by $12.0 million accordingly. A total of
      $1.7 million of advertising credits were utilized in 1999.

2.    The Company renegotiated its lease agreement in 1998 for its Edison
      newspaper printing facility, extending the capitalized lease commitment
      for an additional 10 years. Accordingly, the capitalized lease value was
      increased to $78.0 million, with a corresponding increase to $78.0 million
      of the capital lease obligation (see Note 14 of the Notes to Consolidated
      Financial Statements).

3.    The Company acquired Abuzz Technologies, Inc. on July 22, 1999, for $5.1
      million in cash and $25.0 million in the stock of a subsidiary of the
      Company (see Note 2 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).

OTHER

      Amounts in these Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows are presented on a
      cash basis and may differ from those shown in other sections of the
      financial statements.

<PAGE>
F-18


                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                              Capital Stock
                                                             -------------------------------------------      Additional
                                                                 5 1/2 %         Class A         Class B       Paid-in
(In thousands, except share and per share data)                Preference        Common          Common        Capital
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                               <C>            <C>                <C>         <C>
BALANCE, DECEMBER 30, 1996                                        $1,753         $22,124            $113        $651,888
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
    Net income
    Foreign currency translation adjustments (net
      of tax of $1,411)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
Dividends, preference - $4.125 per share
Dividends, common - $.32 per share
Issuance of shares
    Retirement units - 17,190 Class A shares                                                                         202
    Employee stock purchase plan -
      1,598,570 Class A shares                                                                                     8,335
    Stock options - 2,161,926 Class A shares                                         532                         101,304
    Other stock issuances - 7,700 Class A shares                                                                     (91)
    Stock conversions - 7,030
Repurchase of stock - 5,932,000 Class A shares
Preferred stock redemption                                        (1,753)
Proceeds from the sale of put options                                                                                344
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 28, 1997                                            --          22,656             113         761,982
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
    Net income
    Foreign currency translation adjustments (net
      of tax of $926)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
Dividends, common - $.37 per share
Issuance of shares
    Retirement units - 152,866 Class A shares                                                                     (1,088)
    Employee stock purchase plan -
      1,427,273   Class A shares                                                                                  (3,764)
    Stock options - 1,559,185 Class A shares                                         339                          76,295
Repurchase of stock - 14,784,000 Class A shares
Treasury stock retirement - 44,477,000 shares                                     (4,420)            (28)       (833,425)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 27, 1998                                            --          18,576              85              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
    Net income
    Foreign currency translation adjustments (net
      of tax of $55)
    Change in unrealized gains on marketable
      securities (net of tax of $4,708)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
Dividends, common - $.41 per share
Issuance of shares
    Retirement units - 16,407 Class A shares                                                                        (615)
    Employee stock purchase plan -
      1,523,292 Class A shares                                                         1                         (15,261)
    Stock options - 2,529,597 Class A shares                                         361                          87,134
    Stock conversions - 2,362 shares
Repurchase of stock - 11,864,000 Class A shares
Treasury stock retirement - 11,407,000 shares                                     (1,141)                        (71,258)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 26, 1999                                        $   --         $17,797            $ 85        $     --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<CAPTION>
                                                                             Common
                                                                              Stock           Accumulated
                                                                              Held in            Other
                                                                Retained     Treasury,       Comprehensive
(In thousands, except share and per share data)                 Earnings      at cost        Income (Loss)        Total
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                            <C>           <C>                   <C>         <C>
BALANCE, DECEMBER 30, 1996                                     $1,291,219    $(341,645)            $  (176)    $1,625,276
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
    Net income                                                    262,301                                         262,301
    Foreign currency translation adjustments (net
      of tax of $1,411)                                                                             (1,334)        (1,334)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income                                                                                              260,967
Dividends, preference - $4.125 per share                              (72)                                            (72)
Dividends, common - $.32 per share                                (61,793)                                        (61,793)
Issuance of shares
    Retirement units - 17,190 Class A shares                                       202                                404
    Employee stock purchase plan -
      1,598,570 Class A shares                                                  18,730                             27,065
    Stock options - 2,161,926 Class A shares                                   (77,423)                            24,413
    Other stock issuances - 7,700 Class A shares                                    91                                 --
    Stock conversions - 7,030
Repurchase of stock - 5,932,000 Class A shares                                (145,554)                          (145,554)
Preferred stock redemption                                                                                         (1,753)
Proceeds from the sale of put options                                                                                 344
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 28, 1997                                      1,491,655     (545,599)             (1,510)     1,729,297
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
    Net income                                                    278,914                                         278,914
    Foreign currency translation adjustments (net
      of tax of $926)                                                                               (1,099)        (1,099)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income                                                                                              277,815
Dividends, common - $.37 per share                                (69,600)                                        (69,600)
Issuance of shares
    Retirement units - 152,866 Class A shares                                    1,897                                809
    Employee stock purchase plan -
      1,427,273   Class A shares                                                35,803                             32,039
    Stock options - 1,559,185 Class A shares                                   (61,433)                            15,201
Repurchase of stock - 14,784,000 Class A shares                               (454,091)                          (454,091)
Treasury stock retirement - 44,477,000 shares                     (23,500)     861,373                                 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 27, 1998                                      1,677,469     (162,051)             (2,609)     1,531,470
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income
    Net income                                                    310,177                                          310,177
    Foreign currency translation adjustments (net
      of tax of $55)                                                                                    26             26
    Change in unrealized gains on marketable
      securities (net of tax of $4,708)                                                              5,753          5,753
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comprehensive income                                                                                              315,956
Dividends, common - $.41 per share                                (72,016)                                        (72,016)
Issuance of shares
    Retirement units - 16,407 Class A shares                                       532                                (83)
    Employee stock purchase plan -
      1,523,292 Class A shares                                                  49,101                             33,841
    Stock options - 2,529,597 Class A shares                                   (37,152)                            50,343
    Stock conversions - 2,362 shares
Repurchase of stock - 11,864,000 Class A shares                               (410,853)                          (410,853)
Treasury stock retirement - 11,407,000 shares                    (314,887)     387,286                                 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 26, 1999                                     $1,600,743    $(173,137)            $ 3,170     $1,448,658
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

<PAGE>
                                                                            F-19


                 NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

NATURE OF OPERATIONS

The New York Times Company (the "Company") is engaged in diversified activities
in media. The Company's principal businesses are newspapers, magazines and
broadcasting. The Company also has equity interests in a Canadian newsprint mill
and a "supercalendered" (glossy paper used in magazines) paper mill. The
Company's major source of revenue is advertising from its newspaper business.
The newspapers generally operate in the Northeast, Southeast and California
markets.

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company after
elimination of intercompany items.

FISCAL YEAR

The Company's fiscal year-end is the last Sunday in December. Fiscal years 1999,
1998 and 1997 each comprise 52 weeks.

INVENTORIES

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or current market value. Inventory
cost is generally based on the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for newsprint
and magazine paper and the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method for other
inventories.

INVESTMENTS

Investments in which the Company has at least a 20%, but not more than 50%,
interest are accounted for under the equity method. Investment interests below
20% are accounted for under the cost method.

MARKETABLE SECURITIES

The Company determines the appropriate classification of marketable securities
at the time of purchase and re-evaluates such designation at each balance sheet
date. Marketable securities have been classified as available-for-sale and are
carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported as a
separate component of the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and in
the Consolidated Balance Sheets, in the caption "Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss)".

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost; and depreciation is computed
by the straight-line method over the shorter of estimated asset service lives or
lease terms. The Company capitalizes interest costs as part of the cost of
constructing major facilities and equipment.

INTANGIBLE ASSETS ACQUIRED

Cost in excess of net assets acquired is primarily the excess of cost over the
fair market value of tangible net assets acquired. Each quarter the Company
evaluates whether there has been a permanent impairment in any of its intangible
assets, including goodwill. An impairment in value is considered to have
occurred when the undiscounted future operating cash flows generated by the
acquired businesses are not sufficient to recover the carrying values of the
intangible assets. If it is determined that an impairment in value has occurred,
the excess of the purchase price over the net assets acquired and intangible
assets will be written down to the present value of the future operating cash
flows to be generated by the acquired businesses. The excess costs that arose
from acquisitions after October 31, 1970, are being amortized by the
straight-line method mainly over 40 years. The remaining portion ($13.0
million), which arose from acquisitions before November 1, 1970, is not being
amortized since management believes there has been no decrease in value. Other
intangible assets acquired consist primarily of advertiser and subscriber
relationships and mastheads, which are being amortized over their remaining
lives, ranging from three to 40 years for various software licenses and a life
of 40 years for mastheads on various acquired properties.

SUBSCRIPTION REVENUES AND COSTS

Proceeds from subscriptions and related costs, principally agency commissions,
are deferred at the time of sale and are included in the Consolidated Statements
of Income on a pro rata basis over the terms of the subscriptions.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION

The assets and liabilities of foreign companies are translated at year-end
exchange rates. Results of operations are translated at average rates of
exchange in effect during the year. The resulting translation adjustment is
included as a separate component of the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders'
Equity and in the Stockholders' Equity section of the Consolidated Balance
Sheets, in the caption "Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)."

EARNINGS PER SHARE

The Company calculates earnings per share in accordance with Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128, Earnings Per Share (see Note
5). Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings available to
common shares by average common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share
is calculated similarly, except that it includes the dilutive effect of the
assumed exercise of securities, including the effect of shares issuable under
the Company's incentive plans (see Note 12). All per share amounts included in
the footnotes are the same for basic and diluted earnings per share unless
otherwise noted.
<PAGE>
F-20


CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

The Company considers all highly-liquid debt instruments with original
maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

INVESTMENT TAX CREDITS
The Company uses the deferred method of accounting for investment tax credits.

USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. Actual results could
differ from these estimates.

RECLASSIFICATIONS

For comparability, certain 1998 and 1997 amounts have been reclassified to
conform with the 1999 presentation.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In June 1998 the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No.
133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities ("SFAS No.
133"), which is effective for all quarters of fiscal years beginning after June
15, 1999. SFAS No. 133 requires that an entity recognize all derivatives as
either assets or liabilities and measure those instruments at fair value. Unless
the entity can treat the derivative as a hedge according to certain criteria,
the entity may be required to reflect any changes in the derivative's fair value
from its operating income. In June 1999 the FASB issued SFAS No. 137, Accounting
for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities-Deferral of the Effective Date
of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Statement No. 133 ("SFAS No.
137"). SFAS No. 137 amended the effective date for SFAS No. 133 from June 15,
1999 to June 15, 2000. The Company is currently determining the effect of SFAS
No. 133 and SFAS No. 137 on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. ACQUISITIONS/DISPOSITIONS

ACQUISITIONS

On July 22, 1999, a subsidiary of the Company ("Acquisition Subsidiary")
acquired Abuzz Technologies, Inc. ("Abuzz"), an Internet knowledge management
concern. The principal business of Abuzz involves a software solution that
facilitates connecting people with questions to people with answers.

The purchase price of Abuzz amounted to $30.1 million and resulted in an
increase to goodwill of $23.8 million and other intangible assets of $7.7
million, all of which will be amortized over five years. The purchase price
included $5.1 million in cash and $25.0 million in the stock of Acquisition
Subsidiary. After the acquisition, the Company owned 95.8% and the former
stockholders of Abuzz and certain optionees of Acquisition Subsidiary owned 4.2%
of Acquisition Subsidiary. The operating results of Abuzz are not material to
the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

In the event that the Company has not issued a certain new class of stock
("Class C Stock") to the public by December 31, 2000 (see Note 18), the former
stockholders of Abuzz and certain optionees of Acquisition Subsidiary shall have
the right to require Acquisition Subsidiary to redeem their shares for an amount
no less than $25.0 million in aggregate. After the Class C Stock is issued, the
Company may be required to issue additional shares of Class C Stock, if
Acquisition Subsidiary's shares held by former shareholders of Abuzz and certain
optionees of Acquisition Subsidiary are exchangeable into Class C Stock at or
below a value of $25.0 million. The Company has reflected this $25.0 million in
"Accrued expenses" on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Upon completion of the issuance of Class C Stock to the public, shares of
Acquisition Subsidiary stock may be exchanged for Class C Stock at an exchange
ratio intended to maintain the same percentage of ownership in the TCD group
immediately prior to the public issuance as the exchanged shares held in
Acquisition Subsidiary. If this exchange had occurred at December 26, 1999, the
former stockholders of Abuzz would have been entitled to exchange their shares
in Acquisition Subsidiary for 4.2% of Class C Stock.

See Note 18 on Subsequent Events relating to the acquisition of the Worcester
Telegram & Gazette on January 7, 2000.

DISPOSITIONS

During the second quarter of 1998 the Company recorded an $8.0 million pre-tax
gain from the satisfaction of a post-closing requirement related to the 1997
sale of assets of the Company's tennis, sailing and ski magazines (see below).
This gain increased earnings per share by $.02.

During the first quarter of 1998, the Company recorded a $4.6 million pre-tax
gain resulting from the sale of equipment. The gain increased earnings per share
by $.01.

In November 1997 the Company sold the assets of its tennis, sailing and ski
magazines and certain small properties, and exited a golf tee-time reservation
operation. These transactions resulted in a $10.4 million net pre-tax gain. This
gain increased earnings per share by $.03.

See Note 18 on Subsequent Events relating to the Company's decision to sell
certain newspaper properties.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-21


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. BUSINESS PROCESS/TECHNOLOGY REENGINEERING CHARGE

In 1997 the Company recorded a pre-tax noncash accounting charge of $10.1
million ($5.7 million after-tax, or $.03 per share) as a result of adopting the
provisions of Emerging Issues Task Force No. 97-13, Accounting for Costs
Incurred in Connection with a Consulting Contract or an Internal Project That
Combines Business Process Reengineering and Information Technology
Transformation ("EITF No. 97-13"). This charge related to certain expenses
associated with the Company's business process/technology reengineering program.
This charge had no impact on the Company's 1997 cash flow.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. INVESTMENT IN JOINT VENTURES

Investment in Joint Ventures consists of equity ownership interests in two paper
mills ("Forest Products Investments") and the International Herald Tribune
S.A.S. ("IHT"). The results of the IHT are not material to the operations of the
Company.

The Forest Products Investments consist of a Canadian newsprint company, Donohue
Malbaie Inc. ("Malbaie"), and a partnership operating a supercalendered paper
mill in Maine, Madison Paper Industries ("Madison") (with Malbaie, the "Paper
Mills"). The equity interest in Malbaie represents a 49% ownership interest.

The Company and Myllykoski Oy, a Finnish paper manufacturing company, are
partners through subsidiary companies in Madison. The partners' interests in the
net assets of Madison at any time will depend on their capital accounts, as
defined, at such time. Through an 80%-owned subsidiary, the Company's share of
Madison's profits and losses is 40%.

The Company received distributions from Madison of $7.2 million in 1999, $8.3
million in 1998 and $9.7 million in 1997. Loan repayments were $7.0 million in
1999, $14.7 million in 1998 and $2.5 million in 1997. No contributions were made
to Madison in 1999, 1998 or 1997.

The Company received distributions from Malbaie of $5.9 million in 1999, $9.9
million in 1998 and $5.3 million in 1997. No loans or contributions were made to
Malbaie in 1999, 1998 or 1997.

There was no current portion of debt of the Paper Mills included in current
liabilities in the table below at December 26, 1999, and $5.6 million was
outstanding at December 27, 1998. The debt of the Paper Mills is not guaranteed
by the Company.

Condensed combined balance sheets of the Paper Mills were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Condensed Combined Balance Sheets
Of Paper Mills
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 December 26,      December 27,
(In thousands)                                           1999              1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current assets                                       $ 66,606          $ 64,703
Less current liabilities                               32,912            42,544
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Working capital                                        33,694            22,159
Fixed assets, net                                     200,307           203,114
Deferred income taxes and other                       (53,637)          (60,403)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets                                           $180,364          $164,870
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

During 1999, 1998 and 1997 the Company's Newspaper Group purchased newsprint and
supercalendered paper from the Paper Mills at competitive prices. Such purchases
aggregated approximately $67.6 million for 1999, $79.1 for 1998 and $74.0
million for 1997.

Condensed combined income statements of the Paper Mills were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Condensed Combined Income Statements
of Paper Mills
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                              1999            1998            1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales and
    other income                        $237,519        $248,611        $234,290
Costs and
    expenses                             192,941         188,665         196,415
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before taxes                       44,578          59,946          37,875
Income tax expense                         5,525           8,826           5,577
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income                              $ 39,053        $ 51,120        $ 32,298
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The condensed combined financial information of the Paper Mills excludes the
income tax effects attributable to Madison, since it is a partnership. Such tax
effects (see Note 8) have been included in the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
<PAGE>
F-22


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 26, 1999,
December 27, 1998, and December 28, 1997, were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands, except per share data)                            1999       1998       1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                          <C>        <C>        <C>
Basic earnings per share computation
Numerator
     Net income                                              $310,177   $278,914   $262,301
     Less cumulative preference stock dividends                    --         --         72
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Income available to common stockholders              $310,177   $278,914   $262,229
Denominator
        Average number of common shares outstanding           175,587    188,762    193,040
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share                                     $   1.77   $   1.48   $   1.36
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share computation
Numerator
     Net income                                              $310,177   $278,914   $262,301
     Less cumulative preference stock dividends                    --         --         72
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Income available to common stockholders              $310,177   $278,914   $262,229
Denominator
     Average number of common shares outstanding              175,587    188,762    193,040
     Incremental shares for assumed exercise of securities      3,657      4,084      4,110
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total shares                                          179,244    192,846    197,150
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share                                   $   1.73   $   1.45   $   1.33
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. INVENTORIES

Inventories as shown in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets were as
follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                December 26,       December 27,
(In thousands)                                          1999               1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newsprint and magazine paper                         $23,666            $27,705
Work-in-process and other
      inventory                                        4,984              4,582
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                $28,650            $32,287
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or current market value. Cost was
determined utilizing the LIFO method for 84% of inventory in 1999 and 88% for
1998. The replacement cost of inventory was approximately $32.1 million at
December 26, 1999, and $38.1 million at December 27, 1998.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-23


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. DEBT

Long-term debt consists of the following:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               December 26,        December 27,
(In thousands)                                         1999                1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.77% Senior Notes due 2000(a)                     $100,000            $100,000
7.625% Notes due 2005, net of                       246,116             245,599
      unamortized debt costs of
      $3,884 in 1999, and $4,401
      in 1998, effective interest rate
      7.996%(b)
8.25% Debentures due 2025 (due                       69,675              69,647
      2005 at option of Company),
      net of unamortized debt costs of
      $2,225 in 1999 and $2,253 in
      1998, effective interest rate
      8.553%(b)
5.0%-7.125% Medium-Term Notes                       196,836              98,449
      due 2003 and 2008, net of
      unamortized debt costs of $1,164
      in 1999 and $551 in 1998(c)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total notes and debentures                          612,627             513,695
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less current portion                                100,000                  --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total long-term debt                               $512,627            $513,695
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(a) In October 1993 the Company issued senior notes totaling $200.0 million with
interest payable semi-annually. Five-year notes totaling $100.0 million were
issued at an annual rate of 5.50%, and the remaining $100.0 million were issued
as six and one-half year notes at an annual rate of 5.77%. In October 1998
$100.0 million due on the five-year notes was paid. On April 28, 2000, $100.0
million of the five-year senior notes will be due.

(b) In March 1995 the Company completed a public offering of $400.0 million of
unsecured notes and debentures. The offering consisted of 10-year notes
aggregating $250.0 million maturing March 15, 2005, at an annual rate of 7.625%
and 30-year debentures aggregating $150.0 million maturing March 15, 2025, at an
annual rate of 8.25%. The debentures are callable after ten years. Interest is
payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 on both the notes and the
debentures.

In 1998, the Company made a tender offer for any and all of its $150.0 million
of outstanding publicly-held 8.25% debentures due March 15, 2025. The debenture
holders tendered $78.1 million of the outstanding debentures. The Company
financed the purchase of the debentures with available cash and through its
existing commercial paper facility. By replacing higher rate long-term
borrowings with lower-rate short-term alternatives, the Company reduced interest
expense and generated a positive return on a net present value basis. Total cash
paid in connection with the tender offer was $89.3 million. The Company recorded
an extraordinary charge in 1998 of $13.7 million ($7.7 million net of tax or
$.04 per share) in connection with this debt extinguishment.

(c) On August 21, 1998, the Company filed a $300.0 million shelf registration on
Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") for unsecured debt
securities that may be issued by the Company from time to time. The registration
statement became effective August 28, 1998. On September 24, 1998, the Company
filed a prospectus supplement to allow the issuance of up to $300.0 million in
medium-term notes. As of December 26, 1999, the Company had issued a total of
$198.0 million, excluding unamortized debt costs under the medium-term note
program. The notes have maturity dates ranging from October 8, 2003, through
November 18, 2009, and pay interest semi-annually with rates ranging from 5.0%
to 7.125%.

                          ----------------------------

Based on borrowing rates currently available for debt with similar terms and
average maturities, the fair value of long-term debt, excluding the current
portion, was $552.6 million at December 26, 1999, and $555.8 million at December
27, 1998.

In July 1999 the Company increased its borrowing capacity under a revolving
credit agreement to $200.0 million from $100.0 million. That agreement expires
in June 2000. An additional $200.0 million revolving credit agreement remains
unchanged and expires in July 2002. The Company has a total of $400.0 million in
revolving credit agreements.

The revolving credit agreements permit borrowings, which bear interest at the
Company's option (i) for domestic borrowings: based on a certificates of deposit
rate, a Federal Funds rate, a base rate or a quoted rate; or (ii) for Eurodollar
borrowings: based on the LIBOR rate, plus various margins based on the Company's
credit rating. The revolving credit agreements include provisions that require,
among other matters, specified levels of stockholders' equity. The amount of
stockholders' equity in excess of the required levels was $509.2 million at
December 26, 1999.

In July 1999 the Company increased its ability to issue commercial paper from
$300.0 million to $400.0 million, which is supported by the Company's revolving
credit agreements. Borrowings are in the form of unsecured notes sold at a
discount with maturities ranging up to 270 days.

At December 26, 1999, the Company had no commercial paper outstanding. At
December 27, 1998, the Company had $124.1 million in commercial paper
outstanding with an annual weighted average interest rate of 5.3% and an average
of 41 days to maturity.

Total debt as of December 26, 1999, including capital leases (see Note 14),
amounted to $701.2 million. See Note 18 on Subsequent Events relating to the
increase in debt associated with the acquisition of the Worcester Telegram &
Gazette on January 7, 2000. Total additional borrowings available under all

<PAGE>
F-24


financing arrangements amounted to $502.0 million as of December 26, 1999.

The aggregate face amount of maturities of long-term debt over the next five
years are as follows: 2000, $100.0 million; 2001, none; 2002, none; 2003, $49.5
million; 2004, none; and $470.4 million, thereafter.

Interest expense, net as shown in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of
Income were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                              1999             1998          1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest expense                         $52,503          $47,100       $50,433
Capitalized interest                          --             (173)       (5,394)
Interest income                           (1,785)          (3,594)       (2,924)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest expense, net                    $50,718          $43,333       $42,115
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense for each of the years presented is determined in accordance
with SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes.

Reconciliations between the effective tax rate on income before income taxes and
the federal statutory rate (exclusive of a favorable tax adjustment of $18.0
million in fiscal 1997 resulting from the completion of the Company's federal
income tax audits for periods through 1992 and gains on dispositions in each
period) are presented below.

The components of income tax expense as shown in the Consolidated Statements of
Income were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                           1999             1998             1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current tax expense
    Federal                          $194,535         $180,583         $146,550
    State, local, foreign              78,384           40,317           55,073
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current expense                 272,919          220,900          201,623
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax (benefit)
    expense
    Federal                           (16,157)         (10,529)         (24,102)
    State, local, foreign             (28,475)           8,519           (2,457)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred benefit                (44,632)          (2,010)         (26,559)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income tax expense                   $228,287         $218,890         $175,064
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                   1999                            1998                          1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           % of                            % of                          % of
                                          Amount          Pretax          Amount          Pretax        Amount          Pretax
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>               <C>           <C>               <C>         <C>               <C>
Tax at federal statutory rate            $188,463          35.0%         $172,515          35.0%       $149,442          35.0%
Increase (decrease)
   State and local taxes - net             32,440           6.0            35,289           7.2          32,837           7.7
   Amortization of nondeductible
     intangible assets acquired            10,090           1.9             9,510           1.9           9,892           2.3
   Other - net                             (2,706)          (.5)           (3,889)          (.8)         (3,832)          (.9)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subtotal                                  228,287          42.4%          213,425          43.3%        188,339          44.1%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Favorable tax adjustment                       --                              --                       (18,000)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dispositions                                   --                           5,465                         4,725
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income tax expense                       $228,287                        $218,890                      $175,064
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-25


Income tax benefits, which related to the exercise of options and the employee
stock purchase plan, reduced current taxes payable and increased additional
paid-in capital by $35.5 million in 1999, $32.0 million in 1998 and $38.6
million in 1997.

The benefits are attributable to federal and state tax operating loss
carryforwards totaling $7.2 million at December 26, 1999. Such loss
carryforwards expire in accordance with provisions of applicable tax laws and
have remaining lives ranging from one to 15 years. The principal portion of
these tax loss carryforwards are likely to expire unused. Accordingly, the
Company has valuation allowances amounting to $3.3 million as of December 26,
1999.

Tax expense in 1998 was reduced by $1.5 million ($2.3 million before federal tax
effect) due to a reduction in the valuation allowance attributable to state net
operating loss tax benefits.

The Company generated $16.0 million in investment tax credits in the state of
New York in connection with the construction of its College Point facility in
1997. The Company has fully utilized the investment tax credit for state income
tax purposes through December 26, 1999. For financial statement purposes, the
Company has selected the deferred method of accounting for investment tax
credits, and therefore will amortize the $16.0 million tax benefit over the
average useful life of the assets which ranges from 10 to 20 years.

In 1999 the Internal Revenue Service completed its examination of federal income
tax returns for 1993 through 1995. The examination resulted in a favorable tax
settlement which did not have a material effect on the Consolidated Financial
Statements. The audits for the years 1996 and 1997 are currently in process and
are not expected to have a material effect on the Consolidated Financial
Statements.

The components of the net deferred tax liabilities recognized on the respective
Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                December 26,       December 27,
(In thousands)                                          1999               1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred Tax Assets
   Retirement, postemployment and
      deferred compensation plans                   $211,131           $184,359
   Accruals for other employee
      benefits, compensation,
      insurance and other                             62,587             51,499
   Accounts receivable allowances                     11,803             25,278
   Other                                              45,530             43,727
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred tax assets                            331,051            304,863
Valuation allowance                                   (3,303)            (3,749)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net deferred tax assets                              327,748            301,114
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred Tax Liabilities
   Property, plant and equipment                     257,502            261,176
   Intangible assets                                 102,315            105,204
   Investments in Joint Ventures                      39,592             42,644
   Other                                              15,761             16,746
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred tax liabilities                       415,170            425,770
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net deferred tax liability                            87,422            124,656
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amounts included in
   Other current assets                               53,611             40,612
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred income tax liability                       $141,033           $165,268
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As of December 26, 1999, "Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" in the
Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of
Stockholders' Equity was net of a deferred income tax liability of $2.6 million,
and net of a deferred income tax asset of $2.1 million as of December 27, 1998.
<PAGE>
F-26


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. WORK FORCE REDUCTION CHARGES

In 1999 the Company recorded pre-tax charges of $15.5 million related to work
force reduction charges ("Buyouts"). This charge reduced earnings per share by
$.05 in 1999. In 1998 and 1997, the Company recorded pre-tax charges of $5.4
million and $8.5 million. These charges reduced earnings per share by $.02 in
1998 and 1997.

At December 26, 1999, $20.0 million and at December 27, 1998, $22.2 million of
these charges were unpaid. This balance will be principally paid within one
year.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. PENSION PLANS

The Company sponsors several pension plans and makes contributions to several
others in connection with collective bargaining agreements, including a joint
Company-union plan and a number of joint industry-union plans. These plans cover
substantially all employees.

The Company-sponsored pension plans provide participating employees with
retirement benefits in accordance with benefit provision formulas, which are
based on years of service and final average or career pay and, where applicable,
employee contributions. Retirement benefits are also provided under supplemental
unfunded pension plans.

In accordance with SFAS No. 132, Employer's Disclosures about Pensions and Other
Postretirement Benefits, the components of net periodic pension cost for all
Company-sponsored pension plans were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                 1999          1998          1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service cost                              $  25,248      $ 22,093      $ 19,645
Interest cost                                54,781        51,367        48,734
Expected return on plan assets              (48,190)      (44,521)      (40,164)
Recognized actuarial loss                     1,655           958         1,006
Amortization of prior service cost              576           433           433
Amortization of transition
obligation                                      609           637           637
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net periodic pension cost                 $  34,679      $ 30,967      $ 30,291
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Assumptions used in the actuarial computations were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               1999         1998         1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount rate                                  7.75%        6.75%        7.25%
Rate of increase in
   compensation levels                         5.00%        5.00%        5.50%
Expected long-term rate of
   return on assets                            9.00%        8.75%        8.75%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In connection with collective bargaining agreements, the Company contributes to
several other pension plans, including a joint Company-union plan and a number
of joint industry-union plans. Contributions are determined as a function of
hours worked or period earnings. Pension cost for these plans was $29.6 million
in 1999, $23.2 million in 1998, and $22.4 million in 1997.

The changes in benefit obligation and plan assets at September 30, 1999, and
1998 were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                         1999                1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at prior
   measurement date                              $  813,224           $ 723,497
Service cost                                         25,248              22,093
Interest cost                                        54,781              51,367
Plan participants' contribution                          86                 226
Amendments                                            8,077                  --
Actuarial (gain)/loss                              (114,015)             44,665
Special termination benefits                             --                 824
Benefits paid                                       (32,016)            (29,448)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benefit obligation at current
   measurement date                                 755,385             813,224
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at prior
   measurement date                                 578,155             620,562
Actual return on plan assets                         94,793             (18,939)
Employer contribution                                 6,126               5,754
Plan participants' contributions                         86                 226
Benefits paid                                       (32,016)            (29,448)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fair value of plan assets at
   current measurement date                         647,144             578,155
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funded status                                      (108,241)           (235,069)
Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss                 (110,971)             50,904
Unrecognized transition obligation                      393               1,009
Unrecognized prior service cost                      10,008               2,515
Contribution paid after
   measurement date                                   1,618               1,461
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net amount recognized                            $ (207,193)          $(179,180)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As of December 26, 1999, the projected benefit obligation was $115.3 million and
the accumulated benefit obligation was $88.1 million. As of December 27, 1998,
the projected benefit obligation was $711.0 million and the accumulated benefit
obligation was $576.5 million.

The fair value of plan assets for funded plans was in excess of the accumulated
benefit obligation as of December 26, 1999. The fair value of plan assets for
funded plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
amounted to $482.0 million as of December 27, 1998.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-27


Additional termination benefits were provided to certain Globe mechanical union
employees who retired during 1998. The offer gave rise to a special charge to
earnings of $0.8 million under SFAS No. 88, Employers Accounting for Settlements
and Curtailments of Deferred Benefit Plans and for Termination Benefits.

The financial statement effects of the Company's Supplemental Employee
Retirement Plans were included in the tables above. The primary portion of the
Company's net obligation under these plans is included in "Other Liabilities -
Other" on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The amount of cost recognized for employer sponsored defined contribution
pension plans for the year ended December 26, 1999, was $11.9 million, $12.0
million for the year ended December 27, 1998, and $9.8 million for the year
ended December 28, 1997.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS OTHER THAN PENSIONS AND POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

The Company provides health and life insurance benefits to retired employees
(and their eligible dependents) who are not covered by any collective bargaining
agreements if the employee meets specified age and service requirements.

In accordance with SFAS No. 106, Employers' Accounting for Postretirement
Benefits Other Than Pensions, the Company accrues the costs of such benefits
during the employee's active years of service.

Net periodic postretirement cost was as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                    1999       1998        1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Components of net periodic benefit cost
Service cost                                   $ 4,363    $ 4,129     $ 3,680
Interest cost                                    8,499      8,822       8,581
Recognized actuarial gain                       (1,167)      (852)     (1,535)
Amortization of prior service cost              (2,231)    (2,132)     (1,659)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net periodic postretirement
   benefit cost                                $ 9,464    $ 9,967     $ 9,067
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Company's policy is to fund the above-mentioned plans as claims and premiums
are paid.

The accumulated postretirement benefit obligation assumptions were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  1999              1998               1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount rate                    7.75%              6.75%             7.25%
Estimated increase in
  compensation level             5.00%              5.00%             5.50%
Healthcare cost trend
  rate range                  7.75%-7.25%        8.50%-7.50%       9.25%-8.00%
Grading down to
  percent in the
  year 2000                      5.00%              5.00%             5.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A one-percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have
the following effects in 1999:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  One-Percentage Point    One-Percentage Point
(In thousands)                          Increase                Decrease
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effect on total service
  and interest cost for
  1999                                  $ 2,314                $ (1,918)
Effect on accumulated
  postretirement
  benefit obligation as
  of December 26, 1999                  $19,665                $(16,624)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The accrued postretirement benefit liability and the change in benefit
obligation at September 30 in each year were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                            1999             1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at prior
   measurement date                                  $ 140,149        $ 127,420
Service cost                                             4,363            4,129
Interest cost                                            8,499            8,822
Actuarial (gain)/loss                                  (29,598)           9,195
Amendments                                              (3,189)          (6,050)
Benefits paid                                           (4,597)          (3,367)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benefit obligation at current
   measurement date                                    115,627          140,149
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at
   prior measurement date                                   --               --
Employer contribution                                    4,597            3,367
Benefits paid                                           (4,597)          (3,367)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fair value of plan assets at
   current measurement date                                 --               --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funded status                                         (115,627)        (140,149)
Unrecognized actuarial gain                            (44,965)         (16,253)
Unrecognized prior service cost                        (15,674)         (14,577)
Contribution paid after
   measurement date                                      1,303              609
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net amount recognized                                $(174,963)       $(170,370)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
F-28


In connection with collective bargaining agreements, the Company contributes to
several welfare plans, including a joint Company-union plan and a number of
joint industry-union plans. Contributions are determined as a function of hours
worked or period earnings. Portions of these contributions, which cannot be
disaggregated, related to postretirement benefits for plan participants. Total
contributions to these welfare funds were $25.5 million in 1999, $27.0 million
in 1998, and $26.9 million in 1997. The primary portion of the Company's net
obligation under these plans is included in "Other Liabilities - Other" on the
Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In accordance with SFAS No. 112, Employers' Accounting for Postemployment
Benefits, the Company accrues the cost of certain benefits provided to former or
inactive employees after employment but before retirement (such as workers'
compensation, disability benefits and health care continuation coverage) during
the employee's active years of service.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. EXECUTIVE AND NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS' INCENTIVE PLANS

Under the Company's 1991 Executive Stock Incentive Plan and the 1991 Executive
Cash Bonus Plan (together, the "1991 Executive Plans"), the Board of Directors
may authorize incentive compensation awards and grant stock options to key
employees of the Company. Awards may be granted in cash, restricted and
unrestricted shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock, retirement units
(stock equivalents) or such other forms as the Board of Directors deems
appropriate. Under the 1991 Executive Plans, stock options of up to 40 million
shares of Class A Common Stock may be granted and stock awards of up to two
million shares of Class A Common Stock may be made. In adopting the 1991
Executive Plans, shares previously available for issuance of retirement units
and stock options under prior plans are no longer available for future awards.

Retirement units are payable in Class A Common Stock generally over a period of
10 years following retirement.

Stock options currently outstanding were granted under the Company's Executive
Incentive Compensation Plan and the 1991 Executive Plans.

The Plans provide for granting of both incentive and non-qualified stock options
principally at an option price per share of 100% of the fair market value of the
Class A Common Stock on the date of grant. These options have a term of 10
years, and become exercisable in annual periods ranging from one year to four
years from the date of grant. Payment upon exercise of an option may be made in
cash, or with previously-acquired shares.

Under the Company's Non-Employee Directors' Stock Option Plan (the "Directors'
Plan"), non-qualified options with 10-year terms are granted annually to each
non-employee director of the Company. The 1997 annual grant increased the number
of shares of Class A Common Stock a director may purchase from the Company from
2,000 to 4,000 shares at the fair market value of such shares at the date of
grant. Options for an aggregate of 0.5 million shares of Class A Common Stock
may be granted under the Directors' Plan.

Changes in the Company's stock options for the three-year period ended December
26, 1999, were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         1999                                1998                               1997
                              ------------------------------      ----------------------------      -------------------------------
                                                Weighted                           Weighted                            Weighted
                              Number of          Average          Number of         Average         Number of          Average
(Shares in thousands)          Options       Exercise Price        Options      Exercise Price       Options        Exercise Price
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>                 <C>             <C>                 <C>            <C>                 <C>
Options outstanding,
beginning of year              20,317              $23             19,585              $18            20,738              $14
Granted                         5,271               47              4,505               34             4,436               32
Exercised                      (3,574)              15             (3,513)              13            (5,316)              12
Forfeited                        (311)              26               (260)              18              (273)               8
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options outstanding,
  end of year                  21,703              $30             20,317              $23            19,585              $18
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options exercisable,
  end of year                  10,343              $22             10,045              $16             9,278              $13
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-29


The Company's stock options outstanding at December 26, 1999, were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                        Options Outstanding                                 Options Exercisable
                         ------------------------------------------------------    ----------------------------------
                                        Weighted Average
                           Number          Remaining         Weighted Remaining     Number          Weighted Average
Exercise Price Ranges    of Options     Contractual Life        Exercise Price     of Options         Exercise Price
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>             <C>                      <C>             <C>                     <C>
$ 5-10                          99          3 years                   $8                 99                  $ 8
$10-15                       2,967          4 years                   12              2,967                   12
$15-20                       4,998          7 years                   17              4,161                   21
$20-47                      13,639          9 years                   39              3,116                   33
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            21,703                                   $30             10,343                  $22
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

In 1999 Acquisition Subsidiary (see Note 2) adopted a stock option plan (the
"Subsidiary Plan") that provides for the grant of options in Acquisition
Subsidiary's common stock to employees of and service providers to Acquisition
Subsidiary and its affiliates. Acquisition Subsidiary has reserved 15.0 million
shares of its common stock for issuance under the Subsidiary Plan. With certain
exceptions, such options generally vest over four years as follows: 25% on the
first anniversary of the grant date and 12.5% every six months thereafter.

During 1999 Acquisition Subsidiary granted options for 8.2 million shares at an
exercise price range of $5.86 to $7.03 per share. Outstanding options under the
Subsidiary Plan as of December 26, 1999, were for 8.8 million shares at a
weighted average exercise price of $5.17 per share of which 0.7 million options
were exercisable (see below) at a weighted average exercise price of $0.17 per
share.

In connection with the acquisition of Abuzz in July 1999, unvested options to
acquire 0.4 million shares of Abuzz were exchanged into unvested options of
Acquisition Subsidiary's common stock with similar terms and conditions ("Abuzz
Rollover Options"). The average exercise price of these options is $0.19. These
options vest ratably over a two-year period. In addition, also in connection
with the acquisition of Abuzz, Acquisition Subsidiary exchanged vested options
in Abuzz for vested options of 0.7 million common shares in Acquisition
Subsidiary. The average exercise price of these options is $0.17 per share.
After Class C Stock is issued (see Note 18), each option for shares of
Acquisition Subsidiary's common stock will automatically be converted into an
option to purchase shares of Class C Stock at the same exchange ratio used to
convert Acquisition Subsidiary's common stock into Class C Stock. The exchange
ratio used to convert Acquisition Subsidiary's common stock into shares of Class
C stock is intended to give holders of Acquisition Subsidiary common stock the
same percentage of ownership in the TCD group immediately prior to the public
issuance, as they held in Acquisition Subsidiary.

In 1999 the Company recorded compensation expense of $2.0 million for 3.0
million Acquisition Subsidiary options granted in 1999 for the difference
between the exercise price and the fair market value at the date of grant.
Except for options under the Subsidiary Plan noted above, no compensation
expense has been recorded by the Company. The Company expects to recognize
future noncash compensation for accounting purposes as follows: 2000 - $2.3
million; 2001- $0.5 million and 2002 - $0.1 million, as the options vest over
their respective vesting periods.

The Company applies Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for
Stock Issued to Employees, and related interpretations to accounting for its
stock option and employee stock purchase plans (see Note 13) ("Employee
Stock-Based Plans").

The weighted average fair values for stock option grants were $15.84 in 1999,
$9.35 in 1998 and $9.26 in 1997. The weighted average values for the Company's
Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP") rights were $8.62 in 1999, $6.67 in 1998
and $4.41 in 1997. The weighted average value for stock options under the
Subsidiary Plan was $2.16. The weighted average values were estimated at the
date of grant using the Black Scholes Option Valuation model and the assumptions
presented in the table below. There was no expected volatility assumed for the
Subsidiary Plan as such assumption is not required for non-public companies.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    The
                                Subsidiary
                                   Plan                      Stock Options                              ESPP Rights
                                ----------       -----------------------------------       ------------------------------------
                                   1999               1999         1998         1997            1999         1998          1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                               <C>              <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Risk-free interest rate             6.19%            6.20%        4.34%        5.72%           4.15%         5.15%         5.45%
Expected life                     4 years          5 years      5 years      5 years       1.1 years     1.1 years     1.1 years
Expected volatility                    --           28.08%       24.90%       22.62%          28.08%        24.90%        22.62%
Expected dividend yield                --            0.87%        1.08%        1.05%           1.89%         1.39%         1.66%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
F-30

Had compensation cost for the Employee Stock-Based Plans and the Subsidiary Plan
been determined over the vesting period based on the fair value at the grant
date for awards under those plans, the Company's net income and earnings per
share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below.

The pro forma effect for 1999, 1998 and 1997 on the amounts presented below is
not representative of the pro forma effect in future years because it does not
take into account pro forma compensation expense related to grants made prior to
1995.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    1999                        1998                         1997
                                          -----------------------     -----------------------      ------------------------
(In thousands, except per share data)     As reported   Pro forma     As reported   Pro forma      As reported    Pro forma
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                        <C>          <C>             <C>          <C>             <C>          <C>
Net Income                                 $310,177     $275,953        $278,914     $257,803        $262,301     $249,582
Basic earnings per share                   $   1.77     $   1.57        $   1.48     $   1.37        $   1.36     $   1.29
Diluted earnings per share                 $   1.73     $   1.54        $   1.45     $   1.34        $   1.33     $   1.27
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. CAPITAL STOCK

The Company's 5 1/2% cumulative prior preference stock was redeemable at the
option of the Company on 30-days' notice at par plus accrued dividends and was
entitled to an annual dividend of $5.50 payable quarterly. The Company redeemed
all outstanding shares of its 5 1/2% cumulative prior preference stock on
October 1, 1997, at par value at a cost of $1.8 million.

The Company's serial preferred stock was subordinate to the 5 1/2% cumulative
prior preference stock. The Board of Directors is authorized to set the
distinguishing characteristics of each series prior to issuance, including the
granting of limited or full voting rights; however, the consideration received
must be at least $100 per share. No shares of serial preferred stock have been
issued.

The Company's Class A and Class B Common Stock are entitled to equal
participation in the event of liquidation and in dividend declarations. The
Class B Common Stock is convertible at the holders' option on a share-for-share
basis into Class A shares. As provided for in the Certificate of Incorporation,
the Class A Common Stock has limited voting rights, including the right to elect
30% of the directors of the Board, and the Class A and Class B Common Stock have
the right to vote together on reservation of Company stock for stock options and
other stock-related plans, on the ratification of the selection of independent
certified public accountants and, in certain circumstances, on acquisitions of
the stock or assets of other companies. Otherwise, except as provided by the
laws of the State of New York, all voting power is vested solely and exclusively
in the holders of the Class B Common Stock.

The Company paid $410.9 million in 1999 and $454.1 million in 1998 to repurchase
shares of Class A Common Stock. The Company repurchased 11.9 million shares in
1999 at an average cost of $34.63 per share and 14.8 million shares in 1998 at
an average cost of $30.72 per share. On June 17, 1999, the Board of Directors
authorized additional repurchase expenditures under the Company's stock
repurchase program for up to $500.0 million. During the period from December 26,
1999, through January 28, 2000, the Company paid $26.1 million to repurchase 0.6
million shares of Class A Common Stock at an average price of $46.04 per share.
As of January 28, 2000, the remaining amount of repurchase authorizations from
the Company's Board of Directors is $409.9 million. Under the authorizations,
purchases may be made from time to time either in the open market or through
private transactions. Purchases may be suspended from time to time or
discontinued. The effect of repurchases on diluted earnings per share was an
increase to earnings per share of $.07 in 1999 and $.05 in 1998.

Stock repurchases under the repurchase program exclude shares reacquired in
connection with taxes due from optionees on certain exercises under the
Company's stock option plans at a cost of $12.9 million in 1999 and $26.8
million in 1998. Also excluded from the repurchase program were repurchases of
common stock in connection with noncash exercises under the Company's stock
option plans at a cost of $24.3 million in 1999 and $34.7 million in 1998.

In 1999 the Company retired from treasury 11.4 million Class A shares. This
retirement resulted in a reduction of $387.3 million in treasury stock, $71.3
million in Additional Paid-In Capital and $314.9 million in Retained Earnings.
In 1998 the Company retired from treasury 44.2 million Class A shares and 0.3
million Class B shares. This retirement resulted in a reduction of $861.4
million in treasury stock, $833.4 million in Additional Paid-In Capital and
$23.5 million in Retained Earnings.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-31


Under the 2000 Offering of the ESPP, eligible employees may purchase Class A
Common Stock through payroll deductions during the 2000 plan year at the lower
of $32.91 per share (85% of the average market price on October 1, 1999) or 85%
of the average market price on November 27, 2000. Between 38% to 53% of eligible
employees have participated in the ESPP in the last three years. Under the ESPP,
the Company issued 1.5 million shares in 1999, 1.4 million shares in 1998 and
1.6 million shares in 1997.

Shares of Class A Common Stock reserved for issuance were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              December 26,        December 27,
(Shares in thousands)                                 1999                1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stock Options
   Outstanding                                      21,667              20,317
   Available                                         6,296              11,256
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
   Available                                         2,921               4,444
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Voluntary Conversion of
   Class B Common Stock
   Available                                           847                 849
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retirement Units and Other Awards
   Outstanding                                         125                 150
   Available                                         1,933               1,933
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total
   Outstanding                                      21,792              20,467
   Available                                        11,997              18,482
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

OPERATING LEASES

Such lease commitments are primarily for office space and equipment. Certain
office space leases provide for rent adjustments relating to changes in real
estate taxes and other operating expenses.

Rental expense amounted to $32.8 million in 1999, $29.0 million in 1998 and
$30.4 million in 1997. The approximate minimum rental commitments under
noncancelable leases at December 26, 1999, were as follows: 2000, $11.2 million;
2001, $7.5 million; 2002, $6.1 million; 2003, $5.0 million; 2004, $3.4 million
and $9.5 million thereafter.

CAPITAL LEASES

In 1994 the Company recorded $5.0 million in a capital lease for 31 acres of
city-owned land in College Point, New York, on which the Company has completed
building a printing and distribution facility. The Company has the option to
purchase the property at any time prior to the end of the lease in 2019. Under
the terms of the lease agreement with the City of New York, the Company receives
various tax and energy cost reductions.

The Company also has a long-term lease for a building and site in Edison, N.J.
The lease provides the Company with certain early cancellation rights, as well
as renewal and purchase options. For financial reporting purposes, the Edison
lease has been classified as a capital lease; accordingly, an asset of $57.0
million (included in buildings, building equipment and improvements) was
recorded at December 28, 1997. In May 1998 the Company renegotiated its lease
for this property to extend its commitment for an additional 10 years through
2018. Accordingly, the Company increased its capitalized asset and corresponding
liability to $78.0 million.

Future minimum lease payments for all capital leases, and the present value of
the minimum lease payments at December 26, 1999, are as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                                          Amount
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2000                                                                  $  8,990
2001                                                                     8,805
2002                                                                     8,195
2003                                                                     7,309
2004                                                                     7,189
Later years                                                            133,141
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total minimum lease payments                                           173,629
Less imputed interest                                                  (85,092)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Present value of net minimum lease
   payments including current maturities                              $ 88,537
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OTHER

There are various legal actions that have arisen in the ordinary course of
business and are now pending against the Company. These actions are generally
for amounts greatly in excess of the payments, if any, that may be required to
be made.

It is the opinion of management after reviewing these actions with legal counsel
to the Company that the ultimate liability that might result from these actions
would not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial
statements.
<PAGE>
F-32


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. MARKETABLE SECURITIES

In 1999 the Company acquired a total of 1.6 million shares or approximately 6%
in TheStreet.com for $15.6 million, of which $3.6 million was in cash and $12.0
million represents an irrevocable credit for future advertising to be used by
TheStreet.com through February 2003. These marketable securities are classified
as available-for-sale as defined under Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards ("SFAS") No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and
Equity Securities. These securities are reported at fair market value, and are
included in the caption "Miscellaneous Assets" in the Company's Consolidated
Balance Sheets and amounted to $26.1 million at December 26, 1999. An unrealized
gain of $5.8 million, net of income tax, is reported as a separate component of
the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and in the Consolidated
Balance Sheets in the caption "Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)."
There are no realized gains or losses on available-for-sale securities.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. OTHER LIABILITIES

The components of the "Other Liabilities-Other" balance on the Company's
Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                December 26,      December 27,
(In thousands)                                          1999              1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pension plan obligation                             $207,193          $179,180
Obligation for postretirement benefits
   other than pensions and postemployment
   benefits                                          174,963           170,370
Deferred compensation obligation                      84,497            63,493
Other                                                167,617           132,654
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                               $634,270          $545,697
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. SEGMENT INFORMATION

Operating segments represent components of the Company's business that are
evaluated regularly by key management in assessing performance and resource
allocation. The Company has determined that its reportable segments consist of
its Newspaper, Broadcast and Magazine Groups. For the years presented herein,
the Newspaper Group is comprised of the following operating segments, each of
which has its own management: The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and 21 other
newspapers. The economic characteristics, products, services, production
process, customer type and distribution methods for the operating segments of
the Newspaper Group are substantially similar and have therefore been aggregated
as a reportable segment.

The Broadcast and Magazine Groups are managed separately and have different
economic characteristics from those of the Newspaper Group, and are therefore
shown as separate reportable segments.

Revenues from individual customers, revenues between business segments, and
revenues, operating profit and identifiable assets of foreign operations are not
significant.

For the years presented herein, the following are the Company's reportable
operating segments:

NEWSPAPER GROUP

The New York Times, The Boston Globe, the Company's 21 regional newspapers,
newspaper distributors, a news service, a features syndicate, TimesFax,
licensing operations of The New York Times databases and microfilm and
Internet-related operations. See Note 18 on Subsequent Events relating to the
Internet Operations and the Company's decision to sell certain newspaper
properties.

Beginning in 2000 the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, acquired on January 7, 2000
(see Note 18), and The Globe will be presented as the New England Newspaper
Group.

BROADCAST GROUP

Eight network-affiliated television stations and two radio stations.

MAGAZINE GROUP

Three golf publications and related activities in the golf field.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-33


The Company's Statements of Income on a segment basis were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              Years Ended
                                                          --------------------------------------------------
                                                          December 26,       December 27,       December 28,
(In thousands)                                                    1999               1998               1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>                <C>                <C>
REVENUES
Newspapers                                                 $ 2,869,908        $ 2,664,396        $ 2,557,080
Broadcast                                                      150,131            151,175            144,506
Magazines                                                      110,590            121,134            164,832
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                      $ 3,130,629        $ 2,936,705        $ 2,866,418
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING PROFIT (LOSS)
Newspapers                                                 $   556,279        $   477,782        $   434,057
Broadcast                                                       45,833             45,120             39,368
Magazines                                                       18,038             22,110             28,332
Unallocated corporate expenses                                 (48,868)           (29,792)           (46,655)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                          571,282            515,220            455,102
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from Joint Ventures                                      17,900             21,014             13,990
Interest expense, net                                           50,718             43,333             42,115
Net gain on dispositions of assets                                  --             12,619             10,388
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes and extraordinary item              538,464            505,520            437,365
Income taxes                                                   228,287            218,890            175,064
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before extraordinary item                               310,177            286,630            262,301
Extraordinary item, net of tax - debt extinguishment                --             (7,716)                --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME                                                 $   310,177        $   278,914        $   262,301
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

Newspaper Group operating profit includes Buyouts of $15.4 million for 1999,
$2.5 million for 1998 and $7.5 million for 1997. Internet-related operations
included in the Newspaper Group included losses of $21.6 million in 1999, $13.0
in 1998 and $7.3 in 1997.

The Broadcast Group operating profit includes Buyouts of $0.1 million for 1999;
and $1.9 million for 1998.

Magazine Group amounts include the amortization of the income relating to a
non-compete agreement associated with the disposition of the Women's Magazines
Division. The benefit under this agreement, amounting to $40.0 million, was
recognized on a straight-line basis over four years ending in July 1998.
Amortization of this income was $5.8 million in 1998 and $10.0 million in 1997.
In 1998 the Magazine Group operating profit includes a charge of $3.0 million
for Buyouts.

Magazine Group results were affected by the sale of the assets of its tennis,
sailing and ski magazines and an exit of a golf tee-time reservation operation
in 1997 (see Note 2).

In 1998 unallocated corporate expenses included a benefit of $2.0 million from
the reversal of a Buyout accrual. Unallocated corporate expenses include a
charge for Buyouts of $1.0 million for 1997. Unallocated corporate expenses for
1997 also include a $10.1 million noncash charge related to the adoption of EITF
97-13 (see Note 3).

Revenues from individual customers, revenues between business segments, and
revenues, operating profit and identifiable assets of foreign operations are not
significant.

Advertising, circulation and other revenue, by major product of the Newspaper
Group, were as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   % Change
                                                                ----------------
(In millions)                     1999       1998       1997    99-98    98-97
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times
   Advertising                $1,192.0   $1,058.9   $  989.5    12.6      7.0
   Circulation                   452.6      440.6      426.0     2.7      3.4
   Other                         144.4      142.1      144.2     1.6     (1.4)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                      $1,789.0   $1,641.6   $1,559.7     9.0      5.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Boston Globe
   Advertising                $  477.5   $  448.2   $  440.3     6.5      1.8
   Circulation                   133.7      133.4      134.5     0.2     (0.8)
   Other                          14.0        8.2        7.8    70.7      5.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                      $  625.2   $  589.8   $  582.6     6.0      1.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regional Newspapers
   Advertising                $  362.7   $  341.7   $  323.2     6.1      5.7
   Circulation                    76.9       77.3       77.6    (0.5)    (0.4)
   Other                          16.1       14.0       14.0    15.6       --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                      $  455.7   $  433.0   $  414.8     5.3      4.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Newspaper Group
   Advertising                $2,032.2   $1,848.8   $1,753.0     9.9      5.5
   Circulation                   663.2      651.3      638.1     1.8      2.1
   Other                         174.5      164.3      166.0     6.2     (1.0)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                      $2,869.9   $2,664.4   $2,557.1     7.7      4.2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
F-34


The Company's segment depreciation and amortization, capital expenditures and
identifiable assets reconciled to consolidated amounts were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     Years Ended
                                   -------------------------------------------------
                                   December 26,      December 27,       December 28,
(In thousands)                             1999              1998               1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>               <C>                <C>
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
Newspapers                          $   168,656       $   166,485        $   160,192
Broadcast                                17,369            17,662             17,919
Magazines                                 1,372            (4,361)            (7,330)
Corporate                                 9,744             8,099              2,764
Investment in Joint Ventures                352               352                352
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                               $   197,493       $   188,237        $   173,897
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES(1)
Newspapers                          $    49,886       $    54,178        $   117,346
Broadcast                                10,475             4,331              7,225
Magazines                                   465               631              3,205
Corporate                                12,581            22,438             32,392
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                               $    73,407       $    81,578        $   160,168
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IDENTIFIABLE ASSETS
Newspapers                          $ 2,614,891       $ 2,669,290        $ 2,711,180
Broadcast                               377,303           387,764            409,742
Magazines                                60,524            62,147             56,236
Corporate                               321,144           223,635            312,971
Investment in Joint Ventures            121,940           122,273            133,054
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                               $ 3,495,802       $ 3,465,109        $ 3,623,183
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)   Capital expenditures exclude additions to capitalized leases for the
      Edison Facility in 1998 (see Note 14)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On January 7, 2000, the Company acquired certain assets and liabilities of a
newspaper, the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, in Worcester, Mass., for
approximately $295.0 million in cash. The cost of this acquisition was funded
through the Company's commercial paper and medium-term note program. The Company
is currently in the process of determining the allocation of the purchase price.
The Worcester Telegram & Gazette had total revenues and operating profit of
$76.7 million and $16.8 million for 1999 and total assets were $243.2 million as
of December 31, 1999.

Total debt, including commercial paper and capital leases, as of January 28,
2000, increased to $931.2 million. Total additional borrowings available under
all financing arrangements decreased to $272.0 million as of January 28, 2000.
These changes from December 26, 1999, resulted primarily from the acquisition of
the Worcester Telegram & Gazette.

On January 20, 2000, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized, subject
to shareholder approval, the issuance of Class C Stock. On January 28, 2000, the
Company filed a registration statement with the SEC on Form S-3 (the "Form S-3")
related to a proposed initial public offering of Class C Stock, which is
intended to track the performance of the Company's Internet business division,
Times Company Digital (the "TCD group").

Upon completion of the issuance of Class C Stock, the holders of Class C Stock
will vote with the holders of Class A Common Stock on all matters on which the
Class A holders vote.

After shareholder approval and the completion of the proposed stock offering,
the Company intends to separate for financial reporting purposes the TCD group
and the "NYT group" (the Company excluding the TCD group except for a retained
interest in the TCD group) (See Note 19). The NYT group includes all of the
other business segments: Newspaper, Broadcast and Magazines, except for the
businesses that comprise the TCD group. The NYT group also includes a retained
interest in the TCD group which is currently 100%. This retained interest will
decline to reflect the issuance of Class C Stock to the public. The Company
currently provides financial data on its Internet operations which are included
in the Newspaper Group (the "Internet Operations"). The Internet Operations
principally include all Internet-related operations of the Company. However, the
operating results of Internet Operations are not indicative of the operating
results of TCD group's operations. The TCD group includes NYTimes.com,
NYToday.com, Boston.com, WineToday.com, GolfDigest.com and Abuzz.com. The
Internet Operations include various Internet operations of The Regionals and
exclude GolfDigest.com.

On February 17, 2000, the Company made a decision to offer for sale the Santa
Barbara News-Press in Santa Barbara, Calif., Daily World in Opelousas, La.,
Daily News in Palatka, Fla., Lake City Reporter in Lake City, Fla., The News-Sun
in Sebring/Avon Park, Fla., The News-Leader in Fernandina Beach, Fla., and Marco
Island Eagle in Marco Island, Fla. The net assets of these newspapers have been
included in the caption "Assets held for sale" in the Company's Consolidated
Balance Sheets as of December 26, 1999, at their carrying value. The sale is
expected to be completed by December 31, 2000. The results of operations for
these newspapers are not material to the Company.
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-35


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19. CONSOLIDATING INFORMATION

After shareholder approval and the proposed offering discussed in Note 18, the
Company intends to separate for financial reporting purposes the TCD group and
the NYT group. Below is the consolidating financial information of the NYT group
and the TCD group. The financial information reflects the businesses of the TCD
group and the NYT group including the allocation of revenues and expenses
between the TCD group and the NYT group in accordance with the Company's
allocation policies. The NYT group presented below excludes its retained
interest in the TCD group.

The allocations are comprised as follows: a) classified advertising revenues
from the NYT group to the TCD Group for displaying classified advertising from
NYT Group publications on the TCD Group's Web sites, b) Internet license fees
charged by the NYT group to the TCD group for the use of the trademarks and
copyrights owned by the NYT group, and c) an allocation of Corporate expenses
for general and administrative services and shared processing services.
Additionally, the income tax benefit relating to the operations of the TCD
group, which could be utilized on a consolidated basis, were allocated. The
Company believes that the aforementioned allocations were made on a reasonable
basis.

                       CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     Year Ended December 26, 1999                          Year Ended December 27, 1998
                         ----------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
                                                                   The New                                               The New
                           The NYT        The TCD      Elimina-   York Times     The NYT        The TCD     Elimina-    York Times
(In thousands)              Group          Group        tions      Company        Group          Group       tions       Company
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
<S>                      <C>            <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>            <C>          <C>         <C>
REVENUES
External non-internet
  revenues               $ 3,100,118    $      --    $     --    $ 3,100,118   $ 2,919,237    $      --    $     --    $ 2,919,237
External internet
  revenues                     3,712       26,799          --         30,511         3,294       14,174          --         17,468
Inter-group license
  fee revenue                  5,000           --      (5,000)            --         5,000           --      (5,000)            --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
Total                      3,108,830       26,799      (5,000)     3,130,629     2,927,531       14,174      (5,000)     2,936,705
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Production costs:
  External expenses        1,363,515       15,325          --      1,378,840     1,372,862        8,358          --      1,381,220
  Inter-group license
    fee expense                   --        5,000      (5,000)            --            --        5,000      (5,000)            --
Selling, general and
  administrative
  expenses:
  External expenses        1,146,300       34,207          --      1,180,507     1,019,758       20,507          --      1,040,265
  Inter-group allocated
    expenses                  (2,313)       2,313          --             --        (1,476)       1,476          --             --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
Total                      2,507,502       56,845      (5,000)     2,559,347     2,391,144       35,341      (5,000)     2,421,485
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
OPERATING PROFIT
   (LOSS)                    601,328      (30,046)         --        571,282       536,387      (21,167)         --        515,220
Income from joint
  ventures                    17,900           --          --         17,900        21,014           --          --         21,014
Interest expense, net         50,704           14          --         50,718        43,333           --          --         43,333
Net gain on disposition
  of assets                       --           --          --             --        12,619           --          --         12,619
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before
  income taxes and
  extraordinary item         568,524      (30,060)         --        538,464       526,687      (21,167)         --        505,520
Income taxes (benefit)       240,972      (12,685)         --        228,287       228,733       (9,843)         --        218,890
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before
  extraordinary item         327,552      (17,375)         --        310,177       297,954      (11,324)         --        286,630
Extraordinary item,
  net of tax                      --           --          --             --        (7,716)          --          --         (7,716)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME/(LOSS)        $   327,552    $ (17,375)   $     --    $   310,177   $   290,238    $ (11,324)   $     --    $   278,914
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------------

<CAPTION>
                                      Year Ended December 28, 1997
                         --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        The New
                           The NYT       The TCD        Elimina-       York Times
(In thousands)              Group         Group          tions          Company
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                      <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
REVENUES
External non-internet
  revenues               $ 2,855,319    $        --    $        --    $ 2,855,319
External internet
  revenues                       973         10,126             --         11,099
Inter-group license
  fee revenue                  5,000             --         (5,000)            --
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                      2,861,292         10,126         (5,000)     2,866,418
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Production costs:
  External expenses        1,283,614          6,846             --      1,290,460
  Inter-group license
    fee expense                   --          5,000         (5,000)            --
Selling, general and
  administrative
  expenses:
  External expenses        1,112,510          8,346             --      1,120,856
  Inter-group allocated
    expenses                  (1,003)         1,003             --             --
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                      2,395,121         21,195         (5,000)     2,411,316
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING PROFIT
   (LOSS)                    466,171        (11,069)            --        455,102
Income from joint
  ventures                    13,990             --             --         13,990
Interest expense, net         42,115             --             --         42,115
Net gain on disposition
  of assets                   10,388             --             --         10,388
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before
  income taxes and
  extraordinary item         448,434        (11,069)            --        437,365
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income taxes (benefit)       180,255         (5,191)            --        175,064
Income (loss) before
  extraordinary item         268,179         (5,878)            --        262,301
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extraordinary item,
  net of tax                      --             --             --             --
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME/(LOSS)        $   268,179    $    (5,878)   $        --    $   262,301
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
F-36


                          CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     December 26, 1999
                            -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Reclassifi-        The New
                               The NYT          The TCD          cations/         York Times
(In thousands)                  Group            Group          Eliminations       Company
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>               <C>               <C>               <C>
ASSETS
Current assets              $   605,350       $     9,558       $        --       $   614,908
Investment in joint
  ventures                      121,940                --                --           121,940
Funds allocated to the
  TCD group                      80,440                --           (80,440)               --
Property plant
  & equipment, net            1,208,601             9,795                --         1,218,396
Intangible assets
  acquired, net               1,276,134            28,884                --         1,305,018
Miscellaneous assets            235,052               488                --           235,540
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                       $ 3,527,517       $    48,725       $   (80,440)      $ 3,495,802
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND
  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities         $   660,978       $    12,536       $        --       $   673,514
Other liabilities             1,371,873             1,757                --         1,373,630
Funds allocated from
  the NYT group                      --            80,440           (80,440)               --
Common stock                     17,882                --                --            17,882
Retained earnings
  (accumulated losses)        1,646,751           (46,008)               --         1,600,743
Common stock held
  in treasury, at cost,
  and other                    (169,967)               --                --          (169,967)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                       $ 3,527,517       $    48,725       $   (80,440)      $ 3,495,802
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<CAPTION>
                                                 December 27, 1998
                            -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Reclassifi-          The New
                              The NYT           The TCD          cations/         York Times
(In thousands)                 Group             Group         Eliminations         Company
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>               <C>               <C>               <C>
ASSETS
Current assets              $   510,025       $     2,792       $        --       $   512,817
Investment in joint
  ventures                      122,273                --                --           122,273
Funds allocated to the
  TCD group                      29,880                --           (29,880)               --
Property plant
  & equipment, net            1,323,523             2,673                --         1,326,196
Intangible assets
  acquired, net               1,327,573                --                --         1,327,573
Miscellaneous assets            175,797               453                --           176,250
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                       $ 3,489,071       $     5,918       $   (29,880)      $ 3,465,109
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND
  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities         $   620,185       $     4,671       $        --       $   624,856
Other liabilities             1,308,783                --                --         1,308,783
Funds allocated from
  the NYT group                      --            29,880           (29,880)               --
Common stock                     18,661                --                --            18,661
Retained earnings
  (accumulated losses)        1,706,102           (28,633)               --         1,677,469
Common stock held
  in treasury, at cost,
  and other                    (164,660)               --                --          (164,660)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                       $ 3,489,071       $     5,918       $   (29,880)      $ 3,465,109
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<PAGE>
                                                                            F-37


                     CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              Year Ended December 26, 1999                 Year Ended December 27, 1998
                                 ------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------
                                                                        The New                                          The New
                                  The NYT      The TCD     Elimina-    York Times  The NYT      The TCD      Elimina-   York Times
(In thousands)                     Group        Group        tions      Company     Group        Group        tions      Company
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>
CASH FLOWS
  FROM OPERATING
  ACTIVITIES
Net income/(loss)                $ 327,552    $ (17,375)   $      --   $ 310,177  $ 290,238    $ (11,324)   $      --   $ 278,914
Adjustments to reconcile net
  income to net cash provided
  by operating activities          288,630        2,288           --     290,918    215,269        2,717           --     217,986
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating
  activities                       616,182      (15,087)          --     601,095    505,507       (8,607)          --     496,900
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS
  FROM INVESTING
  ACTIVITIES
Net proceeds from dispositions      11,434           --           --      11,434     23,661           --           --      23,661
Additions to property, plant
  and equipment                    (67,933)      (5,474)          --     (73,407)   (78,782)      (2,796)          --     (81,578)
Other investing proceeds             8,704           --           --       8,704     14,725           --           --      14,725
Other investing payments           (29,714)         125           --     (29,589)   (12,974)          --           --     (12,974)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing
  activities                       (77,509)      (5,349)          --     (82,858)   (53,370)      (2,796)          --     (56,166)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS
  FROM FINANCING
  ACTIVITIES
Commercial paper (repayment)
  borrowings-net                  (124,100)          --           --    (124,100)   124,100           --           --     124,100
Long-term obligations,
  net of payments                  101,503           --           --     101,503    (92,414)          --           --     (92,414)
Capital shares repurchases, net
  of issuances                    (395,754)          --           --    (395,754)  (473,649)          --           --    (473,649)
Dividends paid to stockholders     (72,016)          --           --     (72,016)   (69,600)          --           --     (69,600)
Funds allocated to/from the
  NYT group to the TCD
  group                            (21,016)      21,016           --          --    (11,405)      11,405           --          --
Other financing proceeds
  (payments)                           437         (437)          --          --         --           --           --          --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Net cash (used in) provided by
  financing activities            (510,946)      20,579           --    (490,367)  (522,968)      11,405           --    (511,563)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash
  and short-term investments        27,727          143           --      27,870    (70,831)           2           --     (70,829)
Cash and cash equivalents
  at the beginning of the year      35,950           41           --      35,991    106,781           39           --     106,820
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents
  at the end of the year         $  63,677    $     184    $      --   $  63,861  $  35,950    $      41    $      --   $  35,991
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------

<CAPTION>
                                       Year Ended December 28, 1997
                                 --------------------------------------------
                                                                    The New
                                 The NYT      The TCD    Elimina-  York Times
(In thousands)                    Group        Group      tions     Company
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>          <C>          <C>     <C>
CASH FLOWS
  FROM OPERATING
  ACTIVITIES
Net income/(loss)                $ 268,179    $  (5,878)   $  --   $ 262,301
Adjustments to reconcile net
  income to net cash provided
  by operating activities          188,252         (867)      --     187,385
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating
  activities                       456,431       (6,745)      --     449,686
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS
  FROM INVESTING
  ACTIVITIES
Net proceeds from dispositions      39,727           --       --      39,727
Additions to property, plant
  and equipment                   (159,238)        (930)      --    (160,168)
Other investing proceeds            10,560           --       --      10,560
Other investing payments            (6,782)          --       --      (6,782)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing
  activities                      (115,733)        (930)      --    (116,663)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS
  FROM FINANCING
  ACTIVITIES
Commercial paper (repayment)
  borrowings-net                   (45,500)          --       --     (45,500)
Long-term obligations,
  net of payments                   (3,847)          --       --      (3,847)
Capital shares repurchases, net
  of issuances                    (152,685)          --       --    (152,685)
Dividends paid to stockholders     (61,865)          --       --     (61,865)
Funds allocated to/from the
  NYT group to the TCD
  group                             (6,644)       6,644       --          --
Other financing proceeds
  (payments)                        (1,409)          --       --      (1,409)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash (used in) provided by
  financing activities            (271,950)       6,644       --    (265,306)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash
  and short-term investments        68,748       (1,031)      --      67,717
Cash and cash equivalents
  at the beginning of the year      38,033        1,070       --      39,103
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents
  at the end of the year         $ 106,781    $      39    $  --   $ 106,820
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
F-38

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
AND STOCKHOLDERS OF
THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The New York
Times Company as of December 26, 1999 and December 27, 1998, and the related
consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each
of the three years in the period ended December 26, 1999. Our audits also
include the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 14a. These
consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on
our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated 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. An
audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of The New York Times Company as of
December 26, 1999 and December 27, 1998, and the results of their operations
and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
26, 1999, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in
our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to
the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in
all material respects the information set forth therein.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New York, New York
January 28, 2000
(February 17, 2000 as to Note 18)

MANAGEMENT'S RESPONSIBILITIES REPORT

The Company's consolidated financial statements were prepared by management, who
is responsible for their integrity and objectivity. The consolidated financial
statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles and, as such, include amounts based on management's best estimates
and judgments.

Management is further responsible for maintaining a system of internal
accounting control, designed to provide reasonable assurance that the Company's
assets are adequately safeguarded and that the accounting records reflect
transactions executed in accordance with management's authorization. The system
of internal control is continually reviewed for its effectiveness and is
augmented by written policies and procedures, the careful selection and training
of qualified personnel and a program of internal audit.

The consolidated financial statements were audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP,
independent auditors. Their audit was conducted in accordance with generally
accepted auditing standards and their report is shown on this page.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, which is composed solely of
independent directors, meets regularly with the independent auditors, internal
auditors and management to discuss specific accounting, financial reporting and
internal control matters. Both the independent auditors and the internal
auditors have full and free access to the Audit Committee. Each year the Audit
Committee selects, subject to ratification by stockholders, the firm which is to
perform audit and other related work for the Company.

/s/ Russell T. Lewis

Russell T. Lewis
President and Chief Executive Officer
The New York Times Company


/s/ John M. O'Brien

John M. O'Brien
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
The New York Times Company
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-39


                        QUARTERLY INFORMATION (Unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             First Quarter          Second Quarter             Third Quarter
                                       --------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In millions, except per share data)        1999        1998        1999        1998         1999         1998
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>
Revenues                               $   739.1   $   722.6   $   779.4   $   749.2    $   729.6    $   682.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Costs and expenses
   Production costs

      Raw materials                         87.4        88.0        82.5        89.0         67.3         83.7
      Wages and benefits                   150.0       150.1       160.4       158.1        150.9        145.8
      Other                                103.4       104.2       105.9       102.4        107.1        102.1
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total production costs               340.8       342.3       348.8       349.5        325.3        331.6

   Selling, general and
      administrative expenses              283.1       263.9       275.7       254.6        291.5        250.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit                           115.2       116.4       154.9       145.1        112.8        100.4

Income from Joint Ventures                   4.2         4.3         3.3         3.9          4.9          6.3

Interest expense, net                       11.9        10.1        12.9        10.5         12.9         10.3

Net gain on dispositions of assets            --         4.6          --         8.0           --           --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before taxes and
   extraordinary item                      107.5       115.2       145.3       146.5        104.8         96.4

Income taxes                                46.1        50.6        61.8        63.8         44.8         41.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before extraordinary item            61.4        64.6        83.5        82.7         60.0         55.0

Extraordinary item, net of tax(1)             --          --          --        (7.7)          --           --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income                             $    61.4   $    64.6   $    83.5   $    75.0    $    60.0    $    55.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average number of common
   shares outstanding
      Basic                                179.7       192.6       176.1       191.5        173.8        188.5
      Diluted                              183.1       197.2       179.3       196.1        177.7        192.3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share

   Earnings before extraordinary
      item                             $     .34   $     .34   $     .47   $     .43    $     .35    $     .29

   Extraordinary item, net of tax(1)          --          --          --        (.04)          --           --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net income                          $     .34   $     .34   $     .47   $     .39    $     .35    $     .29
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share

   Earnings per share before
      extraordinary item               $     .34   $     .33   $     .47   $     .42    $     .34    $     .29

   Extraordinary item, net of tax(1)          --          --          --        (.04)          --           --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net income                          $     .34   $     .33   $     .47   $     .38    $     .34    $     .29
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends per share                    $    .095   $    .085   $    .105   $    .095    $    .105    $    .095
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<CAPTION>
                                            Fourth Quarter                Year
                                       -----------------------------------------------
(In millions, except per share data)        1999        1998         1999        1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>
Revenues                               $   882.5   $   782.2    $ 3,130.6    $ 2,936.7
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Costs and expenses
   Production costs

      Raw materials                         84.2        94.2        321.4        354.9
      Wages and benefits                   160.0       154.2        621.3        608.2
      Other                                119.7       109.4        436.1        418.1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total production costs               363.9       357.8      1,378.8      1,381.2

   Selling, general and
      administrative expenses              330.2       271.1      1,180.5      1,040.3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit                           188.4       153.3        571.3        515.2

Income from Joint Ventures                   5.5         6.5         17.9         21.0

Interest expense, net                       13.0        12.4         50.7         43.3

Net gain on dispositions of assets            --          --           --         12.6
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before taxes and
   extraordinary item                      180.9       147.4        538.5        505.5

Income taxes                                75.6        63.1        228.3        218.9
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before extraordinary item           105.3        84.3        310.2        286.6

Extraordinary item, net of tax(1)             --          --           --         (7.7)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income                             $   105.3   $    84.3    $   310.2    $   278.9
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average number of common
   shares outstanding
      Basic                                172.6       182.4        175.6        188.8
      Diluted                              177.0       185.8        179.2        192.8
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share

   Earnings before extraordinary
      item                             $     .61   $     .46    $    1.77    $    1.52

   Extraordinary item, net of tax(1)          --          --           --         (.04)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net income                          $     .61   $     .46    $    1.77    $    1.48
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share

   Earnings per share before
      extraordinary item               $     .59   $     .45    $    1.73    $    1.49

   Extraordinary item, net of tax(1)          --          --           --         (.04)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net income                          $     .59   $     .45    $    1.73    $    1.45
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends per share                    $    .105   $    .095    $     .41    $     .37
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

All earnings per share amounts for special items below are the same for basic
and diluted earnings per share unless otherwise noted.
(1)   See Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
<PAGE>
F-40

The 1999 and 1998 quarters do not equal the respective year-end amounts for
earnings per share due to the weighted average number of shares outstanding used
in the computations for the respective periods. Per share amounts for the
respective quarters and years have been computed using the average number of
common shares outstanding as presented in the table on the proceeding page.

The Company's largest source of revenue is advertising, which influences the
pattern of the Company's quarterly consolidated revenues and is seasonal in
nature. Traditionally, second-quarter and fourth-quarter advertising volume is
higher than that which occurs in the first- and third-quarters. Advertising
volume tends to be lower in these quarters primarily because economic activity
is lower in the post holiday season and summer periods. Quarterly trends are
also affected by the overall economy and economic conditions that may exist in
specific markets served by each of the Company's business segments.

Special items for 1999 and 1998 by quarter were as follows:

o     Second-quarter 1999 results included a $4.0 million pre-tax charge ($.01
      per share) for Buyouts.

o     Third-quarter 1999 results included a $6.1 million pre-tax charge ($.02
      per share) for Buyouts.

o     Fourth-quarter 1999 results included a $5.3 million pre-tax charge ($0.2
      per share) principally for Buyouts at The Boston Globe.

o     First-quarter 1998 results included a $4.6 million pre-tax gain ($.01 per
      share) from the sale of equipment.

o     Second-quarter 1998 results included a $7.7 million after-tax
      extraordinary item ($.04 per share) in connection with a debt
      extinguishment (see Note 7). In addition, 1998 results included a $8.0
      million pre-tax gain ($.02 per share) on the sale of assets of the
      Company's tennis, sailing and ski magazines.

o     Fourth-quarter 1998 results included a $5.4 million pre-tax charge ($.02
      per share) for Buyouts.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET INFORMATION

The Class A Common Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The Class B
Common Stock is unlisted and is not actively traded.

The number of security holders of record as of January 28, 2000, was as follows:
Class A Common Stock: 11,104; Class B Common Stock: 37.

The market price range of Class A Common Stock was as follows:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quarter Ended                          1999                        1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                High            Low          High           Low
March                         $35.94         $28.94        $34.13        $31.13
June                           38.50          26.94         38.72         33.25
September                      40.75          36.56         40.69         26.25
December                       48.75          37.50         35.81         20.50
Year                           48.75          26.94         40.69         20.50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
                                                                            F-41


                      TEN-YEAR SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   Years Ended December
                                              --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In millions, except per share data)           1999      1998     1997     1996     1995     1994     1993     1992     1991    1990
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>      <C>       <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>
Revenues and Income

Revenues                                     $3,131   $ 2,937   $2,866   $2,628   $2,428   $2,397   $2,057   $1,810   $1,737  $1,808
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Profit                                571       515      455      173      233      211      126       88       93     129
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (Loss) from Joint Ventures                18        21       14       18       15        5      (53)      (9)       9       8
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (Loss) before extraordinary item and
   cumulative effect of accounting change       310       287      262       85      136      213        6      (11)      47      65

Extraordinary item (1)                           --        (8)      --       --       --       --       --       --       --      --

Net cumulative effect of
   accounting change                             --        --       --       --       --       --       --      (34)      --      --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss)                            $  310   $   279   $  262   $   85   $  136   $  213   $    6   $  (45)  $   47  $   65
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial Position

Total assets                                 $3,496   $ 3,465   $3,623   $3,540   $3,390   $3,138   $3,215   $1,995   $2,128  $2,150

Long-term debt
   and capital lease obligations                598       598      535      637      638      523      460      207      213     319

Common stockholders' equity                   1,449     1,531    1,729    1,623    1,610    1,544    1,599    1,000    1,073   1,056
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share

   Income (Loss) before extraordinary item
      and cumulative effect of accounting
      change                                 $ 1.77   $  1.52   $ 1.36   $  .43   $  .70   $ 1.02   $  .04   $ (.07)  $  .30  $  .42

   Extraordinary item (1)                        --      (.04)      --       --       --       --       --       --       --      --

   Net cumulative effect of accounting
      change                                     --        --       --       --       --       --       --     (.22)      --      --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net income                                $ 1.77   $  1.48   $ 1.36   $  .43   $  .70   $ 1.02   $  .04   $ (.29)  $  .30  $  .42
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share

   Income (Loss) before extraordinary item
      and cumulative effect of accounting
      change                                 $ 1.73   $  1.49   $ 1.33   $  .43   $  .70   $ 1.02   $  .04   $ (.06)  $  .30  $  .42

   Extraordinary item (1)                        --      (.04)      --       --       --       --       --       --       --      --

   Net cumulative effect of accounting
      change                                     --        --       --       --       --       --       --     (.22)      --      --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net income                                $ 1.73   $  1.45   $ 1.33   $  .43   $  .70   $ 1.02   $  .04   $ (.28)  $  .30  $  .42
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends                                    $  .41   $   .37   $  .32   $  .29   $  .28   $  .28   $  .28   $  .28   $  .28  $  .27

Common stockholders' equity                  $ 8.08   $  7.94   $ 8.77   $ 8.25   $ 8.27   $ 7.39   $ 9.42   $ 6.33   $ 6.93  $ 6.90
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares Outstanding

Class A and Class B Common                      174       182      193      195      195      196      214      159      157     154
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Market Price (end of year)                   $46.88   $ 35.31   $32.03   $19.25   $14.81   $11.06   $13.13   $13.19   $11.81  $10.31
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

All references to earnings per share are the same for basic and diluted unless
noted otherwise.
(1)   See Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
<PAGE>
F-42


All earnings per share amounts for special items below are the same for basic
and diluted earnings per share unless otherwise noted.

1999

o     $15.5 million pre-tax charge ($.05 per share) principally for Buyouts at
      The Globe

1998

o     $4.6 million pre-tax gain ($.01 per share) from the sale of equipment

o     $7.7 million after-tax extraordinary charge ($.04 per share) in connection
      with the Company's repurchase of $78.1 million of its $150.0 million,
      8.25% notes due in 2025

o     $8.0 million pre-tax gain ($.02 per share) from the satisfaction of a
      post-closing requirement related to the 1997 sale of assets of the
      Company's tennis, sailing and ski magazines

o     $5.4 million pre-tax charge ($.02 per share) for Buyouts

1997

o     $10.4 million pre-tax gain ($.03 per share) resulting from the sale of
      assets of the Company's tennis, sailing and ski magazines and certain
      small properties, net of costs associated with the exit of a golf tee-time
      reservation operation

o     $10.1 million pre-tax noncash accounting charge ($.03 per share) related
      to EITF 97-13

o     $8.5 million pre-tax charge ($.02 per share) for Buyouts

o     $18.0 million ($.09 per share) favorable tax adjustment

1996

o     $126.8 million pre-tax noncash accounting charge ($.49 basic earnings per
      share, $.48 diluted earnings per share) related to SFAS 121

o     $44.1 million pre-tax charge ($.13 basic earnings per share, $.12 diluted
      earnings per share) for Buyouts

o     $32.9 million pre-tax gain ($.09 per share) from the sale of a building
      and the realization of a gain contingency from the disposition of a paper
      mill in a prior year.

1995

o     $11.3 million pre-tax gain ($.03 per share) from the sales of several
      small newspapers

o     $10.1 million pre-tax charge ($.03 per share) for Buyouts

1994

o     $200.9 million pre-tax gain ($.50 basic earnings per share, $.49 diluted
      earnings per share) from the sales of the Women's Magazines Division and
      U.K. golf publications, and the disposition of a minority interest in a
      newsprint mill

1993

o     $3.7 million pre-tax charge ($.01 per share) for rate adjustments due to a
      severe snowstorm

o     $4.4 million ($.02 per share) of additional tax expense for remeasurement
      of deferred tax balances due to the enactment of the Revenue
      Reconciliation Act of 1993

o     $1.2 million ($.01 per share) of additional tax expense due to the Revenue
      Reconciliation Act of 1993 which increased the federal corporate income
      tax rate

o     $2.6 million pre-tax gain ($.01 per share) from the sale of assets

o     $35.4 million of pre-tax charges ($.12 per share) for Buyouts

o     $47.0 million pre-tax noncash charge ($.28 per share) to write down a
      joint venture investment

1992

o     $53.8 million pre-tax loss ($.24 per share) on the closing of The Gwinnett
      Daily News (GA)

o     $3.1 million pre-tax gain ($.01 per share) from the sale of assets

o     $28.0 million pre-tax charge ($.10 per share) for Buyouts

o     $21.4 million pre-tax charge ($.08 per share) for labor disruptions,
      training and start-up costs at Edison

o     $34.0 million after-tax net cumulative effect of accounting changes ($.22
      per share) includes the change in methods of accounting for income taxes,
      postretirement benefits other than pensions and postemployment benefits

1991

o     $20.0 million pre-tax charge ($.08 per share) for Buyouts at The Times

o     $10.0 million reversal of a provision ($.06 per share) for income taxes
      related to a favorable tax settlement
<PAGE>

                                                                             S-1

                           THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

                        VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

                   For the Three Years Ended December 26, 1999

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(In thousands)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Column A                Column B               Column C              Column D              Column E
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Additions charged      Deductions for
                                                                      to costs and       purposes for which
                                                Balance at             expenses or        accounts were set     Balance at end of
                      Description           beginning of period         revenues                 up*                 period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                 <C>                    <C>                   <C>                   <C>
Year Ended December 26, 1999
Deducted from assets to which they apply
   Uncollectible accounts                           $28,146                $43,055               $37,605               $33,596
   Returns and allowances, etc                        6,218                  6,754                 6,819                 6,153
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                                            $34,364                $49,809               $44,424               $39,749
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 27, 1998
Deducted from assets to which they apply
   Uncollectible accounts                           $20,889                $36,221               $28,964               $28,146
   Returns and allowances, etc                        4,998                  6,242                 5,022                 6,218
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                                            $25,887                $42,463               $33,986               $34,364
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 28, 1997
Deducted from assets to which they apply
   Uncollectible accounts                           $24,359                $22,423               $25,893               $20,889
   Returns and allowances, etc                        6,953                  8,997                10,952                 4,998
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total                                            $31,312                $31,420               $36,845               $25,887
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
*     Uncollectible account balances of $0.4 million were reclassified as assets
      held for sale in 1999.



                           THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY
                       1991 Executive Stock Incentive Plan
                                   As Amended

1. NAME AND GENERAL PURPOSE

            The name of this plan is The New York Times Company 1991 Executive
Stock Incentive Plan (hereinafter called the "Plan"). The purpose of the Plan is
to enable the Company (as hereinafter defined) to retain and attract executives
who enhance its tradition and contribute to its success by their ability,
ingenuity and industry, and to enable them to participate in the long-term
success and growth of the Company.

2. DEFINITIONS

      (a)   "Awards" has the meaning specified in Section 12 hereof.

      (b)   "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.

      (c)   "Cash Plan" means the Company's 1991 Executive Cash Bonus Plan.

      (d)   "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

      (e)   "Committee" means the Committee referred to in Section 3 of the
            Plan. If at any time no Committee shall be in office then the
            functions of the Committee specified in the Plan shall be exercised
            by those members of the Board who are Non-Employee Directors.

      (f)   "Common Stock" means shares of the Class A Common Stock of the
            Company.

      (g)   "Company" means The New York Times Company, a corporation organized
            under the laws of the State of New York (or any successor
            corporation), and, unless the context otherwise requires, its
            subsidiaries (as hereinafter defined) and other non-corporate
            entities in which it owns directly or indirectly 20% or more of the
            equity interests. A "subsidiary" means any corporation in which the
            Company possesses directly or indirectly 50% or more of the combined
            voting power of all classes of stock.

      (h)   "Consolidated Statement of Income" means the consolidated statement
            of income (or any comparable statement, however designated) of the
            Company, audited by the independent certified public accountants of
            the Company and contained in the Company's annual report to
            stockholders or proxy statement.

      (i)   "Disability" means total disability as defined under the Company's
            long-term disability plan, whether or not the Participant is covered
            by such plan, as determined by the Committee.

      (j)   "Fair Market Value" means the arithmetic mean of the highest and
            lowest sales prices of the Common Stock as reported in the
            Consolidated Transactions of the American Stock Exchange ("AMSE")
            (or such other national securities exchange on which the Common
            Stock may be listed at the time of determination, and if the Common
            Stock is listed on more than one exchange, then on the one located
            in New York or if the Common Stock is listed only on the National
            Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations System
            ("NASDAQ"), then on such system) on the date of the grant or other
            date on which the Common Stock is to be valued hereunder. If no sale
            shall have been made on the AMSE, such other exchange or the NASDAQ
            on such date or if the Common Stock is not then listed on any
            exchange or on the NASDAQ, Fair Market Value shall be determined by
            the Committee in accordance with Treasury Regulations applicable to
            incentive stock options.

      (k)   "Income Before Income Taxes" means the amount designated as Income
            Before Income Taxes for the applicable year and shown separately on
            the Consolidated Statement of Income for such year.
<PAGE>

      (l)   "Non-Employee Director" means any Director of the Company who at the
            time of acting is a "Non-Employee Director" under Rule 16b-3 or any
            successor rule ("Rule 16b-3") under the Securities Exchange Act of
            1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").

      (m)   "Participant" means a key employee of the Company who is selected by
            the Committee to participate in any one or more parts of the Plan
            from among persons who in the judgment of the Committee are key
            employees of the Company. In general, key employees are those
            employees who have principal responsibility for, or who contribute
            substantially to, the management efficiency, editorial achievement
            or financial success of the Company. Only employees of The New York
            Times Company, its subsidiaries and other non-corporate entities in
            which it owns directly or indirectly 40% or more of the equity
            interests are eligible to participate in the Plan.

      (n)   "Retirement" means retirement as defined by the terms of "The New
            York Times Companies Pension Plan" which became effective December
            31, 1988, or any successor retirement plan, whether or not the
            Participant is a member of such retirement plan, and, in the case of
            employees of Affiliated Publications, Inc., or any subsidiary
            thereof, who retire under the terms of the Globe Newspaper Company
            Retirement Plan, which became effective January 1, 1994 (the "Globe
            Pension Plan") or any successor retirement plan, "Retirement" shall
            also mean retirement as defined by the terms of the Globe Pension
            Plan or any successor plan.

3. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN

      The Plan shall be administered by the Board or the Committee appointed by
it and composed of two or more directors all of whom shall be Non-Employee
Directors. The membership of the Committee shall be constituted so as to comply
at all times with the applicable requirements of Rule 16b-3, and with the
administration requirements of Section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code. The Committee
shall serve at the pleasure of the Board and shall have such powers as the Board
may from time to time confer upon it.

4. OPTIONS AND AWARDS UNDER THE PLAN

      Options, which include "Non-Qualified Options" and "Incentive Stock
Options" or combinations thereof, are rights to purchase Common Stock.
Non-Qualified Options and Incentive Stock Options are subject to the terms,
conditions and restrictions provided in Part I of the Plan.

      Awards under the Plan may include one or more of the following types,
either alone or in any combination thereof: (i) "Stock Awards," (ii) "Restricted
Stock Awards," (iii) "Retirement Unit Awards," (iv) "Annual Performance Awards,"
(v) "Performance Awards" or "Other Awards" and (vi) "Long-Term Performance
Awards."

      Stock Awards are granted under Part IIA of the Plan. Restricted Stock
Awards are granted under Part IIB of the Plan. Retirement Unit Awards are
granted under Part IIC of the Plan. Annual Performance Awards are granted under
Part IID of the Plan. Performance Awards or Other Awards are granted under Part
IIE of the Plan. Awards are subject to the terms, conditions and restrictions
provided in the respective subparts of Part II of the Plan. Annual Performance
Awards will be based exclusively on the criteria set forth in Section 27A.
Long-Term Performance Awards are granted under Part IIF of the Plan. Long-Term
Performance Awards will be based exclusively on the criteria set forth in
Section 28A.

                              PART I STOCK OPTIONS

5. PURPOSE

      The purpose of the Stock Option portion of the Plan is to provide an added
incentive for effective service and high levels of performance to Participants
by affording them an opportunity, under the terms of


                                       2
<PAGE>

the Plan, to acquire Common Stock and thereby to increase their proprietary
interest in the continued progress and success of the Company.

6. DETERMINATION OF OPTIONEES; SHARES SUBJECT TO OPTIONS

      (a)   The Committee may grant options to purchase Common Stock ("Options")
            to Participants in such amounts as the Committee may determine,
            subject to the conditions and limitations set forth in the Plan.
            Options may be granted in combination with Awards made under the
            Plan, and Options may be granted to any Participant whether or not
            he or she was eligible for, or received, an Award.

      (b)   The number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which Options
            may be granted to any key employee during any calendar year shall
            not exceed 400,000 (subject to adjustment as provided in Sections 28
            and 29 hereof).

      (c)   There may be issued under the Plan pursuant to the exercise of
            Options, an aggregate of not more than 40,000,000 shares of Common
            Stock, subject to adjustment as provided in Sections 28 and 29
            hereof. Shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to Options may be
            either authorized but unissued shares, treasury shares, reacquired
            shares, or any combination thereof. Any shares subject to an Option
            which expires without being exercised shall be available for
            issuance under new Options.

7. OPTION PRICE

      The exercise price of Common Stock subject to Options granted pursuant to
the Plan shall be the Fair Market Value thereof at the time the Option is
granted. If a Participant owns or is deemed to be the owner of, by reason of the
attribution rules under Section 425(d) of the Code, more than 10% of the
combined voting power of all classes of the stock of the Company or any
subsidiary of the Company and an Option granted to such Participant is intended
to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option within the meaning of Section 422 of the
Code, the option price shall be no less than 110% of the Fair Market Value of
the Common Stock on the date the Option is granted.

8. PAYMENT OF OPTION PRICE

      The purchase price is to be paid in full when the Option is exercised and
stock certificates will be delivered only against such payment. Payment of the
option price may be made (i) in cash, (ii) by delivering a properly executed
exercise notice to the Company together with a copy of irrevocable instructions
to a broker to deliver promptly to the Company the amount of sale or loan
proceeds to pay the purchase price, (iii) by delivering to the Company shares of
Common Stock previously owned, or (iv) any combination of the foregoing forms,
all subject to the approval of the Committee and to such rules as the Committee
may adopt. In determining the number of shares of Common Stock necessary to be
delivered to or retained by the Company, such Common Stock shall be valued at
Fair Market Value.

9. TYPES OF STOCK OPTIONS

      (a)   Options granted under the Plan may be two types, an incentive stock
            option ("Incentive Stock Option") and a non-qualified stock option
            ("Non-Qualified Option"). It is intended that Incentive Stock
            Options granted hereunder shall constitute incentive stock options
            within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code. Anything in the Plan
            to the contrary notwithstanding, (i) no provision of this Plan
            relating to Incentive Stock Options shall be interpreted, amended or
            altered, nor shall any discretion or authority granted under the
            Plan be so exercised, so as to disqualify either the Plan or any
            Incentive Stock Option granted under such provisions of the Code,
            and (ii) no Option designated by the Committee as a Non-Qualified
            Option shall constitute an Incentive Stock Option. In furtherance of
            the foregoing and not by way of limitation, no Incentive Stock


                                       3
<PAGE>

            Option shall be granted to a Participant who is not an employee of
            The New York Times Company or one of its subsidiaries.

      (b)   If the aggregate Fair Market Value of the Common Stock (determined
            as of the date of grant) for which any optionee may for the first
            time exercise Incentive Stock Options in any calendar year under the
            Plan and any other stock option plan of the Company, considered in
            the aggregate, exceeds $100,000, such excess Incentive Stock Options
            will be treated as Non-Qualified Options.

10. TERMS OF STOCK OPTIONS

      (a)   Each Option will be for a term of not more than ten years from the
            date of grant, except that if a Participant owns or is deemed to be
            the owner of, by reason of the attribution rules of Section 425(d)
            of the Code, more than 10% of the combined voting power of all
            classes of stock of the Company or any subsidiary of the Company and
            an Incentive Stock Option is granted to such Participant, the term
            of such Option shall be no more than five years from the date of
            grant.

      (b)   An Option may not be exercised within one year after the date of
            grant except in the case of the death of the optionee or upon
            termination of active employment with the Company by reason of the
            Disability or Retirement of the optionee during such period.
            Thereafter, an Option shall be exercisable in such installments, if
            any, as the Committee may specify, and shall be exercisable during
            the optionee's lifetime only by the optionee (or, if the optionee is
            disabled, by any guardian or other legal representative appointed to
            represent him or her) and, except as provided in subsections (c) and
            (d) below, shall not be exercisable by the optionee unless at the
            time of exercise such optionee is an employee of the Company.

      (c)   Upon termination of active employment with the Company by reason of
            Disability or Retirement, an optionee (or, if the optionee is
            disabled, any guardian or legal representative appointed to
            represent him or her) may exercise all Options otherwise exercisable
            by him or her at the time of such termination of employment (subject
            to the provisions of subsection (e) below) until the expiration
            thereof. In the event an optionee dies while employed by the Company
            or after termination of employment by reason of Disability or
            Retirement, the person who acquired the right to exercise his or her
            Options by reason of the death of the optionee, as provided in
            Section 30 hereof, may exercise such Options otherwise exercisable
            at the time of death (subject to the provisions of subsection (e)
            below) at any time until the expiration thereof.

      (d)   Upon termination of employment with the Company for any reason other
            than death, Retirement or Disability, the optionee may exercise all
            Options otherwise exercisable by him or her at the time of such
            termination of employment for an additional one year after such
            termination of employment. In the event such optionee dies within
            such one-year period, the person who acquired the right to exercise
            his or her Options by reason of the death of the optionee, as
            provided in Section 30 hereof, may exercise such Options at any time
            within the period of the greater of (i) the remainder of the
            one-year period described in the foregoing sentence, or (ii) three
            months from the date of the optionee's death. For purposes of this
            Section 10(d), in the event that any optionee is rehired by the
            Company within one year of such optionee's termination of employment
            with the Company, such optionee shall be deemed not to have
            terminated employment for purposes of determining the expiration
            date of all unexpired non-qualified stock options held by such
            individual on the date of rehire, with the effect that such options
            shall continue to be exercisable at any time until the expiration
            thereof (subject to the terms thereof and the provisions of this
            Section 10).

      (e)   Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, no Option shall be exercisable
            in whole or in part after the expiration date provided in the
            Option. In the event of the death of the optionee while employed by
            the Company, or the Disability or Retirement of the optionee, the
            Committee shall have the discretion to provide for the acceleration
            of the exercisability of Options exercisable over a period


                                       4
<PAGE>

            of time, or alternatively, to provide for all or any part of such
            Options to continue to become exercisable in such installments as
            originally specified by the Committee, or such revised installments
            as specified by the Committee at the time of termination of
            employment (but in no event beyond the original expiration date), in
            either case subject to such conditions as determined by the
            Committee in its discretion.

      (f)   No Option shall be transferable otherwise than by will or by the
            laws of descent and distribution. Notwithstanding the foregoing
            sentence, the Committee may determine that Options granted to a
            Participant or a specified group of Participants may be transferred
            by the Participant to one or more members of the Participant's
            immediate family, to a partnership or limited liability company
            whose only partners or members are members of the Participant's
            immediate family, or to a trust established by the Participant for
            the benefit of one or more members of the Participant's immediate
            family; provided, however, that no Incentive Stock Options may
            become transferable if inconsistent with Section 422 of the Code,
            unless the Participant consents. For this purpose, "immediate
            family" means the Participant's spouse, parents, children (including
            adopted and step-children), grandchildren and the spouses of such
            parents, children (including adopted and step-children) and
            grandchildren. A transferee described in this subsection may not
            further transfer an Option. An Option transferred pursuant to this
            subsection shall remain subject to the provisions of the Plan and
            shall be subject to such other rules as the Committee shall
            determine.

11. OPTION AGREEMENTS

      In consideration of any Options granted to a Participant under the Plan,
if requested by the Committee, such Participant shall enter into an Option
Agreement with the Company providing, in addition to such other terms as the
Committee may deem advisable, that the optionee must remain in the employ of the
Company for one year before such optionee will be entitled to exercise the
Option, except as provided in Section 10 hereof with respect to death,
Disability and Retirement, and specifying the installments, if any, in which
such Option shall become exercisable.

                                 PART II AWARDS

12. FORM OF AWARDS

      The Award portion of the Plan is designed to provide incentives for
Participants by the making of awards of supplemental compensation ("Awards").
The Committee, subject to the terms and conditions hereof, may make Awards to a
Participant in any one, or in any combination, of the following forms:

      (a)   Common Stock as provided in Part IIA of the Plan ("Stock Awards");

      (b)   Restricted Stock as provided in Part IIB of the Plan ("Restricted
            Stock Awards");

      (c)   Retirement Units as provided in Part IIC of the Plan ("Retirement
            Unit Awards");

      (d)   Annual Performance Awards as provided in Part IID of the Plan
            ("Annual Performance Awards");

      (e)   Performance Awards ("Performance Awards") or other forms of Awards
            ("Other Awards"), as provided in Part IIE of the Plan; and

      (f)   Long-Term Performance Awards as provided in Part IIF of the Plan
            ("Long-Term Performance Awards").

      Awards may be made to a Participant whether or not he or she is receiving
an Option grant under Part I of the Plan for the year and whether or not he or
she receives an award under the Cash Plan.


                                       5
<PAGE>

      Awards will be based on a Participant's performance in those areas for
which the Participant is directly responsible. Performance for this purpose may
be measured by the achievement of specific management goals such as, but not
limited to, an increase in earnings or the operating cash flow of the Company,
outstanding initiative or achievement in any department of the Company, or any
other standards specified by the Committee. Annual Performance Awards will be
based exclusively on the criteria set forth in Section 27A. Long-Term
Performance Awards will be based exclusively on the criteria set forth in
Section 28A.

13. MAXIMUM AMOUNT AVAILABLE FOR THE ACCRUAL OF AWARDS UNDER PART II OF THE PLAN
    FOR ANY YEAR

      (a)   No accrual for Awards shall be made hereunder (or under the Cash
            Plan) for any year unless cash dividends of not less than ten cents
            ($.10) per share (subject to adjustment as provided in Sections 28
            and 29 hereof) have been declared on the outstanding Class A and
            Class B Common Stock of the Company during such year.

      (b)   In the event that the above condition is met for any year during the
            continuance of this Plan, the maximum aggregate amount that may be
            accrued for Awards under the Plan and the Cash Plan for such year
            shall be 4% of Income Before Income Taxes. The Committee, in its
            sole discretion, may make adjustments in Income Before Income Taxes
            to take account of extraordinary, unusual or infrequently occurring
            events and transactions, changes in accounting principles that
            substantially affect the foregoing, or such other circumstances as
            the Committee may determine warrant such adjustment.

      (c)   As soon as feasible after the close of each year, the independent
            certified public accountants of the Company shall report the maximum
            amount that may be accrued for Awards for such year under the
            formula described in Section 13(b), subject to the second sentence
            of such Section.

      (d)   If amounts are accrued in any year under the formula described in
            this Section 13 and are not awarded in full in such year under the
            Plan and the Cash Plan, such unawarded amounts may, in the
            discretion of the Committee, be carried forward and be available for
            Awards under the Plan and under the Cash Plan in any future year
            without regard to the provisions of Sections 13(a) or (b) of the
            Plan applicable to Awards made in such year.

      (e)   Awards under the Plan for any year may not exceed the sum of (i) the
            amount accrued for such year under Section 13(b) above plus (ii)
            unawarded accrued amounts carried forward from previous years under
            Section 13(d) above plus (iii) amounts that may become available for
            Awards pursuant to the last sentence of Sections 15(c) and 27A
            hereof, minus (x) the amount of interest or dividend equivalents set
            aside during such year pursuant to Sections 15(c) and 27A hereof and
            the amount of dividend equivalents allocated to Retirement Unit
            Accounts during such year pursuant to Section 24 hereof, and minus
            (y) the amount of awards made for such year under the Cash Plan (and
            any interest equivalents allocated during such year pursuant to
            Section 10(b), 11(f) and 12(b) thereof). For this purpose, the
            amount of Awards of Common Stock under the Plan shall be based on
            the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock subject to Awards as of
            the date of grant of such Awards.

      (f)   Subject to Sections 28 and 29 hereof, the aggregate number of shares
            of Common Stock for which Stock, Restricted Stock, Retirement Units,
            Annual Performance Awards, and Performance and Other Awards may be
            made under the Plan shall not exceed 2,000,000 shares, which shall
            be treasury shares reserved for issuance of Awards under the Plan.
            Shares of Common Stock subject to, but not issued under, any
            deferred Award which has been discontinued by the Committee pursuant
            to the provisions hereof or any Restricted Stock which is forfeited
            by any Participant shall again be available for Awards under the
            Plan.


                                       6
<PAGE>

14. DETERMINATION OF AWARDS AND PARTICIPANTS

      (a)   As promptly as practicable after the end of each year, the Committee
            may make Awards (other than Annual Performance Awards and Long-Term
            Performance Awards, which are to be made exclusively as set forth in
            Sections 27A and 28A, respectively) for such year and determine the
            amounts to be carried forward for Awards in future years. The
            Committee may also, in its discretion, make Awards (other than
            Annual Performance Awards and Long-Term Performance Awards, which
            are to be made exclusively as set forth in Sections 27A and 28A,
            respectively) prior to the end of the year based on the amounts
            available under clauses (ii) and (iii) of Section 13(e) and
            reasonable estimates of the accrual for the year in question.

      (b)   The Committee shall have absolute discretion to determine the key
            employees who are to receive Awards (other than Annual Performance
            Awards, which are to be made exclusively as set forth in Sections
            27A and 28A, respectively) under the Plan for any year and to
            determine the amount of such Awards based on such criteria and
            factors as the Committee in its sole discretion may determine, such
            as the Company's operating cash flow and overall financial
            performance. Recommendations as to the key employees who are to
            receive Awards (including Annual Performance Awards and Long-Term
            Performance Awards) under the Plan for any year and as to the amount
            and form of such Awards shall, however, be made to the Committee by
            the chief executive officer of the Company. The fact that an
            employee is selected as eligible for an Award shall not mean,
            however, that such employee will necessarily receive an Award.

      (c)   A person whose employment terminates during the year or who is
            granted a leave of absence during the year may, in the discretion of
            the Committee and under such rules as the Committee may from time to
            time prescribe, be given an Award with respect to the period of such
            person's service during such year.

15. METHOD AND TIME OF PAYMENT OF AWARDS

      (a)   Awards shall be paid in full as soon as practicable after the Award
            is made; provided, however, that the payment of Annual Performance
            Awards and Long-Term Performance Awards shall be subject to the
            provisions of Sections 27A and 28A, respectively, and provided
            further, that the payment of any or all Awards may be deferred,
            divided into annual installments, or made subject to such other
            conditions as the Committee in its sole discretion may authorize
            under such rules and regulations as may be adopted from time to time
            by the Committee.

      (b)   The Committee's rules and regulations may include procedures by
            which a Participant expresses a preference to the Committee as to
            the form of Award or method of payment of an Award but the final
            determination as to the form and the terms and conditions of any
            Award shall rest solely with the Committee.

      (c)   Awards deferred under the Plan shall become payable to the
            Participant or, in the event of the Participant's death, as
            specified in Section 30 hereof, in such manner, at such time or
            times (which may be either before or after Retirement or other
            termination of service), and subject to such conditions as the
            Committee in its sole discretion shall determine. In any year the
            Committee shall have the discretion to set aside, for payment in
            such year or any future year, interest on any deferred Award payable
            partly in cash, and amounts equivalent to dividends on any deferred
            Award payable wholly or partly in stock; provided, however, that the
            total amount of such interest and dividend equivalents shall be
            deducted from the maximum amount available for Awards under Section
            13(e) of the Plan. Any forfeited deferred Awards (including any
            forfeited stock at its Award value) shall be carried forward and be
            available for Awards in any future year without regard to the
            provisions of Sections 13(a) or (b) of the Plan.


                                       7
<PAGE>

16. INDIVIDUAL AGREEMENTS

      (a)   The Committee may in its discretion require that each Participant
            receiving an Award enter into an agreement with the Company which
            shall contain such terms and conditions as the Committee in its
            discretion may require.

      (b)   The Committee may cancel any unexpired, unpaid or deferred Award at
            any time if the Participant is not in compliance with all applicable
            provisions of the agreement referred to above, if any, and the Plan.

17. STATUS OF PARTICIPANTS

      No Participant in this Plan shall be deemed to be a stockholder of the
Company, or to have any interest in any stock or any specific assets of the
Company by reason of the fact that deferred Stock Awards, Retirement Unit
Awards, Annual Performance Awards, Long-Term Performance Awards, Performance
Awards, Other Awards or dollar credits are to be recorded as being held for such
Participant's account to be paid in installments in the future. The interest of
all Participants shall derive from and be determined solely by the terms and
provisions of the Plan set forth herein.

18. [Intentionally Left Blank]

                              PART IIA STOCK AWARDS

19. DETERMINATION OF STOCK AWARDS

      (a)   Each year the Committee shall designate those Participants who shall
            receive Stock Awards under this part of the Plan. Stock Awards are
            made in the form of grants of Common Stock, which may be delivered
            immediately, in installments or on a deferred date, as the
            Committee, in its discretion, may provide.

      (b)   If the Committee determines that some portion of a Stock Award to a
            Participant shall be treated as a deferred Stock Award and payable
            in annual or other periodic installments, then the Participant will
            be notified in writing when such deferred Stock Awards shall be paid
            and over what period of time. As soon as feasible after the granting
            of such a Stock Award, there shall be reserved out of the treasury
            shares of the Company, a number (which may include a fraction) of
            shares of Common Stock equal to the number of shares of Common Stock
            so awarded. In each year at the discretion of the Committee there
            may also be allocated or credited to each Participant a dollar
            amount equal to the cash dividends declared and paid by the Company
            on its Common Stock which the Participant would have received had
            such Participant been the owner of the number of shares of any
            Common Stock deferred for future payment. Any amounts provided for
            pursuant to the preceding sentence shall become payable in such
            manner, at such time or times, and subject to such conditions (which
            may include provision for an amount equivalent to interest on such
            dividend equivalents at rates fixed by the Committee) as the
            Committee in its sole discretion shall determine; provided, however,
            that the total value of such dividend equivalents (and any interest
            thereon) shall be deducted from the amount available for Awards
            under the provisions of Section 13(e) of the Plan. The Committee in
            its discretion may make appropriate equitable adjustments to such
            deferred Stock Award to account for any dividends of property (other
            than cash) declared and paid by the Company on its Common Stock, or
            to account for any other event described in Sections 28 and 29
            hereof.


                                       8
<PAGE>

                        PART IIB RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS

20. DETERMINATION OF RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS

      Each year the Committee shall designate the Participants who shall receive
Restricted Stock Awards. Shares awarded under this part of the Plan, while
subject to the restrictions hereinafter set forth, are referred to as
"Restricted Stock."

21. TERMS OF RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS

      Any Award of Restricted Stock shall be subject to the following terms and
conditions and to any other terms and conditions not inconsistent with the Plan
as shall be prescribed by the Committee in its sole discretion and which may be
contained in the agreement, if any, referred to in Section 16 above (or in any
amendment thereto):

      (a)   DELIVERY OF RESTRICTED STOCK. Unless otherwise determined by the
            Committee, the Company shall transfer treasury shares to each
            Participant to whom an Award of Restricted Stock has been made equal
            to the number of shares of Restricted Stock specified in the Award,
            and hold the certificates representing such shares of Restricted
            Stock for the Participant for the period of time during which such
            shares shall remain subject to the restrictions set forth in the
            Award (the "Restricted Period"). Shares of Restricted Stock may not
            be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise
            encumbered by a Participant during the Restricted Period, except as
            hereinafter provided. Except for the restrictions set forth herein
            and unless otherwise determined by the Committee, a Participant
            shall have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to the
            shares of Restricted Stock comprising his or her Award, including,
            but not limited to, the right to vote and the right to receive
            dividends (which if in shares of Common Stock shall be Restricted
            Stock under the same terms and conditions).

      (b)   LAPSE OF RESTRICTED PERIOD. The Restricted Period shall commence
            upon the date of the Award (which unless otherwise specified by the
            Committee shall be the date the Restricted Stock is transferred to
            the Participant) and, unless sooner terminated as otherwise provided
            herein, shall continue for such period of time as specified by the
            Committee in the Award, which shall in no event be less than one
            year, and thereafter shall lapse in such installments, if any, as
            provided by the Committee in the Award.

      (c)   LEGEND. Each certificate issued in respect of shares of Restricted
            Stock transferred or issued to a Participant under an Award shall be
            registered in the name of the Participant and shall bear the
            following (or a similar) legend:

            "THIS CERTIFICATE AND THE SHARES OF STOCK REPRESENTED HEREBY ARE
            SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED IN THE NEW YORK TIMES
            COMPANY 1991 EXECUTIVE STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN (THE "PLAN") APPLICABLE
            TO RESTRICTED STOCK AND TO THE RESTRICTED STOCK AGREEMENT DATED (THE
            "AGREEMENT"), AND MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, TRANSFERRED, ASSIGNED,
            HYPOTHECATED, OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF OR ENCUMBERED IN ANY MANNER
            DURING THE RESTRICTED PERIOD SPECIFIED IN SUCH AGREEMENT. COPIES OF
            SUCH PLAN AND AGREEMENT ARE ON FILE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE
            COMPANY."

      (d)   DEATH OR DISABILITY. Unless the Committee shall otherwise determine
            in the Award, if a Participant ceases to be employed by the Company
            by reason of death or Disability, the Restricted Period covering all
            shares of Restricted Stock transferred or issued to such Participant
            under the Plan shall immediately lapse.


                                       9
<PAGE>

      (e)   RETIREMENT. Unless the Committee shall otherwise determine in the
            Award, the Restricted Period covering all shares of Restricted Stock
            transferred to a Participant under the Plan shall immediately lapse
            upon such Participant's Retirement, whether early or not.

      (f)   TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT. Unless the Committee shall otherwise
            determine in the Award or otherwise determine at or after the date
            of grant, if a Participant ceases to be employed by the Company
            other than due to a condition described in Sections 21(d) or (e)
            above, all shares of Restricted Stock owned by such Participant for
            which the Restricted Period has not lapsed shall revert back to the
            Company upon such termination. Authorized leave of absence or
            absence in military service shall constitute employment for the
            purposes of this Section 21(f). Whether absence in government
            service may constitute employment for the purposes of the Plan shall
            be conclusively determined by the Committee.

      (g)   WAIVER OF FORFEITURE PROVISIONS. The Committee, in its sole and
            absolute discretion, may waive the forfeiture provisions in respect
            of all or some of the Restricted Stock awarded to a Participant.

      (h)   ISSUANCE OF NEW CERTIFICATES. Upon the lapse of the Restricted
            Period with respect to any shares of Restricted Stock, such shares
            shall no longer be subject to the restrictions imposed in the Award
            and shall no longer be considered Restricted Stock for the purposes
            of the Award and the Plan, and the Company shall issue new share
            certificates respecting such shares registered in the name of the
            Participant without the legend described in Section 21(c) in
            exchange for those previously issued.

                         PART IIC RETIREMENT UNIT AWARDS

22. DETERMINATION OF RETIREMENT UNIT AWARDS

      Each year the Committee shall designate those Participants who shall
receive Retirement Unit Awards under the Plan. The Company shall create and
maintain appropriate records of account for each Participant which shall be
designated as the Participant's Retirement Unit Account.

23. CREDITS TO RETIREMENT UNIT ACCOUNTS

      The Committee shall allocate to each Participant selected to receive a
Retirement Unit Award for that year such dollar amount as the Committee shall
determine, taking into account the value of the Participant's services to the
Company. Such dollar amount shall thereupon be converted into Retirement Units
or fractions of Units and credited to each such Participant's Retirement Unit
Account in a number equal to the quotient obtained by dividing such allocated
dollar amount by the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock as of the
date the allocation is made.

24. DIVIDEND CREDITS

      At the discretion of the Committee there may also be allocated in each
year to each Participant a dollar amount equal to the cash dividends declared
and paid by the Company on the Common Stock which the Participant would have
received had such Participant been the owner of the number of shares of Common
Stock equal to the number of the whole Retirement Units (but not fractional
Units) credited to the Participant's Retirement Unit Account; provided, however,
that the total value of such dividend equivalents shall be deducted from the
amount available for Awards under Section 13 of the Plan. The dollar amounts
allocated shall be converted into and credited to the Participant's Retirement
Unit Account as Retirement Units or fractions thereof as set forth in Section 23
above as of the date on which such dividends were paid by the Company. No
interest shall be paid on the dollar amount so allocated to the Retirement Unit
Account of any Participant. The Committee in its discretion may make appropriate


                                       10
<PAGE>

equitable adjustments to such Retirement Unit Accounts to account for any
dividends of property (other than cash) declared and paid by the Company on its
Common Stock, or to account for any other event described in Sections 28 and 29
hereof.

25. RESERVATION OF STOCK AND ACCOUNTING RECORDS

      The Company shall keep records of the Participant's Retirement Unit
Account. At the time of any allocation to a Participant's account under Sections
23 or 24 hereof, there shall be reserved out of treasury shares of the Company a
number (which may include a fraction) of shares of Common Stock equal to the
number of Units or fraction thereof so allocated.

26. MATURITY AND PAYMENT AFTER MATURITY

      (a)   The Retirement Unit Account of each Participant shall mature upon
            such Participant's death, Retirement or other termination of
            employment.

      (b)   After maturity, the Company shall deliver to the Participant (or in
            the event of the death of the Participant, as specified in Section
            30 hereof) in ten approximately equal annual installments, shares of
            Common Stock equal in the aggregate to the number of Retirement
            Units credited to the Participant's Retirement Unit Account. Any
            fraction of a Unit credited to the Participant's account at maturity
            shall be paid in cash with the first installment, the fractional
            Unit being converted into cash at the Fair Market Value of the
            Common Stock on such first payment date. The first such installment
            shall be paid within 90 days after maturity. However, the Committee
            in its discretion at or any time after maturity may, with the
            consent of the Participant (or the beneficiary of a deceased
            Participant as specified in Section 30 hereof), (i) defer the
            commencement of such distribution or defer any installment, (ii)
            deliver full payment of the shares of Common Stock equal to the
            aggregate number of Retirement Units credited to the Participant's
            Retirement Unit Account and the dollar amount credited thereto, or
            (iii) reduce or increase the number of annual installments in which
            the payments are to be made.

      (c)   So long as Retirement Units remain credited to the Retirement Unit
            Account of a Participant subsequent to maturity, such account shall
            be credited with the dollar amount allocated to the account as
            dividends as provided for in Section 24 hereof. Any dollar amount so
            credited may be paid in cash with the next succeeding annual
            installment made under Section 26(b) above, or in such manner, at
            such time or times, and subject to such conditions as the Committee
            in its sole discretion shall determine; provided, however, that in
            the case of any dollar amount credited to an account after maturity
            in respect of a dividend declared prior to maturity, such dollar
            amounts shall be converted to Retirement Units as of the date of
            payment and the remaining installments of Common Stock shall be
            increased accordingly.

                       PART IID ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AWARDS

27A. DETERMINATION OF ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AWARDS

      (a)   GENERAL. Each year the Committee may make Annual Performance Awards
            under this part of the Plan; provided that no Participant may be
            eligible to receive an Annual Performance Award hereunder and under
            the Cash Plan in the same year.

      (b)   CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. For the purposes of this Section 27A, the
            following terms shall have the meanings specified:

      "Affected Officers" shall mean those executive officers of the Company
whose compensation is required to be disclosed in the Company's annual proxy
statement relating to the election of directors.


                                       11
<PAGE>

      "Code Section 162(m)" shall mean Section 162(m) of the Code (or any
successor provision), and "Regulations" shall mean the regulations promulgated
thereunder, as from time to time in effect.

      "Eligible Participants" shall have the meaning set forth in subsection (c)
below.

      "Performance Adjustment" means, for any year, a factor ranging from 0% to
200%, based upon the achievement of Performance Goal Targets established by the
Committee, that, when multiplied by an Eligible Participant's Target Award,
determines the amount of such Eligible Participant's Annual Performance Award
for such year.

      "Performance Goal" means, for any year, the business criteria selected by
the Committee to measure the performance during such year of the Company (or of
a division, subsidiary or group thereof) from one or more of the following:

      (i)   earnings per share of the Company for the year;

      (ii)  net income of the Company for the year;

      (iii) return on assets of the Company for the year (net income of the
            Company for the year divided by average total assets during such
            year);

      (iv)  return on stockholder's equity of the Company for the year (net
            income of the Company for the year divided by average stockholder's
            equity during such year);

      (v)   operating profit or operating margins of the Company or of a
            division, subsidiary or group thereof for the year;

      (vi)  cash flow of the Company or of a division, subsidiary or group
            thereof for the year;

      (vii) increase in shareholder value as determined at the end of each year;

      (viii) revenue growth of the Company or of a division, subsidiary or group
            thereof for the year; and

      (ix)  improved use of capital and/or assets of the Company or of a
            division, subsidiary or group thereof for the year.

      "Performance Goal Target" means, for any Performance Goal, the levels of
performance during a year under such Performance Goal established by the
Committee to determine the Performance Adjustment to an Eligible Participant's
Target Award for such year.

      "Target Award" means, for any year, with respect to an Eligible
Participant, the dollar amount set by the Committee that, when multiplied by the
applicable Performance Adjustment, determines the dollar amount of such Eligible
Participant's Annual Performance Award.

      (c)   ELIGIBILITY. Annual Performance Awards are available each year only
            to Plan Participants who are designated by the Committee, prior to
            March 31 of such year (or prior to such later date as permitted by
            Code Section 162(m) and the Regulations), as likely to be Affected
            Officers for such year, whose annual salary and bonus for such year
            are expected to exceed $1,000,000 and who are not designated by the
            Committee as eligible for an annual performance award under the Cash
            Plan for such year ("Eligible Participants").

      (d)   DETERMINATION OF ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AWARDS. Prior to March 31 of
            each year (or prior to such later date as permitted by Code Section
            162(m) and the Regulations), the Committee will determine the
            Eligible Participants for such year, will designate those Eligible
            Participants who will be entitled to earn an Annual Performance
            Award for such year under this Plan, and will establish for each
            such Eligible Participant for such year: (i) a Target Award, (ii)
            one or more Performance Goals, and (iii) for each such Performance
            Goal, a Performance Goal Target, the method by which achievement
            thereof will be measured and a schedule of Performance Adjustment
            factors corresponding to varying levels of Performance Goal Target


                                       12
<PAGE>

            achievement. In the event more than one Performance Goal is
            established for any Eligible Participant, the Committee shall at the
            same time establish the weighting of each such Performance Goal in
            determining such Eligible Participant's Annual Performance Award.
            Notwithstanding anything in this Section 27A to the contrary, the
            Annual Performance Award payable to any Eligible Participant in any
            year may not exceed $1.5 million.

      (e)   PAYMENT OF ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AWARDS. Subject to subsection (f)
            below, Annual Performance Awards will be paid as soon as practicable
            after the end of the year to which it relates and after the
            Committee certifies the extent to which the Performance Goal Target
            or Targets under the Performance Goal or Goals have been met or
            exceeded. In the discretion of the Committee, an Annual Performance
            Award may be paid in cash, shares of Common Stock, shares of
            Restricted Stock (subject to the provisions of Section 21 hereof),
            Retirement Units (subject to the provisions of Sections 23-26
            hereof) or any combination thereof. For this purpose, shares of
            Common Stock shall be valued at Fair Market Value, and Restricted
            Stock and Retirement Units shall be deemed to have a value equal to
            the Fair Market Value of the underlying Common Stock, in each case
            as of the date of the Committee's determination to pay such Annual
            Performance Award in such form or forms. If permitted by the
            Regulations and Code Section 162(m), the Committee may determine to
            pay a portion of an Annual Performance Award in December of the year
            to which it relates. The Committee may not increase the amount of an
            Annual Performance Award that would otherwise be payable upon
            achievement of the Performance Target or Targets, but it may reduce
            any Eligible Participant's Annual Performance Award in its
            discretion. Subject to Section 14(c) above, no Annual Performance
            Award will be payable to any Eligible Participant who is not an
            employee of the Company on the last day of the year to which such
            Annual Performance Award relates.

      (f)   DEFERRAL OF ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AWARDS. If the Committee determines
            that some portion of an Annual Performance Award to an Eligible
            Participant shall be treated as a deferred Annual Performance Award
            and be payable in annual or other periodic installments, the
            Eligible Participant will be notified in writing when such deferred
            Annual Performance Award shall be paid and over what period of time.
            A deferred Award in the form of shares of Common Stock shall be
            subject to the provisions of Section 19(b) hereof. In the case of a
            deferred Award in the form of cash, in each year the Committee shall
            have the discretion to provide for the payment of an amount
            equivalent to interest, at such rate or rates fixed by the
            Committee, on such deferred cash Annual Performance Award. Any
            amounts provided for pursuant to the preceding sentence shall become
            payable in such a manner, at such time or times, and subject to such
            conditions as the Committee shall in its sole discretion determine;
            provided, however, that the total amount of such interest shall be
            deducted from the maximum amount available for Awards under the
            formula described in Section 13 of the Plan.

      (g)   CODE SECTION 162(m). It is the intent of the Company that Annual
            Performance Awards satisfy, and this Section 27A be interpreted in a
            manner that satisfies, the applicable requirements of Code Section
            162(m) and the Regulations so that the Company's tax deduction for
            Annual Performance Awards to Affected Officers is not disallowed in
            whole or in part by operation of Code Section 162(m). If any
            provision of this Plan or of any Annual Performance Award would
            otherwise frustrate or conflict with such intent, that provision
            shall be interpreted and deemed amended so as to avoid such
            conflict. To the extent of any irreconcilable conflict with such
            intent, such provision shall be deemed void as applicable to
            Eligible Participants.


                                       13
<PAGE>

                      PART IIE PERFORMANCE OR OTHER AWARDS

27. DETERMINATION OF PERFORMANCE AND OTHER AWARDS

      (a)   Each year the Committee in its sole discretion may authorize other
            forms of Awards such as, but not limited to, Performance Awards, if
            the Committee deems it appropriate to do so in order to further the
            purposes of the Plan.

      (b)   A "Performance Award" shall mean an Award which entitles the
            Participant to receive Common Stock, Restricted Stock, Retirement
            Units, Options under Part I of the Plan or other compensation (which
            may include cash), or any combination thereof, in an amount which
            depends upon the financial performance of the Company during a
            stated period of more than one year. Performance for this purpose
            may be measured by the growth in book value of the Common Stock, an
            increase in per share earnings of the Company, an increase in
            operating cash flow, or any other indicators specified by the
            Committee. The Committee shall also fix the period during which such
            performance is to be measured, the value of a Performance Award for
            purposes of providing for the accrual pursuant to Section 13 of the
            Plan and the form of payment to be made in respect of the
            Performance Award.

                      PART IIF LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE AWARDS

28A. DETERMINATION OF LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE AWARDS

      (a)   GENERAL. Each year the Committee shall designate those Participants
            who shall be eligible to receive Long-Term Performance Awards under
            this part of the Plan.

      (b)   CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this Section 28A, the following
            terms shall have the meanings specified:

      "Code Section 162(m)" shall mean Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended (or any successor provision), and "Regulations" shall
mean the regulations promulgated thereunder, as from time to time in effect.

      "Eligible Participants" shall mean certain key business leaders and senior
management of the Company as determined in the discretion of the Committee.

      "Long-Term Performance Goal" means, for any Performance Period, the
business criteria selected by the Committee to measure the performance during
such Performance Period of the Company (or of a division, subsidiary or group
thereof) from one or more of the following:

      (i)   earnings per share of the Company for the Performance Period;

      (ii)  net income of the Company for the Performance Period;

      (iii) return on assets of the Company for the Performance Period (net
            income of the Company for the Performance Period divided by average
            total assets for such Performance Period);

      (iv)  return on stockholder's equity of the Company for the Performance
            Period (net income of the Company for the Performance Period divided
            by average stockholder's equity for such Performance Period);

      (v)   operating profit or operating margins of the Company or of a
            division, subsidiary or group thereof for the Performance Period;

      (vi)  cash flow of the Company or of a division, subsidiary or group
            thereof for the Performance Period;


                                       14
<PAGE>

      (vii) increase in shareholder value as determined at the end of the
            Performance Period;

      (viii) revenue growth of the Company or of a division, subsidiary or group
            thereof for the Performance Period; and

      (ix)  improved use of capital and/or assets of the Company or of a
            division, subsidiary or group thereof for the Performance Period.

      "Long-Term Performance Goal Target" means, for any Long-Term Performance
Goal, the levels of performance during a Performance Period under such Long-Term
Performance Goal established by the Committee to determine an Eligible
Participant's maximum Long-Term Performance Award.

      "Performance Period" means the period in excess of one year commencing on
January 1 of the year in which the Committee makes the Long-Term Performance
Award to an Eligible Participant.

      (c)   ELIGIBILITY. Long-Term Performance Awards are available each year to
            Eligible Participants who are designated by the Committee, prior to
            March 31 of such year (or prior to such later date as permitted by
            Code Section 162(m) and the Regulations).

      (d)   DETERMINATION OF LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE AWARDS. Prior to March 31 of
            each year (or prior to such later date as permitted by Code Section
            162(m) and the Regulations), the Committee will designate the
            Eligible Participants who will be entitled to earn a Long-Term
            Performance Award for such Performance Period under this Plan, and
            will establish for each such Eligible Participant for such
            Performance Period (i) one or more Long-Term Performance Goals, and
            (ii) for each such Long-Term Performance Goal, a Long-Term
            Performance Goal Target and the method by which achievement thereof
            will be measured. In the event that more than one Long-Term
            Performance Goal is established for any Eligible Participant, the
            Committee shall at the same time establish the weighting of each
            such Long-Term Performance Goal in determining such Eligible
            Participant's Long-Term Performance Award. Notwithstanding anything
            in this Section 28A to the contrary, the Long-Term Performance Award
            payable to any Eligible Participant in any Performance Period may
            not exceed $1.5 million.

      (e)   PAYMENT OF LONG TERM PERFORMANCE AWARDS. Subject to subsection (g)
            below, Long-Term Performance Awards will be paid in cash as soon as
            practicable after the end of the Performance Period to which it
            relates and after the Committee certifies the extent to which the
            Long-Term Performance Goal Target or Targets under the Long-Term
            Performance Goal or Goals have been met or exceeded. If permitted by
            the Regulations and Code Section 162(m), the Committee may determine
            to pay a portion of a Long-Term Performance Award in December of the
            last year of the Performance Period to which it relates. The
            Committee may not increase the amount of a Long-Term Performance
            Award that would otherwise be payable upon the achievement of the
            Long-Term Performance Goal Target or Targets, but it may reduce any
            Eligible Participant's Long-Term Performance Award in its
            discretion. Subject to Sections 14(c) and 28A(g), no Long-Term
            Performance Award will be payable to any Eligible Participant who is
            not an employee of the Company on the last day of the Performance
            Period to which such Long-Term Performance Award relates.

      (f)   TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT BECAUSE OF DEATH, DISABILITY OR
            RETIREMENT. In the event that an Eligible Participant terminates
            employment because of death, Disability or Retirement, such Eligible
            Participant, or in the event of death such person as determined in
            accordance with Section 30, shall be paid a pro rata portion of such
            Eligible Participant's Long-Term Performance Award that would
            otherwise be payable upon the achievement of the Long-Term
            Performance Goal Target or Targets had the Participant continued
            employment until the end of the Performance Period. Such pro rata
            Long-Term Performance Award shall not be paid until the end of the
            Performance Period to which such Long-Term Award relates.


                                       15
<PAGE>

      (g)   DEFERRAL AND ALTERNATIVE FORM OF PAYMENT OF LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE
            AWARDS. If the Committee determines that some portion of a Long-Term
            Performance Award to an Eligible Participant shall be treated as a
            deferred Long-Term Performance Award and payable in annual or other
            periodic installments, the Eligible Participant will be notified in
            writing when such deferred Long-Term Performance Award shall be paid
            and over what period of time. In each year the Committee shall have
            the discretion to provide for the payment of an amount equivalent to
            interest, at such rate or rates fixed by the Committee, on any
            deferred Long-Term Performance Award. Any amounts provided for
            pursuant to the preceding sentence shall become payable in such
            manner, at such time or times, and subject to such conditions as the
            Committee shall in its sole discretion determine; provided, however,
            that the total amount of such interest shall be deducted from the
            maximum amount available for Awards under the formula described in
            Section 5 of the Plan. Furthermore, the Committee may, in its sole
            discretion, determine that such Long-Term Performance Award shall be
            paid in shares of Common Stock or in the form of Retirement Units
            (subject to the provisions of Sections 23-26 hereof). For this
            purpose, shares of Common Stock shall be valued at Fair Market
            Value, and Retirement Units shall be deemed to have a value equal to
            the Fair Market Value of the underlying Common Stock, in each case
            as of the date of the Committee's determination to pay such
            Long-Term Performance Award in such form.

      (h)   CODE SECTION 162(m). It is the intent of the Company that Long-Term
            Performance Awards satisfy, and this Section 28A be interpreted in a
            manner that satisfies, the applicable requirement of Code Section
            162(m) and the Regulations so that the Company's tax deduction for
            Long-Term Performance Awards to Eligible Participants is not
            disallowed in whole or in part by operation of Code Section 162(m).
            If any provision of this Plan or of any Long-Term Performance Award
            would otherwise frustrate or conflict with such intent, that
            provision shall be interpreted and deemed amended so as to avoid
            such conflict. To the extent of any irreconcilable conflict with
            such intent, such provision shall be deemed void as applicable to
            any Participant whose compensation is subject to Code Section
            162(m).

                           PART III GENERAL PROVISIONS

28. STOCK DIVIDEND OR STOCK SPLIT

      If at any time the Company shall take any action whether by stock
dividend, stock split, combination of shares, or otherwise, which results in a
proportionate increase or decrease in the number of shares of Common Stock
theretofore issued and outstanding, (i) the number of shares of Common Stock
then subject to deferred Awards, credited to Retirement Unit Accounts (matured
or unmatured) or set aside for Performance or Other Awards, (ii) the number of
outstanding Options, the number of shares of Common Stock for which such Options
are exercisable and the exercise price thereof, (iii) the number of shares of
Common Stock reserved for Awards, (iv) the number of shares of Common Stock
reserved for Options, and (v) the maximum number of shares with respect to which
Options may be granted to any key employee in any calendar year under Section
6(b), shall be increased or decreased in the same proportion. The Committee
shall make an appropriate equitable adjustment to the provisions of Section
13(a) to take account of such increase or decrease in issued and outstanding
shares. The Committee in its discretion may make appropriate equitable
adjustments respecting deferred Stock Awards, Retirement Units, Annual
Performance Awards, Long-Term Performance Awards, Performance or Other Awards
and outstanding Options to take account of a dividend by the Company of property
other than cash. All such adjustments shall be made by the Committee whose
determination shall be conclusive and binding upon all Participants and any
person claiming under or through any Participant.


                                       16
<PAGE>

29. RECLASSIFICATION OR MERGER

      If at any time the Company reclassifies or otherwise changes its issued
and outstanding Common Stock (other than in par value) or the Company and one or
more corporations merge and the Company is the surviving corporation of such
merger, then each Stock Award, Retirement Unit (matured or unmatured), Annual
Performance Award, Performance or Other Award which at the time of such
reclassification or merger is credited as a Stock Award, Retirement Unit, Annual
Performance Award, Long-Term Performance Award, Performance or Other Award shall
thereafter be deemed to be the equivalent of (and all Units thereafter credited
to a Retirement Unit Account shall be computed with reference to), and
outstanding Options shall be exercisable for, the shares of stock or other
securities of the Company which pursuant to the terms of such reclassification
or merger are issued with respect to each share of Common Stock. The Committee
shall also make an appropriate equitable adjustment to the provisions of
Sections 6(b) and 13(a) to take account of such event. All such adjustments
shall be made by the Committee whose determination shall be conclusive and
binding upon all Participants and any person claiming under or through any
Participant.

30. NON-ALIENATION OF BENEFITS

      Except as herein specifically provided, no right or unpaid benefit under
this Plan shall be subject to alienation, assignment, pledge or charge and any
attempt to alienate, assign, pledge or charge the same shall be void. If any
Participant or person entitled to the benefits hereunder should attempt to
alienate, assign, pledge or charge any benefit hereunder, then such benefit
shall, in the discretion of the Committee, cease. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
rights and benefits hereunder shall pass by will or the laws of descent and
distribution in the following order: (i) to beneficiaries so designated by the
Participant; if none, then (ii) to a legal representative of the Participant; if
none, then (iii) to the persons entitled thereto as determined by a court of
competent jurisdiction. Awards so passing shall be made at such times and in
such manner as if the Participant were living.

31. WITHHOLDING OR DEDUCTION FOR TAXES

      If at any time specified herein for the making of any payment or delivery
of any Common Stock to any Participant or beneficiary, any law or regulation of
any governmental authority having jurisdiction in the premises shall require the
Company to withhold, or to make any deduction for, any taxes or take any other
action in connection with the payment or delivery then to be made, such payment
or delivery shall be deferred until such withholding or deduction shall have
been provided for by the Participant or beneficiary, or other appropriate action
shall have been taken. The Participant or beneficiary may satisfy the obligation
for such withholding or deduction in whole or in part by electing to deliver
shares of Common Stock already owned and having a Fair Market Value equal to the
amount to be withheld or deducted.

32. ADMINISTRATION EXPENSES

      The entire expense of administering this Plan shall be borne by the
Company.

33. GENERAL CONDITIONS

      (a)   The Board in its discretion may from time to time amend, suspend or
            terminate any or all of the provisions of this Plan, provided that
            no change may be made which would prevent Incentive Stock Options
            granted under the Plan from being Incentive Stock Options as
            described therein without the consent of the optionees concerned,
            and further provided that the Board may not make any amendment which
            (1) changes the class of persons eligible for Incentive Stock
            Options, or (2) increases the total number of shares for which
            Options may be granted under Section 6(b), or (3) materially affects
            the provisions of Sections 13(a) or (b) of the Plan, or (4)
            increases the total number of shares authorized under Section 13(f)
            for which Awards may be granted, without


                                       17
<PAGE>

            the consent and approval of the holders of a majority of the
            outstanding shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock of the
            Company entitled to vote thereon, voting together as one class. The
            foregoing provisions shall not be construed to prevent the Committee
            from exercising its discretion, or to limit such discretion, to
            increase the total number of shares for which Options may be granted
            under Section 6(b) or the total number of shares authorized under
            Section 13(f) for which Awards may be granted, as expressly
            permitted by Sections 28 and 29 hereof, or to adjust the provisions
            of Sections 13(a) and (b) hereof as expressly permitted by Sections
            13(b), 28 and 29 hereof, or otherwise to exercise any discretion to
            the extent expressly authorized hereunder.

      (b)   Nothing contained in the Plan shall prohibit the Company from
            establishing incentive compensation arrangements in addition to this
            Plan and the Cash Plan. Payments made under any such separate
            arrangements shall not be included in or considered a part of the
            maximum dollar amount available for Awards under the Plan and Cash
            Plan, or number of shares available for Awards or Options under the
            Plan, and shall not be charged against the dollar or share amounts
            available for Awards under the Plan and Cash Plan or Options under
            the Plan. In the discretion of the Committee, employees shall be
            eligible to participate in such other arrangements, as well as the
            Plan and Cash Plan, in the same year.

      (c)   Nothing in this Plan shall be deemed to limit in any way the right
            of the Company to terminate a Participant's employment with the
            Company at any time.

      (d)   The Committee may promulgate rules and regulations relating to the
            administration and interpretation of, and procedures under, the
            Plan. Any decision or action taken by the Company, the Board or the
            Committee arising out of or in connection with the construction,
            administration, interpretation and effect of the Plan shall be
            conclusive and binding upon all Participants and any person claiming
            under or through any Participant.

      (e)   No member of the Board or of the Committee shall be liable for any
            act or action, whether of commission or omission, taken by any other
            member or by any officer, agent or employee, nor for anything done
            or omitted to be done by such Director except in circumstances
            involving actual bad faith.

      (f)   Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Company shall
            not be obligated to make any Award, issue any shares of Common
            Stock, or grant any Option with respect thereto, unless it is
            advised by counsel of its selection that it may do so without
            violation of the applicable Federal and State laws pertaining to the
            issuance of securities, and may require any stock so issued to bear
            a legend, may give its transfer agent instructions, and may take
            such other steps, as in its judgment are reasonably required to
            prevent any such violation.

      (g)   It is the intent of the Company that transactions involving Options
            or Awards granted under the Plan be entitled to the exemption from
            Section 16 of the Exchange Act provided by Rule 16b-3, that any
            ambiguities or inconsistencies in construction of the Plan be
            interpreted to give effect to such intention and that if any
            provision of the Plan is found not to be in compliance with Rule
            16b-3, such provision shall be deemed null and void to the extent
            required to permit any such transaction to comply with Rule 16b-3.
            The Committee may adopt rules and regulations under, and amend, the
            Plan in furtherance of the intent of the foregoing.

34. TRANSITION

      Upon the effectiveness of this Plan, as provided below, and the Cash Plan,
such plans replaced the Company's Executive Incentive Compensation Plan
("EICP"), except that the EICP shall continue to govern options and awards of
restricted stock outstanding under the EICP. No further awards will be made
under the EICP, and all amounts accrued for awards under the EICP and unawarded
were carried forward


                                       18
<PAGE>

and made available for Awards under the Plan and awards under the Cash Plan. All
unmatured and matured but undistributed retirement units and all performance
awards respecting current performance cycles awarded under the EICP became
Retirement Units and Performance Awards hereunder and any payments or
distributions in respect thereof shall be made hereunder; provided, however,
that the number of shares of Common Stock available for Awards pursuant to
Section 13(f) hereof shall not be reduced by the number of such retirement units
previously awarded under the EICP and paid subsequently under the Plan.

35. EFFECTIVE DATES

      The Plan became effective for periods beginning after January 1, 1991 upon
approval by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Class A and
Class B Common Stock of the Company entitled to vote thereon at the 1991 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders, in person or by proxy, voting together as a single
class. No Options may be granted or Awards made under the Plan after December
31, 2000, or such earlier expiration date as may be designated by resolution of
the Board.


                                       19



                           THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY
                    NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS' STOCK OPTION PLAN
                                   AS AMENDED

1. PURPOSE

      The purpose of The New York Times Company Non-Employee Directors' Stock
Option Plan (the "Plan") is to secure for The New York Times Company (the
"Company") and its stockholders the benefits of the incentive inherent in
increased common stock ownership by the members of the Board of Directors (the
"Board") of the Company who are not employees of the Company or any of its
subsidiaries.

2. ADMINISTRATION

      The Plan shall be administered by the Board. The Board shall have all the
powers vested in it by the terms of the Plan, such powers to include authority
(within the limitations described herein) to prescribe the form of the agreement
embodying awards of stock options made under the Plan ("Options"). The Board
shall, subject to the provisions of the Plan, have the power to construe the
Plan, to determine all questions arising thereunder and to adopt and amend such
rules and regulations for the administration of the Plan as it may deem
desirable. Any decision of the Board in the administration of the Plan, as
described herein, shall be final and conclusive. The Board may act only by a
majority of its members in office, except that the members thereof may authorize
any one or more of their number or the Secretary or any other officer of the
Company to execute and deliver documents on behalf of the Board. No member of
the Board shall be liable for anything done or omitted to be done by such member
or by any other member of the Board in connection with the Plan, except in
circumstances involving actual bad faith.

3. AMOUNT OF STOCK

      The stock which may be issued and sold under the Plan will be the Class A
Common Stock of the Company ("Common Stock"), of a total number not exceeding
500,000 shares, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 6 below. The stock
to be issued may be either authorized and unissued shares, treasury shares,
issued shares acquired by the Company or its subsidiaries or any combination
thereof. In the event that Options granted under the Plan shall terminate or
expire without being exercised in whole or in part, new Options may be granted
covering the shares not purchased under such lapsed Options.

4. ELIGIBILITY

      Each member of the Board who is not an employee of the Company or any of
its subsidiaries (a "Non-Employee Director") shall be eligible to receive an
Option in accordance with the specific provisions of Section 5 below. The
adoption of this Plan shall be not deemed to give any director any right to be
granted an Option to purchase Common Stock except to the extent and upon such
terms and conditions consistent with the Plan as may be determined by the Board.

5. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS

      Each Option granted under the Plan shall be evidenced by an agreement in
such form as the Board shall prescribe from time to time in accordance with the
Plan and shall comply with the following terms and conditions:

            (a) The Option exercise price shall be the Fair Market Value of the
      shares of Common Stock (as defined in Section 7(a) hereof) subject to such
      Option on the date the Option is granted.

            (b) Each year, as of the date of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders
      of the Company, each Non-Employee Director who has been elected or
      re-elected or who is continuing as a member of the Board as of the
      adjournment of the Annual Meeting shall automatically receive an Option
      for 4,000 shares of Common Stock.
<PAGE>

            (c) No Option shall be transferable otherwise than by will or by the
      laws of descent and distribution. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence,
      the Board may determine that Options granted to a Participant or a
      specified group of Participants may be transferred by the Participant to
      one or more members of the Participant's immediate family, to a
      partnership or limited liability company whose only partners or members
      are members of the Partcipant's immediate family, or to a trust
      established by the Participant for the benefit of one or more members of
      the Participant's immediate family. For this purpose, "immediate family"
      means the Participant's spouse, parents, children (including adopted and
      step-children), grandchildren and the spouses of such parents, children
      (including adopted and step-children) and grandchildren. A transferee
      described in this subsection may not further transfer an Option. An Option
      transferred pursuant to this subsection shall remain subject to the
      provisions of the Plan and shall be subject to such other rules as the
      Board shall determine.

            (d) No Option or any part of an Option shall be exercisable:

            (i) before the Non-Employee Director has served one term-year as a
      member of the Board since the date the Option was granted (as used herein,
      the term "term-year" means that period from one Annual Meeting to the
      subsequent Annual Meeting), except as provided in subsection 5(d)(iv)(B)
      below;

            (ii) after the expiration of ten years from the date the Option was
      granted;

            (iii) unless written notice of the exercise is delivered to the
      Company specifying the number of shares to be purchased and payment in
      full is made for the shares of Common Stock being acquired thereunder at
      the time of exercise; such payment shall be made

                  (A) in United States dollars by certified check or bank draft,
            or

                  (B) by tendering to the Company shares of Common Stock owned
            by the person exercising the Option and having a Fair Market Value
            on the date of exercise equal to the cash exercise price applicable
            to such Option, or

                  (C) any combination of the foregoing forms; and

            (iv) unless the person exercising the Option has been, at all times
      during the period beginning with the date of grant of the Option and
      ending on the date of such exercise, a Non-Employee Director of the
      Company, except that

                  (A) if such a person shall cease to be such a Non-Employee
            Director for reasons other than Retirement (as defined in Section
            7(a) hereof) or death, while holding an Option then exercisable that
            has not expired, such person, at any time within one year after the
            date he ceases to be such a Non-Employee Director (but in no event
            after the Option has expired under the provisions of subsection
            5(d)(ii) above), may exercise the Option with respect to any shares
            of Common Stock as to which such person could have but has not
            exercised the Option on the date the person ceased to be such a
            Non-Employee Director;

                  (B) if such a person shall cease to be such a Non-Employee
            Director by reason of Retirement or death while holding an Option
            (whether or not then exercisable) that has not expired,
            notwithstanding the provisions of subsection 5(d)(i) above, such
            person, or in the case of death (either while a Non-Employee
            Director or after Retirement), his executors, administrators, heirs,
            legatees or distributees, as the case may be, may, at any time until
            the expiration of such Option as provided in subsection 5(d)(ii)
            above, exercise the Option with respect to any shares of Common
            Stock as to which such person has not exercised the Option on the
            date the person ceased to be such a Non-Employee Director; and


                                       2
<PAGE>

                  (C) if any person who has ceased to be such a Non-Employee
            Director for reasons other than death or Retirement shall die
            holding an Option, such person's executors, administrators, heirs,
            legatees or distributees, as the case may be, may, at any time
            within one year after the date of death (but in no event after the
            Option has expired under the provisions of subsection 5(d)(ii)
            above), exercise the Option with respect to any shares as to which
            the decedent could have exercised the Option at the time of death.

      In the event any Option is exercised by the executors, administrators,
heirs, legatees or distributees of the estate of a deceased optionee or by the
guardian or legal representative of a disabled optionee, the Company shall be
under no obligation to issue stock thereunder unless and until the Company is
satisfied that the person or persons exercising the Option are the duly
appointed legal representatives of the deceased optionee's estate or the proper
legatees or distributees thereof or the duly appointed guardian or legal
representative of the disabled optionee.

6. ADJUSTMENT IN THE EVENT OF CHANGE IN STOCK

      In the event of changes in the outstanding Common Stock of the Company by
reason of dividends (other than cash dividends), recapitalizations, mergers,
consolidations, split-ups, combinations or exchanges of shares and the like, the
aggregate number and class of shares available under the Plan, the number, class
and the price of shares of Common Stock subject to outstanding Options and the
number of shares constituting an Option grant under Section 5(b) hereof, shall
be appropriately adjusted by the Board, whose determination shall be conclusive.

7. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

      (a) The following terms shall have the meanings specified below:

            (i) "Fair Market Value" means the arithmetic mean of the highest and
      lowest sales prices of the Common Stock as reported in the Consolidated
      Transactions of the American Stock Exchange ("AMSE") (or such other
      national securities exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed at
      the time of determination, and if the Common Stock is listed on more than
      one exchange, then on the one located in New York or if the Common Stock
      is listed only on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated
      Quotations System ("NASDAQ"), then on such system) on the date of the
      grant or other date on which the Common Stock is to be valued hereunder.
      If no sale shall have been made on the AMSE, such other exchange or the
      NASDAQ on such date or if the Common Stock is not then listed on any
      exchange or on the NASDAQ, Fair Market Value shall be determined by the
      Board in accordance with Treasury Regulations applicable to incentive
      stock options.

            (ii) "Retirement" means retirement from the Board at the age of 65
      or thereafter or resignation from the Board by reason of disability.

      (b) Except as expressly provided for in the Plan, no Non-Employee Director
or other person shall have any claim or right to be granted an Option under the
Plan. Neither the Plan nor any action taken hereunder shall be construed as
giving any Non-Employee Director any right to be retained in the service of the
Company.

      (c) An optionee's rights and interest under the Plan may not be assigned
or transferred in whole or in part either directly or by operation of law or
otherwise (except in the event of an optionee's death, by will or the laws of
descent and distribution), including, but not by way of limitation, execution,
levy, garnishment, attachment, pledge, bankruptcy or in any other manner and no
such right or interest of any participant in the Plan shall be subject to any
obligation or liability of such participant.

      (d) No shares of Common Stock shall be issued hereunder unless counsel for
the Company shall be satisfied that such issuance will be in compliance with
applicable federal, state and other securities laws and regulations.


                                       3
<PAGE>

      (e) It shall be a condition to the obligation of the Company to issue
shares of Common Stock upon exercise of an Option, that the optionee (or any
beneficiary or person entitled to act under subsection 5(d)(iv) above) pay to
the Company, upon its demand, such amount as may be requested by the Company for
the purpose of satisfying any liability to withhold federal, state, local or
foreign income or other taxes. If the amount requested is not paid, the Company
may refuse to issue shares of Common Stock.

      (f) The expenses of the Plan shall be borne by the Company.

      (g) The Plan shall be unfunded. The Company shall not be required to
establish any special or separate fund or to make any other segregation of
assets to assure the issuance of shares upon exercise of any Option under the
Plan and issuance of shares upon exercise of Options shall be subordinate to the
claims of the Company's general creditors.

      (h) By accepting any Option or other benefit under the Plan, each optionee
and each person claiming under or through such person shall be conclusively
deemed to have indicated his acceptance and ratification of, and consent to, any
action taken under the Plan by the Company or the Board.

      (i) It is the intent of the Company that the transactions involving
options under the Plan comply in all respects with Rule 16b-3 or any successor
rule ("Rule 16b-3") under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that
any ambiguities or inconsistencies in construction of the Plan be interpreted to
give effect to such intention and that if any provision of the Plan is found not
to be in compliance with Rule 16b-3, such provision shall be deemed null and
void to the extent required to permit any such transaction to comply with Rule
16b-3. The Board may adopt rules and regulations under, and amend, the Plan in
furtherance of the intent of the foregoing.

8. AMENDMENT

      The Plan may be amended at any time and from time to time by the Board as
the Board shall deem advisable, including, but not limited to, amendments
necessary to qualify for any exemption or to comply with applicable law or
regulations; provided, however, that except as provided in Section 6 above, the
Board may not, without further approval by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock of the Company entitled
to vote thereon, voting together as one class, increase the maximum number of
shares of Common Stock as to which Options may be granted under the Plan,
increase the number of shares subject to an Option, change the Option exercise
price described in subsection 5(a) above, extend the period during which Options
may be granted or exercised under the Plan or change the class of persons
eligible to receive Options under the Plan. Subject to the provision of Section
7(i) hereof relating to Rule 16b-3, no amendment of the Plan shall materially
and adversely effect any right of any optionee with respect to any Option
theretofore granted without such optionee's written consent. It is intended that
the Plan be a "formula plan" under Rule 16b-3 and will comply with all
applicable rules, regulations and staff interpretations of the Securities and
Exchange Commission.

9. TERMINATION

      This Plan shall terminate upon the earlier of the following dates or
events to occur:

            (a) upon the adoption of a resolution of the Board terminating the
      Plan; or

            (b) ten years from the date the Plan is initially approved and
      adopted by the stockholders of the Company in accordance with Section 10
      below.

10. EFFECTIVE DATE OF PLAN

      The Plan shall become effective as of April 16, 1991 or such later date as
the Board may determine, provided that the adoption of the Plan shall have been
approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Class A and
Class B Common Stock of the Company entitled to vote thereon at the 1991 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders, in person or by proxy, voting together as a single
class.


                                       4



                           THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY
                      DEFERRED EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

                             Effective July 1, 1994

                                                        Amended January 1, 1999
                                                        Amended December 8, 1999
<PAGE>

                                    ARTICLE I

                                  Introduction

1.1   Purpose Of Plan

      The Employer has adopted the Plan set forth herein to provide a means by
      which certain employees may elect to defer receipt of designated
      percentages or amounts of their Compensation.

1.2   Status Of Plan

      The Plan is intended to be "a plan which is unfunded and is maintained by
      an employer primarily for the purpose of providing deferred compensation
      for a select group of management or highly compensated employees" within
      the meaning of Sections 201(2) and 301(a)(3) of the Employee Retirement
      Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"), and shall be interpreted and
      administered to the extent possible in a manner consistent with that
      intent.

1.2   History Of Plan

      The Plan was first effective on July 1, 1994.

      Thereafter, the Plan was amended effective January 1, 1999, to change the
      deferral periods under the Plan and the method of distribution thereunder.

      Effective December 8, 1999, the Plan was amended to change the eligibility
      for participation in the Plan and the definition of Compensation
      thereunder for year following 1999. Effective December 8, 1999, The New
      York Times Designated Employees Deferred Earnings Plan was merged into the
      Plan, as amended.


                                      -1-
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE II

                                   Definitions

Wherever used herein, the following terms have the meanings set forth below,
unless a different meaning is clearly required by the context:

2.1   Account means, for each Participant, the account established for his or
      her benefit under Section 5.1. Such Account shall include both salary and
      bonus deferrals.

2.2   Change Of Control means:

      (a)   any individual, partnership, corporation (including a business
            trust), joint stock company, trust, unincorporated association,
            joint venture or other entity, or a government or any political
            subdivision or agency thereof (a "Person") (or two or more Persons
            acting in concert), other than any descendent (or any spouse
            thereof) of Iphigene Ochs Sulzberger (a "Family Member") or a
            beneficiary or trustee (as the same may change from time to time) of
            a trust over 50% of the individual beneficiaries of which are Family
            Members, acquiring the power to elect a majority of the directors of
            The New York Times Company (the "Company") in a transaction or
            series of transactions not approved in advance by a vote of at least
            three quarters of the Continuing Directors (as defined below); or

      (b)   individuals who, as of the date hereof, constitute the Board of
            Directors of the Company (as of the date hereof the "Continuing
            Directors") ceasing for any reason to constitute at least a majority
            of the Board of Directors, provided that any person becoming a
            director subsequent to the date hereof whose election, or a
            nomination for election by the Company's shareholders, was approved
            in advance by a vote of at least three quarters of the Continuing
            Directors (other than a nomination of an individual whose initial
            assumption of office is in connection with an actual or threatened
            solicitation with respect to the election or removal of the
            directors of the Company, as such terms are used in Rule 14a-11 of
            the Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act) shall be, for
            purposes of this Agreement, considered as though such person were a
            Continuing Director; or

      (c)   approval by the stockholders of the Company of a reorganization,
            merger, consolidation, liquidation or dissolution of the Company or
            of the sale (in one transaction or a series of related transactions)
            of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company other than
            a reorganization, merger, consolidation, liquidation, dissolution or
            sale approved in advance by three quarters of the Continuing
            Directors.

2.3   Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to
      time. Reference to any section or subsection of the Code includes
      reference to any comparable or succeeding provisions of any legislation
      which amends, supplements or replaces such section or subsection.


                                      -2-
<PAGE>

2.4   Compensation means the annual bonus, amounts paid under The Advertising
      and Circulation Sales Incentive Plan, the Long-Term Performance Awards
      under The New York Times Company 1991 Executive Cash Bonus Plan and the
      base salary of a Participant, as well as any discretionary cash bonus
      awarded to the Participant for a particular year. The ERISA Management
      Committee, in its sole discretion, shall designate from time to time the
      maximum percentage of each component of Compensation that can be deferred
      under the Plan. Such designation shall be listed in Appendix A. For
      purposes of the Plan, Compensation shall be determined before giving
      effect to Elective Deferrals and other salary reduction amounts which are
      not included in the Participant's gross income under Code Sections 125,
      401(k), 402(h) or 403(b).

2.5   Effective Date means July 1, 1994.

2.6   Election Form means the participation election form as approved and
      prescribed by the Plan Administrator.

2.7   Elective Deferral means the portion of Compensation which is deferred by a
      Participant under Article IV.

2.8   Eligible Employee means, for the Plan Year 2000 and Plan Years thereafter,
      each employee of the Employer whose annual base salary on October 1 of the
      year prior to the year for which such employee defers any Compensation
      under the Plan is at least $110,000, who is not covered under a collective
      bargaining agreement, who is not eligible to participate in any other
      non-qualified deferred compensation plan sponsored by the Employer and/or
      its subsidiaries and affiliates while deferring Compensation under this
      Plan, and who consents to the purchase of Corporate Owned Life Insurance
      by the Employer. The $110,000 limit on annual base salary shall be
      adjusted by the ERISA Management Committee from time to time at its sole
      discretion and without the need for an amendment to the Plan. An employee
      who participated in this Plan or The New York Times Designated Employees
      Deferred Earnings Plan prior to 2000, and who no longer meets the
      definition of an Eligible Employee shall continue to be an Eligible
      Employee hereunder.

2.9   Employer means The New York Times Company, any successor to all or a major
      portion of the Employer's assets or business which assumes the obligations
      of the Employer, and each other entity that is affiliated with the
      Employer whose employees, with the consent of the Company, are eligible,
      as provided under Section 2.8, to participate in the Plan.

2.10  ERISA means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
      amended from time to time. Reference to any section or subsection of ERISA
      includes reference to any comparable or succeeding provisions of any
      legislation which amends, supplements or replaces such section or
      subsection.


                                      -3-
<PAGE>

2.11  ERISA Board Committee means a committee of the Board of Directors of The
      New York Times Company.

2.12  ERISA Management Committee means a committee appointed by the ERISA Board
      Committee.

2.13  Insolvency means either (i) the Company is unable to pay its debts as they
      become due, or (ii) the Company is subject to a pending proceeding as a
      debtor under the United States Bankruptcy Code.

2.14  Participant means any Eligible Employee who participates in the Plan in
      accordance with Article III.

2.15  Plan means The New York Times Company Deferred Executive Compensation Plan
      and all amendments thereto.

2.16  Plan Administrator means the person, persons or entity designated by the
      Employer under Article VIII to oversee the administration of the Plan. If
      no such person or entity is so serving at any time, the Employer shall be
      the Plan Administrator.

2.17  Plan Year means the 12-month period beginning on January 1 and ending on
      December 31 of each year, except for the first plan year which begins on
      July 1, 1994, and ends on December 31, 1994.

2.18  Recordkeeper means the person(s) or entity appointed or hired by the ERISA
      Management Committee under Section 8.1.

2.19  Total And Permanent Disability means the inability of a Participant to
      engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically
      determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result
      in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous
      period of not less than 12 months, and the permanence and degree of which
      shall be supported by medical evidence satisfactory to the Plan
      Administrator.

2.20  Trust means the trust established by the Employer that identifies the Plan
      as a plan with respect to which assets are to be held by the Trustee. Plan
      assets in the trust are subject to the general creditors of The New York
      Times Company in the event of bankruptcy or Insolvency.

2.21  Trustee means the trustee or trustees under the Trust.

2.22  Valuation Option means the performance of the investment funds listed in
      Appendix B of the Plan.


                                      -4-
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE III

                                  Participation

3.1   Commencement Of Participation

      Any Eligible Employee who elects to defer part of his or her Compensation
      in accordance with Article IV shall become a Participant in the Plan as of
      the date such deferrals commence in accordance with such Article.

3.2   Continued Participation

      A Participant in the Plan shall continue to be a Participant so long as
      any amount remains credited to his or her Account. However, future
      deferrals under the Plan may be made only if such Participant continues to
      be an Eligible Employee under the Plan.


                                      -5-
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE IV

                               Elective Deferrals

4.1   Elective Deferrals

      Except as provided in Appendix A, an individual who is an Eligible
      Employee on the Effective Date may, by completing an Election Form and
      filing it with the Plan Administrator by the end of the first month
      following the Effective Date, elect to defer the receipt of a portion of
      one or more payments of Compensation for a period of at least three Plan
      Years and on such terms as the ERISA Management Committee may permit.
      Thereafter, any Eligible Employee may elect to defer the receipt of a
      percentage or dollar amount of one or more payments of Compensation for a
      period of a least three Plan Years and on such terms as the ERISA
      Management Committee may permit, commencing with Compensation paid in the
      next succeeding Plan Year, by completing an Election Form during the
      annual enrollment period for the Plan as determined by the Plan
      Administrator.

      Except as Provided in Appendix A, effective January 1, 1999, with respect
      to Elective Deferrals made for the Plan Year 1999 and thereafter,
      deferrals will mature at the end of a three-year cycle. An individual who
      is an Eligible Employee may elect to defer the receipt of a portion of one
      or more payments of Compensation during the first year of the deferral
      cycle for a period of three Plan Years and on such terms as the ERISA
      Management Committee may permit; an individual who is an Eligible Employee
      may elect to defer the receipt of a portion of one or more payments of
      Compensation during the second year of the deferral cycle for a period of
      two Plan Years and on such terms as the ERISA Management Committee may
      permit; and an individual who is an Eligible Employee may elect to defer
      the receipt of a portion of one or more payments of Compensation during
      the last year of a deferral cycle for a period of one Plan Year and on
      such terms as the ERISA Management Committee may permit. All deferrals
      made during a three-year cycle will mature at the end of the third Plan
      Year in that cycle. A new three-year cycle will commence after the
      expiration of each three-year cycle.

      No Participant may defer more than the portion of his or her Compensation
      designated by the ERISA Management Committee in Appendix A. A
      Participant's Compensation shall be reduced in accordance with the
      Participant's election hereunder and amounts deferred hereunder shall be
      paid by the Employer to the Trust as soon as administratively feasible and
      credited to the Participant's Account as of the date the amounts are
      received by the Trustee.

4.2   Investment Election

      An individual who is an Eligible Employee and elects to defer Compensation
      under this Plan shall elect to have his or her Account valued based on the
      Valuation Option represented by the performance of one or more of the
      investment funds listed in Appendix B of the Plan. Such Appendix B may be
      amended at any time by an action of the ERISA


                                      -6-
<PAGE>

      Management Committee. If a Participant does not elect a Valuation Option
      for his or her Account, the Account shall be valued based on the Valuation
      Option represented by the performance of Fund A. A participant may change
      his or her selection of Valuation Options on any date.


                                      -7-
<PAGE>

                                    ARTICLE V

                                    Accounts

5.1   Accounts

      The Plan Administrator and/or the Recordkeeper shall establish an Account
      for each Participant reflecting his or her Elective Deferrals made for the
      Participant's benefit together with any adjustments for income, gain or
      loss and any payments from the Account. The Plan Administrator and/or the
      Recordkeeper shall establish sub-accounts for each Participant that has
      more than one election in effect under Section 7.1 and such other
      sub-accounts as are necessary for the proper administration of the Plan.
      As of the last business day of each calendar quarter, the Plan
      Administrator shall provide, or cause to be provided, the Participant with
      a statement of his or her Account reflecting the income, gains and losses
      (realized and unrealized), amounts of deferrals, fund transfers and
      distributions of such Account since the prior statement.

5.2   Investments

      The assets of the Trust shall be invested in such investments as the
      Trustee shall determine. The Trustee may (but is not required to) consider
      the Employer's or a Participant's investment preferences when investing
      the assets attributable to a Participant's Account.


                                      -8-
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE VI

                                     Vesting

6.1   Vesting

      A Participant shall be immediately vested in, i.e., shall have a
      nonforfeitable right to, all Elective Deferrals, and all income and gain
      attributable thereto, credited to his or her Account.


                                      -9-
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE VII

                                    Payments

7.1   Election As To Form Of Payment

      Payments to Participants shall be made in annual installments over a
      period of 10 years commencing between January 2 and March 15 immediately
      following the end of each deferral period. The amount of each installment
      payment will equal the balance of a Participant's Account immediately
      prior to the installment payment divided by the number of installment
      payments remaining to be made.

      The above notwithstanding, a Participant may elect in writing to receive
      the value of his or her Account in one lump sum, in annual installments
      over a period of five years, or in annual installments over a period of
      fifteen years, so long as such election is made at least 13 months prior
      to the end of the deferral period. Additionally, effective January 1,
      1999, a Participant may elect in writing to receive the value of his or
      her account in a partial lump sum where the Participant may choose the
      percent of an expiring deferral to be paid in a lump sum with the balance
      in annual installments over the remainder of the 5, 10 or 15
      year-installment period; provided, however, that such election is made at
      least 13 months prior to the end of the deferral period.

      Effective January 1, 1999, for (i) Elective Deferrals made for Plan Year
      1999 and thereafter, and (ii) for Elective Deferrals made prior to January
      1, 1999 which are subject to a Participant's election after January 1,
      1999 to renew the deferral, a Participant's election as to the form of
      payment as set forth in this Section 7.1 shall apply to the Participant's
      entire Account. If the Participant begins to receive distributions of his
      or her Account pursuant to this Section 7.l, a subsequent election to
      defer additional Compensation shall be subject to a new election under
      this Section 7.1 and shall not affect the payment stream established by
      the prior distribution election.

7.2   Extension Of Deferral Periods

      A Participant may make an election in writing to extend any deferral
      period for three to ten additional Plan Years so long as such Participant
      makes an election therefor at least 13 months prior to the expiration of
      the deferral period.

      Effective January 1, 1999, elections to extend a deferral period must be
      made for a three-year cycle. A new three-year cycle will commence at the
      end of every third Plan Year. An election to extend a deferral period must
      be made by the Participant in writing at least 13 months prior to the end
      of a deferral period. If a deferral period will expire during the course
      of a three-year cycle, the Participant's election is limited to an
      election to extend the deferral period until the end of such three-year
      cycle. A Participant may elect to renew deferral periods for additional
      three year cycles an unlimited number of times.


                                      -10-
<PAGE>

      Effective January 1, 1999, terminated Participants will not be permitted
      to renew their deferral elections. Payments to terminated Participants
      will begin at the expiration of their current deferral period in
      accordance with the method selected under Section 7.1 (unless the
      Participant retired under a Company pension plan, or had attained age 55
      and completed at least ten years of service as of his or her date of
      termination, or is Totally and Permanently Disabled, in which case
      additional elections to defer are permitted).

7.3   Change Of Control

      As soon as possible following a Change Of Control of the Employer, each
      Participant shall be paid his or her entire Account balance in a single
      lump sum.

7.4   Termination Of Employment

      Upon termination of a Participant's employment for any reason other than
      death, the Participant's Account shall be paid to the Participant in the
      form of payment in effect at the time the termination of employment occurs
      and after the expiration of the deferral period. The above
      notwithstanding, the Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may: (a)
      pay out a Participant's Account balance in one lump sum at any time prior
      to the expiration of each deferral period; (b) accelerate the beginning of
      payments of deferrals to any time prior to the expiration of a deferral
      period; and (c) revoke the deferral elections of a Participant for the
      year of the termination of his/her employment.

7.5   Death

      If a Participant dies prior to the complete distribution of his or her
      Account, the balance of the Account shall be paid as soon as practicable
      to the Participant's designated beneficiary or beneficiaries, in the form
      elected by the Participant at the time of his or her death, provided,
      however, that the ERISA Management Committee and/or the Plan Administrator
      may, in their sole discretion, pay out the balance of such Participant's
      Account in one lump sum.

      Any designation of beneficiary shall be made by the Participant on a
      Beneficiary Designation Form filed with the Plan Administrator and may be
      changed by the Participant at any time by filing another Beneficiary
      Designation Form containing the revised instructions. If no beneficiary is
      designated or no designated beneficiary survives the Participant, payment
      shall be made to the Participant's surviving spouse or, if none, to
      his/her issue per stirpes, in a single payment. If no spouse or issue
      survives the Participant, payment shall be made in a single lump sum to
      the Participant's estate. The most recent Beneficiary Designation Form
      executed by the Participant prior to his/her death shall apply to all
      Election Deferrals credited to the Participant's Account at the date of
      his/her death.

7.6   Taxes


                                      -11-
<PAGE>

      All federal, state or local taxes that the Plan Administrator determines
      are required to be withheld from any payments made pursuant to this
      Article VII shall be withheld.


                                      -12-
<PAGE>

                                  ARTICLE VIII

                               Plan Administration

8.1   Plan Administration And Interpretation.

      The ERISA Management Committee (the "Committee") shall oversee the
      administration of the Plan, shall serve as the agent of the Company with
      respect to the trust, and shall appoint a Plan Administrator and/or
      Recordkeeper for the day-to-day operations of the Plan. Such Plan
      Administrator and/or Recordkeeper shall be listed in Appendix C to this
      Plan. The Committee shall have complete control and authority to determine
      the rights and benefits under all claims, demands and actions arising out
      of the provisions of the Plan of any Participant, beneficiary, deceased
      Participant, or other person having or claiming to have any interest under
      the Plan. The Committee shall have complete discretion to interpret the
      Plan and to decide all matters under the Plan. Such interpretation and
      decision shall be final, conclusive and binding on all Participants and
      any person claiming under or through any Participant. Any individual(s)
      serving on the Committee who is a Participant will not vote or act on any
      matter relating solely to himself or herself.

8.2   Committee Powers, Duties, Procedures, Etc.

      The Committee shall have such powers and duties, may adopt such rules and
      regulations, may act in accordance with such procedures, may appoint such
      agents, may delegate such powers and duties, may receive such
      reimbursements and compensation, and shall follow such claims and appeal
      procedures with respect to the Plan as it may establish.

8.3   Plan Administrator's Duties

      The Plan Administrator shall be responsible for the day-to-day operations
      of the Plan. His or her duties shall include, but not be limited to, the
      following:

      (a)   Keeping track of employees eligible to participate in the Plan and
            the date each employee becomes eligible to participate.

      (b)   Maintaining, or causing to be maintained by the Recordkeeper,
            Participants' Accounts, including all sub-accounts required for
            different contribution types and payment elections made by
            Participants under the Plan and any other relevant information.

      (c)   Transmitting, or causing to be transmitted by the Recordkeeper,
            various communications to Participants and obtaining information
            from Participants such as changes in investment selections.

      (d)   Filing reports required by various governmental agencies. When
            making a determination or calculation, the Plan Administrator and
            the Recordkeeper shall be


                                      -13-
<PAGE>

            entitled to rely on information furnished by a Participant, a
            beneficiary, the Employer or the Trustee. The Plan Administrator
            shall have the responsibility for complying with any reporting and
            disclosure requirements of ERISA.

8.4   Information

      To enable the Plan Administrator and/or Recordkeeper to perform their
      functions, the Employer shall supply full and timely information to the
      Plan Administrator and/or Recordkeeper on all matters relating to the
      compensation of Participants, their employment, retirement, death,
      termination of employment, and such other pertinent facts as the Plan
      Administrator and/or Recordkeeper may require.

8.5   Indemnification Of Committee And Plan Administrator

      The Employer agrees to indemnify and to defend to the fullest extent
      permitted by law any officer(s) or employee(s) who serve on the Committee
      or as Plan Administrator (including any such individual who formerly
      served on the Committee or as Plan Administrator) against all liabilities,
      damages, costs and expenses (including attorneys' fees and amounts paid in
      settlement of any claims approved by the Employer) occasioned by any act
      or omission to act in connection with the Plan, if such act or omission is
      in good faith.


                                      -14-
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE IX

                            Amendment And Termination

9.1   Amendments

      The Employer shall have the right to amend the Plan from time to time,
      subject to Section 9.3, by an action of the ERISA Management Committee.

9.2   Termination Of Plan

      This Plan is strictly a voluntary undertaking on the part of the Employer
      and shall not be deemed to constitute a contract between the Employer and
      any Eligible Employee (or any other employee) or a consideration for, or
      an inducement or condition of employment for, the performance of the
      services by any Eligible Employee (or other employee). The Employer
      reserves the right to terminate the Plan at any time, subject to Section
      9.3, by an action of the ERISA Management Committee. Upon termination, the
      Employer may (a) elect to continue to maintain the Trust to pay benefits
      hereunder as they become due as if the Plan had not terminated or (b)
      direct the Trustee to pay promptly to Participants (or their
      beneficiaries) the vested balance of their Accounts.

9.3   Existing Rights

      No amendment or termination of the Plan shall adversely affect the rights
      of any Participant with respect to amounts that have been credited to his
      or her Account prior to the date of such amendment or termination.


                                      -15-
<PAGE>

                                    ARTICLE X

                                  Miscellaneous

10.1  No Funding

      The Plan constitutes a mere promise by the Employer to make payments in
      accordance with the terms of the Plan and Participants and beneficiaries
      shall have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Employer.
      Nothing in the Plan will be construed to give any employee or any other
      person rights to any specific assets of the Employer or of any other
      person. In all events, it is the intent of the Employer that the Plan be
      treated as unfunded for tax purposes and for purposes of Title I of ERISA.

10.2  Non-Assignability

      None of the benefits, payments, proceeds or claims of any Participant or
      beneficiary shall be subject to any claim of any creditor of any
      Participant or beneficiary and, in particular, the same shall not be
      subject to attachment or garnishment or other legal process by any
      creditor of such Participant or beneficiary, nor shall any Participant or
      beneficiary have any right to alienate, anticipate, commute, pledge,
      encumber or assign any of the benefits or payments or proceeds which he or
      she may expect to receive, contingently or otherwise, under the Plan.

10.3  Limitation Of Participants' Rights

      Nothing contained in the Plan shall confer upon any person a right to be
      employed or to continue in the employ of the Employer, or interfere in any
      way with the right of the Employer to terminate the employment of a
      Participant in the Plan at any time, with or without cause.

10.4  Participants Bound

      Any action with respect to the Plan taken by the Plan Administrator or the
      Employer or the Trustee or any action authorized by or taken at the
      direction of the Plan Administrator, the Employer or the Trustee shall be
      conclusive upon all Participants and beneficiaries entitled to benefits
      under the Plan.

10.5  Receipt And Release

      Any payment to any Participant or beneficiary in accordance with the
      provisions of the Plan shall, to the extent thereof, be in full
      satisfaction of all claims against the Employer, the Plan Administrator
      and the Trustee under the Plan, and the Plan Administrator may require
      such Participant or beneficiary, as a condition precedent to such payment,
      to execute a receipt and release to such effect. If any Participant or
      beneficiary is determined by the Plan Administrator to be incompetent by
      reason of physical or mental disability


                                      -16-
<PAGE>

      (including minority) to give a valid receipt and release, the Plan
      Administrator may cause the payment or payments becoming due to such
      person to be made to another person for his or her benefit without
      responsibility on the part of the Plan Administrator, the Employer or the
      Trustee to follow the application of such funds.

10.6  Governing Law

      The Plan shall be construed, administered, and governed in all respects
      under and by the laws of the State of New York. If any provision shall be
      held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unenforceable,
      the remaining provisions hereof shall continue to be fully effective.

10.7  Headings And Subheadings

      Heading and subheadings in this Plan are inserted for convenience only and
      are not to be considered in the construction of the provisions hereof.


                                      -17-
<PAGE>

                                   APPENDIX A

                           Limit on Elective Deferrals

For the 1994 and 1995 Plan Years, a Participant may defer up to 100% of his/her
annual bonus and no portion of his/her salary.

For the 1996 Plan Year and until changed by the Committee, a Participant may
defer up to 100% of his/her annual bonus and up to 33% of his/her base salary.

For the 2000 Plan Year and until changed by the Committee, a Participant may
defer up to 100% of his/her annual bonus, up to 100% of amounts paid under The
Advertising and Circulation Sales Incentive Plan, up to 100% of his/her
Long-Term Performance Awards under The New York Times Company 1991 Executive
Cash Bonus Plan and up to 33% of his/her base salary. In addition, a Participant
who is a "covered employee" within the meaning of Code Section 162(m) (a
"Covered Employee") may defer his/her entire discretionary bonus, if any,
payable in a Plan Year. Deferral of such discretionary bonus shall continue
without further action by the Participant until such time as the ERISA
Management Committee determines that the Participant is no longer a Covered
Employee. The Participant shall be permitted to extend the deferral period
beyond the time he/she ceases to be a Covered Employee for a three-year cycle
(and for subsequent three-year cycles) in the manner provided in Section 7.2 of
the Plan.


                                      -18-
<PAGE>

                                   APPENDIX B

                                Valuation Options

For 1994 and until changed by the ERISA Management Committee, each Participant
may elect to value his or her account based on the performance of one or more of
the following funds:

1.    Fund A: AIM Limited Maturity Treasury

2.    Fund B: AIM Aggressive Growth

3.    Fund C: AIM Value

4.    Fund D: Merrill Lynch Federal Securities

5.    Fund E: Merrill Lynch Capital

6.    Fund F: Templeton Foreign

7.    Fund G: Merrill Lynch Global Allocation

For 1999 and until changed by the ERISA Management Committee, each Participant
may elect to value his or her account based on the performance of one or more of
the following funds:

1.    Fund A: Vanguard Short Term Federal Fund

2.    Fund B: Vanguard Total Bond Market Index Fund

3.    Fund C: Vanguard Asset Allocation Fund

4.    Fund D: Vanguard Growth and Income Fund

5.    Fund E: Frank Russell Equity I Fund

6.    Fund F: Frank Russell Equity II Fund

7.    Fund G: AIM Aggressive Growth Fund

8.    Fund H: Putnam International Growth Fund

9.    Fund I: Putnam Asset Allocation Fund - Balanced Portfolio


                                      -19-
<PAGE>

                                   APPENDIX C

                      Plan Administrator And Record Keeper

1.1   Plan Administrator

For the Plan Year 1995, and until removed, the Plan Administrator shall be Phil
Ryan. For the Plan Year 1997, and until removed, the Plan Administrator shall be
Diane Zubalsky.

1.2   Recordkeeper

For the Plan Year 1994, and until removed, the Recordkeeper shall be Actuarial
Information Management Systems. From June 1, 1996, and thereafter until removed,
the Recordkeeper shall be Merrill Lynch.

Effective December 28, 1998, and until removed by the ERISA Management
Committee, the Recordkeeper shall be The Vanguard Group.

Effective July 17, 1999, and until removed by the ERISA Management Committee, in
addition to The Vanguard Group, TBG Financial shall be a Recordkeeper for the
Plan.


                                      -20-



                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY ("The Times"), and MARTIN NISENHOLTZ (the
"Executive") agree, subject to the approval by Compensation Committee appointed
by the Board of Directors of The Times (the "Compensation Committee"), which
approval shall be a condition precedent to the enforceability of this Agreement,
to enter into this EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT dated as of September 1, 1999, as
follows:

1. Employment.

The Times hereby agrees to employ the Executive, and the Executive hereby agrees
to be employed by The Times, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set
forth in this Agreement.

2. Term of Employment.

The period of the Executive's employment under this Agreement shall begin as of
September 1, 1999 and shall continue for three (3) years until September 1,
2002, unless earlier terminated in accordance with Section 6 below and shall
continue thereafter from year to year unless either party gives notice no less
than 90 days prior to the expiration date, or unless earlier terminated in
accordance with Section 6 below (the "Employment Term").

3. Duties and Responsibilities.

(a)   The Times shall employ the Executive as Chief Executive Officer of Times
      Company Digital (currently, the Internet business unit of the Times, or
      any successor thereto) ("TCD"). In such capacity, the Executive shall
      report directly to Arthur Sulzberger, Jr., Chairman of The Times, and
      Russell T. Lewis, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Times, or
      their successors, and shall perform the customary duties and have the
      customary responsibilities of such positions and such other duties as may
      be assigned to the Executive from time to time by the Chairman and/or
      President and Chief Executive Officer of The Times.

(b)   The Executive agrees to faithfully serve The Times and TCD and devote his
      full working time, attention and energies to the business of TCD and
      perform the duties under this Agreement to the best of his abilities.

(c)   The Executive agrees (i) to comply with all applicable laws, rules and
      regulations, and all requirements of all applicable regulatory,
      self-regulatory, and administrative bodies; (ii) to comply with The
      Times's and TCD's rules, procedures, policies, requirements, and
      directions; and (iii) not to engage in any other business or employment
      without the written consent of the Chairman or the President and Chief
      Executive Officer of The Times except as otherwise specifically provided
      herein.
<PAGE>

4. Compensation and Benefits.

(a)   Base Salary. During the Employment Term, TCD shall pay to the Executive a
      base salary at the annual rate of $325,000 per year or such higher rate as
      may be determined from time to time by the Compensation Committee of the
      Board of Directors of The Times ("Base Salary"). Such Base Salary shall be
      paid in accordance with TCD's standard payroll practice for senior
      executives.

(b)   Annual Bonus. In addition to his Base Salary, the Executive shall be
      eligible to receive a target annual cash bonus of forty-five percent (45%)
      of his base salary under The New York Times Company 1991 Executive Cash
      Bonus Plan (the "Executive Cash Bonus Plan"), of which $125,000 is
      guaranteed. The annual cash bonus shall be payable to the Executive
      following the close of each calendar year, beginning with the 1999
      calendar year, subject to the terms of the Executive Cash Bonus Plan.

(c)   Long-Term Performance Award. The Executive shall be eligible to receive a
      Long-Term Performance Award under the Executive Cash Bonus Plan, which
      award shall be granted in accordance with the terms and conditions set
      forth in such plan. Subject to the terms of the Executive Cash Bonus Plan,
      the Executive shall be eligible to earn a Long-Term Performance Award of
      $250,000, which could increase up to 175% of such amount based upon
      performance for each three-year performance cycle, the first such cycle to
      commence on January 1, 2000. Provided that the Executive meets the
      performance criteria set forth in the Long-Term Performance Award, each
      award shall be payable at the end of each such three-year cycle subject to
      the terms of the Executive Cash Bonus Plan. Reasonable performance
      criteria that the Executive must meet to qualify for the Long-Term
      Performance Award for each performance cycle will be determined under the
      terms of the Executive Cash Bonus Plan.

(d)   Expense Reimbursement. TCD shall promptly reimburse the Executive for the
      ordinary and necessary business expenses incurred by the Executive in the
      performance of the duties under this Agreement in accordance with The
      Times's customary practices applicable to senior executives of
      subsidiaries of The Times, provided that such expenses are incurred and
      accounted for in accordance with The Times's and/or TCD's policy.

(e)   Benefit Plans, Fringe Benefits and Vacations. The Executive shall be
      eligible to participate in or receive benefits under any employee benefit
      or fringe benefit plan made available to senior executives of TCD in
      accordance with the eligibility requirements of such plans and subject to
      the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.

5. Stock Options and TCD Shares.

The Executive shall be granted 2 million options (the "Options") to purchase
shares of TCD's Class A-2 Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, (the "TCD
Stock") under the Times Company Digital, Inc. 1999 Stock Option Plan (the "Stock
Option Plan"). The Options shall be subject to the terms of the


                                       2
<PAGE>

Stock Option Plan and the Executive's Times Company Digital, Inc. Non-Qualified
Stock Option Agreement (the "Grant Agreement"), attached hereto as Exhibit "A".
Subject to the Grant Agreement (which shall finally govern the Options in the
event of any conflict between this Agreement and the Grant Agreement), the
Company and the Executive agree as follows:

(a)   Vesting. The Executive shall vest in 200,000 of the Options immediately on
      the day he is granted the Options. The Executive shall vest in the
      remaining 1.8 million Options over the following 3 years as follows: (i)
      600,000 of the remaining 1.8 million Options shall vest on September 1,
      2000; and (ii) 300,000 of the remaining 1.2 million Options shall vest
      every six months thereafter in four equal installments.

(b)   Termination of Employment. Notwithstanding the foregoing subparagraph, in
      the event that the Executive's employment is terminated without "Cause"
      under Section 6(d) of this Agreement or the Executive resigns his
      employment for "Good Reason" under Section 6(e) of this Agreement, (i) all
      of the Executive's unvested Options shall immediately be vested in the
      Executive, and (ii) the Executive's rights with regard to such vested
      Options shall be determined in accordance with Section 6(b)(vi) of the
      Stock Option Plan and, if in effect, the applicable provisions of Appendix
      A to the Grant Agreement.

(c)   Cashless Exercise. If and after the TCD Stock subject to the Options
      become publicly traded shares of The Times or of TCD, the Executive shall
      be permitted to exercise the Options on a cashless basis, subject to the
      Stock Option Plan, using applicable broker procedures, provided that the
      use of such procedures does not adversely affect the financial statements
      of either The Times or TCD.

(d)   Restrictions on Exercise. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement, the
      Stock Option Plan or the Grant Agreement, the Executive agrees that his
      ability to exercise any Options or sell any TCD Stock shall be subject to
      any restrictions promulgated by any underwriters involved in any initial
      public offering involving TCD.

6. Termination of Employment.

The Executive's employment under this Agreement may be terminated under any of
the circumstances set forth in this Section 6. Upon termination, the Executive
(or his beneficiary or estate, as the case may be) shall be entitled to receive
the compensation and benefits described in Section 7 below, and, if applicable,
Section 8 below.

(a)   Death. The Executive's employment shall terminate upon the Executive's
      death.

(b)   Total Disability. The Times may terminate the Executive's employment upon
      his becoming "Totally Disabled". For purposes of this Agreement, the
      Executive shall be "Totally Disabled" if the Executive is physically or
      mentally incapacitated so as to render the Executive incapable of
      performing his usual and customary duties under this Agreement. The
      Executive's receipt of disability benefits under any TCD long-term
      disability benefits plan (the "LTD Plan") or receipt of Social Security
      disability benefits shall be deemed conclusive evidence of Total
      Disability for purpose of this Agreement; provided, however, that in the
      absence of the Executive's receipt of such long-term disability benefits
      or Social Security benefits, the Chairman or the President and/or Chief
      Executive Officer of The Times may in their reasonable discretion (but
      based upon


                                       3
<PAGE>

      appropriate medical evidence) determine that the Executive is Totally
      Disabled.

(c)   Termination by The Times for Cause. The Times may terminate the
      Executive's employment for "Cause". Such termination shall be effective as
      of the date specified in the written Notice of Termination provided to the
      Executive.

      (i)   For purposes of this Agreement, the term "Cause" shall mean any of
            the following: (A) conviction of a crime (including conviction on a
            nolo contendere plea) involving the commission by the Executive of a
            felony or of a criminal act involving, in the good faith judgment of
            the Chairman or the President and/or Chief Executive Officer of The
            Times, fraud, dishonesty, or moral turpitude but excluding any
            conviction that results solely from the Executive's title or
            position with TCD and is not based on his personal conduct; (B) the
            Executive's deliberate and continual refusal to perform employment
            duties reasonably requested by the Chairman or the President and/or
            Chief Executive Officer of The Times after receiving thirty (30)
            days' written notice by certified mail of such failure to perform,
            specifying that the failure constitutes cause (other than as a
            result of vacation, sickness, illness or injury), provided that if
            the Executive cures his nonperformance within the thirty (30) day
            period to The Times' satisfaction the Executive shall not be subject
            to termination for Cause; (C) fraud or embezzlement determined in
            accordance with The Time's normal, internal investigative procedures
            consistently applied in comparable circumstances; (D) gross
            misconduct or gross negligence in connection with the business of
            The Times, TCD, or any other affiliate of The Times that has a
            substantial adverse effect on The Times, TCD, or the affiliate; or
            (E) breach of any of the covenants set forth in Section 10 hereof.

      (ii)  Regardless of whether the Executive's employment initially was
            considered to be terminated for any reason other than Cause, the
            Executive's employment shall be considered to have been terminated
            for Cause for purposes of this Agreement if the Chairman or the
            President and Chief Executive Officer of The Times subsequently
            reasonably determines in good faith that the Executive engaged in an
            act constituting Cause.

(d)   Termination by The Times without Cause. The Times may terminate the
      Executive's employment under this Agreement without Cause after providing
      Notice of Termination to the Executive.

(e)   Resignation by Executive. The Executive may terminate his employment under
      this Agreement after providing written Notice of Termination to The Times.
      Such Notice shall state whether the Executive is resigning for "Good
      Reason". Resignation by the Executive for Good Reason shall be deemed to
      have occurred, if the Executive provides the Notice of Termination within
      ninety (90) days after the occurrence of any of the following:

      (i)   Without the Executive's express written consent, a change in the
            Executive's material duties and responsibilities.

      (ii)  A reduction by The Times in the Executive's Base Salary.


                                       4
<PAGE>

      (iii) The failure of The Times to maintain the Executive's level of
            coverage relative to other senior executives of TCD under TCD's
            employee benefit plans, policies, practices, or arrangements in
            which the Executive participates, both in terms of the amount of
            benefits provided and the relative level of the Executive's
            participation. For this purpose, TCD may eliminate and/or modify
            existing employee benefit plans and coverage levels on a consistent
            and non-discriminatory basis applicable to all such executives.

      (iv)  The failure by The Times or TCD to pay to the Executive any material
            amount of his earned compensation, or any material amount of his
            compensation deferred under any plan, agreement or arrangement of or
            with The Times or TCD, within ten (10) days after the Executive
            makes written demand for such amount.

      (v)   Without the Executive's express written consent, the change of the
            Executive's principal place of employment to a location more than 75
            miles from his initial principal place of employment, except for
            required travel on TCD's or The Times's business to an extent
            substantially consistent with the Executive's business travel
            obligations.

      (vi)  Any purported termination of the Executive's employment that is not
            effected pursuant to a Notice of Termination, and for purposes of
            this Agreement, no such purported termination shall be effective.

(f)   Notice of Termination. Any termination of the Executive's employment by
      The Times or by the Executive (other than by reason of the Executive's
      death) shall be communicated by written Notice of Termination to the other
      party in accordance with Section 19 below. For purposes of this Agreement,
      a "Notice of Termination" shall mean a notice in writing which shall
      indicate the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon
      to terminate the Executive's employment and shall set forth in reasonable
      detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for
      termination of the Executive's employment under the provision so
      indicated.

(g)   Date of Termination. The effective date of the Executive's termination of
      employment shall be

      (i)   in the event of his death, the date of death;

      (ii)  in the event of termination for Total Disability, sixty (60) days
            after Notice of Termination is given (provided that the Executive
            shall not have returned to the performance of his duties on a
            full-time basis during such sixty (60) day period); or

      (iii) in the event of any other termination, the date specified in the
            Notice of Termination.

7. Compensation Following Termination of Employment.

Upon termination of the Executive's employment under this Agreement, the
Executive (or his


                                       5
<PAGE>

designated beneficiary or estate, as the case may be) shall be entitled to
receive the following compensation:

(a)   Earned but Unpaid Compensation. The Times or TCD shall pay to the
      Executive any accrued but unpaid Base Salary for services rendered to the
      date of termination, any accrued but unpaid expenses required to be
      reimbursed under this Agreement, and any vacation accrued to the
      Termination Date. In addition, if The Times or TCD terminates the
      Executive's employment without Cause or the Executive resigns his
      employment for Good Reason after the Executive has earned his Annual Bonus
      for the year ending December 31 of each year of the Term but before such
      Annual Bonus is paid to the Executive, the Times or TCD shall pay to the
      Executive the earned, but unpaid Annual Bonus. Except as set forth above
      and in Section 8 below, following the Termination Date, neither The Times
      nor TCD shall have any further obligation to pay the Executive any further
      amounts, including, but not limited to, any amount for an Annual Bonus
      under Section 4(b) or any amount under the Long-Term Incentive Plan under
      Section 4(c).

(b)   The Times or TCD Separation Pay Policy. The Executive shall not be
      entitled to separation pay benefits under the The Times's or TCD's
      separation pay policy.

(c)   Other Compensation and Benefits. Except as may be provided under this
      Agreement,

      (i)   any benefits to which the Executive may be entitled pursuant to the
            plans, policies and arrangements referred to in Section 4(e) above
            shall be determined and paid in accordance with the terms of such
            plans, policies and arrangements, and

      (ii)  The Executive shall have no right to receive any other compensation,
            or to participate in any other plan, arrangement or benefit, with
            respect to future periods after such termination or resignation
            except as specifically provided by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget
            Reconciliation Act of 1987, as amended.

8. Additional Compensation Payable Following Termination Without Cause or
Resignation for Good Reason.

(a)   Requirements for Additional Compensation. In addition to the compensation
      set forth in Section 7 above, the Executive shall receive the additional
      compensation and benefits set forth in paragraph (b) below, if the
      following requirements are met:

      (i)   the Executive's employment is terminated by The Times pursuant to
            Section 6(d) above for reasons other than death, Total Disability or
            Cause or the Executive resigns for Good Reason pursuant to Section
            6(e) above; and

      (ii)  the Executive executes a Separation Agreement and Release in the
            form attached as Exhibit "B" to this Agreement on or after his
            Termination Date.

(b)   Additional Compensation. The Times or TCD shall provide the Executive with
      the following compensation and benefits:


                                       6
<PAGE>

      (i)   Base Salary. The Times or TCD shall pay to the Executive his full
            base salary as determined under Section 4(a) at the rate in effect
            on his Termination Date, as if his employment had continued until
            the end of the 18 month period beginning on the Termination Date.
            Such payment shall be made in a single lump sum on or before the
            twentieth day following the effective date of the Separation
            Agreement and Release.

      (ii)  Medical and Dental Benefits. The Times or TCD shall provide for the
            Executive's continued coverage under all group medical and dental
            benefit plans, programs, or arrangements in which the Executive was
            entitled to participate immediately prior to the date of his
            termination, until the earliest to occur of: (A) the end of the 18
            month period beginning on the Termination Date; (B) the Executive's
            death; or (C) the date the Executive becomes employed by a
            subsequent employer who offers a comparable benefit at a comparable
            cost to the Executive and the Executive becomes eligible to
            participate in such benefit. In the event that the Executive's
            participation in any such employee welfare benefit plan, program, or
            arrangement of The Times or TCD is prohibited, The Times shall
            arrange to provide the Executive with benefits substantially similar
            to those which the Executive would have been entitled to receive
            from The Times or TCD under such plan, program, or arrangement, for
            such period.

9. Restrictive Covenants.

(a)   Protected Information. The Executive recognizes and acknowledges that he
      shall have access to various confidential or proprietary information
      concerning The Times, TCD, and entities affiliated with The Times and TCD,
      of a special and unique value which may include, without limitation, (i)
      books and records relating to operation, finance, accounting, sales,
      personnel and management, (ii) policies and matters relating particularly
      to operations such as customer service requirements, costs of providing
      service and equipment, operating costs and pricing matters, and (iii)
      various trade or business secrets, including business opportunities,
      marketing or business diversification plans, business development and
      bidding techniques, methods and processes, financial data and the like
      (collectively, the "Protected Information"). The Executive therefore
      covenants and agrees that he shall not at any time, either while employed
      by The Times or afterwards, knowingly make any independent use of, or
      knowingly disclose to any other person or organization (except as
      authorized by the Chairman or the President and Chief Executive Officer of
      The Times, or their designee in writing) any of the Protected Information.

(b)   Competitive Activity. The Executive covenants and agrees that at all times
      (i) during his period of employment with The Times, and (ii) during the
      period beginning on the date of termination of his employment (whether
      such termination is voluntary or involuntary, or otherwise) and ending on
      the later of one (1) year following his Termination Date, he shall not,
      directly or indirectly, (a) engage in, assist, or have any active interest
      or involvement whether as an employee, agent, consultant, creditor,
      advisor, officer, director, stockholder (excluding holding of less than 1%
      of the stock of a public company), partner, proprietor or any type of
      principal whatsoever) in any person, firm, or business entity that is
      engaged in the same business as that conducted and


                                       7
<PAGE>

      carried on by TCD and that derives fifty (50) percent or more of its gross
      revenue from the sale of Internet based advertising supporting news
      content; or (b) in any way, encourage any person or entity that was a
      customer or vendee of The Times or TCD to do business with such an entity,
      without the specific written consent of the Chairman or the President and
      Chief Executive Officer of The Times (or their designee) to do so.

(c)   Non-Solicitation. The Executive covenants and agrees that during the
      period beginning on the date of termination of his employment (whether
      such termination is voluntary or involuntary, or otherwise) and ending one
      (1) year following his Termination Date, he shall not directly or
      indirectly recruit, solicit, hire, or cause to be hired, any individual
      who is then, or who has been within the preceding six (6) month period, an
      employee of The Times or TCD.

(d)   Non-Disparagement. The Executive covenants and agrees that during the
      course of his employment by The Times or at any time thereafter, the
      Executive shall not, directly or indirectly, in public or private,
      deprecate, impugn, disparage or defame The Times, TCD, or any of its
      employees, members of its board of directors or agents, nor shall the
      Executive assist any other person, firm or company in so doing.

(e)   Return of Documents and Other Materials. The Executive shall promptly
      deliver to The Times upon termination of his employment, or at any other
      time as The Times may so request, all documents (whether recorded on
      paper, electronically or otherwise) containing Protected Information,
      including but not limited to, all lists of customers, leads and customer
      pricing, data processing programs and documentation, employee information,
      memoranda, notes, records, reports, tapes, manuals, drawings, blueprints,
      programs, and any other documents and other materials (and all copies
      thereof) relating to TCD's business or that of its customers, and all
      property associated therewith, which the Executive may then possess or
      have under his control.

10. Enforcement of Covenants.

(a)   Termination of Employment and Forfeiture of Compensation. The Executive
      agrees that in the event that The Times reasonably determines in good
      faith that he has breached any of the covenants set forth in Section 9
      above during his employment, The Times shall have the right to terminate
      his employment for Cause. In addition, the Executive agrees that if The
      Times reasonably determines in good faith that he has breached any of the
      covenants set forth in Section 9 at any time, The Times shall have the
      right to discontinue any or all remaining benefits payable pursuant to
      Section 8 above, as applicable. Such termination of employment or
      discontinuance of benefits shall be in addition to and shall not limit any
      and all other rights and remedies that The Times may have against the
      Executive.

(b)   Right to Injunction. The Executive acknowledges that a breach of the
      covenants set forth in Section 9 above shall cause irreparable damage to
      The Times and TCD with respect to which The Times's remedy at law for
      damages shall be inadequate. Therefore, in the event of breach or
      anticipatory breach of the covenants set forth in this section by the
      Executive, the Executive and The Times agree that The Times or TCD shall
      be entitled to the following particular forms of relief, in addition to
      remedies otherwise available to it at law or equity: (i) injunctions, both
      preliminary and permanent,


                                       8
<PAGE>

      enjoining or retraining such breach or anticipatory breach and the
      Executive hereby consents to the issuance thereof forthwith and without
      bond by any court of competent jurisdiction; and (ii) in the event The
      Times successfully enforces the covenants set forth in Section 9 above,
      recovery of all reasonable sums expended and costs, including reasonable
      attorney's fees, incurred by The Times or TCD to enforce the covenants set
      forth in Section 9.

(c)   Separability of Covenants. The covenants contained in Section 9 above
      constitute a series of separate covenants, one for each applicable State
      in the United States and the District of Columbia, and one for each
      applicable foreign country. If in any judicial proceeding, a court shall
      hold that any of the covenants set forth in Section 9 permitted by
      applicable laws, the Executive and The Times agree that such provisions
      shall and are hereby reformed to the maximum time, geographic, or
      occupational limitations permitted by such laws. Further, in the event a
      court shall hold unenforceable any of the separate covenants deemed
      included herein, then such unenforceable covenant or covenants shall be
      deemed eliminated from the provisions of this Agreement for the purpose of
      such proceeding to the extent necessary to permit the remaining separate
      covenants to be enforced in such proceeding. The Executive and The Times
      further agree that the covenants in Section 9 shall each be construed as a
      separate agreement independent of any other provisions of this Agreement,
      and the existence of any claim or cause of action by the Executive against
      The Times whether predicated on this Agreement or otherwise, shall not
      constitute a defense to the enforcement by The Times of any of the
      covenants set forth in Section 9.

(d)   The Executive specifically consents to the jurisdiction of the United
      States District Court for the Southern District of New York, or if that
      court is unable to exercise jurisdiction for any reason, to the
      jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, New York
      County, for the purpose of enforcing Sections 9 and 10.

11. Withholding of Taxes.

The Times and/or TCD shall withhold from any compensation and benefits payable
under this Agreement all applicable federal, state, local or other taxes, except
that in the case of the Options, the Executive understands and agrees that he
cannot exercise any Options until he has paid to TCD the appropriate withholding
taxes in accordance with the applicable terms of the Stock Option Plan and the
Grant Agreement.

12. Arbitration of Disputes.

Except as provided in Section 10 above, any controversy or claim arising out of
or relating to this Agreement, or the breach thereof, shall be settled by
arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association under its
National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes and judgment upon the
award rendered by the arbitrator(s) may be entered by any court having
jurisdiction thereof. Any such arbitration shall take place in the State of New
York.

13. Waiver of Jury Trial.

In the event any controversy or claim arising out of the Executive's employment
or the termination of the Executive's employment is found by a court of
competent jurisdiction not to


                                       9
<PAGE>

be subject to final and binding arbitration, the Executive and The Times agree
to try such claim or controversy to the Court, without use of a jury or advisory
jury.

14. Non-Disclosure of Agreement Terms.

The Executive agrees that he shall not disclose the terms of this Agreement to
any third party other than his immediate family, attorney, accountants, or other
consultants or advisors or except as may be required by any governmental
authority.

15. No Claim Against Assets.

Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as giving the Executive any claim
against any specific assets of The Times or TCD or as imposing any trustee
relationship upon The Times in respect of the Executive. The Times shall not be
required to establish a special or separate fund or to segregate any of its
assets in order to provide for the satisfaction of its obligations under this
Agreement. The Executive's rights under this Agreement shall be limited to those
of an unsecured general creditor of The Times and its affiliates.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section shall not be construed to waive any
rights guaranteed to the Executive by law.

16. Successors and Assignment.

Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, this Agreement shall inure to
the benefit of and be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective
heirs, representatives, successors and assigns.

(a)   Company Successor. The Times shall require any person (or persons acting
      as a group) who acquires ownership or effective control of The Times or
      TCD (or, in the event that TCD is not yet separately incorporated, the
      Internet business unit of the Times, or any successor thereto) or
      ownership of a substantial portion of the business or assets of The Times
      or TCD (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation or
      otherwise), by agreement in form and substance satisfactory to the
      Executive, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the
      same manner and to the same extent as The Times would be required to
      perform it if no such acquisition had taken place. As used in this
      Agreement, "The Times" shall mean The Times as defined in the first
      sentence of this Agreement and any person (or group) who acquires
      ownership or effective control of The Times or ownership of a substantial
      portion of the business or assets of The Times or which otherwise becomes
      bound by all the terms and provisions of this Agreement, whether by the
      terms hereof, by operation of law or otherwise.

(b)   Assignment by Executive. The rights and benefits of the Executive under
      this Agreement are personal to him and no such right or benefit shall be
      subject to voluntary or involuntary alienation, assignment or transfer;
      provided, however, that nothing in this Section 16 shall preclude the
      Executive from designating a beneficiary or beneficiaries to receive any
      benefit payable on his death.

17. Entire Agreement; Amendment.

This Agreement, the Grant Agreement and the Separation Agreement and Release set
forth the


                                       10
<PAGE>

entire understanding of the parties with respect to their subject matter and
shall supersede any and all existing oral or written agreements,
representations, or warranties between the Executive and The Times or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliated entities relating to the terms of the Executive's
employment. These agreements may not be amended except by a written agreement
signed by both parties.

18. Governing Law.

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
the State of New York applicable to agreements made and to be performed in that
State, without regard to its conflict of laws provisions.


                                       11
<PAGE>

19. Notices.

Any notice, consent, request or other communication made or given in connection
with this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly
given when delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail, return receipt
requested, or by facsimile or by hand delivery, to those listed below at their
following respective addresses or at such other address as each may specify by
notice to the others:

                  To The Times:
                        The New York Times Company
                        229 West 43rd Street
                        New York, New York 10036-3959
                        Attention: Solomon B. Watson IV

                  To the Executive:
                        At the address for the Executive set forth below.

20. Miscellaneous.

(a)   Waiver. The failure of a party to insist upon strict adherence to any term
      of this Agreement on any occasion shall not be considered a waiver thereof
      or deprive that party of the right thereafter to insist upon strict
      adherence to that term or any other term of this Agreement.

(b)   Separability. If any term or provision of this Agreement is declared
      illegal or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction and cannot
      be modified to be enforceable, such term or provision shall immediately
      become null and void, leaving the remainder of this Agreement in full
      force and effect.

(c)   Headings. Section headings are used herein for convenience of reference
      only and shall not affect the meaning of any provision of this Agreement.

(d)   Rules of Construction. Whenever the context so requires, the use of the
      singular shall be deemed to include the plural and vice versa.

      The parties acknowledge and agree that each has read this entire
      Agreement, that they have been represented by counsel in the negotiation
      and execution of this Agreement, that this Agreement is the product of
      negotiation and that neither of the parties shall be considered the
      drafter or scrivener of this Agreement.

(e)   Survival. The provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation,
      Sections 9, 10 and 12) which by their terms should survive, and the
      Executive's and The Times's rights and remedies with respect thereto,
      shall survive the termination of this Agreement for any reason.

(f)   Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
      counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original,
      and such counterparts shall together constitute but one Agreement.


                                       12
<PAGE>

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have duly executed this Agreement as of
the day and year set forth below.

THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY                    EXECUTIVE


By: /s/ Russell T. Lewis                      /s/ Martin Nisenholtz
    ---------------------------------         ----------------------------------

Name: Russell T. Lewis                        Date: January 5, 2000
      -------------------------------               ----------------------------

Title: President & CEO                        Address: 4 Pioneer Trail
       ------------------------------                  -------------------------

Date: January 25, 2000                                 Armonk, NY 10504
      -------------------------------                  -------------------------


                                       13
<PAGE>

                                                                       EXHIBIT A

                           TIMES COMPANY DIGITAL, INC.
                      NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

            THIS NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT (this "Grant Agreement")
is made as of December 1, 1999 by Times Company Digital, Inc., a Delaware
corporation (the "Company"), and Martin Nisenholtz (the "Optionee"), pursuant to
the Company's 1999 Stock Option Plan (as such may be amended, the "Plan").
Capitalized terms not defined in this Grant Agreement shall have the meanings
set forth in the Plan.

1. Award of Options. The Company hereby grants to the Optionee an option (the
"Option" or "Options") to acquire two (2) million shares of the Company's Class
A-2 Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the "Stock"), at the exercise price
of $5.86 per share (the "Exercise Price"), subject to the terms and conditions
set forth in this Grant Agreement (including Appendix A attached hereto) and the
Plan (including, without limitation, the restrictions on exercisability
contained in Section 6(b) of the Plan). The Options granted hereunder are
non-qualified stock options.

2. Expiration Date. Subject to Section 6(b)(vi) of the Plan, the Options shall
expire on December 1, 2009.

3. Vesting. Subject to Section 6(b)(vi) of the Plan and the provisions of
Appendix A attached hereto, the Options shall vest over the following 3 years as
follows: (i) 200,000 of the Options shall vest immediately on the date of this
Grant Agreement; (ii) 600,000 of the remaining 1.8 million Options shall vest on
September 1, 2000; and (iii) 300,000 of the remaining 1.2 million Options shall
vest every six months thereafter in four equal installments.

4. Exercise of Options.

      (1)   Exercisability. Subject to Section 6(b)(vi) of the Plan and the
            provisions of Appendix A attached hereto, vested Options may be
            exercised from time to time at any time after the initial
            exercisability date set forth in Section 6(b)(v) of the Plan in
            accordance with the policies and procedures established by the
            Committee.

      (2)   Payment of Exercise Price. The Exercise Price shall be tendered to
            the Company at the time of exercise in cash or in such other
            consideration as shall be permitted by the Committee at the time of
            exercise, in each case having a total Fair Market Value determined
            as of the date of exercise equal to the Exercise Price, or a
            combination of cash and such other consideration having a total Fair
            Market Value equal to such Exercise Price. The present policies of
            Parent (as defined in Appendix A attached hereto) do not permit the
            use of stock retention to pay the Exercise Price and applicable
            withholding and FICA taxes. However, if in the future Parent's
            policies change to generally permit payment of the Exercise Price by
            the use of stock retention, stock retention shall also be made
            available to the Optionee.
<PAGE>

      (3)   Optionee's Representations. If requested by the Company at the time
            of any exercise, the Optionee agrees as a condition to such exercise
            to provide the Company with a representation that it is the
            Optionee's intention at the time of such exercise to acquire the
            shares being purchased for his or her own account for investment and
            not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, the
            distribution thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of
            1933, as amended, and such other representations and agreements
            requested by the Company as may be required by applicable foreign,
            federal or state securities laws.

      (4)   Legends. The certificates representing the Stock issued upon
            exercise of the Options shall bear the following legend, and such
            other legends as may be required by applicable foreign, federal or
            state securities laws, if required by the Company:

      "THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO THE
      RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHTS TO REPURCHASE AND TO REQUIRE TRANSFERS CONTAINED
      IN A NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT, DATED AS OF DECEMBER 1, 1999,
      AS SUCH AGREEMENT MAY BE AMENDED, MODIFIED OR RESTATED FROM TIME TO TIME
      (A COPY OF WHICH IS ON FILE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE ISSUER HEREOF)."

      "THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED
      UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE OR FOREIGN
      SECURITIES LAWS, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR TRANSFERRED EXCEPT
      PURSUANT TO (A) AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES
      ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND IN COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE STATE AND
      FOREIGN SECURITIES LAWS OR (B) AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION
      THEREUNDER AND UNDER APPLICABLE STATE AND FOREIGN SECURITIES LAWS."

Any certificate issued at any time in exchange or substitution for any
certificate bearing such legends shall also bear such legends, unless, in the
opinion of counsel for the Company, the securities represented thereby are no
longer subject to the provisions of Appendix A attached hereto or the
restrictions imposed under applicable foreign, federal and state securities
laws, in which case the applicable legend (or legends) may be removed.

5. Non-transferability of Options. Except to the extent otherwise determined by
the Committee consistent with the Plan or set forth on Appendix A attached
hereto, the Options granted hereunder shall not be assignable or otherwise
transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Unless
otherwise provided by the Committee or set forth on Appendix A attached hereto,
during the lifetime of the Optionee the Options shall be exercisable and
elections with respect to the Options may be made only by the Optionee or the
Optionee's duly appointed legal guardian or other duly appointed and qualified
legal representative


                                       2
<PAGE>

6. Termination of Employment.

      (1)   Forfeiture and/or Exercise of Options. Except if the Optionee's
            employment is terminated without Cause under Section 6(d) or for
            Good Reason under Section 6(e) of the Employment Agreement executed
            between the Optionee and The New York Times Company, dated as of
            September 1, 1999 (the "Employment Agreement"), in the event the
            Optionee ceases to be an employee of, or provide services to, the
            Company or any Affiliate thereof for any reason, (i) all of the
            Optionee's unvested Options shall immediately be forfeited, and (ii)
            the Optionee's rights with regard to vested Options shall be
            determined in accordance with Section 6(b)(vi) of the Plan and, if
            in effect, the applicable provisions of Appendix A attached hereto.

            In the event that the Optionee's employment is terminated without
            Cause under Section 6(d) or for Good Reason under Section 6(e) of
            the Employment Agreement, (i) all of the Optionee's unvested Options
            shall immediately be vested in the Optionee, and (ii) the Optionee's
            rights with regard to vested Options shall be determined in
            accordance with Section 6(b)(vi) of the Plan and, if in effect, the
            applicable provisions of Appendix A attached hereto.

      (2)   Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation. As a condition to the exercise
            of any Option that can be exercised after termination, other than
            termination by reason of death or disability, of the Optionee's
            employment or service relationship with the Company of any of its
            Affiliates, the Optionee hereby agrees that (i) the Optionee shall
            not, directly or indirectly, engage in, assist, or have any active
            interest in or involvement, whether as an employee, agent,
            consultant, creditor, advisor, officer, director, stockholder
            (excluding holding of less than 1% of the stock of a public
            company), partner, proprietor or any type of principle whatsoever in
            any person, firm or business entity which, directly or indirectly,
            is engaged in the same business as that conducted and carried out by
            the Company and which derives fifty (50) percent or more of its
            gross revenue from the sale of Internet based advertising supporting
            news content for one (1) year after his termination of employment
            with the Company for whatever reason, with or without cause or
            notice (the "Termination"); (ii) the Optionee shall not, in any way,
            encourage any person or entity that was a customer or vendee of the
            Company or the Parent to do business with any person, firm or
            business entity which, directly or indirectly, is engaged in the
            same business as that conducted and carried out by the Company and
            which derives fifty (50) percent or more of its gross revenue from
            the sale of Internet based advertising supporting news content for
            one (1) year following the Termination; (iii) the Optionee shall not
            directly or indirectly recruit, solicit, hire or cause to be hired,
            any individual who is at the time of the Optionee's Termination or
            who has been within the preceding six (6) month period, an employee
            of the Company or the Parent for one (1) year following the
            Termination; (iv) the Optionee shall not, directly or indirectly, in
            public or


                                       3
<PAGE>

            private, deprecate, impugn, disparage or defame the Company, the
            Parent, or any of their agents, employees, officers or directors,
            nor shall the Optionee assist any other person, firm or company in
            doing so at any time following the Termination. If a final judicial
            determination is made that the time or territory above are
            unenforceable restrictions, the provisions of this Section 6(2)
            shall not be rendered void but shall be deemed amended to apply to
            such maximum time and territory and to such other extent as such
            court may judicially determine or indicate to be reasonable. The
            provisions contained in this Section 6(2) are not intended to
            supersede the provisions of any agreement the Optionee and the
            Company may have concerning the matters contained in this Section,
            which shall remain in full force and effect. If the covenants
            contained herein are breached by the Optionee, all Options held by
            the Optionee and the Optionee's right and ability to exercise the
            same shall be automatically forfeited without limiting any other
            remedy available to the Company by reason of such breach.

      (3)   Determination of Disability. Subject to any existing agreements
            between the Optionee and the Company, the existence of any
            disability which results in termination of employment shall be
            determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion.

7. Withholding Tax. In accordance with Section 8(d) of the Plan, the Optionee
may be subject to withholding taxes as a result of the exercise or settlement of
an Option or other payment in respect of an Option, and the satisfaction of such
withholding requirements shall be a condition precedent to the delivery to the
Optionee of certificates for shares of Stock pursuant to any exercise of an
Option.

8. Restrictions on Transfers of Stock. The Optionee hereby agrees to be bound as
an "Employee Stockholder" by the provisions of Appendix A attached hereto and
made a part hereof, as such provisions may be amended, modified or restated by
the Company from time to time in its sole discretion; provided, however, that
any such amendment, modification or change shall not (other than by operation of
Section 8(c) of the Plan) (i) reduce the number of shares of Stock subject to
Options granted under this Grant Agreement, (ii) change the securities for which
the Options are exercisable, (iii) increase the Exercise Price or (iv) lengthen
the time periods contained herein or in the Plan respecting the vesting of such
Options.

9. Sale of the Company. In the event that Parent effects a "Sale of the Company"
(as defined in Appendix A attached hereto), (i) the Plan may be terminated by
the Company, (ii) all unvested Options that would not have vested within one
year after the Sale of the Company shall terminate at the time of the sale, and
(iii) the vesting of certain unvested Options shall be accelerated as more fully
described in Section 6(e) of the Plan.

10. Confidentiality. The Optionee shall hold in strict confidence, unless
compelled to disclose by judicial or administrative process or other
requirements of law, all documents and information concerning the Company
furnished to the Optionee which are marked or identified as confidential, except
to the extent that such information is now or hereafter in the public domain
through no fault of the Optionee. Failure to comply with this confidentiality
provision shall


                                       4
<PAGE>

result in the automatic termination of all Options (vested and unvested) held by
the Optionee.

11. Governing Law. This Grant Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the
State of Delaware, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of laws.

12. Counterparts. This Grant Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which
together shall constitute one and the same instrument.


                                        EXECUTIVE

                                        /s/ Martin Nisenholtz
                                        ----------------------------------------
                                        Name: Martin Nisenholtz


TIMES COMPANY DIGITAL, INC.

By: /s/ Rhonda L. Brauer
    ------------------------------
    Name: Rhonda Brauer
    Title: Assistant Secretary

The undersigned agrees to be bound by the
provisions of the attached Appendix A attached hereto applicable to it:


THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

By: /s/ Rhonda L. Brauer
    ------------------------------
    Name: Rhonda Brauer
    Title: Assistant Secretary


                                       5
<PAGE>

                                    ARTICLE I
                               CERTAIN DEFINITIONS

      1.1. Defined Terms.

            The following terms, as used in this Appendix A, have the meanings
set forth below. Other defined terms are defined in the following Sections of
this Appendix A.

      "Affiliate" means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that
controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such Person. For
the purposes of this definition, "control" (including, with its correlative
meanings, the terms "controlled by" and "under common control with"), as used
with respect to any Person, shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly,
of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of
such Person, whether through the ownership of securities, by contract or
otherwise. For purposes of this Agreement, employees and directors of Parent and
its Affiliates shall not be "Affiliates" of Parent.

      "Agreement and Plan of Merger" means the Agreement and Plan of Merger,
dated as of July 22, 1999, among Parent, the Company, ABZ Acquisition, Inc.,
Abuzz Technologies, Inc. and the other parties thereto.

      "Asset Contribution Agreement" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
the Agreement and Plan of Merger.

      "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.

      "Class A Common Stock" means (i) (a) the Company's Class A-1 Common Stock,
par value $0.01 per share, and the Company's Class A-2 Common Stock, par value
$0.01 per share, (b) any securities into which such common stock shall have been
changed or (c) any securities resulting from any reclassification or
recapitalization of such common stock, and (ii) all other securities (other than
Class B Common Stock) of any class or classes (however designated) of the
Company the holders of which have the right, without limitation as to amount,
after payment on any securities entitled to a preference on dividends or other
distributions upon any dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, either to all or
to a share of the balance of payments upon such dissolution, liquidation or
winding-up.

      "Class B Common Stock" means the Company's Class B Common Stock, par value
$0.01 per share, any securities into which such Class B Common Stock shall have
been changed or any securities resulting from any reclassification or
recapitalization of such Class B Common Stock.


                                      A-1
<PAGE>

      "Class A Enterprise Value" means that portion of the Enterprise Value,
expressed in dollars, represented by a share of Class A Common Stock.

      "Class A Stockholders" means the holders of the Class A Common Stock.

      "Class B Stockholders" means the holders of Class B Common Stock.

      "Common Stock" means collectively the Class A Common Stock and the Class B
Common Stock.

      "Company" means Times Company Digital, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

      "Company IPO" means the consummation of an underwritten initial public
offering of the Company's Class A-2 Common Stock registered under the Securities
Act.

      "Company Securities" means the Class A Common Stock, the Class B Common
Stock, any Options, and any securities issued with respect thereto as a result
of any stock dividend, stock split, reclassification, recapitalization,
reorganization, merger, consolidation or similar event or upon the conversion,
exchange or exercise thereof; provided, however, that for the purpose of this
Appendix A, "Company Securities" held by any Optionee shall only include Options
and any securities acquired in connection with the exercise of Options (other
than Special Options as defined in the Agreement and Plan of Merger) held by
such Optionee.

      "Diluted Basis" means, with respect to the calculation of the number of
shares of Class A Common Stock, all shares of Class A Common Stock outstanding
at the time of determination and all shares issuable upon the exercise of
Options or deliverable in connection with other outstanding options or
convertible or exchangeable securities or warrants; provided, however, that with
respect to any Options or any other options, shares of Class A Common Stock
shall only be included in the determination of Diluted Basis to the extent such
Options or other options are vested.

      "Effective Time" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the Agreement
and Plan of Merger.

      "Employee Stockholder" means any employee of, or service provider to, the
Company or any of its Affiliates who receives an Option under the Option Plan,
whether or not such Option is exercised, so long as any such Person shall hold
Company Securities.

      "Enterprise Value" means the value of the Company, on a consolidated basis
and


                                      A-2
<PAGE>

disregarding any transfer of assets and liabilities made in contemplation of a
Tracking Stock IPO or a Publico IPO, as reflected by the initial public offering
price in a Tracking Stock IPO or a Publico IPO.

      "Exercise Price" means the price payable to purchase shares of Class A
Common Stock under an Option.

      "Fair Market Value" means, with respect to the purchase of any share of
Class A Common Stock, as of any particular date, that Value of the Company as
determined in good faith by the Board (or any duly appointed committee thereof)
based on their knowledge of the value of the Company and, if requested by any
member of the Board or such committee, the advice of a third party financial
advisor that has experience in providing valuation of companies similar to the
Company. Fair Market Value shall be determined as of any particular date
required by this Agreement and such other dates as the Board (or any duly
appointed committee thereof) shall determine. "Value" shall be based on (i) the
fully distributed equity value of the Company (assuming the Class B Common Stock
has been converted into Class A Common Stock) as if the Company were freely
trading in the public equity market, without taking into account any fees or
expenses associated with the issuance of the shares of Class A Common Stock to
the public, any minority discount (or premium) or any discount for liquidity,
and (ii) the valuation techniques as reasonably determined by the Board (or any
duly appointed committee thereof) at the time of the determination of Value, as
advised by any financial advisor, and may include, but not be limited to, an
analysis of comparable companies and revenues, earnings or a discounted cash
flow analysis. "Fair Market Value" with respect to any Option shall mean the
Fair Market Value of the Class A Common Stock with respect to which such Option
may be exercised less the exercise price with respect to such Option.

      "Grant Agreement" means the agreement between the Company and a recipient
of an Option, setting forth the number of Options granted and certain terms and
conditions relating thereto.

      "Involuntary Transfer" means, with respect to Company Securities of any
Employee Stockholder, any involuntary Transfer or Transfer by operation of law
of such Company Securities (other than to a Permitted Transferee of such
Employee Stockholder who executes a Joinder Agreement) by or in which such
Employee Stockholder shall be deprived or divested of any right, title or
interest in or to Company Securities, including, without limitation, by seizure
under levy of attachment or execution, by foreclosure upon a pledge, in
connection with any voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy or other court
proceeding to a debtor in possession, trustee in bankruptcy or receiver or other
officer or agency, pursuant to any statute pertaining to escheat or abandoned
property, pursuant to a divorce or separation agreement or a final decree of a
court in a divorce action, upon or occasioned by the legal incompetence of any
Employee Stockholder


                                      A-3
<PAGE>

and to a legal representative of any Employee Stockholder. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, Involuntary Transfer shall not include the Transfer of Company
Securities by a Stockholder to a Permitted Transferee of such Stockholder
provided such Permitted Transferee is a party to a Grant Agreement or executes a
Joinder Agreement.

      "Joinder Agreement" means an agreement pursuant to which a Person
subscribes to, and agrees to be bound by, the provisions of this Appendix A as
an Employee Stockholder.

      "Lien" means any lien, claim, charge, encumbrance, security interest or
other adverse claim of any kind.

      "Market Price" means, with respect to each share of Parent Class A Common
Stock as of a particular date, the average of the closing prices of such Parent
Class A Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. on each of the thirty
(30) trading days next preceding such date or, if such Parent Class A Common
Stock is not then listed or admitted to trading on such exchange, on the
principal national securities exchange on which such Parent Class A Common Stock
is listed or admitted to trading or, if not listed or admitted to trading on any
national securities exchange, on the Nasdaq National Market, or if such Parent
Class A Common Stock is not then listed or admitted to trading on a national
securities exchange or quoted on the Nasdaq National Market, the average of the
closing bid and asked prices in the over-the-counter market as furnished by any
New York Stock Exchange member firm selected by the Board of Directors of Parent
or if no such prices are available, the market price per share as determined in
good faith by the Board of Directors of Parent.

      "Minimum Value" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the Agreement and
Plan of Merger.

      "Option" means any option granted pursuant to any Option Plan.

      "Option Plan" means (i) the 1999 Stock Option Plan of the Company, as the
same may be hereinafter amended, modified or restated, and (ii) any additional
stock option plans or compensation or incentive plans which provide for the
issuance of Class A Common Stock established by the Company for the benefit of
its employees and/or the employees of its Affiliates, including without
limitation, the Newco Special Options (as defined in the Agreement and Plan of
Merger).

      "Parent" means The New York Times Company, a New York corporation.

      "Parent Class A Common Stock" means Parent Class A Common Stock, par value
$0.10 per share, and any securities into which such Parent Class A Common Stock
shall have been


                                      A-4
<PAGE>

changed or any securities resulting from any reclassification or
recapitalization of such Parent Class A Common Stock.

      "Permitted Transferee" means:

            (i) as to any Employee Stockholder who is a natural person, any of
            the following: a lineal ancestor, sibling or descendant (including
            by adoption) of such Employee Stockholder, or a spouse of such
            Employee Stockholder, or a natural person who qualifies as a member
            of the Employer Stockholder's "Immediate Family" (as defined in the
            1999 Stock Option Plan of the Company), or one natural person
            designated by such Employee Stockholder with whom such Employee
            Stockholder shares his or her principal residence and to whom such
            Employee Stockholder shall have Transferred Company Securities for
            no or nominal consideration, or any trust of which such Employee
            Stockholder is the trustee and which is established solely for the
            benefit of any of the foregoing individuals and whose terms are not
            inconsistent with the terms of this Appendix A, or any partnership,
            the general partner(s) and limited partner(s) (if any) of which are
            one or more Persons identified in this clause (i);

            (ii) as to any Class B Stockholder, any other Class B Stockholder or
            any Affiliate of Parent;

            (iii) as to any Employee Stockholder, any Class A Stockholder or
            Class B Stockholder; and

            (iv) as to any Third Party that becomes a Stockholder and that is
            not a natural Person, any Affiliate of such Stockholder.

      "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability
company, trust, unincorporated organization, joint venture, government (or
agency or political subdivision thereof) or any other entity of any kind.

      "Pro Rata" means, with respect to one or more Stockholders, in proportion
to the number of shares of Common Stock on a Diluted Basis owned by such
Stockholder or Stockholders.

      "Publico Stock Exchange Ratio" means the quotient obtained by dividing (i)
the Class A Enterprise Value by (ii) the price per share of Publico Stock to the
public in a Publico IPO, with all appropriate adjustments to equitably reflect
any subsequent stock dividend, stock split, reclassification, recapitalization,
reorganization, merger, consolidation or similar event.


                                      A-5
<PAGE>

      "Qualifying Offering" means the consummation of a Company IPO or the
consummation of an underwritten initial public offering of (i) Class A Common
Stock registered under the Securities Act (a "Company IPO") or (ii) shares of a
class of common equity ("Publico Stock") registered under the Securities Act of
an entity ("Publico") that becomes for the purpose of effecting such public
offering the owner, directly or indirectly, of an equity interest in the
businesses conducted, indirectly or directly, by the Company provided that the
balance of the equity of such businesses, to the extent not owned by the
Company, is owned, directly or indirectly by the Parent (a "Publico IPO") or
(iii) shares of a class of common equity ("Tracking Stock") registered under the
Securities Act of Parent designed to track the performance of the businesses of
the Company, whether such businesses are conducted through the Company or
through another Subsidiary or division of Parent (a "Tracking Stock IPO").

      "Sale of the Company" means the sale of the Company (whether by merger,
consolidation, recapitalization, reorganization, sale of securities, sale of
assets or otherwise but otherwise than a Qualifying Offering) in one transaction
or series of related transactions to a Person or Persons not an Affiliate of
Parent pursuant to which such Person or Persons (together with its Affiliates)
acquires (i) securities representing at least a majority of the voting power of
all securities of the Company, assuming the conversion, exchange or exercise of
all securities convertible, exchangeable or exercisable for or into voting
securities, or (ii) all or substantially all of the Company's assets on a
consolidated basis.

      "Securities Act" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the
rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission promulgated
thereunder.

      "Stockholders" means each of the Employee Stockholders, to the extent such
Employee Stockholder has exercised his or her Options, and any additional
stockholders of the Company, whether or not such additional stockholders hold
Company Securities on the date of the Grant Agreement to which this Appendix A
is attached or hereinafter acquire such Company Securities, so long as such
Person shall hold Company Securities.

      "Subsidiary" means, with respect to any Person, any corporation,
partnership, association or other business entity of which (i) if a corporation,
a majority of the total voting power of shares of stock entitled (without regard
to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors,
managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by that Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that
Person or a combination thereof, or (ii) if a partnership, association or other
business entity, a majority of the partnership or other similar ownership
interest thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by
any Person or one or more Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof.
For purposes hereof, a Person or Persons shall be deemed to have a majority
ownership interest


                                      A-6
<PAGE>

in a partnership, association or other business entity if such Person or Persons
shall be allocated a majority of partnership, association or other business
entity gains or losses or shall be or control the managing director or general
partner of such partnership, association or other business entity.

      "Tracking Stock Exchange Ratio" means the quotient obtained by dividing
(i) the Class A Enterprise Value by (ii) the price per share of Tracking Stock
to the public in a Tracking Stock IPO, with all appropriate adjustments to
equitably reflect any subsequent stock dividend, stock split, reclassification,
recapitalization, reorganization, merger, consolidation or similar event.

      "Transfer" means, directly or indirectly, any sale, transfer, assignment,
hypothecation, pledge or other disposition of any Company Securities or any
interests therein.

                                   ARTICLE II
                         TRANSFERS OF COMPANY SECURITIES

      2.1 Restrictions Generally; Securities Act.

            (a) Each Employee Stockholder agrees that he or she will not,
directly or indirectly, Transfer any Company Securities except in accordance
with the terms of this Appendix A. Any attempt by any Employee Stockholder to
Transfer any Company Securities not in accordance with the terms of this
Appendix A shall be null and void and neither the issuer of such securities nor
any transfer agent of such securities shall give any effect to such attempted
Transfer in its stock records. Notwithstanding anything contained in this
Appendix A to the contrary, any transfer of Options shall also be subject to the
provisions of the Option Plan and applicable Grant Agreement. In addition, if
any Employee Stockholder transfers any Class A Common Stock obtained upon
exercise of any Option, pursuant to the terms and limitations of this Appendix
A, any Person acquiring such Class A Common Stock shall be considered an
Employee Stockholder for the purposes of this Appendix A, except that the
provisions of Article IV shall not apply to such Person unless he or she is or
thereafter becomes an employee of the Company or any of its Affiliates.

            (b) Each Employee Stockholder agrees that, in addition to the other
requirements imposed herein relating to Transfer, he or she will not Transfer
any Company Securities except pursuant to an effective registration statement
under the Securities Act, and in compliance with all other applicable foreign
and state securities laws, or upon receipt by the Company of an opinion of
counsel to the Employee Stockholder reasonably satisfactory (as to both counsel
and form of opinion) to the Company or, if agreed by the Board, counsel to the
Company, or a no-action letter from the Securities and Exchange Commission
addressed to the Company, to the effect that no registration statement is
required because of the availability of an


                                      A-7
<PAGE>

exemption from registration under the Securities Act and, in the case of such
opinion of counsel, that such Transfer is in compliance under all applicable
foreign and state securities laws.

      2.2 Transfers by Employee Stockholders. Each of the Employee Stockholders
severally agrees that he or she will not Transfer any Company Securities, except
(i) to his or her Permitted Transferee who shall have executed a Joinder
Agreement; or (ii) to Parent or any of its Affiliates; or (iii) pursuant to
Section 2.4 or 2.5 or Article III, IV or V of this Appendix A; or (iv) pursuant
to Section 2.3 of this Appendix A; provided, however, that none of the Employee
Stockholders shall Transfer any Company Securities pursuant to Section 2.3 until
January 1, 2002 or Transfer any Company Securities at any time after a Tracking
Stock IPO or a Publico IPO except by exercise of the Tracking Stock Exchange
Right or Publico Exchange Right; provided, further, that in the case of Class A
Common Stock obtained upon the exercise of Options, the provisions of Section
4.1 shall apply in the event the Employee Stockholder's employment with the
Company or any of its Affiliates has been terminated; and provided, further,
that in the case of Options, any such Transfer shall also be subject to the
provisions of the Option Plan and the applicable Grant Agreement.

      2.3 Right of First Refusal.

            (a) Except for Transfers permitted pursuant to clauses (i) through
(iii) of Section 2.2, if any Employee Stockholder (a "Selling Stockholder")
desires to Transfer any Class A Common Stock permitted to be Transferred under
Section 2.2 (the "Offered Securities") to any person (a "Third Party"), prior to
any Transfer such Selling Stockholder shall give written notice of the proposed
Transfer (the "Notice of Intention") to Parent, specifying the type and number
of Offered Securities which such Selling Stockholder wishes to Transfer, the
name of the Third Party, the proposed cash purchase price (the "Offer Price")
therefor, and all other material terms and conditions of the proposed Transfer
and setting forth a representation of the Selling Stockholder that the terms
reflect an actual, bona fide, arm's-length offer from an unrelated financially
responsible Person.

            (b) For a period of thirty (30) days following its receipt of the
Notice of Intention, Parent or its designee or designees shall have the right to
purchase at the Offer Price and on the other terms specified in the Notice of
Intention, all, but not less than all, of the Offered Securities. The right of
Parent pursuant to this Section 2.3(b) shall be exercisable by delivery of a
notice to the Selling Stockholder (the "Prospective Buyer Notice") and shall
expire if unexercised by Parent within such 30-day period. Parent shall have the
right, at its option, to pay for the Offered Securities by delivering the Offer
Price in (i) cash or (ii) the number of shares of Parent Class A Common Stock
equal to the number obtained by dividing the Offer Price by the Market Price per
share of Parent Class A Common Stock, determined as of the date of the delivery
to the Selling Stockholder of the Prospective Buyer Notice, plus cash in lieu of
any


                                      A-8
<PAGE>

fractional share.

            (c) If the Notice of Intention has been duly given, and Parent
determines not to exercise its option to purchase the Offered Securities, then
the Selling Stockholder shall have the right, for a period of sixty (60) days
from the earlier of (i) the expiration of the option period pursuant to
subsection (b) of this Section 2.3 or (ii) the date on which such Selling
Stockholder receives notice from Parent that it will not exercise the option
granted pursuant to subsection (b) of this Section 2.3, to sell to the Third
Party the Offered Securities under this Section 2.3 at a price not less than the
Offer Price and on the other terms set forth in the Notice of Intention, subject
to compliance with any applicable Federal, state or foreign securities laws;
provided that prior to any such Transfer to the Third Party, such Third Party
executes and delivers to the Company, a Joinder Agreement.

            (d) The closing of any purchase and sale pursuant to this Section
2.3 shall (i) take place on such date, not later than sixty (60) business days
after the delivery to the Selling Stockholder of a Prospective Buyer Notice, as
Parent and the Selling Stockholder shall select, and (ii) be in accordance with
the procedures set forth in Section 7.15.

      2.4 Involuntary Transfers.

            (a) Upon the occurrence of any event which would cause any Company
Securities owned by an Employee Stockholder to be Transferred by Involuntary
Transfer (other than to a Permitted Transferee), (i) each unvested Option so
Transferred shall lapse and become null and void, and (ii) such Employee
Stockholder (or his legal representative or successor) shall give Parent written
notice thereof stating the terms of such Involuntary Transfer, the identity of
the transferee or proposed transferee, the price or other consideration, if
readily determinable, for which the Company Securities are proposed to be or
have been Transferred and the number of Company Securities which are the subject
of such Transfer. After its receipt of such notice or, failing such receipt,
after Parent otherwise obtains actual knowledge of such a proposed or completed
Involuntary Transfer, Parent or its designee or designees shall have the right
and option to purchase all or any portion of such Company Securities, which
right shall be exercised by written notice given by Parent to the transferor (or
transferee following the occurrence of any Involuntary Transfer) within sixty
(60) days following the later of (i) Parent's receipt of such notice or, failing
such receipt, Parent's obtaining actual knowledge of such proposed or completed
Transfer and (ii) the date of such Involuntary Transfer.

            (b) Any purchase pursuant to this Section 2.4 shall be at the price
and on the terms applicable to such Involuntary Transfer. If the nature of the
event giving rise to such Involuntary Transfer is such that no readily
determinable consideration is to be paid for or assigned to the Transfer of the
Company Securities, the price to be paid by Parent for each share


                                      A-9
<PAGE>

of Company Securities (other than Options) shall be the Fair Market Value
thereof as of the date of Transfer, and the price to be paid by Parent for each
Option shall be the (x) Fair Market Value of the Class A Common Stock with
respect to which such Option may be exercised less (y) the Exercise Price with
respect to such Option. The closing of the purchase and sale of such Company
Securities pursuant to this Section 2.4 shall be held at the place and on the
date established by Parent, which in no event shall be less than ten (10) nor
more than forty-five (45) days from the date on which Parent gives notice of its
election to purchase such Company Securities, and shall be in accordance with
the procedures set forth in Section 7.15.

      2.5 Sale of the Company. If the Class B Stockholders and/or their
Permitted Transferees or the Company sign an agreement of sale, merger agreement
or similar agreement relating to a Sale of the Company, Parent shall notify each
Employee Stockholder, in writing, of the terms and conditions of such proposed
sale including all arrangements between the Company, Parent (or its Affiliates),
on the one hand, and the proposed buyer, on the other hand. Notwithstanding any
other provision of this Appendix A, each such Employee Stockholder will take all
necessary and desirable actions in connection with the consummation of such Sale
of the Company, and if such transaction is structured as a sale of Company
Securities, within ten (10) business days of the receipt of such notice (or such
longer period of time as Parent shall designate in such notice) such Employee
Stockholders shall cause all of their respective Company Securities (with
respect to Options, only to the extent vested, including vesting under the
provisions of Section 6(e) of the Company's 1999 Stock Option Plan, and all
unvested Options shall terminate and be null and void) to be sold to the
designated purchaser on the same terms and conditions and for the same per share
consideration (less the Exercise Price in the case of vested Options) as the
Company Securities being sold by the Class B Stockholders or their Permitted
Transferees. In furtherance of, and not in limitation of the foregoing, in
connection with a Sale of the Company, each Employee Stockholder will (i)
consent to and raise no objections against the Sale of the Company or the
process pursuant to which it was arranged, (ii) waive any dissenter's or
appraisal rights and other similar rights, and (iii) execute all documents
containing such terms and conditions as those executed by other Stockholders as
directed by the Class B Stockholders or their Permitted Transferees. All
Stockholders will bear their Pro Rata share of the costs and expenses incurred
in connection with a Sale of the Company. Costs incurred by any Stockholder on
its own behalf will not be shared by other Stockholders. No Employee Stockholder
shall be obligated under this Section 2.5 unless: (i) the Sale of the Company is
a bona fide arm's-length transaction; (ii) all holders of Common Stock are
treated equally in the transaction; (iii) the Board determines that the
transaction is fair to the Company and the Stockholders; (iv) the price paid for
all outstanding Company Securities is at least equal to the Fair Market Value as
determined by the Board; and (v) no representations or warranties, or indemnity,
are required from an Employee Stockholder other than as to the ownership of such
Employee Stockholder's Company Securities free and clear of Liens.


                                      A-10
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE III
                               RIGHTS OF INCLUSION

      3.1 Rights of Inclusion.

            (a) If the Class B Stockholders and/or their Permitted Transferees
(the "Transferor") propose to Transfer any Company Securities ("Transferor
Shares"), except as set forth in Section 3.2, to one or more Persons (any such
Persons are referred to as the "Buyer"), then, as a condition to such Transfer,
the Transferor shall cause the Buyer to include a written offer (the "Article
III Offer"), subject to compliance with any applicable Federal, state or foreign
securities laws, to each of the Employee Stockholders and each other holder of
Class A Common Stock (collectively, the "Offerees"), to purchase from each
Offeree, at the option of each Offeree, up to a Pro Rata number of shares of
Class A Common Stock as the Class B Common Stock sold by the Transferor, on the
same terms and conditions as are applicable to the Transferor Shares, all of
which terms shall be specified in the Article III Offer, except that none of the
Offerees shall be required to provide any representation or warranty or other
undertaking other than with respect to its ownership of, and authority to
transfer, such Class A Common Stock free and clear of all Liens. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, if any Offeree does not accept its Article III Offer in full, the
other Offerees shall have the right to sell pursuant to the Article III Offer up
to the number of shares of Class A Common Stock not being sold by such Offeree,
Pro Rata among such Offerees, until all such shares are sold or until they do
not desire to sell any more shares. The Transferor shall provide a written
notice (the "Inclusion Notice") of the Article III Offer to each Offeree, who
may accept the Article III Offer by providing a written notice of acceptance of
the Article III Offer to the Transferor within thirty (30) days of delivery of
the Inclusion Notice.

            (b) The Buyer shall have ninety (90) days, commencing on the
fifteenth (15th) day following delivery of the Inclusion Notice, in which to
purchase the Class A Common Stock with respect to which an Article III Offer was
accepted along with the Transferor Shares. The material terms of such sale,
including, without limitation, price and form of consideration, shall be as set
forth in the Inclusion Notice. If at the end of such 90-day period the Buyer has
not completed the purchase of all the Transferor Shares and all the Offerees'
Class A Common Stock proposed to be sold, the Transferor Shares and such
Offerees' Class A Common Stock will not be sold and the provisions of this
Article III shall continue to be in effect as to future Transfers.

            (c) Concurrently with the Transfer of the Transferor Shares and
shares of Class A Common Stock of the Offerees to the Buyer pursuant to the
Article III Offer, the Buyer shall pay, and the Transferor shall cause the Buyer
to pay, to each Offeree its respective portion of the sales price of the shares
of Class A Common Stock sold pursuant thereto.


                                      A-11
<PAGE>

      3.2 Certain Transfers. The provisions of this Article III shall not apply
to any Transfer or proposed Transfer of Company Securities by the Class B
Stockholders and any of their Permitted Transferees (i) to a Permitted
Transferee thereof who shall have executed a Joinder Agreement, (ii) pursuant to
a Sale of the Company in which the designated purchaser has agreed to purchase
from all Employee Stockholders all their respective Company Securities on the
terms and conditions set forth in Section 2.5 or (iii) which, together with all
other Transfers of Company Securities by the Class B Stockholders and their
Permitted Transferees (not including Transfers to Permitted Transferees),
represent less than fifteen percent (15%) of the Common Stock, on a Diluted
Basis.

                                   ARTICLE IV
                     REPURCHASE OF COMPANY SECURITIES OWNED
                            BY EMPLOYEE STOCKHOLDERS

      4.1 Termination of Employment or Services. In the event that any Employee
Stockholder who, on, or at any time after, the date of the Grant Agreement to
which this Appendix A is attached, is employed by the Company or any of its
Affiliates shall cease to be employed by or cease to provide services to, the
Company or any of its Affiliates for any reason (including death, permanent
disability, voluntary termination of employment, termination for cause,
termination without cause, or retirement or otherwise), such Employee
Stockholder (or his personal representative) shall promptly notify Parent of the
termination and, within ninety (90) days after Parent's receipt of such notice,
Parent or its designee or designees may, at their option, elect to purchase the
Company Securities owned by such Employee Stockholder (or his personal
representative) and his Permitted Transferees, which would include for this
purpose any Company Securities transferred to any spouse or other person by such
Employee Stockholder, whether or not such transferee is an Employee Stockholder
(collectively, "Sellers"), exercisable by written notice (a "Purchase Notice")
delivered to Sellers and, upon the giving of such notice, Sellers shall be
obligated to sell those Company Securities which are designated in the Purchase
Notice; provided, however, that in the event notice of such termination is not
given, a Purchase Notice may in any event be given by Parent at any time
following the termination. As provided in the Option Plan, unless otherwise
provided in the Grant Agreement to which this Appendix A is attached, all
unvested Options will terminate upon such termination of employment (or
termination of service relationship). Employee Stockholders who cease to be
employees of, or service providers to, the Company or any of its Affiliates will
have the right to exercise their vested Options after termination of employment
(or termination of service relationship) to the extent provided in the Option
Plan and Grant Agreement, subject to the conditions and limitations (including
time periods) set forth in the applicable Option Plan and Grant Agreement to
which this Appendix A is attached. Notwithstanding anything herein to the
contrary, with respect to (x) any Option that shall have survived such
termination of employment (or termination of service relationship) pursuant to
the terms of any applicable Option Plan or Grant


                                      A-12
<PAGE>

Agreement, and (y) shares of Class A Common Stock that might have been acquired
by reason of the exercise of an Option within six months prior to the
termination date, Parent's purchase right under this Section 4.1 shall be
applicable only to shares of Class A Common Stock obtained upon the exercise of
such Option, and in each case held by the Employee Stockholder for at least six
months after such exercise or delivery, such right to be exercisable by delivery
of a Purchase Notice as aforesaid during the ninety day period after the day on
which such Employee Stockholder has held such shares for six months.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Employee Stockholders, on their
behalf and on behalf of their personal representatives and Permitted
Transferees, agree not to transfer any Class A Common Stock received upon such
exercise of until the expiration of the period during which Parent has the right
to purchase such stock.

      4.2 Purchase Price.

            (a) The purchase price for each share of Company Securities (other
than Options) to be purchased pursuant to Section 4.1 shall be the Fair Market
Value thereof as of the date of the termination of employment, and the purchase
price for each Option to be purchased shall be the Fair Market Value of the
shares of Class A Common Stock with respect to which the Option may be
exercised, as of the date of termination of employment, less the Exercise Price
with respect of such Options.

            (b) Parent shall have the right, at its option, to pay for the
Company Securities to be purchased by delivering (i) the purchase price in cash,
(ii) a note of Parent with a term of not greater than two years and bearing
interest at the rate then paid by Parent to its principal lending bank and with
a principal amount equal to the purchase price, or (iii) a number of shares of
Parent Class A Common Stock equal to the number obtained by dividing the
aggregate purchase price by the Market Price per share of Parent Class A Common
Stock, determined as of the date of the delivery of the Purchase Notice, plus
cash in lieu of any fractional share.

      4.3 Closing. The closing for all purchases and sales of Company Securities
provided for in this Article IV shall be held at the principal executive offices
of Parent at 10:00 a.m., local time, on such date as may be designated in
writing by Parent, but no later than the 60th day after the date of the delivery
of the Purchase Notice and shall be in accordance with the procedures set forth
in Section 7.15.

                                    ARTICLE V
              CONVERSION OF OPTIONS; EXCHANGE OF COMPANY SECURITIES

      5.1 Conversion of Options; Exchange Rights.


                                      A-13
<PAGE>

            (a) Upon the consummation of a Tracking Stock IPO, and without any
action by the Company or the Optionee, each unexercised Option shall
automatically be converted into an Option to purchase shares of Tracking Stock
with appropriate adjustment in the number of shares and exercise price
consistent with the Tracking Stock Exchange Ratio and having the same remaining
term and vesting schedule as the Option so converted. Upon the consummation of a
Tracking Stock IPO (or at any time thereafter), each Employee Stockholder
holding Class A Common Stock shall have the right (the "Tracking Stock Exchange
Right") to acquire from Parent, in exchange for all or any portion of the Class
A Common Stock then owned by such Stockholder such number of shares of Tracking
Stock equal to the product of (i) the number of shares of Class A Common Stock
to be exchanged by such Stockholder and (ii) the Tracking Stock Exchange Ratio.

            (b) Upon the consummation of a Publico IPO, and without any action
by the Company or the Optionee, each unexercised Option shall automatically be
converted into an Option to purchase shares of Publico Stock with appropriate
adjustments in the number of shares and exercise price consistent with the
Publico Stock Exchange Ratio and having the same remaining term and vesting
schedule as the Option so converted. Upon the consummation of a Publico IPO (or
at any time thereafter), Parent shall cause Publico to provide to each Employee
Stockholder holding Class A Common Stock the right (the "Publico Exchange Right"
and collectively with the Tracking Stock Exchange Right, the "Exchange Rights")
to acquire from Publico, in exchange for all or any portion of the Class A
Common Stock then owned by such Employee Stockholder, such number of shares of
Publico Stock equal to the product of (i) the number of shares of Class A Common
Stock and (ii) the Publico Stock Exchange Ratio.

      5.2 Exercise of the Exchange Rights. In order to exercise an Exchange
Right, an Employee Stockholder holding Class A Common Stock must notify Parent
or Publico, as the case may be (the "Issuer"), in writing (the "Exchange
Notice") of such exercise of the Exchange Right.

      5.3 Closing of the Exchange. The closing of the Exchange Right exercise
shall occur at 10:00 a.m., ten (10) business days after delivery of the Exchange
Notice at the principal executive officers of the Issuer (or at such other time
and/or place as may be agreed by the Issuer and the Employee Stockholder holding
Class A Common Stock) and in accordance with the procedures set forth in Section
7.15. Each Employee Stockholder holding Class A Common Stock acknowledges and
agrees that the Tracking Stock or Publico Stock issued to him or her will be
subject to applicable restrictions under Federal and state securities laws and
will bear appropriate legends to such effect.

      5.4 Lock-Up.


                                      A-14
<PAGE>

            (a) Each Employee Stockholder holding Class A Common Stock agrees
not to offer, sell, contract to sell or otherwise dispose of any Tracking Stock
within seven (7) days before or during the lock-up period after the date of any
final prospectus relating to a Tracking Stock IPO or any other underwritten
offering of Tracking Stock, except pursuant to the written consent of the
underwriters for such offering. Each holder of Class A Common Stock agrees to
execute and deliver to such underwriters an agreement, in customary form,
confirming the foregoing.

            (b) Each Employee Stockholder holding Class A Common Stock agrees
not to offer, sell, contract to sell or otherwise dispose of any Publico Stock
within seven (7) days before or during the lock-up period after the date of any
final prospectus relating to a Publico IPO or any other underwritten offering of
Publico Stock, except pursuant to the written consent of the underwriters for
such offering. Each Employee Stockholder holding Class A Common Stock agrees to
execute and deliver to such underwriters an agreement, in customary form,
confirming the foregoing.

                                   ARTICLE VI
                  CERTAIN OTHER MATTERS; WORKING CAPITAL NEEDS

      6.1 Transferees. Unless otherwise consented to by Parent, the parties
hereto agree that as a condition precedent to the issuance by the Company of
shares of Class A Common Stock to a Permitted Transferee of an Employee
Stockholder or any Third Party, the Company shall require such Person to execute
a Joinder Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent approved by
Parent and specified in any Joinder Agreement (or amendment thereto) pursuant to
which any Person agrees to be bound by the terms hereof, the provisions of this
Appendix may be varied to be more or less restrictive with respect to any such
Person.

      6.2 Stock Issuance. The Company shall issue no shares of Class A Common
Stock or securities convertible, exchangeable or exercisable for or into shares
of Class A Common Stock after a Tracking Stock IPO or a Publico IPO.

      6.3 No Right to Employment. Nothing contained herein nor the ownership of
any Company Securities shall confer upon any Employee Stockholder the right to
employment or to remain in the employ of the Company or any of its Affiliates.

      6.4 Working Capital. It is contemplated that the Company may require
additional funds for working capital. Should Parent, in its discretion,
determine to provide such funds (including, without limitation, pursuant to
Section 2.07(c) of the Agreement and Plan of Merger),


                                      A-15
<PAGE>

it may do so (i) by purchasing shares of Class A Common Stock or Class B Common
Stock at the most recent Fair Market Value per share of Class A Common Stock
(the Class B Common Stock being valued at the same per share price as the Class
A Common Stock) calculated prior to the date of the capital contribution, or
(ii) by lending funds to the Company at an interest rate not to exceed three
percentage points over the prime rate of Parent's principal lending bank. In the
event of a loan, the Company shall keep a record of the number of shares of
Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock that could have been purchased with
such funds at the most recent Fair Market Value per share of Class A Common
Stock calculated prior to the date of such working capital advance, subject to
customary anti-dilution adjustments (the "Conversion Value"). Parent at its
option, may thereafter, at any time, convert all or any part of such loan into
shares of Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock either at the most recent
Fair Market Value per share of Class A Common Stock calculated prior to the
conversion date or at the Conversion Value. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in
the event Parent or any of its Affiliates determines to provide the Company with
funds for working capital within six months of the Effective Time (other than
$5,000,000 to be provided pursuant to the Asset Contribution Agreement), if
funds are provided by such Person, such shares (or any other securities of the
Company convertible into Class A Common Stock, Class B Common Stock or other
securities) shall be purchased, or such Conversion Value shall be calculated, on
the basis of a market value of the Company equal to the greater of (i) the
valuation of the Company as of the Effective Time prepared by Ernst & Young LLP
or (ii) $500,000,000.

                                   ARTICLE VII
                                  MISCELLANEOUS

      7.1 Governing Law. The corporate laws of the State of Delaware will govern
all questions concerning the relative rights of the Company and its Stockholders
hereunder. All other questions concerning the construction, validity and
interpretation of this Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance
with the domestic laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to any
choice of law or conflict of law provision or rule (whether of the State of New
York or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of
any jurisdiction other than the State of New York.

      7.2 Entire Agreement; Amendments. This Appendix A (together with the
related Grant Agreement) constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with
respect to the subject matter hereof and may be amended, modified or
supplemented only by a written instrument duly executed by the Company and
Parent, except that (i) any amendment, modification or supplement that
materially, adversely and disproportionately affects the Employee Stockholders
at any time after such Stockholders have exercised Options and received shares
of Class A Common Stock shall require the consent of the Employee Stockholders
who hold such Class A


                                      A-16
<PAGE>

Common Stock in accordance with Section 7.4 hereof, and (ii) any amendment,
modification or supplement made before an Employee Stockholder exercises an
Option shall be governed by the provisions of Section 7 of the related Grant
Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, no
provision of this Appendix A shall prevent or otherwise restrict Parent from
purchasing Company Securities from Employee Stockholders pursuant to this
Appendix A or otherwise at a price per share different from that specified in
this Appendix A.

      7.3 Term. As to an Employee Stockholder, this Appendix A shall terminate
upon the earlier of (a) a Sale of the Company, (b) the repurchase of all of the
Employee Stockholder's Options and shares of Class A Common Stock pursuant to
Article IV or (c) with the exception of Section 2.1, the exchange of all of the
Employee Stockholder's shares of Class A Common Stock for Tracking Stock or
Publico Stock and the conversion of the Options into options to acquire Tracking
Stock or Publico Stock, as the case may be, pursuant to Article V. The
provisions of Sections 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5, Article III and Sections 6.1 and
6.2 shall terminate upon the consummation of a Company IPO.

      7.4 Certain Actions. Unless otherwise expressly provided herein, whenever
any action is required under this Appendix A by the Employee Stockholders, it
shall be by the affirmative vote of those Employee Stockholders who hold Class A
Common Stock representing more than 50% of such Class A Common Stock on a
Diluted Basis (but not taking into account any Options, the holders of which
shall have no vote unless and until they have exercised such Options and
received Class A Common Stock) then held by the Employee Stockholders as a
group.

      7.5 Recapitalization, Exchanges, Etc., Affecting Company Securities. The
provisions of this Appendix A shall apply, to the full extent set forth herein
with respect to the Company Securities, to any and all shares of the Company
capital stock or any successor or assign of the Company (whether by merger,
consolidation, sale of assets, or otherwise, including shares issued by a parent
corporation in connection with a triangular merger) which may be issued in
respect of, in exchange for, or in substitution of, Company Securities, and
shall be appropriately adjusted for any stock dividends, splits, reverse splits,
combinations, reclassifications and the like occurring after the date hereof.

      7.6 Waiver. No waiver by any party of any term or condition of this
Appendix A, in one or more instances, shall be valid unless in writing, and no
such waiver shall be deemed to be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach
or default of the same or a similar nature.

      7.7 Assignment; Successors and Assigns.

            (a) Parent may assign any of its rights, interests or obligations
under Sections 2.3 or 2.4 or Articles IV or V to any Person.


                                      A-17
<PAGE>

            (b) Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, this Appendix A
shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their
respective heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns (including,
without limitation, transferees of Company Securities); provided, however, that
(i) nothing contained herein shall be construed as granting any Employee
Stockholder the right to Transfer any Company Securities except in accordance
with this Appendix A and with respect to Options, the applicable Option Plan;
and (ii) any Third Party which acquires Company Securities in accordance with
Section 2.3 shall be bound by the provisions of this Appendix A as an Employee
Stockholder with respect to such Company Securities, except that the provisions
of Article IV shall not apply to the Company Securities of such Third Party
(unless such Third Party is also or thereafter becomes an employee of the
Company or any of its Subsidiaries).

      7.8 Remedies. In the event of a breach by any party to this Appendix A of
its obligations under this Agreement, any party injured by such breach, in
addition to being entitled to exercise all rights granted by law, including
recovery of damages and costs (including reasonable attorneys' fees), will be
entitled to specific performance of its rights under this Appendix A. The
parties agree that the provisions of this Appendix A shall be specifically
enforceable, it being agreed by the parties that the remedy at law, including
monetary damages, for breach of any such provision will be inadequate
compensation for any loss and that any defense in any action for specific
performance that a remedy at law would be adequate is waived.

      7.9 Income Tax Withholding. Each Employee Stockholder who is or becomes an
employee of the Company or any Affiliate thereof authorizes the Company or such
Affiliate to make any required withholding for the payment of any and all income
taxes and other sums that may be due any governmental authority as a result of
the receipt by such Employee Stockholder of compensation income under Section 83
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or similar provisions of
foreign, state or local law, if required by applicable law, and agrees, if
requested by the Company or any Affiliate thereof and in lieu of all or a
portion of such withholding, to pay the Company or such Affiliate in a lump sum
such amounts as the Company or such Affiliate may be required to remit to any
governmental authority on behalf of such Employee Stockholder in respect of any
such taxes and other sums.

      7.10 Invalid Provisions. If any provision of this Appendix A is held to be
illegal, invalid or unenforceable under any present or future law, and if the
rights or obligations of any Employee Stockholder, the Company or Parent under
this Appendix A will not be materially and adversely affected thereby, (i) such
provision will be fully severable, (ii) this Appendix A will be construed and
enforced as if such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision had never
comprised a part hereof, (iii) the remaining provisions of this Appendix A will
remain in full force and effect and will not be affected by the illegal, invalid
or unenforceable provision or by its


                                      A-18
<PAGE>

severance herefrom and (iv) in lieu of such illegal, invalid or unenforceable
provision, there will be added automatically as a part of this Appendix a legal,
valid and enforceable provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid or
unenforceable provision as may be possible.

      7.11 Headings. The headings used in this Appendix A have been inserted for
convenience of reference only and do not define or limit the provisions hereof.

      7.12 Further Assurances. Each party hereto shall cooperate and shall take
such further action and shall execute and deliver such further documents as may
be reasonably requested by any other party in order to carry out the provisions
and purposes of this Appendix A.

      7.13 Gender. Whenever the pronouns "he" or "his" are used herein they
shall also be deemed to mean "she" or "hers" or "it" or "its" whenever
applicable. Words in the singular shall be read and construed as though in the
plural and words in the plural shall be construed as though in the singular in
all cases where they would so apply.

      7.14 Notices. All notices, requests and other communications hereunder
must be in writing and will be deemed to have been duly given only if delivered
personally against written receipt or by facsimile transmission or mailed by
prepaid first class mail, return receipt requested, or if delivered to a
nationally recognized overnight courier prepaid to the parties at the following
addresses or facsimile numbers:

            (i)   If to the Company, to:
                  Times Company Digital, Inc.
                  1120 Avenue of the Americas
                  New York, New York 10036
                  Attention: Kenneth A. Richieri, Esq.
                  Facsimile: (212) 556-4634

                  with a copy to:

            (ii)  If to Parent, to:
                  The New York Times Company
                  229 West 43rd Street
                  New York, New York 10036
                  Attention: Solomon B. Watson IV, Esq.
                  Facsimile: (212) 556-4634

            (iii) If to an Employee Stockholder, to the address of such Person
                  set forth in


                                      A-19
<PAGE>

                  the records of the Company.

All such notices, requests and other communications will (w) if delivered
personally to the address as provided in this Section 7.14 be deemed given upon
delivery against written receipt, (x) if delivered by facsimile transmission to
the facsimile number as provided in this Section 7.15 be deemed given upon
receipt, (y) if delivered by mail in the manner described above to the address
as provided in this Section 7.14 upon the earlier of the third business day
following mailing or upon receipt and (z) if delivered by a nationally
recognized overnight courier to the address as provided in this Section 7.14, be
deemed given on the earlier of the first business day following the date sent by
such overnight courier or upon receipt (in each case regardless of whether such
notice, request or other communication is received by any other Person to whom a
copy of such notice is to be delivered pursuant to this Section 7.14). Any party
from time to time may change its address, facsimile number or other information
for the purpose of notices to that party by giving notice specifying such change
to the other parties hereto.

      7.15 Closing Procedures. At the closing of any purchase and sale of
Company Securities under this Appendix A, the selling Stockholder shall deliver
certificates evidencing the securities being sold duly endorsed, or accompanied
by written instruments of transfer in form satisfactory to the purchaser, duly
executed by the selling Stockholder, free and clear of any Liens, against
delivery of a certified or bank cashier's check in the amount of the purchase
price or, if applicable, certificates for the number of Parent Class A Common
Stock (plus cash in lieu of any fractional share) to which such selling
Stockholder is entitled. In the event that Parent delivers Parent Class A Common
Stock to such selling Stockholder, the selling Stockholder shall, in addition,
deliver to Parent such representations and documents as Parent reasonably deems
necessary or advisable to effect compliance with all applicable provisions of
the Securities Act and any other federal, state or foreign securities laws or
regulations, and Parent, in its absolute discretion, may take such additional
actions as it deems appropriate to effect such compliance, including, without
limitation, placing legends on certificates for Parent Class A Common Stock and
issuing stop-transfer orders to transfer agents.


                                      A-20

<PAGE>

                                                                       EXHIBIT B

                        SEPARATION AGREEMENT AND RELEASE

      1. Termination of Employment. My employment with The New York Times
Company ("The Times") terminated effective as of ______________________________.

      2. Consideration. I understand that in consideration for my execution of
this Separation Agreement and Release (the "Separation Agreement"), and my
fulfillment of the promises made in this Separation Agreement and the Employment
Agreement between The Times and me dated as of September 1, 1999 (the
"Employment Agreement"), The Times agrees to provide me with the compensation
and benefits set forth in Section 8 of the Employment Agreement.

      3. Conditions Applying to Payment of Benefits. I understand and agree that
the compensation and benefits payable to me pursuant to Section 2 above are
subject to my compliance with the terms and conditions set forth in this
Separation Agreement and the Employment Agreement.

      4. General Release of Claims. I hereby voluntarily release The Times,
Times Company Digital, and their subsidiaries, partners, affiliates, owners,
agents, officers, directors, employees, successors and assigns, and all related
persons, individually and in their official capacities (hereinafter collectively
referred to as the "Released Parties"), of and from any and all claims, known
and unknown, relating to my employment or cessation of employment that I, my
heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns, have or may have as
of the date of execution of this Separation Agreement, including, but not
limited to, any alleged violation of:

      o     The National Labor Relations Act;
      o     Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964;
      o     Sections 1981 through 1988 of Title 42 of the United States Code;
      o     Civil Rights Act of 1991;
      o     The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA");
      o     The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967;
      o     The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990;
      o     The Fair Credit Reporting Act;
      o     The Fair Labor Standards Act;
      o     The Occupational Safety and Health Act;
      o     The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993;
      o     Executive Order 11246;
      o     The New York Equal Pay Law;
      o     The New York Human Rights Law;
      o     The New York Civil Rights Act;
      o     The New York State Wage and Hour Laws;
      o     The New York City Administrative Code, Title VII;
      o     The New York Occupational Safety and Health Laws;
      o     any other federal, state or local civil or human rights law or any
            other local, state or federal law, regulation or ordinance;
<PAGE>

      o     any public policy, contract, tort, or common law;
      o     any claims for vacation, sick or personal leave, pay or payment
            pursuant to any practice, policy, handbook, or manual of The Times;
            or
      o     any allegation for costs, fees or other expenses including
            attorneys' fees incurred in these matters.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the release set forth in this Section 4 shall not
apply to any vested benefits accrued by me prior to the effective date of this
Separation Agreement under any compensation or benefit plans, programs and
arrangements maintained by The Times for the benefit of its employees and
subject to ERISA.

      5. No Existing Claims. I confirm that no claim, charge, or complaint
against the Released Parties exists before any federal, state, or local court or
administrative agency.

      6. No Recovery or Relief. I hereby waive my right to accept any relief or
recovery, including costs and attorney's fees, from any charge or complaint
filed by me or on my behalf against the Released Parties before any federal,
state, or local court or administrative agency, except as such waiver is
prohibited by law.

      7. No Participation In Claims. I understand that if this Separation
Agreement were not signed, I would have the right to voluntarily assist other
individuals in bringing claims against the Released Parties. I hereby waive that
right and shall not provide any such assistance other than assistance in an
investigation or proceeding conducted by an agency of the United States
government.

      8. Nonadmission of Wrongdoing. I agree that neither this Separation
Agreement nor the furnishing of the consideration for the general release set
forth in this Separation Agreement shall be deemed or construed at any time for
any purpose as an admission by the Released Parties of any liability or unlawful
conduct of any kind.

      9. Breach of Agreement. I agree that if I breach any of the promises set
forth in this Separation Agreement or if I challenge the general release set
forth in this Separation Agreement, The Times shall have the right to terminate
the benefits payable under the Separation Agreement and to require me to return
all monies paid by The Times in consideration for my signing the general release
included in this Separation Agreement.

      10. Governing Law and Interpretation. This Separation Agreement shall be
governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York
without regard to its conflict of laws provisions. If any provision of the
Separation Agreement other than the general release set forth in section 4
above, is declared legally or factually invalid or unenforceable by any court of
competent jurisdiction and if such provision cannot be modified to be
enforceable to any extent or in any application, then such provision immediately
shall become null and void, leaving the remainder of this Separation Agreement
in full force and affect. If any portion of the general release set forth in
this Separation Agreement is declared to be unenforceable by a court of
competent jurisdiction in any action in which I participate or join, I agree
that all consideration paid to me under this Separation Agreement and the
Employment Agreement shall be offset against any monies that I may receive in
connection with any such action.


                                       2
<PAGE>

      11. Entire Agreement. This Separation Agreement sets forth the entire
agreement between me and the Released Parties and it supersedes any and all
prior agreements or understandings, whether written or oral, between the
parties, except as otherwise specified in this Separation Agreement and the
Employment Agreement (including Sections 9 and 10 thereof). I acknowledge that I
have not relied on any representations, promises, or agreements of any kind made
to me in connection with my decision to sign this Separation Agreement, except
for those set forth in this Separation Agreement and the Employment Agreement.

      12. Amendment. This Separation Agreement may not be amended except by a
written agreement signed by both parties which specifically refers to this
Separation Agreement.

      13. Right to Revoke. I understand that I have the right to revoke this
Separation Agreement at any time during the seven (7) day period following the
date on which I first sign the Separation Agreement.

      If I want to revoke, I must make a revocation in writing which states: "I
hereby revoke my acceptance of the Separation Agreement and General Release."
This written revocation must be delivered by hand or sent by certified mail with
a postmark dated before the end of the seven-day revocation period to Solomon B.
Watson IV, The New York Times Company, 229 West 43d Street, New York, NY 10036;
otherwise, such revocation shall not be effective.

      14. Effective Date. This Separation Agreement shall not become effective
or enforceable until the expiration of the 7-day revocation period described in
Section 12 above.

I UNDERSTAND THAT BY SIGNING THIS SEPARATION AGREEMENT, I SHALL BE WAIVING MY
RIGHTS UNDER FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL LAW TO BRING ANY CLAIMS THAT I HAVE OR
MIGHT HAVE AGAINST THE RELEASED PARTIES.

I UNDERSTAND THAT MY RIGHT TO RECEIVE BENEFITS SET FORTH IN SECTION 8 OF THE
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT IS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN THIS
SEPARATION AGREEMENT AND THAT I WOULD NOT RECEIVE SUCH BENEFITS BUT FOR MY
EXECUTION OF THIS SEPARATION AGREEMENT.

I HAVE BEEN ADVISED IN WRITING TO CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY PRIOR TO SIGNING THIS
SEPARATION AGREEMENT. I ALSO HAVE BEEN ADVISED IN WRITING BY THE TIMES THAT I
HAVE TWENTY-ONE (21) DAYS TO CONSIDER THIS SEPARATION AGREEMENT. I AGREE THAT
ANY MODIFICATIONS, MATERIAL OR OTHERWISE, MADE TO THIS SEPARATION AGREEMENT DO
NOT RESTART OR AFFECT IN ANY MANNER THE ORIGINAL TWENTY-ONE (21) DAY
CONSIDERATION PERIOD.


                                       3
<PAGE>

      IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Separation Agreement and Release
as of the date set forth below.


Signed:________________________________________________________________________

Name: _________________________________________________________________________

Date: _________________________________________________________________________


ACCEPTED AND ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY


                                           By: _________________________________

                                           Name: _______________________________

                                           Title: ______________________________

                                           Date: _______________________________


                                       4


                                                                      EXHIBIT 12

                           THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY

                       RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

                                   (UNAUDITED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                         Years Ended
                                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            December 26,  December 27,   December 28,   December 29,   December 31,
(In thousands, except ratio)                                        1999          1998           1997           1996           1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                             <C>          <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
Earnings from continuing operations before
   Fixed charges

Income before income taxes, income from joint ventures and
   an extraordinary item (1)(2)                                 $520,564     $ 484,506      $ 423,375      $ 179,686      $ 218,810
Less net gain on dispositions of assets                               --       (12,619)       (10,388)       (32,836)       (11,291)
Distributed earnings from less than fifty percent owned
   affiliates                                                     13,061        18,192         14,982         16,957          7,980
Less pre-tax preferred stock dividends                                --            --           (129)          (174)          (163)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted pre-tax earnings from continuing operations             533,625       490,079        427,840        163,633        215,336
Fixed charges less capitalized interest                           63,448        56,594         55,304         40,821         42,970
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings from continuing operations before fixed charges        $597,073     $ 546,673      $ 483,144      $ 204,454      $ 258,306
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fixed charges

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest                   $ 52,503     $  46,927      $  45,039      $  30,759      $  33,574
Capitalized interest                                                  --           173          5,394         19,574         15,177
Less pre-tax preferred stock dividends                                --            --            129            174            163
Portion of rentals representative of interest factor              10,945         9,667         10,136          9,888          9,233
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total fixed charges                                             $ 63,448     $  56,767      $  60,698      $  60,395      $  58,147
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges                                  9.41          9.63           7.96           3.39           4.44
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)   1998 excludes a $13.7 million pre-tax extraordinary item resulting from
      the early extinguishment of certain long-term debt (see Note 7 of the
      Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
(2)   1996 includes a $126.8 million pre-tax noncash accounting charge related
      to SFAS No. 121, Accounting for Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for
      Long-Lived Assets To Be Disposed Of.



EXHIBIT 21

                       SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY(1),(2)

                                                                Jurisdiction of
                                                                Incorporation or
Name of Subsidiary                                              Organization
- -----------------                                               ----------------
NYT Capital, Inc..............................................  Delaware
   City & Suburban Delivery Systems, Inc......................  Delaware
   Comet-Press Newspapers, Inc................................  Delaware
   Crossroads Holding Corporation.............................  New Jersey
   Donohue Malbaie Inc. (49%).................................  Canada
   Globe Newspaper Company, Inc...............................  Massachusetts
      Boston Globe Electronic Publishing, Inc.................  Massachusetts
      Boston Globe Marketing, Inc.............................  Massachusetts
      Community Newsdealers Inc...............................  Massachusetts
      Globe Specialty Products, Inc...........................  Massachusetts
      NYT Management Services.................................  Massachusetts
      Retail Sales, Inc.......................................  Massachusetts
   Hendersonville Newspaper Corporation.......................  North Carolina
   Lakeland Ledger Publishing Corporation.....................  Florida
   NYT Holdings, Inc..........................................  Delaware
   NYT Shared Service Center, Inc.............................  Delaware
   The Dispatch Publishing Company, Inc.......................  North Carolina
   The Houma Courier Newspaper Corporation....................  Delaware
   The Times Southwest Broadcasting, Inc......................  Arkansas
   The New York Times Company Magazine Group, Inc.............  Delaware
      NYT Special Services, Inc...............................  Delaware
   The New York Times Distribution Corporation................  Delaware
   The New York Times Electronic Media Company................  Delaware
   The New York Times Sales, Inc..............................  Delaware
   The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation...........  Delaware
   The Spartanburg Herald-Journal, Inc........................  Delaware
   Times Leasing, Inc.........................................  Delaware
   Times On-Line Services, Inc................................  New Jersey
   Wilmington Star-News, Inc..................................  New York
   WNEP-TV, Inc...............................................  Pennsylvania
      WNEP-TV, LP.............................................  Delaware
   Worcester Telegram & Gazette Corporation...................  Massachusetts
   WREG-TV, Inc...............................................  Delaware
      WREG-TV, LLC............................................  Delaware
   WTKR-TV, Inc...............................................  Delaware

The New York Times Company....................................  New York
   International Herald Tribune S.A.S. (50%)..................  France
   London Bureau Limited......................................  United Kingdom
   Madison Paper Industries (partnership) (40%)...............  Maine
   NYT Administradora de Bens e Servicos Ltda.................  Brazil
   NYT 1896T, Inc.............................................  Delaware
   Rome Bureau S.r.l..........................................  Italy
   Times Company Digital, Inc. (95.8%)........................  Delaware
      Abuzz Technologies, Inc.................................  Delaware

- ----------
(1)   100% owned unless otherwise indicated.

(2)   The names of certain subsidiaries have been omitted because, considered in
      the aggregate, as a single subsidiary, they would not constitute a
      significant subsidiary.



                                                                      EXHIBIT 23

                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

The New York Times Company:

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements No.
333-43369, No. 333-43371, No. 333-37331, No. 333-09447, No. 2-91826, No.
33-31538, No. 33-43210, No. 33-43211, No. 33-50461, No. 33-50465, No. 33-50457,
No. 33-50467, No. 33-50459, and No. 33-56219 on Form S-8 and in Registration
Statements No. 333-64275, No. 333-62023, No. 333-53007, No. 33-57403 and No.
333-95685 on Form S-3 of our report dated January 28, 2000 (February 17, 2000 as
to Note 18), appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of The New York Times
Company for the year ended December 26, 1999.

We also consent to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in
Registration Statements No. 2-91826 and No. 33-31538 on Form S-8 and No.
333-64275, No. 333-62023, No. 333-53007, No. 33-57403 and No. 333-95685 on Form
S-3.


/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New York, NY
March 14, 2000


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE>                        5

<S>                              <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                    12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                               DEC-26-1999
<PERIOD-START>                                  DEC-28-1998
<PERIOD-END>                                    DEC-26-1999
<CASH>                                               63,861
<SECURITIES>                                              0
<RECEIVABLES>                                       406,503
<ALLOWANCES>                                         39,749
<INVENTORY>                                          53,611
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                    614,908
<PP&E>                                            2,195,163
<DEPRECIATION>                                      976,767
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                    3,495,802
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                               673,514
<BONDS>                                                   0
                                     0
                                               0
<COMMON>                                             17,882
<OTHER-SE>                                        1,430,776
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                      3,495,802
<SALES>                                                   0
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                                  3,130,629
<CGS>                                                     0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                     1,378,840
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                          0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                          0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                   50,718
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                     538,464
<INCOME-TAX>                                        228,287
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                                 310,177
<DISCONTINUED>                                            0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                           0
<CHANGES>                                                 0
<NET-INCOME>                                        310,177
<EPS-BASIC>                                            1.77
<EPS-DILUTED>                                          1.73



</TABLE>


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission