SAGA COMMUNICATIONS INC
10-Q, 1998-08-14
RADIO BROADCASTING STATIONS
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<PAGE>   1


                                  United States
                       Securities and Exchange Commission
                             Washington, D.C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-Q

(MARK ONE)

[x] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 For the Quarterly Period ended June 30, 1998

                                       or

[ ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 For the transition period from _________ to _________

Commission file number 1-11588

                            Saga Communications, Inc.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

            Delaware                                       38-3042953
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 (State or other jurisdiction of                       (I.R.S. Employer
 incorporation or organization)                        Identification No.)


    73 Kercheval Avenue
Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan                                 48236
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices)                    (Zip Code)

                                                           
                                 (313) 886-7070
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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

The number of shares of the registrant's Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value,
and Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, outstanding as of July 31, 1998 was
11,199,860 and 1,510,637, respectively.


<PAGE>   2


                                      INDEX

                                                                            PAGE

PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.    Financial Statements (Unaudited)

           Condensed consolidated balance sheets--June 30, 1998 and 
           December 31, 1997                                                 3

           Condensed consolidated statements of income --Three and six 
           months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997                               5

           Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows -- Six months
           ended June 30, 1998 and 1997                                      6

           Notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements    7

Item 2.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition 
           and Results of Operations                                         9

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk       14

Part II.   OTHER INFORMATION

Item 4.    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders              15

Item 6.    Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K                                 15

Signatures                                                                  16


                                       2


<PAGE>   3


                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                            Saga Communications, Inc.
                      Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
                             (dollars in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                   JUNE 30,              DECEMBER 31,
                                                     1998                    1997
                                                  -----------------------------------
                                                  (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                               <C>                      <C>     
ASSETS
Current assets:
    Cash and temporary investments                $  3,751                 $  2,209
    Accounts receivable, net                        14,689                   12,833
    Prepaid expenses                                 1,220                    1,269
    Other current assets                             1,515                    1,208
                                                  ---------------------------------
Total current assets                                21,175                   17,519

Property and equipment                              73,152                   70,522
    Less accumulated depreciation                  (38,281)                 (36,494
                                                  ---------------------------------
Net property and equipment                          34,871                   34,028


Other assets:

    Excess of cost over fair value of assets
        acquired, net                               20,271                   20,276
    Broadcast licenses, net                         35,053                   35,495
    Other intangibles, net                           6,211                    5,115
                                                  ---------------------------------
Total other assets                                  61,535                   60,886
                                                  ---------------------------------
                                                  $117,581                 $112,433
                                                  =================================
</TABLE>


See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


                                       3


<PAGE>   4

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            Saga Communications, Inc.
                      Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
                             (dollars in thousands)

                                                        JUNE 30,        DECEMBER 31,
                                                         1998               1997
                                                      ------------------------------
                                                      (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                   <C>               <C>     
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities
    Accounts payable                                  $    807          $  1,001
    Other current liabilities                            8,144             6,792
    Current portion of long-term debt                    4,743             8,139
                                                      ------------------------------
Total current liabilities                               13,694            15,932

Deferred income taxes                                    4,810             4,297
Long-term debt                                          57,823            53,466
Broadcast program rights                                   170               273
Deferred compensation                                      326               210

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
    Common stock                                           127               101
    Additional paid-in capital                          36,747            36,513
    Note receivable from principal stockholder            (790)             (790)
    Retained earnings                                    4,674             2,431
                                                      ------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity                              40,758            38,255
                                                      ------------------------------
                                                      $117,581          $112,433
                                                      ==============================
</TABLE>



Note: The balance sheet at December 31, 1997 has been derived from the audited
financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information
and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete
financial statements.

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


                                       4


<PAGE>   5


                            Saga Communications, Inc.
      Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income
                      (in thousands except per share data)
                                    Unaudited
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                        THREE MONTHS                      SIX MONTHS
                                                                           ENDED                             ENDED
                                                                          JUNE 30,                         JUNE 30,
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   1998             1997            1998             1997
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                               <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>    
Net operating revenue                                             $20,159         $17,508         $35,779         $31,023

Station operating expense:

        Programming and technical                                   4,129           3,686           8,148           7,354
        Selling                                                     5,810           5,132          10,257           8,930
        Station general and administrative                          2,807           2,414           5,543           4,955
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------------
            Total station operating expense                        12,746          11,232          23,948          21,239
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------------
Station operating income before corporate general and
    administrative, depreciation and amortization                   7,413           6,276          11,831           9,784
        Corporate general and administrative                        1,244           1,074           2,261           1,881
        Depreciation and amortization                               1,539           1,450           3,167           2,732
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit                                                    4,630           3,752           6,403           5,171
Other expenses:
        Interest expense                                            1,143           1,172           2,283           2,383
        Other                                                          82               1              93               7
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------------
Income before income tax                                            3,405           2,579           4,027           2,781
Income tax provision                                                1,491           1,087           1,757           1,175
                                                                  ========================================================
Net income and comprehensive income                               $ 1,914         $ 1,492         $ 2,270         $ 1,606
                                                                  ========================================================

Earnings per share (basic and diluted)                            $   .15         $   .12         $   .18         $    .13
                                                                  ========================================================

Weighted average common shares (Note 3)                            12,710          12,586          12,703          12,586
                                                                  ========================================================
Weighted average common shares and common equivalents (Note 3)

                                                                   12,980          12,856          12,970          12,850
                                                                  ========================================================
</TABLE>


See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


                                       5


<PAGE>   6


                            Saga Communications, Inc.
                 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
                             (dollars in thousands)
                                    Unaudited
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                           SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                                               JUNE 30,
                                                                        1998             1997
                                                                     --------------------------

<S>                                                                  <C>              <C>     
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
    Cash provided by operating activities                            $  4,860         $  4,277

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
    Acquisition of property and equipment                              (2,190)          (1,274)
    Proceeds from sale of assets                                            3              306
    Increase in intangibles and other assets                             (240)            (430)
    Acquisition of stations                                            (1,930)         (15,383)
    Equity in operating results of investment                              80                -
                                                                     --------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities                                  (4,277)         (16,781)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
    Proceeds from long-term debt                                        3,500           11,250
    Payments on long-term debt                                         (2,539)          (1,030)
    Net proceeds from exercise of stock options                             -              102
    Fractional shares - stock split                                        (2)               -
                                                                     --------------------------
Net cash provided by financing activities                                 959           10,322
                                                                     --------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and temporary investments               1,542           (2,182)
Cash and temporary investments, beginning of period                     2,209            4,339
                                                                     --------------------------
Cash and temporary investments, end of period                        $  3,751         $  2,157
                                                                     ==========================
</TABLE>


See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


                                        6


<PAGE>   7


                            Saga Communications, Inc.
              Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
                                    Unaudited

1.  BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim
financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of
Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and
footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for annual
financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting
of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have
been included. Operating results for the six months ended June 30, 1998 are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended
December 31, 1998. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial
statements and footnotes thereto included in the Saga Communications, Inc.
Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997.

2.  INCOME TAXES

The Company's effective tax rate is higher than the statutory rate as a result
of certain non-deductible depreciation and amortization expenses and the
inclusion of state taxes in the income tax amount.

3.  STOCK SPLIT

On May 29, 1998 the Company consummated a five-for-four split of its Class A and
Class B Common Stock, resulting in additional shares being issued of
approximately 2,240,000 and 302,000, respectively, for holders of record on May
15, 1998. All share and per share information in the accompanying financial
statements has been restated retroactively to reflect the split.

4.  COMMITMENT

On May 18, 1998 the Company amended its credit agreement to provide that the
Revolving Loan's conversion to a five year term loan be extended to June 30,
1999 from June 30, 1998, and to extend the Facilities maturity date to June 30,
2004 from June 30, 2003. The amendment modified the quarterly payments which are
required on the Term Loan from a range of 2.5% to 5% to a range of 1.25% to 5%.
The amendment also modified the quarterly payments, which are required on the
outstanding amount of the Revolving Loan on September 30, 1999, from a range of
1.25% to 5% to a range of 2.5% to 7.5%.


                                       7


<PAGE>   8


                            Saga Communications, Inc.
        Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
                                    Unaudited

5.  SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On July 7, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase KAVU-TV (an
ABC affiliate) and a low power Univision affiliate, serving the Victoria, Texas
market for approximately $11,875,000, including approximately $2,000,000 of the
Company's Class A common stock. The Company will also assume an existing Local
Marketing Agreement for KVCT-TV (a Fox affiliate). The transaction is subject to
the approval of the Federal Communications Commission and is expected to close
during the fourth quarter of 1998.

On July 10, 1998, the Company signed a letter of intent to purchase an AM and FM
radio station (KGMI-AM and KISM-FM) serving the Bellingham, Washington market
for approximately $8,000,000. The transaction is subject to the completion of a
definitive asset purchase agreement and the approval of the Federal
Communications Commission, and is expected to close during the fourth quarter of
1998.

On August 10, 1998 the Company implemented a Stock Buy-Back Program (the
"Buy-Back Program") pursuant to which the Company will purchase, on the open
market, up to $2,000,000 of its Class A Common Stock.

6.  STATION ACQUISITIONS

On March 30, 1998, the Company acquired a regional and state news and sports
information network (The Michigan Radio Network) for approximately $1,100,000,
including approximately $234,000 of the Company's Class A common stock. The
acquisition is subject to certain adjustments based on operating performance
levels that could result in an additional acquisition amount of $450,000 payable
in cash and shares of the Company's Class A common stock. The acquisition was
accounted for as a purchase and, accordingly, the total costs were allocated to
the acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair values
as of the acquisition date. The excess of consideration paid over the estimated
fair value of the net assets acquired has been recorded as excess of cost over
fair value of assets acquired.

On June 17, 1998 the Company acquired 50% of the outstanding stock of Finn
Midill, ehf., an Icelandic corporation which owns six FM radio stations serving
Reykjavik, Iceland for approximately $1,100,000. Additionally, the Company
loaned approximately $570,000 to Finn Midill, ehf. which accrues interest at
7.5% plus an inflationary index, and is to be repaid in June, 2001. The
investment is accounted for using the equity method. The Company's equity in the
operating results of Finn Midill, ehf. since acquisition have not been
significant.


                                       8


<PAGE>   9


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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

       The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited
condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Saga
Communications, Inc. and its subsidiaries contained elsewhere herein.

GENERAL

       The Company's financial results are dependent on a number of factors, the
most significant of which is the ability to generate advertising revenue through
rates charged to advertisers. The rates a station is able to charge are, in
large part, based on a station's ability to attract audiences in the demographic
groups targeted by its advertisers, as measured principally by quarterly reports
by independent national rating services. Various factors affect the rate a
station can charge, including the general strength of the local and national
economies, population growth, ability to provide popular programming, local
market competition, relative efficiency of radio and/or broadcasting compared to
other advertising media, signal strength and government regulation and policies.
The primary operating expenses involved in owning and operating radio stations
are employee salaries, depreciation and amortization, programming expenses,
solicitation of advertising, and promotion expenses. In addition to these
expenses, owning and operating television stations involve the cost of acquiring
certain syndicated programming.

       During the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996, none of the Company's
operating locations represented more than 15% of the Company's station operating
income (i.e., net operating revenue less station operating expense), other than
the Columbus and Milwaukee stations. For the years ended December 31, 1997 and
1996, Columbus accounted for an aggregate of 24% and 22%, respectively, and
Milwaukee accounted for an aggregate of 24% and 23%, respectively, of the
Company's station operating income. For the six month periods ended June 30,
1998 and 1997, none of the Company's operating locations represented more that
15% of the Company's station operating income, other than the Columbus and
Milwaukee stations. For the six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, Columbus
accounted for an aggregate of 22% and 25%, respectively, and Milwaukee accounted
for an aggregate of 25% of the Company's station operating income. While radio
revenues in each of the Columbus and Milwaukee markets have remained relatively
stable historically, an adverse change in these radio markets or these
location's relative market position could have a significant impact on the
Company's operating results as a whole.

       Because audience ratings in the local market are crucial to a station's
financial success, the Company endeavors to develop strong listener/viewer
loyalty. The Company believes that the diversification of formats on its radio
stations helps the Company to insulate itself from the effects of changes in
musical tastes of the public on any particular format.

       The number of advertisements that can be broadcast without jeopardizing
listening/viewing levels (and the resulting ratings) is limited in part by the
format of a particular radio station and, in the case of television stations, by
restrictions imposed by the terms of certain network affiliation and syndication
agreements. The Company's stations strive to maximize revenue by constantly
managing the number of commercials available for sale and adjusting prices based
upon local market conditions. In the broadcasting industry, stations often
utilize trade (or barter) agreements to generate advertising time sales in
exchange for goods or services used or useful in the operation of the stations,
instead of for cash. The Company minimizes its use of trade agreements and
historically has sold over 95% of its advertising time for cash.


                                       9


<PAGE>   10


       Most advertising contracts are short-term, and generally run only for a
few weeks. Most of the Company's revenue is generated from local advertising,
which is sold primarily by each station's sales staff. For the six months ended
June 30, 1998 and 1997, approximately 82% and 81%, respectively, of the
Company's gross revenue was from local advertising. To generate national
advertising sales, the Company engages an independent advertising sales
representative that specializes in national sales for each of its stations.

       The Company's revenue varies throughout the year. Advertising
expenditures, the Company's primary source of revenue, generally have been
lowest during the winter months which comprise the first quarter.

THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997

       For the three months ended June 30, 1998, the Company's net operating
revenue was $20,159,000 compared with $17,508,000 for the three months ended
June 30, 1997, an increase of $2,651,000 or 15%. Approximately $1,212,000 or 46%
of the increase was attributable to revenue generated by stations which were not
owned or operated by the Company for the comparable period in 1997. The balance
of the increase in net operating revenue represented an 8% increase in stations
owned and operated by the Company for the entire comparable period, primarily as
a result of increased advertising rates at the majority of the Company's
stations.

       Station operating expense (i.e., programming, technical, selling and
station general and administrative expenses) increased by $1,514,000 or 13.5% to
$12,746,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1998, compared with $11,232,000
for the three months ended June 30, 1997. Of the total increase, approximately
$973,000 or 64% was the result of the impact of the operation of stations which
were not owned or operated by the Company for the comparable period in 1997. The
remaining balance of the increase in station operating expense of $541,000
represents a total increase of 5% in stations owned and operated by the Company
for the comparable period in 1997.

       Operating profit increased by $878,000 or 23% to $4,630,000 for the three
months ended June 30, 1998, compared with $3,752,000 for the three months ended
June 30, 1997. The improvement was primarily the result of the $2,651,000
increase in net operating revenue, offset by the $1,514,000 increase in station
operating expense, a $89,000 or 6% increase in depreciation and amortization,
and a $170,000 or 16% increase in corporate general and administrative charges.
The increase in depreciation and amortization expense was principally the result
of the recent acquisitions. The increase in corporate general and administrative
charges was primarily attributable to deferred compensation charges of $70,000
relating to an accrued bonus to the Company's principal stockholder, $40,000 in
non-recurring employee benefit related matters, and the remaining increase of
approximately $60,000 represents additional costs due to the growth of the
Company as a result of the Company's recent acquisitions.

       The Company generated net income in the amount of approximately
$1,914,000 ($0.15 per share) during the three months ended June 30, 1998,
compared with net income of $1,492,000 ($0.12 per share) for the three months
ended June 30, 1997, an increase of approximately $422,000. The increase in net
income was principally the result of the $878,000 improvement in operating
profit, offset by a $404,000 increase in income taxes directly associated with
the improved operating performance of the Company.


                                       10


<PAGE>   11


SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997

       For the six months ended June 30, 1998, the Company's net operating
revenue was $35,779,000 compared with $31,023,000 for the six months ended June
30, 1997, an increase of $4,756,000 or 15%. Approximately $2,245,000 or 47% of
the increase was attributable to revenue generated by stations which were not
owned or operated by the Company for the comparable period in 1997. The balance
of the increase in net operating revenue represented an 8% increase in stations
owned and operated by the Company for the entire comparable period, primarily as
a result of increased advertising rates at the majority of the Company's
stations.

       Station operating expense (i.e., programming, technical, selling and
station general and administrative expenses) increased by $2,709,000 or 13% to
$23,948,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1998, compared with $21,239,000
for the six months ended June 30, 1997. Of the total increase, approximately
$1,860,000 or 69% was the result of the impact of the operation of stations
which were not owned or operated by the Company for the comparable period in
1997. The remaining balance of the increase in station operating expense of
$849,000 represents a total increase of 4% in stations owned and operated by the
Company for the comparable period in 1997.

       Operating profit increased by $1,232,000 or 24% to $6,403,000 for the six
months ended June 30, 1998, compared with $5,171,000 for the six months ended
June 30, 1997. The improvement was primarily the result of the $4,756,000
increase in net operating revenue, offset by the $2,709,000 increase in station
operating expense, a $435,000 or 16% increase in depreciation and amortization,
and a $380,000 or 20% increase in corporate general and administrative charges.
The increase in depreciation and amortization expense was principally the result
of the recent acquisitions. The increase in corporate general and administrative
charges was primarily attributable to deferred compensation charges of $140,000
relating to an accrued bonus to the Company's principal stockholder, $50,000 in
non-recurring employee benefit related matters, and the remaining increase of
approximately $190,000 represents additional costs due to the growth of the
Company as a result of the Company's recent acquisitions.

       The Company generated net income in the amount of approximately
$2,270,000 ($0.18 per share) during the six months ended June 30, 1998, compared
with net income of $1,606,000 ($0.13 per share) for the six months ended June
30, 1997, an increase of approximately $664,000. The increase in net income was
principally the result of the $1,232,000 improvement in operating profit, offset
by a $582,000 increase in income taxes directly associated with the improved
operating performance of the Company.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

       The Company's policy is generally to repay its long-term debt with excess
cash on hand to reduce its financing costs. As of June 30, 1998, the Company had
$62,566,000 of long-term debt (including the current portion thereof)
outstanding and approximately $43,750,000 of unused borrowing capacity under the
Revolving Loan (as defined below).

       The Company has a credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") with
BankBoston, N.A.; The Bank of New York; Fleet Bank, N.A.; Mellon Bank, N.A.; and
Union Bank of California, N.A. (collectively, the "Lenders"), with two
facilities (the "Facilities"): a $54,000,000 senior secured term loan (the "Term
Loan") and a $56,000,000 senior secured reducing revolving/term loan facility
(the "Revolving Loan"). The Facilities mature June 30, 2004. The Company's


                                       11


<PAGE>   12


indebtedness under the Facilities is secured by a first priority lien on
substantially all the assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, by a pledge of
its subsidiaries' stock and by a guarantee of its subsidiaries.

       On May 18, 1998 the Company amended its credit agreement to provide that
the Revolving Loan's conversion to a five year term loan be extended to June 30,
1999 from June 30, 1998, and to extend the Facilities maturity date to June 30,
2004 from June 30, 2003. The amendment modified the quarterly payments which are
required on the Term Loan from a range of 2.5% to 5% to a range of 1.25% to 5%.
The amendment also modified the quarterly payments, which are required on the
outstanding amount of the Revolving Loan on September 30, 1999, from a range of
1.25% to 5% to a range of 2.5% to 7.5%.

       The Revolving Loan has a total commitment of $56,000,000, of which
$51,000,000 may be used for permitted acquisitions and related transaction
expenses and $5,000,000 may be used for working capital needs and stand-by
letters of credit. On June 30, 1999 the Revolving Loan will convert to a five
year term loan. The outstanding amount of the Term Loan is required to be
reduced quarterly in amounts ranging from 1.25% to 5% of the initial commitment
and the outstanding amount of the Revolving Loan is required to be reduced
quarterly in amounts ranging from 2.5% to 7.5% of the amount outstanding on
September 30, 1999. In addition, the Facilities may be further reduced by
specified percentages of Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the Credit Agreement)
based on leverage ratios.

       Interest rates under the Facilities are payable, at the Company's option,
at alternatives equal to LIBOR plus 1.125% to 1.75% or the prime rate plus 0% to
 .5%. The spread over LIBOR and the prime rate vary from time to time, depending
upon the Company's financial leverage. The Company also pays quarterly
commitment fees equal to 1/2% per annum on the aggregate unused portion of the
Revolving Loan.

       The Credit Agreement contains a number of financial covenants which,
among other things, require the Company to maintain specified financial ratios
and impose certain limitations on the Company with respect to investments,
additional indebtedness, dividends, distributions, guarantees, liens and
encumbrances.

       At June 30, 1998, the Company had an interest rate swap agreement with a
total notional amount of $32,000,000 that it uses to convert the variable
Eurodollar interest rate of a portion of its bank borrowings to a fixed interest
rate. The swap agreement was entered into to reduce the risk to the Company of
rising interest rates. In accordance with the terms of the swap agreement, dated
November 21, 1995, the Company pays 6.15% calculated on a $32,000,000 notional
amount. The Company receives LIBOR (5.7% at June 30, 1998) calculated on a
notional amount of $32,000,000. Net receipts or payments under the agreement are
recognized as an adjustment to interest expense. The swap agreement expires in
December 1999. As the LIBOR increases, interest payments received and the market
value of the swap position increase. Approximately $60,000 in additional
interest expense was recognized as a result of the interest rate swap agreement
for the six months ended June 30, 1998 and an aggregate amount of $414,000 in
additional interest expense has been recognized since the inception of the
agreement.

       During the years ended December 31, 1997, and 1996, the Company had net
cash flows from operating activities of $11,659,000 and $7,679,000,
respectively. During the six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, the Company
had net cash flows from operating activities of $4,860,000 and $4,277,000,
respectively. The Company believes that cash flow from operations will be
sufficient to meet quarterly debt service requirements for interest and
scheduled payments of principal under the Credit Agreement. If such cash flow is
not sufficient to meet such debt service requirements, the Company may be
required to sell additional equity securities, refinance its obligations or


                                       12


<PAGE>   13


dispose of one or more of its properties in order to make such scheduled
payments. There can be no assurance that the Company would be able to effect any
such transactions on favorable terms.

       On March 14, 1997, the Company acquired an FM radio station (KAZR-FM)
serving the Des Moines, Iowa market for approximately $2,700,000. The Company
began operating the radio station under the terms of a local market agreement on
August 1, 1996, which remained in effect until the acquisition.

       On April 17, 1997, the Company acquired an FM radio station (KLTI-FM)
serving the Des Moines, Iowa market for approximately $3,200,000. The Company
began operating the radio station under the terms of a local market agreement on
January 1, 1997, which remained in effect until the acquisition.

       On May 5, 1997, the Company acquired two AM and two FM radio stations
(WTAX-AM, WDBR-FM, WVAX-AM, and WYXY-FM) serving the Springfield, Illinois
market for approximately $6,000,000. The Company began operating the radio
stations under the terms of a local market agreement on July 1, 1996, which
remained in effect until the acquisition.

       On May 9, 1997, the Company acquired two FM radio stations (WFMR-FM and
WPNT-FM) serving the Milwaukee, Wisconsin market for approximately $5,000,000.

       On November 18, 1997, the Company acquired an FM radio station (WQLL-FM)
serving the Manchester, New Hampshire market for approximately $3,400,000. The
Company began operating the radio station under the terms of a local market
agreement on July 1, 1997, which remained in effect until the acquisition.

       On November 25,1997, the Company acquired a regional and state news and
sports information network (The Illinois Radio Network) for approximately
$1,750,000.

       The 1997 acquisitions were financed through funds generated from
operations and additional borrowings of $11,250,000 under the Revolving Loan.

       On March 30, 1998, the Company acquired a regional and state news and
sports information network (The Michigan Radio Network) for approximately
$1,100,000, including approximately $234,000 of the Company's Class A common
stock. The acquisition is subject to certain adjustments based on operating
performance levels, that could result in an additional acquisition amount of
$450,000 payable in shares of the Company's Class A common stock.

       On June 17, 1998 the Company acquired 50% in the outstanding stock of
Finn Midill, ehf. an Icelandic Corporation which owns six FM radio stations
serving Reykjavik, Iceland for approximately $1,100,000. Additionally, the
Company loaned approximately $570,000 to Finn Midill, ehf. which accrues
interest at 7.5% plus an inflationary index, and is to be repaid in June, 2001.
The investment is accounted for using the equity method. The company's equity in
the operating results of Finn Midill, ehf. since acquisition have not been
significant.

       The 1998 acquisitions and investment in Finn Midill, ehf. were financed
through additional borrowings of $3,500,000 under the Revolving Loan.

       The Company anticipates that any future acquisitions of radio and
television stations will be financed through funds generated from operations,
borrowings under the Revolving Loan, additional debt or equity financing, or a


                                       13


<PAGE>   14


combination thereof. However, there can be no assurances that any such financing
will be available.

       On August 10, 1998 the Company implemented a Stock Buy-Back Program (the
"Buy-Back Program") pursuant to which the Company intends to purchase, on the
open market, up to $2,000,000 of its Class A Common Stock. The Company
anticipates that any shares purchased under the Buy-Back Program will be
financed through funds generated from operations or borrowings under the
Revolving Loan.

       The Company's capital expenditures for the six months ended June 30, 1998
were approximately $2,190,000 ($1,274,000 in the comparable period in 1997). The
Company anticipates capital expenditures in 1998 to be approximately $3,000,000,
which it expects to finance through funds generated from operations.

IMPACT OF THE YEAR 2000

       Some of the Company's older computer programs were written using two
digits rather than four to define the applicable year. As a result, those
computer programs have time-sensitive software that recognize a date using "00"
as the year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could cause a system failure or
miscalculations causing disruptions of operations, including, among other
things, a temporary inability to process transactions, send invoices, or engage
in similar normal business activities.

       The Company has completed an assessment and will have to modify or
replace portions of its software so that its computer systems will function
properly with respect to dates in the year 2000 and thereafter. The total Year
2000 project cost is estimated at approximately $300,000, which includes the
cost of new software and hardware, most of which will be capitalized. The
project is estimated to be completed not later than December 31, 1998, which is
prior to any anticipated impact on its operating systems. The Company believes
that with modifications to existing software and conversions to new software,
the Year 2000 Issue will not pose significant operational problems for its
computer systems. However, if such modifications and conversions are not made,
or are not completed timely, the Year 2000 Issue could have a material impact on
the operations of the Company.

       The cost of the project and the date on which the Company believes it
will complete the Year 2000 modifications are based on management's best
estimates, which were derived utilizing numerous assumptions of future events,
including the continued availability of certain resources and other factors.
However, there can be no guarantee that these estimates will be achieved and
actual results could differ materially from those anticipated. Specific factors
that might cause such material differences include, but are not limited to, the
availability and cost of personnel trained in this area, the ability to locate
and correct all relevant computer codes, and similar uncertainties.

INFLATION

       The impact of inflation on the Company's operations has not been
significant to date. There can be no assurance that a high rate of inflation in
the future would not have an adverse effect on the Company's operations.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

       Statements contained in this Form 10-Q that are not historical facts are
forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, when used
in this Form 10-Q, words such as "believes," "anticipates," "expects," and
similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. The
Company cautions that a number of important factors could cause the Company's
actual results for 1998 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed in
any forward looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. Forward
looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties including, but
not limited to, the Company's financial leverage and debt service requirements,
dependence on key stations, U.S. and local economic conditions, the successful
integration of acquired stations, and regulatory matters. The Company cannot
assure that it will be able to anticipate or respond timely to changes in any of
the factors listed above, which could adversely affect the operating results in
one or more fiscal quarters. Results of operations in any past period should not
be considered, in and of itself, indicative of the results to be expected for
future periods. Fluctuations in operating results may also result in
fluctuations in the price of the Company's stock.

ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Not applicable


                                       14


<PAGE>   15



                           PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

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

          (a)  The Annual Meeting of Stockholders was held on May 11, 1998.

          (b)  Not applicable

          (c)  At the Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the stockholders voted on
               the following matters: (Does not reflect the five-for-four stock
               split effective May 29, 1998)

               (1) The six nominees for election as directors for the ensuing
                   year, and until their successors are elected and qualified,
                   received the following votes:

                   Name                        For                  Withheld
                   ----                        ---                  --------
                   Jonathan Firestone*       5,519,794                9,854
                   Joseph P. Misiewicz*      5,519,794                9,854
                   Edward K. Christian       6,728,304                9,854
                   Donald Alt                6,727,804               10,354
                   Kristin Allen             6,727,804               10,354
                   Gary Stevens              6,727,804               10,354
                   -------------------------------------------------
                   * Elected by the holders of Class A Common Stock.

               (2)  The proposal to ratify the selection by the Board of
                    Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors to
                    audit the Company's books and accounts for the fiscal year
                    ending December 31, 1998 was approved with 17,612,555 votes
                    cast for, 1,851 votes cast against, 342 abstentions and 0
                    broker non-votes.

          (d)  Not applicable.

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

     (a)  Exhibits
          --------

          4    Amendment No. 1 to Credit Agreement dated as of May 18, 1998 by
               and between Saga Communications, Inc. and BankBoston, N.A.; The
               Bank of New York; Fleet Bank, N.A.; Mellon Bank, N.A.; and Union
               Bank of California, N.A.

          27   Financial Data Schedule

     (b)  Reports on Form 8-K

          None


                                       15


<PAGE>   16


                                   SIGNATURES

       Pursuant to the requirements 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.

                                              SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.


Date:  August  14, 1998                       /s/ Samuel D. Bush
                                              -------------------------------
                                              Samuel D. Bush
                                              Vice President, Chief Financial
                                              Officer, and Treasurer
                                              (Principal Financial Officer)

Date:  August 14, 1998                        /s/ Catherine A. Bobinski
                                              -------------------------------
                                              Catherine A. Bobinski
                                              Corporate Controller and
                                              Chief Accounting Officer
                                              (Principal Accounting Officer)



                                       16


<PAGE>   1
                                                                     Exhibit 4


                               SAGA COMMUNICATIONS
                              AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
                               73 Kercheval Avenue
                       Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan 48236

                                                      Dated as of: May 18, 1998

BankBoston, N.A., Individually and
  as Agent and Collateral Trustee
100 Federal Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110

The Bank of New York, Individually
  and as Co-Agent
One Wall Street
New York, New York 10286

Mellon Bank, N.A.
One Mellon Center
500 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15258-0001

Fleet Bank, N.A.
1185 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036

Union Bank of California, N.A.
445 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, California 90071


                     RE: AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO CREDIT AGREEMENT

Ladies and Gentlemen:

           We refer to the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of
June 17, 1996 (as amended and in effect immediately prior to the date hereof,
the "CREDIT AGREEMENT"), among (a) Saga Communications, Inc., a Delaware
corporation (the "BORROWER"), (b) the Subsidiaries of the Borrower from time to
time party thereto (collectively, the "SUBSIDIARIES"), (c) the various financial
institutions that are now or hereafter become parties thereto as lenders (the
"LENDERS"), (d) BankBoston, N.A. (formerly known as The First National Bank of
Boston) ("BANKBOSTON"), a national banking association, as agent (the "AGENT")
for the Lenders, and (e) THE BANK OF 


<PAGE>   2


                                      -2-


NEW YORK, a banking corporation organized under the laws of the State of New
York, as co-agent for the Lenders (the "CO-AGENT").

           WHEREAS, the Borrower, the Lenders, the Agent and the Co-Agent have
agreed to modify certain terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement as
specifically set forth in this letter agreement (this "AMENDMENT");

           NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements contained
in the Credit Agreement and herein and for other good and valuable
consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the
parties hereto agree as follows:

           SECTION 1. CERTAIN TERMS. Capitalized terms used but not defined in
this Amendment have the meanings specified for such terms in the Credit
Agreement. Any reference herein to any agreement shall be deemed to be a
reference to such agreement as amended as of the date hereof and as further
amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

           SECTION 2.  AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT.

           (a) Section 1.1 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended as follows:

                     (i) The definition of "Conversion Date" is hereby amended
           by deleting the date "June 30, 1998" and substituting in place
           thereof the date "June 30, 1999"; and

                     (ii) The definition of "Maturity Date" is hereby amended by
           deleting the date "June 30, 2003" and substituting in place thereof
           the date "June 30, 2004".

           (b) Section 2.5 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended as follows:

                     (i) Section 2.5(a) of the Credit Agreement is hereby
           amended by (x) deleting from sub-clause (i)(A) thereof the date
           "September 17, 1996" and substituting in place thereof the date "June
           30, 1998" and (y) deleting the table set forth therein and replacing
           such table in its entirety with the following:

                            PERIOD               REDUCTION PERCENTAGE
                            ------               --------------------
                     06/30/98 - 12/31/98                       2.5%
                     01/01/99 - 12/31/99                      15.0%
                     01/01/00 - 12/31/00                      15.0%
                     01/01/01 - 12/31/01                      17.5%
                     01/01/02 - 12/31/02                      20.0%
                     01/01/03 - 12/31/03                      20.0%
                          03/31/04                             5.0%
                          06/30/04                      Term Loan A Matures


<PAGE>   3


                                      -3-


                     (ii) Section 2.5(b) of the Credit Agreement is hereby
           amended by (x) deleting at the end of the first sentence thereof the
           date "June 30, 1998" and substituting in place thereof the date
           "September 30, 1999" and (y) deleting the table set forth therein and
           replacing such table in its entirety with the following:

                            PERIOD             REDUCTION PERCENTAGE
                            ------             --------------------
                     01/01/98 - 06/30/99                         0%
                     07/01/99 - 12/31/99                      15.0%
                     01/01/00 - 12/31/00                      20.0%
                     01/01/01 - 12/31/01                      20.0%
                     01/01/02 - 12/31/02                      20.0%
                     01/01/03 - 12/31/03                      20.0%
                          03/31/04                             2.5%
                          06/30/04                      Term Loan B Matures

           SECTION 3. EFFECTIVENESS. This Amendment shall become effective upon
receipt by the Agent of duly executed counterparts of this Amendment, which,
when taken together, bear the authorized signatures of each of the parties
hereto.

           SECTION 4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Each of the Principal
Companies hereby represents and warrants to each Lender, the Agent, the Co-Agent
and the Collateral Trustee, on as of the date hereof, as follows:

                     (a) This Amendment has been duly executed and delivered by
           each of the Principal Companies party hereto. The execution, delivery
           and performance by each Principal Company of this Amendment has been
           duly authorized by proper corporate proceedings by each Principal
           Company, and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of
           each Principal Company, enforceable against such Principal Company in
           accordance with its terms.

                     (b) The execution, delivery and performance by each
           Principal Company of this Amendment does not and will not contravene
           any Contractual Obligation of such Principal Company or any
           applicable law, and does not and will not result in or require the
           creation or imposition of any Lien on any property of any Principal
           Company, other than Liens in favor of the Collateral Trustee.

                     (c) The representations and warranties of the Principal
           Companies contained in the Credit Agreement, the other Loan Documents
           or in any document or instrument delivered pursuant to or in
           connection with the Credit Agreement, the other Loan Documents or
           this Amendment was true as of the date as of which it was made, and
           no Default or Event of Default has occurred 


<PAGE>   4


                                      -4-


           and is continuing as of the date of this Amendment or would occur
           after giving effect to the transactions contemplated by this
           Amendment.

           SECTION 5. RATIFICATION, ETC. Except as expressly amended hereby, the
Credit Agreement, the other Loan Documents and all documents, instruments and
agreements related thereto are hereby ratified and confirmed in all respects and
shall continue in full force and effect. All references in the Credit Agreement
or such other Loan Documents or in any related agreement or instrument to the
Credit Agreement or such other Loan Documents shall hereafter refer to such
agreements as amended hereby, pursuant to the provisions of the Credit
Agreement.

           SECTION 6. NO IMPLIED WAIVER, ETC. Except as expressly provided
herein, nothing contained herein shall constitute a waiver of, impair or
otherwise affect any of the Obligations, any other obligations of the Principal
Companies or any right of the Agent, the Co-Agent, the Collateral Trustee or the
Lenders consequent thereon.

           SECTION 7. MISCELLANEOUS. This Amendment may be executed by the
parties hereto in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an
original and all of which shall constitute together but one and the same
agreement. THIS AMENDMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.


<PAGE>   5


                                      -5-


     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be
executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the day
and year first above written.

                                  Very truly yours,

                                  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                                  SAGA BROADCASTING CORP.
                                  FRANKLIN COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                                  TIDEWATER COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                                  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS OF ILLINOIS, INC.
                                  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS OF IOWA REAL ESTATE, INC.
                                  LAKEFRONT COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                                  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS OF IOWA, INC.
                                  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS OF NEW ENGLAND, INC.
                                  SAGA QUAD STATES COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                                  SAGA COMMUNICATIONS OF MICHIGAN, INC.

                                  By: /s/ Samuel Bush
                                     ------------------------
                                     Name:  Samuel Bush
                                     Title: Treasurer





<PAGE>   6


                                      -6-


Agreed and Accepted By :

BANKBOSTON, N.A., individually
  and as Agent

By: /s/ Lisa M. Pellow
   ---------------------------------
    Name:  Lisa M. Pellow
    Title: Director

THE BANK OF NEW YORK,
  individually and as Co-Agent

By: /s/ Vincent L. Pacilio
   --------------------------------
    Name:  Vincent L. Pacilio
    Title: Senior Vice President

MELLON BANK, N.A.

By: /s/ Paul F. Noel
   --------------------------------
    Name:  Paul F. Noel
    Title: Vice President

UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA, N.A.
By: /s/ Kristina M. Mouzakis
   --------------------------------
    Name:  Kristina M. Mouzakis
    Title: Assistant Vice President

FLEET BANK, N.A.

By: /s/ Russ J. Lopinto
   --------------------------------
    Name:  Russ J. Lopinto
    Title: Vice President

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<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<CURRENCY> U.S. DOLLARS
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1998
<PERIOD-END>                               JUN-30-1998
<EXCHANGE-RATE>                                      1
<CASH>                                           3,751
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   14,689
<ALLOWANCES>                                         0
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<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                21,175
<PP&E>                                          73,152
<DEPRECIATION>                                (38,281)
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 117,581
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           13,694
<BONDS>                                              0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           127
<OTHER-SE>                                      40,631
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   117,581
<SALES>                                         35,779
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                                35,779
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                   23,948
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                 5,521
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               2,283
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                  4,027
<INCOME-TAX>                                     1,757
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              2,270
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     2,270
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .18
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .18
        

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