UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

SCHEDULE 14A

 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities

Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No.)

 

Filed by the Registrant  x

 

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant  ¨

 

Check the appropriate box:

 

¨      Preliminary Proxy Statement

¨     Confidential, for Use of the Commission

Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

x     Definitive Proxy Statement

¨      Definitive Additional Materials

¨      Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule §240.14a-12

 

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATIONMEDIA GROUP, INC.


(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

 


(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

 

xxNo fee required.

 

¨¨Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.

 

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3.Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

  

4.Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:

 

5.Total fee paid:

SEC 1913 (04-05)

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contained in this form are not required to respond unless the

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¨¨Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

 

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LOGO

4880 Santa Rosa Road

Camarillo, CA 93012

(805) 987-0400

May 4, 2012

April 9, 2015

Dear Stockholder:

You are cordially invited to attend the 20122015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) of Salem Communications CorporationMedia Group, Inc. (“Salem”). The Annual Meeting is scheduled to be held on Friday, June 22, 2012,Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at Salem’s corporate offices, which are located at 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California, at 9:30 a.m. P.D.T. As described in the accompanying Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement, the agenda for the Annual Meeting includes:

 

1.

The election of the eightseven (7) persons named in the accompanying proxy statement to the boardBoard of directorsDirectors to serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified.

 

2.

Proposal to increase the numberThe ratification of shares reserved for issuance under the amended and restated 1999 stock incentive plan.

3.

Proposal to ratify the appointment of SingerLewak LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

 

4.3.

To transact such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.

The boardBoard of directorsDirectors recommends that you vote FOR the election of the slate of director nominees and FORthe proposal to increase the numberratification of shares reserved for issuance under the amended and restated 1999 stock incentive plan andFORthe proposal to ratify the appointment of SingerLewak LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm. Please refer to the Proxy Statement for detailed information on the proposals.above proposal. Directors and executive officers of Salem will be present at the Annual Meeting to respond to questions that our stockholders may have regarding the business to be transacted.

This year,

As we have done in prior years, we are using the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rule that permits companies to furnish their proxy materials over the Internet. InsteadUnless you have opted out of receiving Notices, instead of mailing you a paper copy of the proxy materials, we will be mailing to you a Notice containing instructions on how to access our proxy materials over the Internet. If you received a Notice,Therefore, a proxy card was not sent to you and you may vote only by telephone or via the Internet if you do not attend the Annual Meeting.

We urge you to vote your proxy as soon as possible. Your vote is very important, regardless of the number of shares you own. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting in person, we urge you to vote your shares on-line,online, by telephone or, if you have chosen to receive paper copies of the proxy materials by mail, by signing, dating and returning the enclosed proxy card promptly in the accompanying postage prepaid envelope. You may, of course, attend the Annual Meeting and vote in person even if you have previously returned your proxy card. The approximate date on which this Proxy Statement and the enclosed proxy card and Notice are first being sent or made available to stockholders is May 4, 2012.April 9, 2015. On behalf of the boardBoard of directorsDirectors and all of the employees of Salem, we wish to thank you for your support.

 

Sincerely yours,

 

STUART W. EPPERSON

Chairman of the Board

 

EDWARD G. ATSINGER III

Chief Executive Officer

 Sincerely yours,
LOGO

STUART W. EPPERSON

Chairman of the Board

LOGO

EDWARD G. ATSINGER III

Chief Executive Officer

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to Be Held on

June 22, 2012:May 19, 2015: Our proxy statementProxy Statement for the 20122015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Annual Report on Form 10-K for

the year ended December 31, 20112014 are available atwww.proxyvote.com.

If you have any questions concerning the Proxy Statement or the accompanying proxy card, or if you need any help in

voting your shares, please telephone Christopher J. Henderson of Salem at (805) 987-0400.

PLEASE VOTE YOUR SHARES

ON-LINE,ONLINE, BY TELEPHONE OR BY

SIGNING, DATING AND RETURNING

THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD TODAY.


LOGO

4880 Santa Rosa Road

Camarillo, CA 93012

(805) 987-0400

 

 

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held on June 22, 2012May 19, 2015

 

 

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 20122015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) of Salem Communications CorporationMedia Group, Inc. (“Salem”) will be held on Friday, June 22, 2012Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at 9:30 a.m. P.D.T. at Salem’s corporate offices which are located at 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California, subject to adjournment or postponement by the boardBoard of directors,Directors, for the following purposes:

 

1.

The election of the eightseven (7) persons named in the accompanying proxy statement to the boardBoard of directorsDirectors to serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified; and

qualified.

 

2.

Proposal to increase the numberThe ratification of shares reserved for issuance under the amended and restated 1999 stock incentive plan.

3.

Proposal to ratify the appointment of SingerLewak LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

 

4.3.

To transact such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.

Only holders of record of Salem’s Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share, on April 24, 2012,March 23, 2015, the record date, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting and any adjournments or postponements thereof. A list of such stockholders will be available for examination by any stockholder at the time and place of the Annual Meeting.

Holders of a majority of the voting power of the outstanding shares of the Class A common stock and of the Class B common stock must be present in person or represented by proxy in order for the Annual Meeting to be held. Therefore, we urge you to review the accompanying proxy card and either vote by (a) Internet or by telephone as instructed in this proxy statement,Proxy Statement, or (b) if you have opted out of receiving Notices, by signing, dating and returning your completed proxy in the enclosed postage prepaid envelope whether or not you expect to attend the Annual Meeting in person. If you received only the Notice of how to access the proxy statement via the Internet, a proxy card was not sent to you, and you may vote only via the Internet if you do not attend the Annual Meeting or request that a proxy card be mailed to you. If you attend the Annual Meeting and wish to vote your shares personally, you may do so by validly revoking your proxy as described below.

Prior to the voting thereof, a proxy may be revoked by the person executing such proxy by: (i) filing with the Secretary of Salem prior to the commencement of the Annual Meeting, either a duly executed written notice dated subsequent to such proxy revoking the same or a duly executed proxy bearing a later date, or (ii) attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person.

 

By order of the boardBoard of directors,Directors,
LOGO 
CHRISTOPHER J. HENDERSON
Secretary

Camarillo, California

May 4, 2012April 9, 2015

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to

Be Held on June 22, 2012:May 19, 2015: Our proxy statementProxy Statement for the 20122015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Annual

Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011,2014, are available at

www.proxyvote.com

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT.

TO VOTE YOUR SHARES, PLEASE VOTE

ONLINE, BY TELEPHONE OR BY

SIGNING AND DATING THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD

AND MAILING IT PROMPTLY

IN THE ENCLOSED RETURN ENVELOPE.


 

SALEM MEDIA GROUP, INC.

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

4880 Santa Rosa Road

Camarillo, CA 93012

(805) 987-0400

 

 

PROXY STATEMENT

ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held on June 22, 2012

May 19, 2015


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 Page No.

INTRODUCTION

1

INFORMATION REGARDING VOTING AT THE ANNUAL MEETING

1

General

1

Record Date, Quorum and Voting

1

Electronic Access to Proxy Materials

2

Solicitation

2
Householding3

Householding

3

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

4

Board of Directors

4

Board Composition

4

Director Independence and Executive Sessions

78

Committees of the Board of Directors

8

Audit Committee

8

Compensation Committee

9

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

9

Board Leadership Structure

1011

Board’s Role in Risk Oversight

11

Director Attendance at Board Meetings and 20112014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

11

Communications Between Stockholders and the Board

11

Financial Code of Conduct

1112

Executive Officers

12

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS

14

General Discussion

14
Named Executive Officer Compensation14
Incentive (Bonus) Awards Earned in 201415
Long-Term Executive Compensation15
Perquisites and Benefits16
Other Benefits17
Severance and Change-in-Control Benefits17
Tax Deductibility of Executive Compensation17
Security Ownership Report/Guidelines17
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT18
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION19
Summary Compensation Table

1419

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

1621

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

22
The Company’s Nonqualified Deferred Compensation401(k) Plan

1923

Material Terms of NEO Employment Agreements Providing For PaymentPotential Payments to NEOsthe Company’s Named Executive Officers upon Termination or Change in Control

1923

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

2026

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

2127

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

2228

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

2430

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

2632

Leases with Principal Stockholders

2632

Terminated Affiliate Lines of Credit with Principal Stockholders

2633

Radio Stations Owned by the Eppersons

2733

Radio Stations Owned by Mr. Hinz

2734

Truth For Life—Mr. Hinz, Mr. Riddle and Ms. Weinberg

27

Split-Dollar Life Insurance

2834

Transportation Services Supplied by Atsinger Aviation

2834

THE COMPANY’S RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

2935

Principal Accountant Fees And Services

2935

Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policies And Procedures

2935

PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

3036

Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

3036

PROPOSAL 2—PROPOSAL TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SHARES RESERVED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER THE AMENDED AND RESTATED 1999 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

31

General

31

Interests of Certain Persons in Matters to be Acted Upon

31

Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

31

Summary of the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan

31

Plan Benefits

38

PROPOSAL 3—PROPOSAL TO RATIFY THE APPOINTMENTAPPOINMENT OF SINGERLEWAK LLP AS THE COMPANY’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

3937

Reasons for the Proposal

39

i


Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

3937

STOCKHOLDERS’ PROPOSALS FOR 20132015 PROXY STATEMENT

4038

OTHER MATTERS

4038

SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

4038

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

39

 41

APPENDIX A—1999 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN (AS AMENDED AND RESTATED THROUGH JUNE 22, 2012)

 A-1

 

iiINTRODUCTION


INTRODUCTION

This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation by the boardBoard of directorsDirectors (the “board”“Board” or the “board“Board of directors”Directors”) of Salem Communications Corporation,Media Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the(“Salem” or the “Company”), of proxies for use at the 20122015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company (the “Annual Meeting”) scheduled to be held at the time and place and for the purposes set forth in the accompanying Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

INFORMATION REGARDING VOTING AT THE ANNUAL MEETING

General

At the Annual Meeting, the stockholders of the Company are being asked to consider and to vote upon the following proposals:proposals

 

Proposal 1

The election of the eight directorsseven (7) Directors named in this Proxy Statement to serve until the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in the year 20132016 or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified.

For information regarding this proposal, see the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS.”

 

Proposal 2

Proposal to increase

The ratification of the numberappointment of shares reserved for issuance underSingerLewak LLP as the amended and restated 1999 stock incentive plan.

company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

For information regarding this proposal, see the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “PROPOSAL 2—PROPOSAL TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SHARES RESERVED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER THE AMENDED AND RESTATED 1999 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN.”

Proposal 3

Proposal to ratify the appointment of SingerLewak LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

For information regarding this proposal, see the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “PROPOSAL 3—PROPOSAL TO RATIFY THE APPOINTMENTAPPOINMENT OF SINGERLEWAK LLP AS THE COMPANY’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM.”

Shares represented by properly executed proxies received by the Company will be voted at the Annual Meeting in the manner specified therein or, if no instructions are marked on the enclosed proxy card, FOR eachin accordance with the recommendation of the director nominees identifiedBoard of Directors on such proxy card for such directors, andFOReach of Proposals 2 and 3 as the holder of such shares is entitled to vote.all matters presented in this Proxy Statement. Although management does not know of any matter other than the proposalsproposal described above to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting, unless contrary instructions are given, shares represented by valid proxies will be voted by the persons named on the accompanying proxy card in accordance with their respective best judgment in respect of any other matters that may properly be presented for a vote at the Annual Meeting.

Execution of a proxy will not in any way affect a stockholder’s right to attend the Annual Meeting and vote in person, and any person giving a proxy has the right to revoke it at any time before it is exercised by: (a) filing with the Secretary of Salem prior to the commencement of the Annual Meeting, either a duly executed written notice dated subsequent to such proxy revoking the same or a duly executed proxy bearing a later date, or (b) attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person.

The mailing address of the principal executive offices of the Company is 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California 93012, and its telephone number is (805) 987-0400.

Record Date, Quorum and Voting

Only stockholders of record on April 24, 2012March 23, 2015 (the “Record Date”) will be entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting. There were outstanding on the Record Date 18,761,93119,836,855 shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Class A common stock”), and 5,553,696 shares of Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Class B common stock”) (the Class A common stock and the Class B common stock are collectively referred to as the “common stock”). Each share of outstanding Class A common stock is entitled to one (1) vote on each matter to be voted on at the Annual Meeting and

each share of outstanding Class B common stock is entitled to ten (10) votes on each matter to be voted on at the Annual Meeting, except that, as provided in the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the holders of Class A common stock shall be entitled to vote as a class, exclusive of the holders of the Class B common stock, to elect two (2) “Independent Directors.” The two (2) Independent Directors shall be elected by a majority of the votes of the shares of Class A common stock present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote on the election of the Independent Directors; the remaining six directorsfive (5) Directors will be elected by a majority of the votes of the shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote on the election of such directors.Directors. For information regarding the election of the Independent Directors, see the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “PROPOSAL 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS.”

The presence in person or representation by proxy of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the common stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote is necessary to constitute a quorum at the Annual Meeting. In the event there are not sufficient shares for a quorum at the time of the Annual Meeting, the Annual Meeting may be adjourned in order to permit the further solicitation of proxies.

Only votes cast in person at the Annual Meeting or received by proxy before the beginning of the Annual Meeting will be counted. Giving us your proxy means you authorize usthe proxy holders to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting in the manner you direct. If your shares are held in your name, you can vote by proxy in three (3) convenient ways as follows:

 

•  On-Line Voting:Go to http://www.proxyvote.com and follow the instructions
•  By Telephone:Call toll-free 1-800-690-6903 and follow the instructions
•  By Mail:Complete, sign, date and return your proxy card in the enclosed envelope

Telephone and Internet voting facilities for stockholders of record will be available 24 hours a day and will close at 11:59 p.m. on June 21, 2012.May 18, 2015.

Under Delaware law and the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, abstentions and broker non-votes are counted for the purpose of determining the presence or absence of a quorum for the transaction of business. With regard to the election of directors,Proposal 1, votes may be cast in favor of or against any particular director nominee. With regard to ProposalsProposal 2, and 3, votes may be cast in favor of or against the respective proposal. AnyProposals 1, 2 and any other stockholder proposals that properly come before the Annual Meeting require, in general, the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of the shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. For Proposals 1 2 and 3,2, abstentions will be counted in tabulations of the votes cast on a proposal and will have the same effect as a vote against the proposal. For each proposal, whereas broker non-votes will not be counted for purposes of determining whether the proposal has been approved. If you hold shares of our common stock through a broker, bank or other nominee, then you hold shares in street name. Thus, you must instruct the broker, bank or other nominee as to how to vote your shares. Under the rules of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), if you do not provide such instructions, the firm that holds your shares will have discretionary authority to vote your shares with respect to “routine” matters. Pursuant to NYSE rules, ProposalsProposal 1 and 2 areis not considered a “routine” matters. Thus,matter; thus, your broker will not have discretionary authority to vote your shares in connection with ProposalsProposal 1 and 2 if you do not provide it with instructions.

Electronic Access to Proxy Materials

Pursuant to applicable United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules, the Company is making this proxy statementProxy Statement and its Annual Report on Form 10-K available to its stockholders electronically via the Internet at www.proxyvote.com. On or about May 4, 2012,April 9, 2015, we will mail to stockholders a Notice containing instructions on how to access this proxy statementProxy Statement along with our Annual Report on Form 10-K as well as instructions on how to vote online. The Notice also instructs you on how you may submit your proxy vote securely over the Internet or by telephone. YouIf you received a Notice, you will not automatically receive a printed copy of the proxy statementProxy Statement and annual report.Annual Report. If you would like to receive a printed copy of our proxy materials, you should follow the instructions for requesting such materials as set forth in the Notice.

Solicitation

The cost of preparing, assembling and sending the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders, this Proxy Statement and the enclosed proxy card will be paid by the Company. Following the delivery of this Proxy Statement, directors, officersDirectors, Officers and other employees of the Company may solicit proxies by mail, telephone, facsimile or other electronic means or by personal interview. Such persons will receive no additional compensation for such services. Brokerage houses and other nominees, fiduciaries and custodians nominally holding shares of Class A common stock of record will be requested to forward proxy soliciting material to the beneficial owners of such shares and will be reimbursed by the Company for their reasonable charges and expenses in connection therewith.

Householding

With regard to the delivery of Annual Reports and Proxy Statements, under certain circumstances the SEC permits a single set of such documents or, where applicable, one Notice, to be sent to any household at which two or more stockholders reside if they appear to be members of the same family. Each stockholder, however, still receives a separate proxy card. This procedure, known as “householding,” reduces the amount of duplicate information received at a household and reduces delivery and printing costs as well. A number of banks, brokers and other firms have instituted householding and have previously sent a notice to that effect to certain of the Company’s stockholders whose shares are registered in the name of such bank, broker or other firm. As a result, unless the stockholders receiving such notice gave contrary instructions, only one Annual Report and/or Proxy Statement, as applicable, will be delivered to an address at which two (2) or more stockholders reside. If any stockholder residing at such an address wishes to receive a separate Annual Report or Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting or for future stockholder meetings, such stockholder should telephone toll-free 1-800-579-1639, or write to Salem Communications CorporationMedia Group, Inc. c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717. A separate set of proxy materials relating to the Annual Meeting will be sent promptly following receipt of your request. In addition, if any stockholder who previously consented to householding desires to receive a separate copy of a Proxy Statement or Annual Report, as applicable, for each stockholder at his or her same address, such stockholder should contact his or her bank, broker or other firm in whose name the shares are registered or contact the Company at the address or telephone number listed on page 1 of this Proxy Statement. Similarly, a stockholder may use any of these methods if such stockholder is receiving multiple copies of a Proxy Statement or Annual Report and would prefer to receive a single copy in the future.

3

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Board of Directors

The boardBoard of directorsDirectors presently consists of seven members and(7) members. Mr. Davenport, an incumbent Board member, has decided not to stand for re-election to the Board at the upcoming 2015 Annual Meeting. Director nominee Eric H. Halvorson will be increased to eight members in connection withstanding for election at the election of directors at the2015 Annual Meeting. The following table sets forth certain information as of April 24, 2012,March 23, 2015, except where otherwise indicated, with respect to the directorsDirectors of the Company. Each of the directorsDirectors of the Company serves a one-yearone (1) year term and all directorsDirectors are subject to re-election at each annual meeting of stockholders.

 

Name of Director

    Age    First
Became
Company
Director
  

Position(s) Held with the Company

AgeFirst
Became
Company
Director
 Position(s) Held with the Company

Stuart W. Epperson

  75  1986  Chairman of the Board 78 1986 Chairman of the Board

Edward G. Atsinger III

  72  1986  CEO and Director 75 1986 Chief Executive Officer and Director

David Davenport

  61  2001  Director

Roland S. Hinz

  73  1997  Director 75 1997 Director

Richard A. Riddle

  67  1997  Director 70 1997 Director
David Davenport 64 2001 Director

Jonathan Venverloh

  40  2011  Director 43 2011 Director

Dennis M. Weinberg

  59  2005  Director

Frank Wright

  59  N/A  Director Nominee
James Keet Lewis 61 2014 Director
Eric H. Halvorson 65 N/A Director nominee

Board Composition

As a national media presence focused on the Christian and family themedfamily-themed audience and the conservative news talk audience, our business involves an operational structure that operates on a broad scale and encompasses research, technical developments, and marketing functions in a context characterized by rapidly evolving technologies, exposure to business cycles, and significant competition. The Company’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for reviewing and assessing with the boardBoard the appropriate skills, experience, and background sought of boardBoard members in the context of our business and the then-current membership on the board.Board. This assessment of boardBoard skills, experience, and background includes numerous diverse factors, such as understanding of and experience in radio and new media;media, understanding of our audience and the ministries that serve them;serves it, and finance, marketing and advertising experience. The priorities and emphasis of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and of the boardBoard with regard to these factors may change from time to time to take into account changes in the Company’s business and other trends, as well as the portfolio of skills and experience of current and prospective boardBoard members. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the boardBoard will review and assess the continued relevance of and emphasis on these factors as part of the board’sBoard’s annual self-assessment process and in connection with candidate searches to determine if they are effective in helping to satisfy the board’sBoard’s goal of creating and sustaining a boardBoard that can appropriately support and oversee the Company’s activities.

We believe that it is important for our boardBoard members to have diverse backgrounds, skills and experiences and seek such diversity in nominating director candidates. One goal of this diversity of backgrounds, skills and experience is to assist the boardBoard in its oversight concerning our business and operations. We consider the key skills, qualifications and experience listed below as important for our directorsDirectors to collectively have in light of our current business and structure. The directors’Directors’ biographies provided later in this Proxy Statement note each director’s relevant skills, qualifications and experience. As part of an annual effectiveness review, the boardBoard evaluates its composition to ensure that the boardBoard as a whole sufficiently represents a diverse set of relevant background, skillbackgrounds, skills and experience.

 

Senior Executive Leadership Experience. Directors who have served in senior executive leadership positions are important to us, as they bring experience and perspective in analyzing, shaping, and overseeing the execution of important operational and policy issues at a senior level. The insights and guidance of these directors,Directors, particularly those directorsDirectors who have experience at businesses or organizations that operated on a global scale, faced significant competition, and/or involved technology or other rapidly evolving business models enhance our board’sBoard’s ability to assess and respond to situations faced by the Company.

Public Company Board Experience. Directors who have served on other public company boards can offer insights with regard to the dynamics and operation of a board of directors;directors, corporate governance matters including(including experience with respect to the relationship of a boardBoard to the CEO and other management personnel;personnel), the importance of particular public company agenda and oversight matters;management matters and oversight of a changing mix of strategic, operational, and compliance-related matters.

Business Development Experience. Directors who have a background in business development can provide insight into developing and implementing strategies for growing our business through acquisitions.

 

Financial Experience. Knowledge of accounting and financial reporting processes, as well as the financial markets, financing and funding operations, is important because it assists our directorsDirectors in understanding and overseeing the Company’s financial reporting, internal controls, capital structure, financing and investing activities.

 

Relevant Experience with our Audiences and Programmers. Directors who have relevant experience with the Christian and family themedfamily-themed audience and the conservative news talk audience can provide insight and expertise in assisting the board’sBoard’s implementation of Company strategies for growing our business by providing an engaging experience with our radio stations, Internet sites and other services. Directors with experience and knowledge of the business of our programmers and content providers can also assist the boardBoard with analyzing, reviewing and approving mutually beneficial and significant relationships between these content providers and the Company.

 

Legal Expertise. Directors who have legal education and experience can assist the boardBoard in fulfilling its responsibilities related to the oversight of the Company’s legal and regulatory compliance and engagement with regulatory authorities.

 

Radio Experience. Knowledge of the radio industry and the challenges and opportunities of radio broadcasting companies is vitally important because it enables our directorsDirectors to understand and oversee many aspects of the Company’s operations, goals and strategies.

 

New Media Experience. As the radio industry is faced with challenges and opportunities created by the emergence of “new media”, the boardBoard benefits from including directorsDirectors who have relevant experience with these new and emerging means of distributing programming and enhancing our audience’s ability to access information provided by the Company.

Company via different media outlets.

Set forth below is certain information concerning the principal occupation and business experience of each of the directorsDirectors during the past five (5) years and other relevant experience.

Stuart W. Epperson

Mr. Epperson has been Chairman of the Board of the Company since its inception. He is also a directorDirector of Salem Communications Holding Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. Mr. Epperson has been engaged in the ownership and operation of radio stations since 1961. Mr. Epperson has been a member of the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of the National Religious Broadcasters for a number of years; heyears and was re-elected to a three-yearthree (3) year term on that boardBoard in February 2010.2013. Mr. Epperson is married to Nancy A. Epperson, who is Mr. Atsinger’s sister.

As co-founder of the Company, Mr. Epperson provides the boardBoard with extensive and valuable radio and senior executive leadership experience, business development experience and insight into the background and vision of the Company. His past political experience as well as his continuing operation of radio stations for related businesses provide the boardBoard with valuable relevant experience with the needs and goals of our audience and our programmers and enable Mr. Epperson to contribute to the boardBoard by assessing the many and varied strategic opportunities presented to the Company.

Edward G. Atsinger III

Mr. Atsinger has been Chief Executive Officer, a director of the Company and a directorDirector of each of the Company’s subsidiaries since their inception. He was President of Salem from its inception through June 2007. He has been engaged in the ownership and operation of radio stations since 1969. Mr. Atsinger has been a member of the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of the National Religious Broadcasters for a number of years; heyears and was re-elected to a three-yearthree (3) year term on that boardBoard in February 2010.2013. He haswas also been a member of the National Association of Broadcasters Radio Board since 2008.from 2008 through 2014. Mr. Atsinger has been a member of the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of Oaks Christian School in Westlake Village, California since 1999. Mr. Atsinger is the brother-in-law of Mr. Epperson.

As co-founder of the Company, Mr. Atsinger provides the boardBoard with extensive and valuable radio and senior executive leadership experience, business development experience and insight into the background and vision of the Company. His longstanding association with and service on many broadcasting-related boardsBoards of directorsDirectors over the years also provides valuable radio and new media experience as well as an understanding of the broader needs and challenges facing our industry.

David Davenport

Mr. Davenport has been a director of the Company since November 2001. Mr. Davenport is Counselor to the Director of the Hoover Institution (since 2008) and a Research Fellow (since 2001). He was a Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at Pepperdine University from 2003 to 2008. Mr. Davenport was the Chief Executive Officer of Starwire Corporation, a software service company formerly known as Christianity.com, from June 2000 to May 2001. Mr. Davenport served as President of Pepperdine University from 1985 to 2000 and from 1980 through 1985 he served as a Professor of Law, General Counsel, and Executive Vice President of the University. Mr. Davenport currently serves on the boards of Forest Lawn Memorial Parks Association and California Forward. Mr. Davenport also served on the board of directors of Ameron International Corporation from December 2002 through March 2011.

As a scholar, educator, executive and attorney, Mr. Davenport brings to the board valuable senior executive leadership experience, new media experience, public company board experience, and legal expertise.

Roland S. Hinz

Mr. Hinz has been a directorDirector of the Company since September 1997. Mr. Hinz has been the owner, President and Editor-in-Chief of Hi-Torque Publishing Company, a publisher of magazines covering the motorcycling and biking industries, since 1982. Mr. Hinz is also the managing member of Hi-Favor Broadcasting, LLC, the licensee of radio stations KLTX-AM, Long Beach, California, and KEZY-AM, San Bernardino, California (which were acquired from the Company in August 2000 and December 2001, respectively), and radio station KSDO-AM, San Diego, California. Mr. Hinz also serves on the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of the Association for Community Education, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation operating Spanish Christian radio stations in California. Mr. Hinz also served on the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of Truth for Life, a non-profit organization that is a customer of the Company, from 2000 through September 2010.

Mr. Hinz’s qualifications to serve on the boardBoard include his extensive business experience, skills and acumen reflected in his senior executive management experience as President and Editor-in-Chief of a magazine publishing company. He also has served as a boardBoard member for several not-for-profit organizations, enabling him to bring valuable cross-boardcross-Board experience as well as relevant experience with our audience and programmers.

Richard A. Riddle

Mr. Riddle has been a directorDirector of the Company since September 1997. Mr. Riddle is an independent businessman specializing in providing financial assistance and consulting to individuals and manufacturing companies. He was President and majority stockholder of I. L.I.L. Walker Company from 1988 to 1997 when that company was sold. He also was Chief Operating Officer and a major stockholder of Richter Manufacturing Corp. from 1970 to 1987. In October 2010, Mr. Riddle joined the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of Truth for Life, a non-profit organization that is a customer of the Company. Additionally, in 2010, Mr. Riddle joined the Board of Directors of Know the Truth, a non-profit organization that is also a customer of the Company.

Having an extensive career in financial matters, Mr. Riddle brings to the boardBoard significant financial experience enabling him to assess and provide oversight concerning business and financial matters addressed by the Company.

David Davenport

Mr. Davenport has been a Director of the Company since November 2001. Mr. Davenport is not standing for re-election as a director of the Company at the Annual Meeting. Mr. Davenport is a Research Fellow (since 2001) and Director of Washington D.C. Programs (since 2014) at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, where he also previously served as Counselor to the Director. He was a Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at Pepperdine University from 2003 to 2008. Mr. Davenport was the Chief Executive Officer of Starwire Corporation, a software service company formerly known as Christianity.com, from June 2000 to May 2001. Mr. Davenport served as President of Pepperdine University from 1985 to 2000 and from 1980 through 1985 he served as a Professor of Law, General Counsel, and Executive Vice President of the University. Mr. Davenport currently serves on the Board of Directors of Forest Lawn Memorial Parks Association. Mr. Davenport also served on the Board of Directors of Ameron International Corporation from December 2002 through March 2011.

As a scholar, educator, executive and attorney, Mr. Davenport brings to the Board valuable senior executive leadership experience, new media experience, public company Board experience and legal expertise.

6

Jonathan Venverloh

Mr. Venverloh has been a directorDirector of the Company since September 2011. Mr. Venverloh has worked in digital media and advertising since 1994, including more than tentwelve (12) years at Google and stints at a major news website and global advertising agencies. Mr. Venverloh hascurrently serves as Director, Global Sales within Google Shopping, and from 2000-2010 he served as Senior Manager at Google since October 2011. He was previously at Google from 2000-2010 and he served asGoogle’s Head of Distribution Partnerships and launched Google’s Enterprise Division. From 1997 to 1999, Mr. Venverloh led Weather.com’s sales efforts for the West Coast. From 1994 to 1996 he worked at global ad agencies Saatchi & Saatchi and DDB Needham. Mr. Venverloh has also served as an advisor to digital media startups and served on the boardBoards of directorsDirectors of several non-profits. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising from Southern Methodist University and a Master’s Degree in Management from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Mr. Venverloh brings to the boardBoard valuable senior executive leadership experience and extensive digital media and advertising expertise. With senior management experience at a large public Internet company as well as service as an advisor to smaller digital media startups, Mr. Venverloh is well-positioned to advise the boardBoard on a wide cross-section of new media matters.

Dennis M. Weinberg

James Keet Lewis

Mr. WeinbergLewis has been directora Director of the Company since 2005.May 2014. Mr. WeinbergLewis is co-owner of Lewis Group International, which has since 1990 been involved in several new product introductions in the health and wellness industry. Mr. Lewis was onealso the founder and president of Cool Pool Solutions, Inc. and is co-developer of a patent on a swimming pool maintenance product, The Skimmer Basket Buddy. Most recently, Mr. Lewis has focused a significant amount of his consulting time on international energy projects. Mr. Lewis serves or has served on various political, ministry and charity boards, including the founding directors for WellPoint, a health benefits company. From February 2002 to May 2006,Christian Film and Television Commission, Liberty Institute, The Criswell College, Heritage Alliance, Heritage Alliance PAC, Texas Life Connections, Goodwill of Dallas, The Heidi Group, World Link Ministries, Dallas Council For Life and The Caring Peoples Network. Mr. Weinberg served as President and Chief Executive Officer for ARCUS Enterprises, a WellPoint business development subsidiary. Previously, Mr. Weinberg served for nearly 20 years in a variety of CEO, Group President, and Executive Vice President positions with WellPoint and its various affiliates. Prior to WellPoint, Mr. Weinberg held a variety of business consulting positions with the accounting firm of Touche-Ross and Company (currently Deloitte & Touche) in Chicago. Before that, he was general manager for the CTX Products Division of Pet, Inc. at the time, an I.C. Industries Company in St. Louis, Missouri, a designer and manufacturer of commercial computerized processing equipment. Mr. Weinberg alsoLewis currently serves as a board member and chairmantrustee of the audit committee for Dole Food Company (NYSE: DOLE) since November 2009. Mr. Weinberg serves as a board member of Renal Ventures Management and as a board member of Applied Merchants Systems,Houston Christian Broadcasting, Inc. Mr. Weinberg is a General Member of the development companies of FRWII, LLC, SkyView Development, LLC and KNIC, LLC., which operates 18 non-commercial Christian radio stations, including its flagship station KHCB, in Houston, Texas. He is also currently on the co-founderBoard of CornerstoneBott Radio Network Associates, Life Skills for American Families, and is an advisor for the Pacific Justice Institute.in Kansas City, MO. Additionally, since 2009, Mr. WeinbergLewis has served on the boardBoard of directors of TruthHope for Life from November 2003 to September 2007. Truth for Life isthe Heart Ministries, a non-profit organization that is a customer of the Company. Mr. Lewis received his B.B.A. in 1977 from the University of Texas.

Mr. Weinberg has significant executiveLewis brings to the Board valuable leadership experience and relevant experience with our audience and programmers by virtue of his Board service on several political, charitable and ministry organizations.

Eric H. Halvorson

Mr. Halvorson has been an Attorney at the strategic, financial,Law Office of Eric H. Halvorson since 2010 and operational requirementsfocuses his practice on business law and estate planning. Mr. Halvorson is also of large researchcounsel to Stowell, Zeilenga, Ruth, Vaughn, and manufacturing-oriented organizations,Treiger LLP, a boutique business law firm in Westlake Village. Mr. Halvorson has been an Adjunct Professor at the Pepperdine University School of Law for the 2006-2007, 2009-2010, 2010-2011, and brings to our board senior executive leadership2013-2014 academic years. He was an Executive in Residence at Pepperdine University Seaver College of Letters, Arts and financial experience. In addition, havingSciences from 2000-2003 and from 2005-2007. Mr. Halvorson was President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company from 2007-2008, Chief Operating Officer from 1996-2000 and Executive Vice President of the Company from 1991-2000. From 1991-1999 and 1985-1988, Mr. Halvorson also served as CEOGeneral Counsel to the Company. Mr. Halvorson was the managing partner of health care companies,the law firm of Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.-Green Bay from 1988 until 1991. From 1985 to 1988, he has substantial experience in dealingwas Vice President and General Counsel of the Company. From 1976 until 1985, he was an associate and then a partner of Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.-Milwaukee. Mr. Halvorson was a Certified Public Accountant with researchArthur Andersen & Co. from 1971 to 1973. Mr. Halvorson is a member of the board of directors of Intuitive Surgical, Inc. and development efforts and technological innovation, which has provided him with insight into the challenges and fast-moving developments of new media. AsPharmacyclics, Inc. Mr. Halvorson was previously a director of another public company board, including serving as its audit committee chair, Mr. Weinberg also provides public company cross-board experience.the Company from 1988-2008.

Frank Wright

Mr. Wright serves as President and Chief Executive OfficerEpperson, the Company’s Chairman, recommended Mr. Halvorson’s nomination to the Company’s Board of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), a position he has held for nine years. Prior to joining NRB in 2003, he served for seven years as Executive Director of the Center for Christian Statesmanship based on Capitol Hill. As head of the world’s largest Christian media association, Mr. Wright has significant and wide-ranging experience in the electronic media marketplace, including active engagement in the regulatory and public policy processes centered in Washington, DC. He is an ordained Elder in the Presbyterian Church (PCA). Mr. Wright’s extensive corporate governance experience includes board service for The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, Knox Theological Seminary, The NRB Television Network, and Evangelism Explosion International. Mr. Wright was recommended by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and selected as a director nominee by the board.

Directors. It is anticipated that Mr. WrightHalvorson will bring valuable legal and financial expertise as both an academic and practitioner, along with broad and cross-sectionalextensive historical knowledge of the electronic media landscapeCompany to the Board. He has also served as a director ofBoard member for several for-profit companies which enables him to bring relevant cross-Board experience to the Company. With his knowledge of and recognized presence on Capitol Hill, Mr. Wright also brings added strength to the public policy process.

7

Director Independence and Executive Sessions

The Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors evaluated the independence of each of the Company’s directorsDirectors pursuant to the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ Rules”). During this review, which included a review of the transactions and as more specificallyrelationships described in the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS”, below, the boardBoard of directorsDirectors considered various transactions and relationships among directorsDirectors (and their affiliates or family members), members of the Company’s senior management, affiliates and subsidiaries of the Company and certain other parties that occurred during the past three (3) fiscal years. This review was conducted to determine whether, under the NASDAQ Rules, any such relationships or transactions would affect the boardBoard of directors’Directors’ determination as to each director’s independence from management.independence.

Upon conclusion of this review, the boardBoard of directorsDirectors determined that, of the directorsDirectors nominated for election at the Annual Meeting, a majority of the boardBoard (comprised of Messrs. Davenport, Hinz, Riddle, Venverloh, Lewis and Weinberg)Director nominee Mr. Halvorson) is or in the case of nominee Frank Wright, will if elected be, independent of the Company and its senior management as required by the NASDAQ Rules. As part of its evaluation of the independence of nominee Frank Wright, the board of directors considered

his position as an executive officer of the NRB and determined that his service in such position does not have an adverse impact upon the board’s determination that Mr. Wright will, if elected, be considered independent of the Company and its senior management as required by the NASDAQ Rules.

The NASDAQ Rules also require that independent members of the boardBoard of directorsDirectors meet periodically in executive sessions during which only independent directorsDirectors are present. The Company’s independent directorsDirectors have met separately in such executive sessions and in the future will regularly meet in executive sessions as required by the NASDAQ Rules.

Committees of the Board of Directors

The Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors has three (3) committees: the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The following table identifies the independent members of the boardBoard of directorsDirectors and lists the members and chairman of each of these committees:

 

Name

 

Independent

 

Audit

Committee

 

Compensation

Committee

 

Nominating and

AuditCompensationCorporate Governance

Committee

NameIndependentCommitteeCommitteeCommittee

Stuart W. Epperson

    

Edward G. Atsinger III

    

David Davenport

Roland S. Hinz
 I XC
Richard A. RiddleICXX
David Davenport(1)I C X

Roland S. Hinz

Jonathan Venverloh
 I X X X

Richard A. Riddle

James Keet Lewis
 I X XC

Jonathan Venverloh

IXX

Dennis M. Weinberg

IC X

 

(1) Mr. Davenport will not be standing for re-election as a Director of the Company at the 2015 Annual Meeting.

I = Director is independent

X = Current member of committee

C = Current member and chairman of the committee

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) is a separately designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The Audit Committee currently consists of Messrs. WeinbergRiddle (Chairman), Hinz, RiddleVenverloh and Venverloh,Lewis, each of whom is independent under the NASDAQ Rules and applicable SEC rules and regulations. The boardBoard of directorsDirectors has determined that Mr. Weinberg,Riddle, the Audit Committee Chairperson, qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert,”expert” as defined and required by applicable SEC rules and regulations.

The Audit Committee held four (4) regularly-scheduled meetings and three (3) special telephonic meetings in 20112014 and operates under a written charter adopted by the boardBoard of directors.Directors. The Audit Committee and the Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors annually (or more often as needed) review the charter to ensure it conforms to current laws and practices. This charter is available on the Company’s Internet website (www.salem.cchttp://salemmedia.com) and a copy of the charter may be obtained upon written request from the Secretary of the Company. Any information found on the Company’s website is not a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this or any other report of the Company filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

The Audit Committee’s responsibilities are generally to assist the boardBoard of directorsDirectors in fulfilling its legal and fiduciary responsibilities relating to accounting, audit and reporting policies and practices of the Company and its subsidiaries. The Audit Committee also, among other things, oversees the Company’s financial reporting process, retains and engages the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, approves the fees for the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, monitors and reviews the quality, activities and functions of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, and monitors the adequacy of the Company’s operating and internal controls and procedures as reported by management and the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee Report set forth later in this Proxy Statement provides additional details about the duties and activities of this committee.

Compensation Committee

As provided under applicable laws and rules, the Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors delegates authority for compensation matters to the Compensation Committee of the boardBoard of directors.Directors (the “Compensation Committee”). The Compensation Committee’s membership is determined by the boardBoard of directors.Directors. The Compensation Committee currently consists of Messrs. Davenport (Chairman), Hinz and Riddle, each of whom is independent under the NASDAQ Rules.Rules, including recently adopted compensation committee independence requirements. The Compensation Committee is authorized to review and approve compensation, including non-cash benefits, and severance arrangements for the Company’s Section 16 officers and employees and to approve salaries, remuneration and other forms of additional compensation and benefits as it deems necessary. The Compensation Committee also administers the Company’s Second Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Stock Plan”).

The Compensation Committee held threetwo (2) regularly scheduled meetings and one (1) special meeting in 2011.2014. The Compensation Committee meets at least twice annually and at additional times as are necessary or advisable to fulfill its duties and responsibilities.

The role of the Company’s Compensation Committee is to oversee the Company’s compensation and benefit plans and policies, administer the Stock Plan (including reviewing and approving equity grants to elected officers), and to review and approve all compensation decisions relating to elected officers, including those for the Company’s Named Executive Officers.Officers (who are listed in the Summary Compensation Table below). In 2011,2014 the actions of the Compensation Committee included:included reviewing objective benchmarks and metrics by which a Named Executive Officer’s performance can be measured;measured and analyzing peer compensation and performance data for comparison with the Company’s Named Executive Officers. The Compensation Committee has delegated limited authority to Edward G. Atsinger III, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, to grant up to $150,000 of options to purchase the Company’s Class A common stock annually (measured each calendar year without carry-over of unused grant authority from year to year). The $150,000 is calculated at a price equal to the price of the Company’s Class A common stock at the NASDAQ market close on the date the stock options are granted. This delegated authority is subject to prompt notification to the Compensation Committee of the issuance of any such grants and ratification of any such grants at the next regularly scheduled Compensation Committee meeting following the date of such grants.

The Company’s Named Executive Officers do not determine or approve any element or component of their own compensation. The Company’s CEO provides a recommendation to the Compensation Committee for base salary and annual incentive compensation for the Named Executive Officers reporting to him.

The Compensation Committee operates pursuant to a charter that was approved by the boardBoard of directors.Directors. The charter sets forth the responsibilities of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee and the Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors annually (or more often as needed) review the charter to ensure it conforms to current laws and practices. This charter is available on the Company’s Internet website (www.salem.cchttp://salemmedia.com) and a copy of the charter may be obtained from the Secretary of the Company upon written request. Any information found on the Company’s website is not a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this or any other report of the Company filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee”) currently consists of Messrs. RiddleHinz (Chairman), Davenport, Hinz,Riddle, Venverloh and Weinberg,Lewis, each of whom is independent under the NASDAQ Rules. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee held threetwo (2) regularly scheduled meetings in 2011.2014.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is authorized to: (a) develop and recommend a set of corporate governance standards to the boardBoard of directorsDirectors for adoption and implementation,implementation; (b) identify individuals qualified to become members of the boardBoard of directors,Directors; (c) recommend that director nominees be elected at the Company’s next annual meeting of stockholders,stockholders; (d) recommend nominees to serve on each standing committee of the boardBoard of directors,Directors; (e) lead in the annual review of boardBoard performance and evaluation of the board’s effectiveness,Board’s effectiveness; (f) ensure that succession planning takes place for the position of chief executive officer and other key Company senior management positions,positions; and (g) analyze, review and, where appropriate, approve all related party transactions to which the Company or its subsidiaries or affiliates are a party, all in accordance with applicable rules and regulations.

To qualify as a nominee for service on the boardBoard of directors,Directors, a candidate must have sufficient time and resources available to successfully carry out the duties required of a Company boardBoard member. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee desires to attract and retain highly qualified directorsDirectors who will diligently execute their responsibilities and enhance their knowledge of the Company’s core businesses and seeks directorsDirectors who possess some or all of the skills, qualifications and experience described under “Board Composition” in this Proxy Statement.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee implements the Company’s policy regarding stockholder nominations by considering nominees for director positions that are made by the Company’s stockholders. Any stockholder desiring to make such a nomination must submit in writing the name(s) of the recommended nominee(s) to the Secretary of the Company at least 90 days before nor earlier than 120 days prior to the first anniversary of the preceding annual meeting of stockholders. The written submission must also contain biographical information about the proposed nominee, a description of the nominee’s qualifications to serve as a member of the boardBoard of directors,Directors, and evidence of the nominee’s valid consent to serve as a director of the Company if nominated and duly elected.

The Company’s directorsDirectors provide oversight of the Company’s management and play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the Company. Consistent with the Company’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers various criteria in boardBoard candidates, including, the skills, qualifications and experience described under “Board Composition” in this Proxy Statement, as well as their appreciation of the Company’s core purpose, core values, and whether they have time available to devote to boardBoard activities. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee also considers whether a potential nominee would satisfy:

 

1.The criteria for director “independence” established by the NASDAQ;NASDAQ Rules; and

 

2.The SEC’s definition of “audit committee financial expert”.expert.”

Whenever a vacancy exists on the boardBoard due to expansion of the board’sBoard’s size or the resignation, retirement or term expiration of an existing director, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee identifies and evaluates potential director nominees. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers recommendations of management, stockholders and others. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has sole authority to retain and terminate any search firm to be used to identify director candidates, including approving its fees and other retention terms.

Director candidates are evaluated using the criteria described above and in light of the then-existing composition of the board,Board, including its overall size, structure, backgrounds and areas of expertise of existing directorsDirectors and the relative mix of independent and employee directors.Directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee also considers the specific needs of the various boardBoard committees. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee recommends potential director nominees to the full board,Board, and final approval of a candidate for nomination is determined by the full board.Board. This evaluation process is the same for director nominees who are recommended by our stockholders.

The boardBoard of directorsDirectors has adopted a written charter for the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors annually (or more often as needed) review the charter to ensure it conforms to current laws and practices. This charter is available on the Company’s Internet website (www.salem.cchttp://salemmedia.com) and a copy of the charter may be obtained upon written request from the Secretary of the Company.Any information found on the Company’s website is not a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this or any other report of the Company filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee did not receive any recommendations from stockholders proposing candidate(s) for election at the Annual Meeting. None of the directorsDirectors serving on the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, or the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are employees of the Company.

Although the boardBoard does not have a formal policy on diversity, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the boardBoard review from time-to-time the membership of the boardBoard in light of the Company’s operations and strategic objectives and consider whether the current boardBoard members possess the requisite skills, experience and perspectives to oversee the achievement of those goals. As part of an annual effectiveness review, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee evaluates the diversity of the boardBoard composition to ensure that it sufficiently represents a diverse set of background, skills and experience.

Board Leadership Structure

Historically, the Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors has had a general policy that the positions of Chairman of the Board and CEO should be held by separate persons as an aid in the board’sBoard’s oversight of management. This policy has been in effect since the Company began operations. The Chairman of the Board is a full-time senior executive of the Company. The duties of the Chairman of the Board include:

 

presiding over all meetings of the board;Board;

preparing the agenda for boardBoard meetings in consultation with the CEO and other members of the board;

Board;

 

managing the board’sBoard’s process for annual director self-assessment and evaluation of the boardBoard and of the CEO; and

 

presiding over all meetings of stockholders.

The boardBoard of directorsDirectors believes that there are advantages to having a separate Chairman for matters such as communications and relations between the boardBoard members, the CEO, and other senior management; in assisting the boardBoard in reaching consensus on particular strategies and policies; and in facilitating robust director, board,Board, and CEO evaluation processes. In addition, having separate Chairman and CEO positions permits the CEO to focus on day-to-day business and allows the Chairman to lead the boardBoard in its oversight responsibilities. The boardBoard currently consists of the Chairman of the board, Mr. Epperson,Board, the Company’s CEO, Mr. Atsinger, and five (5) independent directors.Directors. One of Mr. Epperson’s roles is to oversee and manage the boardBoard of directorsDirectors and its functions, including setting meeting agendas and running boardBoard meetings. In this regard, Mr. Epperson and the boardBoard in their advisory and oversight roles are particularly focused on assisting the CEO and senior management in seeking and adopting successful business strategies and risk management policies, and in making successful choices in management succession.

Board’s Role in Risk Oversight

The Company’s boardBoard of directorsDirectors as a whole has responsibility for risk oversight, with reviews of certain areas being conducted by the relevant boardBoard committees. These committees then provide reports to the full board.Board. The oversight responsibility of the boardBoard and its committees is enabled by management reporting processes that are designed to provide visibility to the boardBoard about the identification, assessment, and management of critical risks. These areas of focus include strategic, operational, financial and reporting, succession and compensation, legal and compliance, and other risks. The boardBoard and its committees oversee risks associated with their respective areas of responsibility, as summarized above.

Director Attendance at Board and Committee Meetings and 20112014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

The full boardBoard of directorsDirectors held four regularly-scheduled(4) regularly scheduled meetings in 2011.2014. During 2011,2014, each of the Company’s incumbent directorsDirectors attended (either in person or telephonically) all of the regularly-scheduled meetings of the full boardBoard of directors. Mr. Weinberg did not participate inDirectors. Each of the December 2011 NominatingCompany’s incumbent Directors attended more than seventy-five percent of the aggregate of the number of meetings of the Board and Corporate Governance Committee meeting. Mr. Venverloh’s board start date was September 1, 2011, butthe total number of meetings held by all committees of the Board on which he was excused from the September 2011 Audit Committee Meeting.served. The Company encourages, but does not require, that each director attend the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders. In 2011,2014, each of the Company’s then directorsDirectors attended the 20112014 annual meeting of stockholders, except for Mr. Stuart Epperson, who did not attend.Chairman of the Board.

Communications between Stockholders and the Board

The Company has historically handled communications between stockholders and the boardBoard of directorsDirectors on an ad hoc basis. No formal policy or process for such communications has been adopted by the Company as of the date of this Proxy Statement. The Company has, however, taken actions to ensure that the views of its stockholders are communicated to the boardBoard or one or more of its individual directors,Directors, as applicable. The boardBoard considers its responsiveness to such communications as timely and exemplary.

11

Financial Code of Conduct

The Company has adopted a financial code of conduct (“Financial Code of ConductConduct”) that applies to each director of the Company, the Company’s CEO, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller and persons performing similar functions. This Financial Code of Conduct has been adopted by the boardBoard as a “code of ethics” that satisfies applicable NASDAQ Rules. The Financial Code of Conduct is available on the Company’s Internet website (www.salem.cchttp://salemmedia.com) and a copy of the codeFinancial Code of Conduct may be obtained free of charge upon written request from the Secretary of the Company.Any information found on the Company’s website is not a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this or any other report of the Company filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

Executive Officers

Set forth below are the executive officers of the Company, together with the positions held by those persons as of April 24, 2012.December 31, 2014. The executive officers are elected annually and serve at the pleasure of the Company’s boardBoard of directors;Directors; however, the Company has entered into employment agreements with each of the executive officers listed below. Certain payment provisions contained in the Company’s employment agreements with Messrs. Atsinger, Santrella and Evans are described under the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION – Material Terms of NEO Employment Agreements Providing For Payment to NEOs Upon Termination or Change in Control”Termination” below.

 

Name of Executive Officer

 Age 

Position(s) Held with the Company

Stuart W. Epperson

 7578 Chairman of the Board

Edward G. Atsinger III

 7275 Chief Executive Officer and Director

David P. Santrella

Frank Wright
 5062 President and Chief Operating Officer
David P. Santrella53President — Radio Division

David A.R. Evans

 4952 President New Business Development, Interactive and PublishingMedia

Greg R. Anderson

 6568 President Salem Radio Network

Christopher J. Henderson

 4851 VP,SVP, Legal and Human Resources, General Counsel and Secretary

Evan D. Masyr

 4043 SeniorExecutive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Set forth below is certain information concerning the business experience during the past five (5) years and other relevant experience of each of the individuals named above (excluding Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson, whose business experience is described in the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS—Board of Directors” above).

Frank Wright

Mr. Wright was President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company beginning in January 2014 and was a Director of the Company beginning in June 2012. Mr. Wright resigned from the Company effective as of December 31, 2014. Mr. Wright has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Religious Broadcasters (“NRB”), a position he held for ten (10) years. Prior to joining NRB in 2003, he served for seven (7) years as Executive Director of the Center for Christian Statesmanship based on Capitol Hill. As head of the world’s largest Christian media association, Mr. Wright has significant and wide-ranging experience in the electronic media marketplace, including active engagement in the regulatory and public policy processes centered in Washington, DC. He is an ordained Elder in the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Wright’s extensive corporate governance experience includes Board service for The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, Knox Theological Seminary, The NRB Television Network and Evangelism Explosion International.

David P. Santrella

Mr. Santrella was promotedhas been President — Broadcast Media of the Company since January 1, 2015, overseeing all broadcast operations involving the Company’s local radio stations, radio network and internal rep firm. From January 2010 to December 2014 he served as President - Radio Division of the Company effective January 1, 2010.Company. From October 2008 to December 31, 2009, he served as Operational Vice President over the Company’s Minneapolis, Denver and Colorado Springs clusters in addition to his existing responsibility over the Chicago cluster. From March 2006 to October 2008, Mr. Santrella was the Operational Vice President of Chicago and Milwaukee. In November of 2003, he was given additional oversight responsibility of Milwaukee. Mr. Santrella started with the Company in 2001 as the General Manager of the Company’s Chicago cluster.

12

David A. R. Evans

Mr. Evans has been President - — New Media of the Company since September 2013. Mr. Evans was President—New Business Development, Interactive and Publishing of the Company sincefrom July 2007.2007 to September 2013. Mr. Evans was Executive Vice President—Business Development and Chief Financial Officer of the Company from September 2005 to June 2007. Mr. Evans was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from September 2003 to September 2005. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Evans served as the Company’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. From 1997 to 2000, Mr. Evans served as Senior Vice President and Managing Director-Europe,Director—Europe, Middle East, and Africa of Warner Bros. Consumer Products in London, England. He also served at Warner Bros. Consumer Products in Los Angeles, California, as Senior Vice President-LatinPresident—Latin America, International Marketing, Business Development from 1996 to 1997 and Vice President-WorldwidePresident—Worldwide Finance, Operations, and Business Development from 1992 to 1996. From 1990 to 1992, he served as Regional Financial Controller-Europe for Warner Bros. based in London, England. Prior to 1990, Mr. Evans was an audit manager with Ernst & Young LLP in Los Angeles, California and worked as a U.K. Chartered Accountant for Ernst & Young in London, England.

Greg R. Anderson

Mr. Anderson has beenserved as President - Salem Radio Network since 1996.of the Company from 1996 through 2014. Effective as of December 31, 2014, Mr. Anderson retired from the Company. From 1993 to 1994, Mr. Anderson was the Vice President – President/General Manager of this network.Salem Radio Network. Mr. Anderson was employed by Multimedia, Inc. from 1980-1993. After serving as general managerGeneral Manager at Multimedia stations in Greenville, South Carolina, Shreveport, Louisiana, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he was named Vice President, Operations of the Multimedia radio division in 1987. He was subsequently appointed as Executive Vice President and group head of Multimedia’s radio division.

Christopher J. Henderson

Mr. Henderson has been Senior Vice President, Legal and Human Resources, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of the Company since 2012. Prior to 2012, Mr. Henderson was Vice President, Legal and Human Resources, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of the Company since March 2008. Mr. Henderson was Vice President, Human Resources of the Company from August 2006 to February 2008. From 2001 to August 2006, Mr. Henderson served as Corporate Counsel for the Company. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Henderson worked for 13thirteen (13) years as an Attorney for Cooksey, Toolen, Gage, Duffy & Woog, first as a trial attorney and then as a transactional attorney.

Evan D. Masyr

Mr. Masyr has been Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company since January 2014. Prior to January 2014, Mr. Masyr was Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company since July 2007. Mr. Masyr was Vice President—Accounting and Finance of the Company from September 2005 to June 2007. From March 2004 to September 2005, Mr. Masyr was Vice President of Accounting and Corporate Controller of the Company. Prior to that time, Mr. Masyr was Vice President and Corporate Controller of the Company from January 2003 to March 2004. From February 2000 to December 2002, he served as the Company’s Controller. From 1993 to February 2000, Mr. Masyr worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (formerly, Coopers & Lybrand LLP). Mr. Masyr has been a Certified Public Accountant since 1995.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

SummaryCOMPENSATION DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS

General Discussion

The Company’s Executive Compensation TablePhilosophy

The table below summarizesBoard of Directors of the totalCompany believes that a key to the Company’s current and future success is its ability to attract and retain qualified individuals who are committed to the Company’s success and capable of delivering on such commitment. The Company’s compensation paidand benefits programs are designed to enable the attraction, retention and motivation of the best possible employees to operate and manage the Company at all levels. At the same time, the Board of Directors of the Company is committed to a compensation policy for the Company’s executive management that is appropriately transparent to the Company’s stockholders and in alignment with stockholders’ best interests.

The Company’s executive compensation programs are based upon a pay-for-performance philosophy that provides incentives to achieve both short-term and long-term objectives and to reward both individual and Company performance. In addition to evaluating performance using financial and operational metrics, the CEO, CFO and the Company’s three other most highly compensated executive officers during 2014 (collectively, the “Named Executive Officers”) are evaluated in many areas that are not measured directly by financial or earned byoperational results. These areas include: (i) how well each Named Executive Officer helps the Company to achieve its strategic goals; (ii) each executive’s ability to develop his or her subordinates; and (iii) each executive’s efforts to enhance the Company’s relationship with key stakeholders. In 2014, the Company’s Named Executive Officers were Mr. Atsinger, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Masyr, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; Mr. Evans, President – New Media; Mr. Santrella, President – Broadcast Media; and Frank Wright, President and Chief Operating Officer.

Benchmarking

It is the intent of the Board of Directors that the Company be in a position to compete for highly qualified employees, including its Named Executive Officers. Accordingly, the process for compensation determination involves the Committee’s consideration of peer compensation levels. While the Committee does not have a formal policy regarding benchmarking, when determining recommended salary, target bonus levels and target annual long-term incentive award values for Named Executive Officers, the Committee gives consideration to compensation practices at peer radio media companies, based on available data.

Named Executive Officer Compensation

The Company’s Named Executive Officer compensation consists of four elements: (1) base salary; (2) annual cash incentive (bonus) awards; (3) long-term incentive compensation, usually in the form of stock options; and (4) perquisites and benefits. The Committee assesses each of these elements independently from the other elements to ensure that the amount paid to each Named Executive Officer for each compensation element is reasonable and, as a function of overall compensation paid, ensures that compensation for each Named Executive Officer is reasonable in its totality.

Employment Agreements

Each of the Company’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010:

Name and Principal Positions

  Salary
($)
   Bonus
(1)
($)
   Option
Awards
(2)
($)
   All Other
Compensation

(3, 4)
($)
   Total
($)
 

Edward G. Atsinger III
Chief Executive Officer (2011)

   864,000     255,000     240,600     122,049     1,481,649  

Edward G. Atsinger III
Chief Executive Officer (2010)

   774,000     135,000     345,600     102,405     1,357,005  

David A. R. Evans
President—New Business Development, Interactive and Publishing (2011)

   415,000     155,000     103,680     23,007     696,687  

David A. R. Evans
President—New Business Development, Interactive and Publishing (2010)

   375,000     56,250     103,680     21,095     556,025  

David Santrella
President—Radio Division (2011)

   363,000     103,000     70,175     19,994     556,169  

(1)Amounts set forth in the Bonus column represent bonuses paid by the Company for performance in the prior fiscal year. Bonuses are given at the discretion of the Company and are not earned by Company employees until they are paid.
(2)Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of option awards granted within the fiscal year in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 718 for stock-based compensation (formerly FAS 123R). These amounts reflect the total grant date fair value for these awards, and do not correspond to the actual cash value that will be recognized by the grantee when received. For a detailed discussion of the assumptions made in the valuation of option awards, please see the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011.
(3)Amounts set forth in the All Other Compensation column consist of the following:

Item

  Mr.
Atsinger
($)
   Mr.
Evans

($)
   Mr.
Santrella
($)
 

Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits (2011)

   108,092         3,013     —    

Company Contributions to 401(k) Plan (2011)

   —       —       —    

Medical, Dental, Life, Vision and Disability Premiums (2011)

   13,957         19,994     19,994  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL (2011)

   122,049         23,007     19,994  

Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits (2010)

   89,428         2,526     —    

Company Contributions to 401(k) Plan (2010)

   —       —       —    

Medical, Dental, Life, Vision and Disability Premiums (2010)

   12,977         18,569     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL (2010)

   102,405         21,095     —    

(4)Includes the following perquisites and personal benefits which have been valued by the Company based upon the incremental cost to the Company of providing these perquisites and personal benefits to the Named Executive Officers:

Perquisite or Personal Benefit

  Mr.
     Atsinger    
($)
   Mr.
    Evans    

($)
   Mr.
     Santrella    
($)
 

Personal Use of Company Vehicle (2011)

   10,703     —       —    

Split-Dollar Life Insurance Premiums (2011)

   85,908     —       —    

Supplemental Medical, Travel and Expense Reimbursement (2011)

   11,481     —       —    

Supplemental Life Insurance Premiums (2011)

   —       3,013     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL (2011)

   108,092     3,013     —    
    Mr.
Atsinger
($)
   Mr.
Evans
($)
   Mr.
Santrella
($)
 

Personal Use of Company Vehicle (2010)

   7,924     —       —    

Split-Dollar Life Insurance Premiums (2010)

   77,568     —       —    

Supplemental Medical, Travel and Expense Reimbursement (2010)

   3,936     —       —    

Supplemental Life Insurance Premiums (2010)

   —       2,526     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL (2010)

   89,428     2,526     —    

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2011, in respect of outstanding equity awards made to the Company’s NEOs that are exercisable into the Company’s Class A common stock that may be issued under the Stock Plan, the Company’s only existing equity compensation plan.

   

Option Awards

 

 

   Number of
Securities
Underlying
 Unexercised 
Options
(#)
   Number of
Securities
Underlying
 Unexercised 
Options
(#)
     

Name

    Exercisable      Unexercisable   

Option

Exercise

Price

($)

 

Option

Expiration

Date

Edward G. Atsinger III

   20,000           $    5.20 3/08/2016
     20,000(1)        $    5.20 3/08/2017
     30,000(2)        $    2.38 9/28/2017
     20,000(3)        $    5.20 3/08/2018
     30,000(4)        $    2.38 9/28/2018
     20,000(5)        $    5.20 3/08/2019
     30,000(6)        $    2.38 9/28/2019
     30,000(7)        $    2.38 9/28/2020

David A.R. Evans

   6,250           $  11.80 3/14/2013
   6,250           $  11.80 3/14/2014
   6,250           $  11.80 3/14/2015
   6,250           $  11.80 3/14/2016
   6,000           $    5.20 3/08/2016
     6,000(1)        $    5.20 3/08/2017
     8,750(2)        $    2.38 9/28/2017
     6,000(3)        $    5.20 3/08/2018
     8,750(4)        $    2.38 9/28/2018
     6,000(5)        $    5.20 3/08/2019
     8,750(6)        $    2.38 9/28/2019

   

Option Awards

 

 

   Number of
Securities
Underlying
 Unexercised 
Options
(#)
   Number of
Securities
Underlying
 Unexercised 
Options
(#)
     

Name

    Exercisable      Unexercisable   

Option

Exercise

Price

($)

 

Option

Expiration

Date

     50,000(8)        $    2.74 3/07/2020
     8,750(7)        $    2.38 9/28/2020
     50,000(9)        $    2.74 3/07/2021

David Santrella

   500                       $  13.51 3/15/2012
   625                       $  16.75 5/18/2012
   750                       $  11.80 3/14/2013
   500                       $  13.51 3/15/2013
   625                       $  16.75 5/18/2013
   750                       $  11.80 3/14/2014
   500                       $  13.51 3/15/2014
   625                       $  16.75 5/18/2014
   750                       $  11.80 3/14/2015
   500                       $  13.51 3/15/2015
   6,000                       $    3.38 11/03/2015
   750                       $  11.80 3/14/2016
   6,667                       $    0.67 5/04/2016
   6,000                       $    3.38 11/03/2016
     6,666(10)        $    0.67 5/04/2017
     8,750  (2)        $    2.38 9/28/2017
     6,000(11)        $    3.38 11/03/2017
     8,750  (4)        $    2.38 9/28/2018
     6,000(12)        $    3.38 11/03/2018
     8,750  (6)        $    2.38 9/28/2019
     50,000  (7)        $    2.74 3/07/2020
     8,750  (8)        $    2.38 9/28/2020
     50,000  (9)        $    2.74 3/07/2021

(1)Unexercisable options vest on March 8, 2012.
(2)Unexercisable options vest on September 28, 2012.
(3)Unexercisable options vest on March 8, 2013.
(4)Unexercisable options vest on September 28, 2013.

(5)Unexercisable options vest on March 8, 2014.
(6)Unexercisable options vest on September 28, 2014.
(7)Unexercisable options vest on March 7, 2015.
(8)Unexercisable options vest on September 28, 2015.
(9)Unexercisable options vest on March 7, 2016.
(10)Unexercisable options vest on May 4, 2012.
(11)Unexercisable options vest on November 3, 2012.
(12)Unexercisable options vest on November 3, 2013.

The Company’s Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan

The Company maintained a non-qualified deferred compensation plan as a benefit for certain designated employees who were within a select group of key management or highly compensated employees. An election to terminate this compensation plan was made by the Company in September 2009, and final distributions of plan funds were made in January 2011, thereby fully and formally terminating the plan.

The primary purpose of this compensation plan was to allow plan participants to defer payment of up to 100% of base salary, commission, bonus compensation, and board fees until retirement or other employment termination. Plan participants could also elect an in-service distribution during a designated calendar year. The plan constituted a fully funded, non-qualified deferred compensation plan.

Material Terms of NEO Employment Agreements Providing For Payment to NEOs upon Termination or Change in Control

Mr. Atsinger’s Employment Agreement

Under the terms of his employment agreement, if Mr. Atsinger’s employment is terminated by reason of death, his estate is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary through the date of termination to the extent not already paid, (b) a prorated portion of his incentive bonus based on his prior year’s incentive bonus, (c) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid, (d) amounts to which he is entitled under the Company’s benefit plans, (e) immediate, 100% vesting of outstanding unvested stock options and other equity-based awards, and (f) continued coverage of his dependents by the Company’s health benefit plans for a period of twelve months.

If Mr. Atsinger’s employment is terminated upon disability (as defined in his employment agreement), he is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary through the date of termination to the extent not already paid, (b) a severance payment equal to 100% of his then current annual base salary for a period of fifteen (15) months, (c) a prorated portion of his incentive bonus based on his prior year’s incentive bonus, (d) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid, (e) amounts to which he is entitled under the Company’s benefit plans, and (f) immediate, 100% vesting of outstanding unvested stock options and other equity-based awards.

If Mr. Atsinger’s employment is terminated by the Company without cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary earned but unpaid through the date of termination, (b) a prorated portion of his incentive bonus based on the prior year’s incentive bonus, and any incentive bonus amount earned but not yet paid, and, (c) a payment equal to his then current annual base salary for a period of six months.

With the exception of any continued benefits coverage in the event of the death ofNamed Executive Officers except Mr. Atsinger all paymentsis employed pursuant to be made by the Company upon termination of“at will” employment toagreements without a fixed term length. Mr. Atsinger will be lump sum payments.

The employment agreement also contains provisions that: (a) grant the Company a right of first refusal on all corporate opportunities presentedis employed pursuant to Mr. Atsinger, (b) restrict Mr. Atsinger’s ability to engage in any business that is competitive with the Company’s business for a period of two years following retirement or termination for cause or without good reason, and (c) restrict Mr. Atsinger’s ability to interfere with the business of the Company or solicit Company employees for a period of two years following such retirement or termination. Compliance by Mr. Atsinger with these obligations is a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

Mr. Evans’ Employment Agreement

Under the terms of his employment agreement, if Mr. Evans’ employment is terminated by reason of death, disability or otherwise for cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he or his estate is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary through the date of termination to the extent not already paid, and (b) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid.

If Mr. Evans’ employment is terminated by the Company without cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he is also entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary earned but unpaid through the date of termination, (b) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid, (c) a severance payment in an amount equal to the base salary Mr. Evans would have otherwise received for a period of nine (9) months from the date of termination had he remained employed with the Company, and (d) professional outplacement assistance for twelve (12) consecutive months from the termination date.

With the exception of professional outplacement services that would be provided by the Company to Mr. Evans over a one-year period in the event of a termination without cause, all payments to be made by the Company upon termination of employment to Mr. Evans would be lump sum payments.

The employment agreement with a fixed three year term. Mr. Evans also containsWright was employed pursuant to a provision that restricts his ability to interfere withfixed one year term which, after the businessexpiration of the Company or solicit Company employees for a period of six months following termination ofinitial one year term on December 31, 2014, became an at-will employment for any reason. Compliance byagreement. On December 31, 2014, Mr. Evans with these obligations is a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

Mr. Santrella’s Employment Agreement

Under the terms of his employment agreement, if Mr. Santrella’s employment is terminated by reason of death, disability or otherwise for cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he or his estate is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary accrued through the date of termination to the extent not already paid, and (b) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid.

If Mr. Santrella’s employment is terminated by the Company without cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he is also entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his base salary accrued through the date of termination to the extent not already paid, and (b) a severance payment in an amount equal to the base salary Mr. Santrella would have otherwise received for a period of six (6) monthsWright resigned from the date of termination had he remained employed with the Company.

The employment agreement with Mr. Santrella also contains a provision that restricts his ability to interfere with the business of the Company or solicit Company employees for a period of six (6) months following termination of employment for any reason. Compliance by Mr. Santrella with these obligations is a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2011, with respect to shares of our Class A common stock that may be issued under the Company’s Stock Plan, our only existing equity compensation plan. The Stock Plan was adopted by our board of directors and approved by our stockholders on May 25, 1999. On March 20, 2003, the board of directors approved an amendment to the Stock Plan to reserve an additional 600,000 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock for issuance under the Stock Plan. The amendment was approved by a vote of the stockholders at the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders held on June 11, 2003. On November 10, 2004 the Company’s stockholders approved an amendment to the Stock Plan to reserve an additional 1,500,000 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock for issuance under the Stock Plan. The amendment was approved by a vote of the stockholders at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 18, 2005. On June 3, 2009, by a vote of the stockholders at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders, an extension of the term of the Stock Plan through May 25, 2019 was approved.

  Equity Compensation Plan Information 

Plan Category

 Number of
securities
to be issued
upon exercise of
outstanding options,

warrants and rights
  Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,

warrants and rights
 Remaining available for
future issuance

under equity
compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column

(a))
 
  (a)  (b) (c) 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

  1,640,392   $5.01  635,695  

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

 

  

 

—  

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

—  

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Total

  1,640,392   $5.01  635,695  
 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Non-employee directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and fees. The following table sets forth the compensation earned by the Company’s non-employee directors in 2011:

Name

  Fees Earned
($)
   Stock
Awards
(1)
($)
   Option
Awards

(2)
($)
   TOTAL
(3)
($)
 

David Davenport

   47,550     —       —       47,550  

Roland S. Hinz

   51,875     —       —       51,875  

Judge Paul Pressler

   19,125         19,125  

Richard A. Riddle

   53,775     —       —       53,775  

Jonathan Venverloh

   16,488     —       —       16,488  

Dennis M. Weinberg

   60,900     —       —       60,900  

(1)

No stock awards were made to non-employee directors in 2011. There were no stock award forfeitures by the non-employee directors during the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2011.

(2)

No stock option awards were made to non-employee directors in 2011. There were no option award forfeitures by the non-employee directors during the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2011.

(3)

As of December 31, 2011, the Company’s non-employee directors held the following interests in the Company’s Class A common stock:

Name

  Stock
Options

(#)
   Restricted
Shares(1)
(#)
   Shares
Owned
Outright
(#)
   Shares
Owned
Indirectly
(#)
   TOTAL
(#)
 

David Davenport

   1,000     5,000     1,000    — (2)    7,000  

Roland S. Hinz

   1,000     5,000     13,339     55,244     74,583  

Judge Paul Pressler (3)

             14,000          14,000  

Richard A. Riddle

   1,000     5,000     49,891     27,000     82,891  

Jonathan Venverloh

                         

Dennis M. Weinberg

   1,000     5,000     30,770          36,770  

(1)The restricted shares listed in the above table have vested as September 6, 2007, September 5, 2008, March 11, 2010, and March 3, 2011. All of the restricted grants: (a) are Class A common stock of the Company that entitle the grantee immediately upon vesting the right to vote the shares and to participate in any dividend paid on Class A common stock; and (b) may not be sold or transferred by the grantee after vesting (except to or from a trust established solely for the benefit of grantee or his heirs) until the sooner to occur of the fifth anniversary of the grant date or the date that the grantee ceases for any reason to be a member of the Company’s board of directors.
(2)Mr. Davenport has transferred 4,000 of his restricted shares to the David and Sally Davenport Living Trust 2/17/1997 and he, thus, holds 4,000 of his 6,000 total restricted shares indirectly.
(3)Judge Pressler did not stand for re-election at the 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on June 16, 2011. The share information is reflected as of such date.

The cash compensation paid as of December 31, 2011 to the Company’s non-employee directors (“Designated Directors”) as approved by the Company’s board of directors at the recommendation of the Committee is as follows:

COMPENSATION

AMOUNT  

PAYABLE TO

PAYABLE

Annual Retainer    $23,750Designated DirectorsQuarterly

Attendance Fee
(Full Company Board)

    $2,375Designated DirectorsPer Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Company Board Meeting

Attendance Fee
(Board Committee)

    $1,475Designated Director Committee
Members
Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Committee Meeting

Chairperson Fee
(Audit and Compensation Committees)

    $1,900Chairperson of Audit and
Compensation Committees
Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Committee Meeting

Chairperson Fee
(Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee)

    $950Chairperson of Nominating and
Corporate Governance
Committee
Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Committee Meeting

Attendance Fee
(Special Committee)

N/ASpecial Committee MembersPer Special Committee Meeting or
Task

In addition to the above fees, directors are compensated on an ad hoc basis for special committee or subcommittee meetings held or tasks performed by a committee or subcommittee designated by either the full Board of Directors or by a standing committee of the full Board of Directors, with such compensation determined by the establishing body at the time the special committee or subcommittee is established. Designated Directors who are also chairmen of the Company’s board committees shall receive the applicable chairperson fee in addition to a committee attendance fee for each regularly scheduled Company board committee meeting. Designated Directors shall also receive reimbursement for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with travel to and attendance at regularly scheduled Company board and board committee meetings.

Company directors who are also employees of the Company (Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of the Board, and Edward G. Atsinger III, CEO) are not additionally compensated for their services as directors. Compensation for Mr. Atsinger is summarized in the “Summary Compensation Table” appearing in this Proxy Statement under the heading “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.”

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

This Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed soliciting material or to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), nor shall any information in this report be incorporated by reference by any general statement into any past or future filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except to the extent that Salem Communications Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) specifically incorporates this information by reference into such filing, and shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such Acts.

The purpose of the Audit Committee (the “Committee”) is to oversee, on behalf of the entire board of directors (the “Board”): (a) the accounting and financial reporting processes of the Corporation, (b) the audits of the Corporation’s financial statements, (c) the qualifications, independence and performance of the public accounting firm engaged as the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm to prepare or issue an audit report on the financial statements of the Corporation, and (d) the performance of the Corporation’s internal auditor and independent registered public accounting firm.

The Committee has adopted, and annually reviews, a charter outlining the practices it follows. The charter complies with all current regulatory requirements, including requirements pertaining to the NASDAQ Stock Market listing standards definitions, provisions and applicable exceptions concerning the independence of audit committee members.

In 2011, the Committee held seven meetings, four of which were regularly scheduled and three of which were special meetings. The Committee’s meeting agendas are established by the Committee chairman based upon the Committee’s charter and an annual meeting planner approved by the entire Committee. At each of these meetings, the Committee met with the senior members of the Corporation’s financial management team and General Counsel. Additionally, the Corporation’s internal auditor met with the full Committee at the four regularly scheduled meetings and the independent registered public accounting firm met with the full Committee at the seven meetings. Prior to each regularly scheduled meeting, the Chairman of the Committee also met privately with the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm and, separately, with the Corporation’s internal auditor, at which times candid discussions of financial management, accounting and internal control issues took place.

The Committee appointed SingerLewak LLP as the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2011, and reviewed with the Corporation’s financial managers, the independent registered public accounting firm, and the Corporation’s internal auditor, overall audit scopes and plans, the results of internal and external controls and the quality of the Corporation’s financial reporting.

The Corporation’s management is primarily responsible for the preparation, presentation, and integrity of the Corporation’s financial statements, accounting and financial reporting principles, internal controls, and procedures designed to ensure compliance with accounting standards, applicable laws, and regulations. As the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm, SingerLewak LLP is responsible for performing an independent audit of the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting standards and for expressing an opinion on the conformity of the audited financial statements to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

The Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the Corporation’s audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2011. The Committee has also discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”).

The Committee has received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from the independent registered public accounting firm required by the rules of the PCAOB and the Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm that firm’s independence from the Corporation and its management. The Committee has also considered whether the independent registered public accounting firm’s provision of non-audit services to the Corporation is compatible with the auditor’s independence.

Based on the Committee’s reviews and discussions referred to above, the Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements referred to above be included in the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, to be filed with the SEC.

The Audit Committee is currently comprised of Dennis M. Weinberg, Chairman, Roland S. Hinz, Richard A. Riddle and Jonathan Venverloh.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

Dennis M. Weinberg, Chairman

Roland S. Hinz

Richard A. Riddle

Jonathan Venverloh

March 6, 2012

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of the Company’s Class A and Class B common stock as of April 24, 2012 (unless otherwise indicated) by: (a) each person believed by the Company to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of either class of the outstanding Class A or Class B common stock; (b) each director; (c) each Each of the Named Executive Officers;Officer employment agreements provides for a contractual rate of base salary to be paid during the first three years of the contract length. Mr. Atsinger’s current agreement was entered into as of July 1, 2013, and (c) all directorswill expire on June 30, 2016. Mr. Masyr’s current agreement was entered into as of January 1, 2014, and executive officersthe contractual rate of base salary will expire on December 31, 2016. Mr. Evans’ current agreement was entered into as a group.

   Class A
Common Stock
  Class B
Common Stock
  

% Vote of
All
Classes

of

 

Name and Address(1)

 Number  % Vote(2)  Number  % Vote(2)  Common
Stock(2)
 

Stuart W. Epperson

  3,947,085(3)   21.02  2,776,848(4)   50.00  42.69

Nancy A. Epperson

  1,141,680(3)   6.08  2,776,848(4)   50.00  38.91

Edward G. Atsinger III

  4,227,730(5)   22.49  2,776,848(5)   50.00  43.06

Edward C. Atsinger

  1,093,078(6)   5.83  —      —      1.47

David Davenport

  7,000(7)   *    —      —      *  

David A.R. Evans

  42,800(8)   *    —      —      *  

Roland S. Hinz

  74,583(9)   *    —      —      *  

Richard A. Riddle

  132,891(10)   *    —      —      *  

David P. Santrella

  27,108(11)   *��   —      —      *  

Jonathan Venverloh

  33,000(12)   *    —      —      *  

Dennis M. Weinberg

  59,270(13)   *    —      —      *  

All directors and executive officers as a group
(12 persons)

  8,656,967    46.15  5,553,696    100.00  86.40

Gamco Asset Management Inc.
    One Corporate Center
    Rye, NY 10580

  1,088,914(14)   5.80  —      —      1.47

Epperson Children’s Trusts

  1,012,520(15)   5.40  —      —      1.36

DG Capital Management, LLC
    460 Park Avenue, 13
th Floor
    New York, NY 10022

  976,275(16)   5.20  —      —      1.31

of September 15, 2014, and the contractual rate of base salary will expire on September 14, 2017. Mr. Santrella’s current agreement was entered into as of January 1, 2014, and the contractual rate of base salary will expire on December 31, 2016.

 

*Less than 1%.
(1)

Except as otherwise indicated, the address for each person is c/o Salem Communications Corporation, 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California 93012. Calculated pursuant to Rule 13d-3(d) under the Exchange Act, shares of Class A common stock not outstanding that are subject to options exercisable by the holder thereof within 60 days of April 24, 2012, are deemed outstanding for the purposes of calculating the number and percentage ownership by such stockholder, but not deemed outstanding for the purpose of calculating the percentage owned by each other stockholder listed. Unless otherwise noted, all shares listed as beneficially owned by a stockholder are actually outstanding.

(2)

Percentage voting power is based upon 18,761,931 shares of Class A common stock and 5,553,696 shares of Class B common stock all of which were outstanding as of April 24, 2012, and the general voting power of one vote for each share of Class A common stock and ten votes for each share of Class B common stock.

(3)

Includes shares of Class A common stock held by a trust of which Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are trustees and shares held directly by Mr. Epperson. As husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are each deemed to be the beneficial owner of shares held by the other and, therefore their combined beneficial ownership is shown in the table. Includes 17,500 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(4)

Includes shares of Class B common stock held by a trust of which Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are trustees.

(5)

These shares of Class A and Class B common stock are held by trusts of which Mr. Atsinger is trustee. Includes 40,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(6)

Includes 1,090,078 shares of Class A common stock held in a trust for the benefit of Edward C. Atsinger, who is Edward G. Atsinger III’s son. Edward G. Atsinger III is the trustee of the trust and these shares are included in the shares beneficially owned by Edward G. Atsinger III as reflected in this table. Also includes 3,000 shares of Class A common stock held by a trust for the benefit of Edward C. Atsinger. Edward C. Atsinger and his wife are trustees of the trust. These

Base Salary

3,000 shares are not included in shares beneficially owned by Edward G. Atsinger III as reflected in this table.

(7)

Includes 2,000 shares of Class A common stock held by a trust for which Mr. Davenport is a trustee. Also includes 1,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(8)

Includes 2,450 shares of Class A common stock held by a trust for which Mr. Evans is trustee, 600 shares held in custody for his minor daughter and 2,750 shares held by Mr. Evans’ spouse as a joint tenant with Mr. Evans’ father-in-law. Mr. Evans disclaims beneficial ownership of all of the 2,750 shares of Class A common stock beneficially owned by his father-in-law. Includes 37,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(9)

Includes 1,411 shares held by Mr. Hinz’s wife. Mr. Hinz disclaims beneficial ownership of shares of Class A common stock held by his wife. Also includes 53,833 shares held by a trust for which Mr. Hinz is a trustee and 1,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(10)

Includes 27,000 shares of Class A common stock held by a trust for which Mr. Riddle is trustee. Also includes 1,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(11)

Includes 25,041 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(12)

The shares of Class A common stock are held by Jonathan and Mehridith Venverloh as trustees of the Ecclesiastes Trust 2004 U/A 11/19/04.

(13)

Includes 1,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(14)

This information is based on the Schedule 13F filed by Gamco Asset Management Inc., with the SEC on February 10, 2012.

(15)

The shares of Class A common stock are held by the Kathryn Epperson Fonville Trust u/d/t 3/31/99, Stuart W. Epperson, Jr. Trust u/d/t 3/31/99, Kristine J. Epperson McBride Trust u/d/t 3/31/99 and Karen Epperson DeNeui Trust u/d/t 3/31/99 (collectively the “Trusts”). There is a voting arrangement in place whereby a majority of the shares held collectively by the Trusts must be voted in order for all the shares of the Trusts to be voted.

(16)

This information is based on the Schedule 13G filed by DG Capital Management, LLC (“DG Capital”) and Dov Gertzulin (“Gertzulin”), with the SEC on March 12, 2012. DG Capital and Gertzulin reported that as of March 12, 2012, they have shared voting and dispositive power with respect to all shares.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Leases with Principal Stockholders

AsWhen determining recommended base salaries for the Company’s Named Executive Officers, the Committee generally evaluates salaries of April 24, 2012, Salem leased the studios and tower and antenna sitespeer companies described in the table below from the Principal Stockholders. All such leases have cost of living adjustments. Based upon management’s assessment and analysis of local market conditions for comparable properties, Salem believes that such leases do not have terms that vary materially from those that would have been available from unaffiliated parties.

Market

 

Station Call Letters

   

2011 Annual
Rental(1)

   

2010 Annual
Rental(2)

    Expiration
Date(3)

Leases with both Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson:

           

Denver-Boulder, CO

 KNUS-AM(4)  

$

 25,176       $ 25,090   2016

Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN

 KKMS-AM/KYCR-AM(5)   183,746    179,308   2016

Sacramento, CA

 KFIA-AM(4)   116,342    112,972   2016

San Antonio, TX

 KSLR-AM(Day site)(4)   43,656    43,656   2017

Los Angeles, CA

 KTIE-AM(6)   29,698    29,003   2021

Dallas, TX

 KLTY-FM (4)   7,500       2020

Houston-Galveston, TX

 KNTH-AM(4)   46,200    45,906   2023

Philadelphia, PA

 WFIL-AM/WNTP-AM(5)   195,048    193,801   2023

Phoenix, AZ

 KPXQ-AM(4)   65,184    64,072   2023

Portland, OR

 KPDQ-AM(4)   27,204    26,972   2023

Seattle—Tacoma, WA

 KLFE-AM(4)   35,928    35,700   2023

Seattle—Tacoma, WA

 KNTS-AM(4)   35,928    35,700   2023

San Antonio, TX

 KSLR-AM (Night site)(4)   18,705    18,360   2023

San Francisco, CA

 KFAX-AM(4)   223,416    219,303   2023

Orlando, FL

 WTLN-AM(4)   80,004    80,004   2045
    

 

    

 

   

Subtotal

   $ 1,133,735       $ 1,109,847   
    

 

    

 

   

Lease with Mr. Atsinger:

           

San Diego, CA

 KPRZ-AM(4)   160,011    155,351   2028
    

 

    

 

   

Total

   $ 1,293,746       $ 1,265,198   
    

 

    

 

   

(1)Annual rent calculated as of December 31, 2011.
(2)Annual rent calculated as of December 31, 2010.
(3)The expiration date reported for certain facilities represents the expiration date assuming exercise of all lease term extensions at the Company’s option.
(4)Antenna/Tower Site.
(5)Antenna/Tower/Studio Site.
(6)Office/Studio Site.

Rental expense paid by Salem to Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson or trusts or partnerships created for the benefit of their families for 2011 amounted to approximately $1.3 million. Rental expense paid by Salem to Mr. Atsinger or trusts created for the benefit of his family for 2011 amounted to approximately $0.4 million. Rental expense paid by Salem to Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson or trusts or partnerships created for the benefit of their families for 2010 amounted to approximately $1.3 million. Rental expense paid by Salem to Mr. Atsinger or trusts created for the benefit of his family for 2010 amounted to approximately $0.2 million.

Affiliate Lines of Credit with Principal Stockholders

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into lines of credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s board of directors (the “Affiliate Lenders”). Pursuant to the agreements, Mr. Epperson has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a principal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger has committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to

$6 million (together, the “Affiliate Lines of Credit “). The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit may be used to repurchase a portion of Salem’s outstanding senior secured notes. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit will bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) 5% per annum or (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the “Credit Agreement” (as defined below) plus 2% per annum and must be repaid within three months from the time that such amounts are borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit do not contain any covenants. At December 31, 2011, $9.0 million was outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit. As of April 24, 2012, there was no balance outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit. For purposes of this paragraph, the term “Credit Agreement” shall mean that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of December  1, 2009, and as amended, by and between Salem Communications Corporation, as the borrower, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Radio Stations Owned by the Eppersons

During 2009, 2010 and 2011, Nancy A. Epperson, the wife of the Chairman of the Board, Stuart W. Epperson, served as an officer, director and stockholder of several radio broadcasting entities as follows:

Secretary, Treasurer, and a Director of Truth Broadcasting Corporation, licensee of: KTIA-AM, Boone, Iowa; KTIA-FM, Boone, Iowa; KUTR-AM, Taylorsville, Utah; WBZK-AM, York, South Carolina; WCRU-AM, Dallas, North Carolina; WDRU-AM, Creedmoor, North Carolina; WKEW-AM, Greensboro, North Carolina; WPOL-AM, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; WSMX-AM, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and WTRU-AM, Kernersville, North Carolina. In 2008, Truth Broadcasting Corporation transferred the license for radio station WLVA-AM, Lynchburg, Virginia, to Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation, an affiliated corporation whose current licenses are described below.

President, a Director and 100% stockholder of Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation, licensee of: WBOB-AM, Jacksonville, Florida; WHKT-AM, Portsmouth, Virginia; WLES-AM, Bon Air, Virginia; WLVA-AM, Lynchburg, Virginia (received from Truth Broadcasting Corporation in 2008); WPMH-AM, Portsmouth, Virginia; WRJR-AM, Claremont, Virginia; and WTJZ-AM, Newport News, Virginia.

President and a Director of Delmarva Educational Association (“DEA”), licensee of: noncommercial station WAYL-FM, St. Augustine, Florida; noncommercial station WCRJ-FM, Jacksonville, Florida; noncommercial station WTRJ-FM, Orange Park, Florida; WWIP-FM, Cheriton, Virginia. DEA is also a permittee of BNPED-20071022BCX (FM), California, Maryland.

The markets in which these radio stations are located are not currently served by stations owned and operated by the Company. Under his employment agreement, Mr. Epperson is required to offer the Company a right of first refusal of opportunities related to our business.

Radio Stations Owned by Mr. Hinz

During 2009, 2010, and 2011, Mr. Hinz, a Salem director, through companies or entities controlled by him, has and continues to operate the following radio stations in Southern California: (a) KLTX-AM, Long Beach, California, and KEZY-AM, San Bernardino, California (which were acquired from the Company in August 2000 and December 2001, respectively); and (b) KSDO-AM, San Diego, California. These radio stations are formatted in Christian Teaching and Talk programming in the Spanish language.

Truth For Life—Mr. Hinz, Mr. Riddle and Ms. Weinberg

Truth For Life is a non-profit organization that is a customer of Salem. During 2009, 2010 and 2011, Truth For Life paid the company approximately $2.0 million, $2.0 million and $1.9 million, respectively, for airtime on its stations. Mr. Hinz was an active member of the board of directors of Truth for Life during 2009 and through September 2010. Mr. Riddle joined the Truth For Life board in October 2010 and remains a member of this board. Ms. Allyson Weinberg is the wife of Salem’s director Dennis M. Weinberg. Ms. Weinberg joined the board of Truth for Life in April 2011 and remains a member of this board.

Split-Dollar Life Insurance

The company purchased split-dollar life insurance policies for its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 1997. During 2011, the then existing policies were cancelled and new policies were entered into. The company is the owner of the policies and is entitled to recover all of the premiums paid on these policies. The company records an asset based on the lower of the aggregate premiums paid or insurance cash surrender value. The premiums were $230,000, for each of the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2010, and $990,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2009, 2010, and 2011 we recorded net assets of $2.4 million, $2.8 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Benefits above and beyond the cumulative premiums paid will go to the beneficiary trusts established by each of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Transportation Services Supplied by Atsinger Aviation

From time to time, the company rents aircraft from a company that is owned by Edward G. Atsinger III. As approved by the independent members of the company’s board of directors, the company rents these aircraft on an hourly basis at what the company believes are market rates and uses them for general corporate needs. Total rental expense for these aircraft for 2009, 2010 and 2011 amounted to approximately $135,000, $209,000 and $402,000, respectively.

THE COMPANY’S RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The following table summarizes the fees billed by the Company’s current registered public accounting firm, SingerLewak, LLP (“SL”), for professional services rendered during fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2010:

  

Fees Paid During Year Ended

 
  

December 31,

2011

  December 31,
2010
 

Audit Fees

  $    396,823       $    356,478  

Audit-Related Fees

  $5,640       $19,470  

Tax Fees

  $—         $—    

All Other Fees

  $—         $—    
   _________    _________  

Total Fees For Services(1)

  $     402,463       $     375,948  
   

(1)None of the fees listed in the table above were approved by the Audit Committee in reliance on a waiver from pre-approval under paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

In accordance with the Audit Committee’s pre-approval policies and procedures and the requirements of applicable law, all services to be provided by SL are pre-approved by the Audit Committee. Pre-approval includes audit services, audit-related services and other permissible non-audit services. Pre-approval is generally provided by the full Audit Committee for up to a year and is detailed as to the particular defined tasks or scope of work and is subject to a specific budget. In some cases, the Audit Committee has delegated authority to the Chairman of the Audit Committee to pre-approve additional services, and any such pre-approvals granted by the Chairman must then be communicated to the full Audit Committee at or prior to the next scheduled Audit Committee meeting. When assessing whether it is appropriate to engage the independent registered public accounting firm to perform a service, the Audit Committee considers, among other things, whether such services are consistent with the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence and whether such services constitute prohibited non-audit functions under Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Audit Committee considered the provision of the services listed in the table above by SL and determined that the provision of such services was compatible with maintaining the independence of SL.

PROPOSAL 1

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

At the Annual Meeting, stockholders of the Company will be asked to vote on the election of eight directors. Two nominees are nominated as “Independent Directors” and shall be elected by the holders of Class A common stock as a class, exclusive of all of the holders of Class B common stock. David Davenport and Richard A. Riddle have been nominated as the Independent Directors. The nominees receiving the highest number of votes of shares entitled to vote for such directors at the Annual Meeting will be elected directors of the Company. To fill these board positions, unless indicated to the contrary, the enclosed proxy will be voted FOR the nominees listed below, as listed on the enclosed proxy card for whom the stockholder is entitled to vote. All directors elected at the Annual Meeting will be elected to a one-year term and will serve until the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in the year 2013 or until their respective successors have been duly elected and qualified.

Set forth below are the names of persons nominated by the Company’s board of directors for election as directors at the Annual Meeting:

Stuart W. Epperson

Edward G. Atsinger III

David Davenport

Roland S. Hinz

Richard A. Riddle

Jonathan Venverloh

Dennis M. Weinberg

Frank Wright

Your proxy, unless otherwise indicated, will be voted FOR each of the directors for whom you are entitled to vote, that is, as a Class A common stock holder FOR Messrs. Epperson, Atsinger, Davenport, Hinz, Riddle, Venverloh, Weinberg and Wright; and as a Class B common stock holder FOR Messrs. Epperson, Atsinger, Hinz, Venverloh, Weinberg and Wright. For a description of the nominees’ principal occupation and business experience during the last five years and present directorships, please see the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS—Board“COMPENSATION DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS—General Discussion—Benchmarking” above.

Where appropriate, adjustments are made to reflect the Company’s relative position within the peer group. The Committee also considers other factors including: (i) individual contribution and performance; (ii) Company performance; (iii) market conditions; (iv) retention needs; (v) experience; (vi) succession planning; (vii) historic practices; and (viii) internal equity.

Increases in the base salaries of Directors,” above.

The Company has been advised by each nominee namedthe Company’s Named Executive Officers for 2014 were made pursuant to the terms of the agreements described in the section of this Proxy Statement that he is willingentitled “COMPENSATION DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS—Named Executive Officer Compensation—Employment Agreements” above.

Annual Cash Incentive (Bonus) Awards

All of the Company’s Named Executive Officers are eligible to receive discretionary bonuses. The amount to be named as such herein and is willing to servepaid as a director if elected. However,bonus, if any, to any Named Executive Officer is determined after a review of the nominees should be unable to serve as a director,Company’s performance and the enclosed proxy will be votedperformance of each individual Named Executive Officer. Ordinarily, this determination is made in favorthe first quarter of each year, following completion of the remainderCompany’s financial statements for the prior year.

Incentive Compensation Pool

Annual cash incentive (bonus) awards are granted to Named Executive Officers from a target cash incentive (bonus) pool which is established at the beginning of those nomineesthe prior year. Over the course of such year the Committee adjusts the size of the pool to reflect the financial performance of the Company. Although the Company may pay an aggregate amount of annual cash incentive (bonus) award that is less than the full amount set forth in the pool, it generally does not opposedpay and has not paid an aggregate amount that is greater than that which is in the pool.

Performance Measures and Award Payments

The Committee considers many factors when assessing the amount of any Named Executive Officer’s annual cash incentive (bonus) awards. The Committee has significant flexibility in awarding cash bonuses. The Company believes that this flexibility, and the Company’s history of rewarding performance, provide a strong motivating incentive to the Company’s Named Executive Officers to perform in a manner that will help the Company continue to achieve its goals and objectives.

Given the changing nature and complexities of the media industry, the Committee’s decision to increase or decrease cash bonuses from year to year is generally based upon a variety of factors deemed appropriate by the stockholder on such proxy and may be voted for a substitute nominee selected byCommittee including the board of directors.

Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the meeting, at which a quorum representing a majority of the voting power of all outstanding shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock is present and entitled to vote, is required to approve Proposal 1.THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE FOR PROPOSAL 1.

PROPOSAL 2

PROPOSAL TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SHARES RESERVED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER THE

1999 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

General

On May 29, 1999, the Company adopted the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended in 2001 and further amended and restated in 2003, 2005 and 2009 (the “Stock Plan”), to promote the interests of the Company and its stockholders by using investment interests in the Company to attract, retain and motivate its employees and other persons, to encourage and reward their contributions to thefinancial performance of the Company and the individual areas of responsibility of each Named Executive Officer. The Committee has broad discretion to align their interests withmake bonus determinations and it is not required to apply formulas or ranges based upon specific performance criteria. Factors generally considered by the Committee include: (i) earnings per share; (ii) return on invested capital; (iii) EBIDTA growth; (iv) same station revenue growth; (v) same station operating income growth; (vi) non-broadcast EBITDA; (vii) relative stock price growth; and (viii) audience growth.

Incentive (Bonus) Awards Paid in 2014

Based on the financial performance of the Company, the Committee’s consideration of the factors described in the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “COMPENSATION DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS—Named Executive Officer Compensation—Performance Measures and Award Payments” above, and Company management’s recommendations, the actual bonuses paid to each Named Executive Officer in 2014 for performance in 2013 were $315,000 for Mr. Atsinger, $72,500 for Mr. Masyr, $105,000 for Mr. Evans plus $80,000 for achievement of specific, pre-determined revenue goals, $94,000 for Mr. Santrella and $0 for Mr. Wright.

Long-Term Incentive Compensation

The Company believes that equity-based compensation helps ensure that the interests of the Named Executive Officers are aligned with those of the Company’s stockholders.

The maximum number of shares of Class A common stock (for purpose of Proposal 2, the “Class A Common Stock”) that may be issued pursuant to awards granted under the Stock Plan is currently 3,100,000 (subject to adjustment as set forth in the Stock Plan). As of April 24, 2012, awards covering a total of 2,215,404 shares were outstanding or had been exercised under the Stock Plan and only 32,407 shares remain available for future awards. The Company relies heavily upon the Stock Planalso believes that equity-based compensation is a material element of compensation required to recruit and retain key executives and reward qualified employees, officers, consultants, advisors and directors, and the board has approved, subject to approval byremain competitive with the Company’s stockholders, an amendment and restatement of the Stock Plan to make available an additional 1,900,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for awards under the Stock Plan (subject to adjustments as set forth in the Stock Plan).

If the stockholders do not approve Proposal 2, and as a consequence,peers. Lastly, the Company is unable to continue to grant options at competitive levels, we believe that there will be a negative effect to the Company’s ability to meet its needs for highly qualified personnel and to manage future growth. Without these proposed new shares, the current shares available for grant under the Stock Plan will not be sufficient to maintain our current option grant practice for promotions or merit awards for current employees after June 2012.

Interest of Certain Personsuses equity-based compensation, in Matters to be Acted Upon

Pursuant to the Stock Plan, each of the directors and executive officers, among others, is eligible to receive awards under the Stock Plan. Participation in the Stock Plan is at the discretion of the Board or its appointed committee and, accordingly, future participation by directors, executive officers and other employees under this Stock Plan is not determinable. However, if this proposal is approved, the maximum number of shares available under the Stock Plan will be increased by 1,900,000 shares.

Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting, at which a quorum representing a majority of all outstanding shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock is present and entitled to vote, is required to approve the amendment and restatement of the Stock Plan increasing the available shares of Class A Common Stock by 1,900,000.

If we do not obtain stockholder approval, then Salem will not implement the proposed amendment and restatement of the Stock Plan increasing the available shares of Class A Common Stock by 1,900,000. The Stock Plan will, however, remain in effect.

The board of directors believes that the proposed amendment and restatement of the Stock Plan is in the best interests of Salem and our stockholders for the reasons stated above.    THEREFORE, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE “FOR” APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL 2.

Summary of the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan

The following is a summary of the principal features of the Stock Plan as in effect and as proposed to be amended by Proposal 2. The summary is qualified in its entirety by Proposal 2 and the Stock Plan, a copy of which, as proposed to be amended, is attached as Appendix A to this Proxy Statement.

The Stock Plan is administered by the board or a committee of directors appointed by the board, such committee members meeting the requirement of committee membership required by the Stock Plan (the “Administering Body”). Subject to the express provisions of the Stock Plan, the Administering Body is authorized to interpret and construe the Stock Plan and any

documents defining the rights and obligations of the Company and recipients thereunder, to determine all questions arising thereunder, to adopt and amend such rules and regulations for the administration thereof as it may deem desirable, and otherwise to carry out the terms of the Stock Plan and such other documents. The interpretation and construction by the Administering Body of any provisions of the Stock Plan or of any award thereunder will be conclusive and binding. Any action taken by, or inaction of, the Administering Body relating to the Stock Plan or any awards thereunder will be within the absolute discretion of the Administering Body and will be conclusive and binding upon all persons.

The Administering Body may from time to time in its discretion select the eligible persons to whom, and the times at which, awards will be granted or sold, the nature of each award, the number of shares of Class A Common Stock or the number of rights that make up or underlie each award, the period for the exercise of each award, and such other terms and conditions applicable to each award as the Administering Body will determine. The Administering Body may grant awards singly, in combination or in tandem with other awards, as it determines in its discretion. The purchase price, exercise price, initial value and any and all other terms and conditions of the awards may be established by the Administering Body without regard to existing awards or other grants.

Persons Eligible to Participate in the Stock Plan

The persons eligible to receive awards under the Stock Plan include directors, officers, employees, consultants, and advisors of the Company and its affiliated entities; provided, however, that Incentive Stock Options (defined below) may be granted only to eligible persons meeting the employment requirements of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “IRC”). For purposes of the Stock Plan, the term “affiliated entities” means any parent corporation or subsidiary corporation of the Company, as defined in Sections 424(e) and 424(f), respectively, of the IRC.

Awards

Subject to certain limitations specified in the Stock Plan, the Administering Body may, in its discretion, grant to eligible persons any one or more of the following awards under the Stock Plan:particular stock options performance awards, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, stock payments, dividend equivalents, stock bonuses, stock sales, phantom stock, and other stock-based benefits. Each award granted under the Stock Plan will be evidenced by an agreement duly executed on behalfwith long-term vesting, to incentivize long-term retention of the Company and by the recipient or, in the Administering Body’s discretion, a confirming memorandum issued by the Company to the recipient, setting forth such terms and conditions applicable to the award as the Administering Body may in its discretion determine. Payment of the exercise price or other payment for an award shall be payable upon the exercise of a stock option or upon other purchase of shares pursuant to an award granted under the Stock Plan and may be made by (i) legal tender of the United States, (ii) shares of Class A Common Stock (if either the underlying agreement or the Administering Body so permit and if the Company is not prohibited from acquiring its shares), or (iii) such other lawful consideration the Administering Body may deem acceptable in any particular instance.key executives.

15

Stock Options

The Administering Body may grant to eligible personsCompany’s equity-based compensation program is governed by the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (as amended and restated through March 4, 2015) (“Stock Plan”). The Stock Plan calls for stock options that either qualify as incentive stock options under Section 422to be granted with exercise prices equal to the market price of the IRC (“Incentive Stock Options”) or do not qualify as Incentive Stock Options (“Nonqualified Stock Options”).

Exercise Price.    The exercise price for eachCompany’s class A common stock option will be determined by the Administering Body as of the date such stock option is granted; provided, however, that the exercise price may be no less than (A) the fair market value of the Class A Common Stock subject to the option as of the date the Incentive Stock Option is granted, and (B) in the case of a grant to a Significant Stockholder (defined below), 110% of the fair market value of the Class A Common Stock subject to the option as of the date the Incentive Stock Option is granted. Each stock option and all rights or obligations thereunder will expire on a date determined by the Administering Body, but not later than 10 years after the date the stock option is granted (or five years from the date of grant. All stock options granted by the Company generally have value only if the market price of the class A common stock has increased by the time the options vest and are exercised. The Company’s option grants generally vest ratably over four years. Because the stock options do not have value unless the stock price increases above the grant date price, the Committee believes that stock options are a useful motivational tool.

In determining the size of stock option grants to Named Executive Officers, the Committee: (i) compares equity-based compensation awards to individuals holding comparable positions in the caseCompany’s peer group; (ii) evaluates the Black-Scholes valuation of an Incentive Stock Option grantedpotential stock option grants; (iii) reviews Company performance against annual performance goals; and (iv) reviews individual performance against the individual’s annual incentive bonus objectives.

In 2014 the Committee decided not to make any stock option grants, but anticipates it will make stock option grants as part of executive compensation in the future.

Perquisites and Benefits

The Company provides its Named Executive Officers with perquisites and employee benefits. Except as specifically noted elsewhere in this Proxy Statement, the employee benefits programs in which the Company’s Named Executive Officers participate (which provide benefits such as medical coverage, dental coverage, life insurance, disability insurance and annual contributions to a Significant Stockholder, or for Nonqualified Stock Options, such date later than 10 years afterqualified 401(k) retirement plan) are generally the Stock Option is granted as shall be determined in the discretionsame programs offered to substantially all of the Administering Body), and will be subject to earlier termination as provided in the Stock Plan or the award document. Except as otherwise provided in the Stock Plan, a stock option will become exercisable,Company’s salaried employees.

Perquisites

The Committee does not view perquisites as a whole orsignificant element of its overall compensation structure, but it does believe that providing perquisites can be a useful tool in part, on the date or dates specifiedattracting, motivating and retaining executive talent. The Company provided certain perquisites to its Named Executive Officers in 2014 as summarized below:

Use of Vehicles

Mr. Atsinger is provided a vehicle by the Administering BodyCompany. The Committee made its determination to provide Mr. Atsinger with such perquisite based upon: (i) the fact that this perquisite has been given to this executive for many years, and thereafter will remain exercisable until(ii) a comparison of comparable perquisites for similar positions at peer companies.

Supplemental Medical, Travel and Expense Reimbursement for Mr. Atsinger

In addition to the expirationbasic group medical plan offered all employees, Mr. Atsinger receives reimbursement for all travel and medical expenses incurred by him for any medical treatment elected by him. This perquisite includes all medical expenses that are not covered under the Company’s medical benefits or earlier terminationplans. The Company may elect to provide this perquisite by obtaining supplemental medical insurance covering Mr. Atsinger at the Company’s cost or reimbursing Mr. Atsinger for any health, dental or vision expenses incurred by him that are not covered by the Company’s medical benefits programs. The Company also provides full reimbursement to Mr. Atsinger for any income or employment taxes applicable to this perquisite.

Payment of Filing and Regulatory Fees

The Company pays for the stock option.

Stock options will be exercisable only in whole shares,preparation of all regulatory and fractional share interests will be disregarded. A stock option will be deemedgovernment filings required to be exercised whenmade by the SecretaryNamed Executive Officers solely as a result of their position as officers or other designated official of the Company receives written notice of such

exercise from the recipient, together with payment of the exercise price made in accordance with the provisions of the Stock Plan. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Stock Plan, the Administering Body may impose such conditions upon the exercise of stock options (including, without limitation, conditions limiting the time of exercise to specified periods) as may be required to satisfy applicable regulatory requirements, including without limitation Rule 16b-3 and Rule 10b-5 under the Exchange Act, and any amounts required to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax requirements prior to issuance of such shares.

For purposes of the Stock Plan, a “Significant Stockholder” shall mean a stockholder who, at the time a stock option is granted to such individual under the Stock Plan, owns more than 10% of the combined voting power of all classes of stockdirectors of the Company or of any parent corporation orthe Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary corporation (after applicationSalem Communications Holding Corporation. The Company also pays for the preparation and filing of all regulatory filings (including without limitation Hart-Scott-Rodino Act filing fees) that Mr. Atsinger is required to make as a result of the attribution rules set forth in Section 424(d)exercise of options granted to him for the purchase of the IRC)Company’s stock. The Committee’s determination to provide this perquisite to Mr. Atsinger was based on the possibility that such filings will need to be made if Mr. Atsinger elects to exercise any of his vested outstanding stock options.

Supplemental Life Insurance Coverage for Messrs. Evans and Santrella

In addition to the basic life insurance provided by the Company to all employees, the Company reimburses Messrs. Evans and Santrella an amount up to a maximum of $3,500 per year for life insurance on Mr. Evan’s life and Mr. Santrella’s life. Such reimbursement is grossed up to cover all statutory withholdings, and state and federal income taxes.

Split-Dollar Life Insurance

Since 2003, the Company has maintained separate split-dollar life insurance policies covering Mr. and Mrs. Atsinger in the amount of $20,000,000 each. Pursuant to the terms of these policies, the Company will receive an amount equal to the sum of all premiums paid by the Company (without interest) through such date and the beneficiaries will receive all remaining insurance benefits under these policies.

Other Benefits

401(k) Plan

We maintain a 401(k) defined contribution plan (the “401(k) Plan”). Participation in this 401(k) Plan by Named Executive Officers is on the same basis as the Company’s other eligible employees (as defined in the 401(k) Plan). Participants are allowed to make non-forfeitable contributions up to 60% of their annual salary, but may not exceed the annual maximum contribution limitations established by the Internal Revenue Service.

Severance and Change-in-Control Benefits

Change in Control Agreements

The Stock Plan requiresCompany has not entered into change-in-control agreements with any of the Company’s corporate Officers, including each of the Named Executive Officers.

Severance and Other Termination Agreements

Upon certain types of terminations of employment (other than a termination following a change in control of the Company), severance benefits may be paid to the Named Executive Officers. The severance benefits payable to each of the Named Executive Officers are addressed in their respective employment agreements and each of them would receive the benefits provided to him under their specific agreement. The severance and termination payments and benefits that would occur in the event of termination of employment of each option holder must payof the exercise priceNamed Executive Officers are more fully described in the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION—Potential Payments to the Company’s Named Executive Officers Upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

Tax Deductibility of Executive Compensation

Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, places a limit of one million dollars ($1,000,000) on the amount of compensation that the Company may deduct in any one year with respect to the Company’s CEO as of the close of the taxable year and the next three most highly compensated executive officers, excluding the CFO.

The Committee believes that tax deductibility is an important factor, but only one factor, to be considered when evaluating its compensation policies and practices. While the Company’s compensation practices have generally been designed and implemented in a manner which would maintain tax deductibility, the Committee believes that the interests of the Company may be better served by providing compensation that is not fully tax deductible. Based on the Company’s current compensation plans and policies and proposed regulations interpreting the Internal Revenue Code, however, the Committee believes that, for the near future, any loss in tax deductibility for executive compensation will not be material in amount.

Security Ownership Requirements/Guidelines

The Corporate Governance Principles adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors encourage Company executives and board members to purchase shares of the Company’s stock. The Board of Directors recognizes, however, that the number of shares of Company stock owned by any executive or director is a personal decision. Accordingly, the Company has determined not to adopt a policy requiring ownership by its Named Executive Officers or directors of a minimum number of shares of Company stock.

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT

This Compensation Committee Report shall not be deemed soliciting material or to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), nor shall any information in this report be incorporated by reference by any general statement into any past or future filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except to the extent that Salem Media Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) specifically incorporates this information by reference into such filing, and shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such Acts.

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the discussion and analysis of the Company’s executive compensation which appears above with management, and, based on such review and discussion, the Compensation Committee recommended to the Company’s Board of Directors that the above disclosure be included in this Definitive Proxy Statement filed on Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

The Compensation Committee is currently comprised of David Davenport, Chairman, Roland S. Hinz and Richard A. Riddle.

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE

David Davenport, Chairman
Roland S. Hinz,
Richard A. Riddle
March 16, 2015

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Summary Compensation Table

The table below summarizes the total compensation paid to or earned by the Named Executive Officers for the Company’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012:

Name and Principal Position Year Salary
($)
  Bonus
(2)
($)
  Option
Awards
(3)
($)
  All Other
Compensation
(4/5)
($)
  Total
($)
 
Edward G. Atsinger III
Chief Executive Officer
 2014  936,442   315,000      118,196   1,369,638 
  2013  897,308   171,000   844,477   123,705   2,036,490 
  2012  886,538   275,000      135,585   1,297,123 
Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
 2014  376,231   72,500      4,428   453,159 
  2013  341,346   39,000   197,649   24,879   602,874 
  2012  334,423   65,000   120,000   25,536   544,959 
David A. R. Evans
President—New Media
 2014  478,058   185,000      10,303   673,361 
  2013  442,365   91,000   205,595   30,758   769,718 
  2012  432,596   122,000   150,000   34,700   739,296 
David P. Santrella
President—Radio Division
 2014  428,616   94,000      12,935   535,551 
  2013  390,192   54,000   207,642   26,830   678,664 
  2012  384,327   90,000   150,000   22,585   646,912 
Frank Wright (1)
President and Chief Operating Officer
 2014  475,000         6,375   481,375 

(1)Compensation information for Frank Wright provided for 2014 only, as Mr. Wright’s employment with the Company commenced January 1, 2014.
(2)Amounts set forth in the “Bonus” column represent bonuses paid by the Company for performance in the prior fiscal year. Bonuses are given at the discretion of the Company and are not earned by Company employees until they are paid.
(3)Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of option awards granted within the fiscal year in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 718 for stock-based compensation. These amounts reflect the total grant date fair value for these awards, and do not correspond to the actual cash value that will be recognized by the grantee when received. For a detailed discussion of the assumptions made in the valuation of option awards, please see the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
(4)Amounts set forth in the All Other Compensation column consist of the following:
Item Mr.
Atsinger
($)
  Mr.
Masyr
($)
  Mr.
Evans
($)
  Mr.
Santrella
($)
  Mr.
Wright
($)
 
Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits (2014)  103,605      3,928   6,560    
Company Contributions to 401(k) Plan (2014)     4,428   6,375   6,375   6,375 
Medical, Dental, Life, Vision and Disability Premiums (2014)  14,591             
                     
TOTAL (2014)  118,196   4,428   10,303   12,935   6,375 

(5)Includes the following perquisites and personal benefits which have been valued by the Company based upon the incremental cost to the Company of providing these perquisites and personal benefits to the Named Executive Officers:
Perquisite or Personal Benefit Mr.
Atsinger
($)
  Mr.
Masyr
($)
  Mr.
Evans
($)
  Mr.
Santrella
($)
  Mr.
Wright    
($)
 
Personal Use of Company Vehicle (2014)  5,370             
Split-Dollar Life Insurance Premiums (2014)  90,872             
Supplemental Medical, Travel and Expense Reimbursement (2014)  7,363             
Supplemental Life Insurance Premiums (2014)        3,928   6,560    
                     
TOTAL (2014)  103,605      3,928   6,560    

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2014, in respect of outstanding equity awards made to the Company’s NEOs that are exercisable into the Company’s Class A common stock that may be issued under the Stock Plan, eitherthe Company’s only existing equity compensation plan.

   Option Awards 
  Number of
Securities
Underlying
 Unexercised 
Options
(#)
  Number of
Securities
Underlying
 Unexercised 
Options
(#)
      
Name Exercisable  Unexercisable  Option
Exercise
Price
($)
  Option
Expiration
Date
               
Edward G. Atsinger III  50,000      $6.92  03/11/2019
       50,000(1) $6.92  03/11/2020
       50,000(2) $6.92  03/11/2021
               
               
Evan D. Masyr  6,000      $5.20  03/08/2016
   6,000      $5.20  03/08/2017
   6,000      $5.20  03/08/2018
   6,000      $5.20  03/08/2019
   7,000      $2.38  09/28/2017
   7,000      $2.38  09/28/2018
   7,000      $2.38  09/28/2019
   8,750      $6.92  03/11/2019
       7,000(3) $2.38  09/28/2020
       40,000(4) $2.74  03/07/2020
       40,000(6) $2.74  03/07/2021
       8,750(1) $6.92  03/11/2020
       8,750(2) $6.92  03/11/2021
       8,750(5) $6.92  03/11/2022
David A.R. Evans  6,250      $11.80  03/14/2015
   6,250      $11.80  03/14/2016
   6,000      $5.20  03/08/2019
   8,750      $2.38  09/28/2019
   8,750      $6.92  03/11/2019
       8,750(3) $2.38  09/28/2020
       50,000(4) $2.74  03/07/2020
       50,000(6) $2.74  03/07/2021
       8,750(1) $6.92  03/11/2020
       8,750(2) $6.92  03/11/2021
       8,750(5) $6.92  03/11/2022
               
               
David P. Santrella  500      $13.51  03/15/2015
   750      $11.80  03/14/2015
   750      $11.80  03/14/2016
   8,746      $2.38  09/28/2018
   8,750      $6.92  03/11/2019
       8,750(3) $2.38  09/28/2020
       50,000(4) $2.74  03/07/2020
       50,000(6) $2.74  03/07/2021
       8,750(1) $6.92  03/11/2020
       8,750(2) $6.92  03/11/2021
       8,750(5) $6.92  03/11/2022
               
Frank Wright  2,500      $6.92  12/31/2015

(1)Unexercisable options vest March 11, 2015.
(2)Unexercisable options vest March 11, 2016.
(3)Unexercisable options vest September 28, 2015.
(4)Unexercisable options vest March 7, 2015.
(5)Unexercisable options vest March 11, 2017.
(6)Unexercisable options vest March 7, 2016.

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

The following table sets forth the stock options exercised by the Named Executive Officers in cash at the time of exercise or pursuant to a “same-day sale” program developed pursuant to Regulation T2014. None of the Federal Reserve Board.Named Executive Officers received stock awards in 2014; accordingly, no vesting of stock awarded in 2014 occurred during 2014.

Performance Awards.

OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK VESTED

  Option Awards 
Name Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise
(#)
  Value Realized
on Exercise
($)
 
Edward G. Atsinger III  80,000  $272,310 
Evan D. Masyr      
David A.R. Evans      
David Santrella  8,754  $49,219 
Frank Wright      

22

The Administering BodyCompany’s 401(k) Plan

We maintain a 401(k) defined contribution plan (the “401(k) Plan”), which covers all eligible employees (as defined in the 401(k) Plan). Participants are allowed to make non-forfeitable contributions up to 60% of their annual salary, but may grantnot exceed the annual maximum contribution limitations established by the Internal Revenue Service. The Company currently matches 50% on the first 5% of the amounts contributed by each participant. During the year ending December 31, 2014, Salem contributed and expensed $1.7 million to eligible personsthe 401(k) Plan.

Potential Payments to the Company’s NEOs upon Termination or Change in Control

Term Employment Agreement with Mr. Atsinger

Under the terms of his employment agreement, if Mr. Atsinger’s employment is terminated by reason of death prior to the expiration of the term, his estate is entitled to receive: (a) the actual earned and accrued portion of his base salary to the extent not already paid, (b) the actual earned and accrued portion of his incentive bonus for any period not already paid, (c) amounts to which he is entitled under the Company’s benefit plans, (d) immediate, 100% vesting of outstanding unvested stock options and other equity-based awards, payable in Class A Common Stock that vest and become payable over(e) continued coverage of Mr. Atsinger’s dependents under all applicable Company health benefit plans for a period of timetwelve (12) months.

If Mr. Atsinger’s employment is terminated upon attainmentdisability (as defined in his employment agreement), he is entitled to receive: (a) the actual earned and accrued portion of performance criteria establishedhis base salary to the extent not already paid, (b) a severance payment equal to 100% of his then current annual base salary for a period of fifteen (15) months, (c) the actual earned and accrued portion of his incentive bonus for any period not already paid, (d) amounts to which he is entitled under the Company’s benefit plans, and (e) immediate, 100% vesting of outstanding unvested stock options and other equity-based awards.

If Mr. Atsinger’s employment is terminated by the Administering BodyCompany without cause (as defined in connectionhis employment agreement), he is entitled to receive: (a) the actual earned and accrued portion of his base salary to the extent not already paid, (b) the actual earned and accrued portion of his incentive bonus for any period not already paid, and, (c) a severance payment equal to his then current annual base salary for a period of six (6) months or the remainder of the term of the agreement, whichever is longer.

The employment agreement also contains provisions that: (a) grant the Company a right of first refusal on all corporate opportunities presented to Mr. Atsinger, (b) restrict Mr. Atsinger’s ability to engage in any business that is competitive with the grantCompany’s business for a period of two (2) years following retirement or termination for cause or without good reason, and (c) restrict Mr. Atsinger’s ability to interfere with the business of the awards (“Performance Awards”). The Administering Body, in orderCompany or solicit Company employees for a period of two (2) years following such retirement or termination. Compliance by Mr. Atsinger with these obligations is a material condition to qualify an awardthe Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

Term Employment Agreement with Mr. Wright

Mr. Wright resigned from the Company effective as a Performance Award, can condition the grant, award, vesting, or exercisability of such an award on the attainment of a pre-established, objective performance goal. For this purpose, a pre-established, objective performance goal may include one or more of the following performance criteria: (a) cash flow, (b) earnings per share (including earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), (c) return on equity, (d) total stockholder return, (e) return on capital, (f) return on assets or net assets, (g) income or net income, (h) operating income or net operating income, (i) operating margin, (j) return on operating revenue, and (k) any other similar performance criteria. Each Performance Award and all rights or obligations thereunder will expire on a date determined by the Administering Body, and will be subject to earlier termination as provided in the Stock Plan or the award document.

Restricted Stock.    The Administering Body may authorize the grant or sale to eligible persons of Class A Common Stock that is nontransferable and subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture until specific conditions are met (“Restricted Stock”). The Administering Body will determine the purchase price (if any) to be paid for the Restricted Stock,December 31, 2014. Under the terms of payment, the restrictions upon the Restricted Stock, and when such restrictions will lapse; provided, however, that all shareshis employment agreement, if Mr. Wright’s employment was terminated by reason of Restricted Stock will be subjectdeath prior to the following conditions:expiration of the term, his estate was entitled to receive: (a) the shares mayactual earned and accrued portion of his base salary to the extent not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecatedalready paid, (b) the actual earned and accrued portion of his incentive bonus for any period not already paid, and (c) immediate, 100% vesting of outstanding unvested stock options and other equity-based awards. If Mr. Wright’s employment was terminated for cause (as defined in his employment agreement), Mr. Wright was entitled to receive the actual earned and accrued portion of his base salary to the extent not already paid.

If Mr. Wright’s employment was terminated by the Company without cause (as defined in his employment agreement) during the initial one year term of the agreement, he was entitled to receive: (a) the actual earned and accrued portion of his base salary to the extent not already paid, (b) the actual earned and accrued portion of his incentive bonus for any period not already paid, and (c) his then current annual base salary for a period of six (6) months or the remainder of the initial one year term of the agreement, whichever was longer. If Mr. Wright’s employment was terminated by the Company without cause (as defined in his employment agreement) after the expiration of the initial one year term of the agreement, Mr. Wright was entitled to receive (a) and (b) above and his then current annual base salary for a period of six (6) months. As Mr. Wright resigned at the end of the initial one year term of his agreement, the Company was not obligated to pay Mr. Wright any additional compensation except the actual earned and accrued portion of his base salary to the extent not already paid; however, the Company entered into a Separation and General Release with Mr. Wright as of December 31, 2014 and pursuant to that agreement will pay to Mr. Wright his then current annual base salary for a period of six (6) months.

The employment agreement also contained provisions that: (a) granted the Company a right of first refusal on all corporate opportunities presented to Mr. Wright, and (b) restricted Mr. Wright’s ability to interfere with the business of the Company or solicit Company employees for a period of two (2) years following such retirement or termination. Compliance by Mr. Wright with these obligations was a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

At-Will Employment Agreement with Mr. Masyr

Under the terms of his agreement, if Mr. Masyr’s employment is terminated by reason of death, disability or otherwise disposedfor cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he or his estate is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his then base salary accrued through the date of alienated or encumbered untiltermination to the restrictions are removed or expire;extent not already paid, and (b) the Administering Body may require that the certificates representing Restricted Stock remain in the physical custody of an escrow holder orhis actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid.

If Mr. Masyr’s employment is terminated by the Company until all restrictions are removed or expire; (c) each certificate representing Restricted Stock will bear such legend or legends making referencewithout cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he is also entitled to receive a severance payment in an amount equal to the restrictions imposed upon such Restricted Stock asbase salary Mr. Masyr would have otherwise received for a period of six (6) months from the Administering Body deems necessarydate of termination had he remained employed with the Company.

The employment agreement with Mr. Masyr also contains a provision that restricts his ability to interfere with the business of the Company or appropriate to enforce such restrictions; and (d) the Administering Body may impose such other conditions on Restricted Stock as it deems advisable. Subject to any restrictions imposed upon the Restricted Stock, the recipient thereof will have all rightssolicit Company employees for a period of a stockholder with respect to the Restricted Stock granted or sold to such recipient, including, without limitation, the right to vote the shares and receive all dividends and other distributions paid or made with respect thereto. Unless the Administering Body determines otherwise, upon a recipient’ssix (6) months following termination of employment for any reason. Compliance by Mr. Masyr with this obligation is a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

At-Will Employment Agreement with Mr. Evans

Under the terms of his employment agreement, if Mr. Evans’ employment is terminated by reason all of the recipient’s Restricted Stock remaining subjectdeath, disability or otherwise for cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he or his estate is entitled to restrictions onreceive: (a) a payment equal to his then base salary through the date of such termination will be repurchasedto the extent not already paid, and (b) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid. Additionally, if Mr. Evan’s employment is terminated by reason of death, his estate is entitled to receive immediate, 100% vesting of outstanding unvested stock options and other equity-based awards.

If Mr. Evans’ employment is terminated by the Company at the purchase price paid by the recipient (if any).

Stock Appreciation Rights.    The Administering Body may grantwithout cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he is also entitled to eligible persons Stock appreciation rights; that is, rights to receive payments measured with referencereceive: (a) a severance payment in an amount equal to the amount by which the fair market valuebase salary Mr. Evans would have otherwise received for a period of a specified number of shares of Class A Common Stock appreciatessix (6) months from a specified date (such as the date of granttermination had he remained employed with the Company, and (b) professional outplacement assistance for twelve (12) consecutive months from the termination date.

The employment agreement with Mr. Evans also contains a provision that restricts his ability to interfere with the business of the stock appreciation rights)Company or solicit Company employees for a period of six months following termination of employment for any reason. Compliance by Mr. Evans with these obligations is a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

At-Will Employment Agreement with Mr. Santrella

Under the terms of his employment agreement, if Mr. Santrella’s employment is terminated by reason of death, disability or otherwise for cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he or his estate is entitled to receive: (a) a payment equal to his then base salary accrued through the date of exercise. termination to the extent not already paid, and (b) his actual earned incentive bonus for any period not already paid.

If Mr. Santrella’s employment is terminated by the Company without cause (as defined in his employment agreement), he is also entitled to receive a severance payment in an amount equal to the base salary Mr. Santrella would have otherwise received for a period of six (6) months from the date of termination had he remained employed with the Company.

The Administering Body hasemployment agreement with Mr. Santrella also contains a provision that restricts his ability to interfere with the business of the Company or solicit Company employees for a period of six (6) months following termination of employment for any reason. Compliance by Mr. Santrella with this obligation is a material condition to the Company’s obligation to provide the above termination benefits.

24

Payments in the Event of Death

The following table sets forth the estimated value of payments that the estate of the Company’s Named Executive Officers would be entitled to receive assuming a death occurring as of December 31, 2014 and that the price per share of the Company’s class A common stock is $7.82, which is an amount equal to the stock’s NASDAQ market closing price on December 31, 2014.

Name Value of Salary
Continuation
($)
  Value of Earned
Incentive Bonuses
($)
  Value of Equity
Awards Vesting on
Termination
($)
  Value of
Continued
Benefits
Coverage
($)
  TOTAL
($)
 
Mr. Atsinger  14,615   -   90,000   4,792   109,407 
Mr. Wright  7,308   -   -   -   7,308 
Mr. Masyr  5,808   -   -   -   5,808 
Mr. Evans  7,538   -   579,225   -   586,763 
Mr. Santrella  6,615   -   -   -   6,615 

Payments in the Event of Disability

The following table sets forth the estimated value of benefits that the Company’s Named Executive Officers would be entitled to receive assuming a disability occurring as of December 31, 2014.

Disability as defined in the employment agreement for Mr. Atsinger generally means any mental or physical impairment which prevents the executive at any time during the term from performing the essential functions of his full discretionduties for a period of 180 days within any 270 day period and the executive fails to determinereturn to work within 10 days of notice by the formCompany of its intention to terminate employment. Disability as defined in the employment agreement for Mr. Wright generally means any mental or physical impairment which paymentprevents the executive at any time during the term from performing the essential functions of his full duties for a period of 100 days within any 150 day period and the executive fails to return to work within 10 days of notice by the Company of its intention to terminate employment. Disability as defined in the employment agreements for Messrs. Masyr, Evans and Santrella generally means any mental or physical impairment which prevents the executive from performing the essential functions of his full duties for a period of 90 days during any 365 day period and the executive fails to return to work within 10 days of notice by the Company of its intention to terminate employment.

Name Value of Salary
Continuation and
Severance
($)
  Value of
Earned
Incentive
Bonuses
($)
  Value of Equity
Awards Vesting on
Termination
($)
  Value of
Benefits
Coverage
($)
  TOTAL
($)
 
Mr. Atsinger  1,202,115   -   90,000   -   1,292,115 
Mr. Wright  7,308   -   -   -   7,308 
Mr. Masyr  5,808   -   -   -   5,808 
Mr. Evans  7,538   -   579,225   -   586,763 
Mr. Santrella  6,615   -   -   -   6,615 

Payments in the Event of Termination Without Cause

The following table sets forth the estimated value of benefits that the Company’s Named Executive Officers would be entitled to receive assuming a termination without cause occurring as of December 31, 2014.

Termination for cause generally means: (a) death; (b) disability (as generally defined above); (c) continued gross negligence, malfeasance or gross insubordination in performing duties assigned to the executive; (d) a conviction of a stock appreciation right will be made and to consent tocrime involving moral turpitude; (e) an egregious act of dishonesty in connection with employment or disapprove the election of a recipient to receive cash in fullmalicious act toward Company or partial settlement ofits subsidiaries, (f) a stock appreciation right. Further, the Administering Body may, at the time a stock appreciation right is granted, impose such conditions on the exerciseviolation of the confidentiality provisions contained in the employment agreement, (g) a willful breach of the employment agreement; (h) disloyalty; or (i) material and repeated failure to carry out reasonably assigned duties or instructions consistent with the executive’s position.

Name Value of Salary
Continuation
and Severance
($)
  Value of
Earned
Incentive
Bonuses
($)
  Value of Equity
Awards Vesting
on Termination
($)
  Value of
Benefits
Coverage
($)
  Value of
Outplacement
Services
($)
  TOTAL
($)
 
Mr. Atsinger  489,615   -   -   -   -   489,615 
Mr. Wright  244,808   -   -   -   -   244,808 
Mr. Masyr  194,558   -   -   -   -   194,558 
Mr. Evans  252,538   -   -   -   28,000   280,538 
Mr. Santrella  221,615   -   -   -   -   221,615 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2014, with respect to shares of our Class A common stock appreciation right asthat may be required to satisfy the requirements of Rule 16b-3issued under the Exchange Act (or any other comparable provisions in effect atCompany’s Stock Plan, our only existing equity compensation plan. The Stock Plan was adopted by our Board of Directors and approved by our stockholders on May 25, 1999. On March 20, 2003, the time or times in question).

Stock appreciation rights granted underBoard of Directors approved an amendment to the Stock Plan may be related or unrelated to stock options. A stock appreciation right related to a stock option will entitle the holder of the related stock option, upon exercise of the stock appreciation right, to surrender such stock option, or any portion thereof to the extent previously vested but unexercised, with respect to the number ofreserve an additional 600,000 shares as to which such stock appreciation right is exercised, and to receive payment of an amount determined by multiplying (a) the difference obtained by subtracting the exercise price of a share of Class A Common Stock specified in the related stock option from the fair market value of a share of Class A Common Stock on the date of exercise of such stock

appreciation right (or as of such other date specified in the instrument evidencing the stock appreciation right), by (b) the number of shares as to which such stock appreciation right is exercised. Such stock option will, to the extent surrendered, then cease to be exercisable. A stock appreciation right granted in connection with a stock option will be exercisable at such time or times, and only to the extent that, the related stock option is exercisable, and will not be transferable except to the extent that such related stock option may be transferable.

The amount payable upon exercise of a stock appreciation right that is unrelated to a stock option will be determined in accordance with the formula described in the preceding paragraph, except that in lieu of the option exercise price specified in the related stock option, the initial base amount specified in the award will be used.

Stock Payments.    The Administering Body may grant stock payments of the Company’s Class A Common Stock to any eligible person for all or any portion of the compensation (other than base salary) or other payment that would otherwise become payable by the Company to the eligible person in cash.

Dividend Equivalents.    The Administering Body may grant dividend equivalents to any recipient under the Stock Plan who has received a stock option, stock appreciation rights or other award denominated in shares of Class A Common Stock. Such dividend equivalents will entitle the holders thereof to receive from the Company during the applicable dividend period (as defined in the Stock Plan) payments equivalent to the amount of dividends payable to holders of the number of shares of Class A Common Stock underlying such stock option, stock appreciation rights or other award. Dividend equivalents may be paid in cash, Class A Common Stock or other awards; and the amount of dividend equivalents paid other than in cash will be determined by the Administering Body by application of such formula as the Administering Body may deem appropriate to translate the cash value of dividends paid to the alternative form of payment of the dividend equivalent. Dividend equivalents will be computed as of each dividend record date and will be payable to recipients thereof at such time as the Administering Body may determine.

Stock Bonuses.    The Administering Body may issue shares of Class A Common Stock to eligible persons as bonuses for services rendered or for any other valid consideration on such terms and conditions as the Administering Body may determine.

Stock Sales.    The Administering Body may sell to eligible persons shares of Class A Common Stock on such terms and conditions as the Administering Body may determine.

Phantom Stock.    The Administering Body may grant to eligible persons awards of phantom stock; that is, a cash bonus granted under the Stock Plan measured by the fair market value of a specified number of shares of Class A Common Stock on a specified date, or measured by the excess of such fair market value over a specified minimum, which may but need not include a dividend equivalent.

Other Stock-Based Benefits.    The Administering Body may grant to eligible persons other stock-based benefits not otherwise described above that (a) by their terms might involve the issuance or sale of Class A Common Stock or (b) involve a benefit that is measured, as a whole or in part, by the value, appreciation, dividend yield or other features attributable to a specified number of shares of Class A Common Stock.

Prohibition on Option Repricing

The Stock Plan expressly provides that the Administering Body may not reduce or lower the exercise price, purchase price or initial value of stock options after they have been granted.

Award Limits

In order for the compensation attributable to awards granted under the Stock Plan to qualify as performance-based compensation (as defined in the Stock Plan), no one eligible person will be granted any awards with respect to more than 100,000 shares of Class A Common Stock in any one calendar year. This limitation is subject to adjustment as set forth in the Stock Plan, but only to the extent such adjustment would not affect the status of compensation attributable to awards as performance-based compensation. Further, the aggregate fair market value (determined as of the date of grant) of the Class A Common Stock for which one or more Incentive Stock Options granted to any one eligible person under the Stock Plan (or any other option plan of the Company or any of its affiliated entities) may for the first time become exercisable during any one calendar year will not exceed $100,000.

Stock Plan Effectiveness and Duration

The Stock Plan became effective as of May 25, 1999 (the “Effective Date”), and pursuant to an amendment approved June 3, 2009, will continue in effect until May 25, 2019 (the “Stock Plan Term”), at which time the Stock Plan will automatically terminate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, each award properly granted under the Stock Plan during the Stock Plan Term will remain in effect after termination of the Stock Plan until such award has been exercised, terminated or expired in accordance with its terms and the terms of the Stock Plan.

Amendment and Termination

The Administering Body may, insofar as permitted by applicable law, rule or regulation, from time to time suspend or discontinue the Stock Plan or revise or amend it in any respect whatsoever, and the Stock Plan as so revised or amended will govern all awards thereunder, including those granted before such revision or amendment; provided, however , that no such revision or amendment will alter, impair or diminish any rights or obligations under any award previously granted under the Stock Plan without the written consent of the recipient to whom such award was granted. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administering Body is authorized to amend the Stock Plan to comply with or take advantage of amendments to applicable laws, rules or regulations, including amendments to the Securities Act, Exchange Act, the IRC (or any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder) or the rules of any exchange or inter-dealer quotation system upon which the Class A Common Stock is listed or traded. No stockholder approval of any amendment or revision shall be required unless (a) such approval is required by the Stock Plan or by applicable law, rule or regulation, or (b) an amendment or revision to the Stock Plan would materially increase the number of shares subject to the Stock Plan (as adjusted under the Stock Plan), materially modify the requirements as to eligibility for participation in the Stock Plan, extend the final date upon which awards may be granted under the Stock Plan, or otherwise materially increase the benefits accruing to recipients in a manner not specifically contemplated herein, or affect the Stock Plan’s compliance with Rule 16b-3 or applicable provisions of or regulations under the IRC, and stockholder approval of the amendment or revision is required to comply with Rule 16b-3 or applicable provisions of or rules under the IRC.

Restrictions on Transferability

No award granted under the Stock Plan will be assignable or transferable except (a) by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, (b) subject to the final sentence of this paragraph, upon dissolution of marriage pursuant to a qualified domestic relations order, or (c) in the discretion of the Administering Body and under circumstances that would not adversely affect the interests of the Company, pursuant to a nominal transfer that does not result in a change in beneficial ownership. During the lifetime of a recipient, an award granted to such person will be exercisable only by the recipient (or the recipient’s permitted transferee) or such person’s guardian or legal representative. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) no award owned by a recipient subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act may be assigned or transferred in any manner inconsistent with Rule 16b-3, and (ii) Incentive Stock Options (or other awards subject to transfer restrictions under the IRC) may not be assigned, transferred or exercisable in violation of Section 422(b)(5) of the IRC (or any comparable or successor provision) or the regulations thereunder, and nothing herein is intended to allow such assignment or transfer.

Stock Subject to the Stock Plan

Subject to stockholder approval of this Proposal 2, there will be 1,932,407 shares of Class A common stock available for issuance under the Stock Plan. If options granted underThe amendment was approved by a vote of the stockholders at the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders held on June 11, 2003. On November 10, 2004 the Company’s stockholders approved an amendment to the Stock Plan expire or otherwise terminate without being exercised,to reserve an additional 1,500,000 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock not purchased pursuant to such options again becomes availablecommon stock for issuance under the Stock Plan.

Governing Law

The amendment was approved by a vote of the stockholders at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 18, 2005. On June 3, 2009, by a vote of the stockholders at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders, an extension of the term of the Stock Plan is governed by and interpreted in accordance withthrough May 25, 2019 was approved. At the internal lawsAnnual Meeting of Stockholders held on June 22, 2012, the State of Delaware, without giving effectcompany’s stockholders approved a revision to the principlesStock Plan increasing the number of the conflictsshares authorized by 1,900,000. As a result, a maximum of laws thereof.

Federal Income Tax Consequences

General.    The following summary of certain federal income tax consequences of the receipt and exercise of awards granted by the Company is based on the laws and regulations in effect as of the date of this Proxy Statement and does not purport to be a complete statement of the law in this area. Furthermore, the discussion below does not address the tax consequences of the receipt and exercise of stock options under foreign, state and/or local tax laws, and such tax laws may not correspond to the federal tax treatment described herein. The exact federal income tax treatment of transactions under the Stock

Plan will vary depending on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Accordingly, individuals eligible to receive or exercise awards should consult their personal tax advisors with regard to all consequences arising from the grant or exercise of awards and the disposition of any acquired5,000,000 shares prior to engaging in any transaction related to any award.

Stock options grantedare authorized under the Stock Plan, of which 1,816,204 are not subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended,outstanding and 663,417 are not qualified under Section 401(a) of the IRC.

Incentive Stock Options.    Stock options granted under the Stock Plan may qualify as Incentive Stock Options within the meaning of Section 422 of the IRC. If an optionee exercises an Incentive Stock Option in accordance with its terms and does not dispose of the shares acquired within two years from the date of the grant of the Incentive Stock Option nor within one year from the date of exercise (the “Required Holding Periods”), an optionee generally will not be subject to regular federal income tax, and the Company will not be entitled to any deduction, on either the grant or the exercise of an Incentive Stock Option. An optionee’s basis in the shares acquired upon exercise will be the amount paid upon exercise. Provided an optionee holds the shares as a capital asset at the time of sale or other disposition of the shares, an optionee’s gain or loss, if any, recognized on the sale or other disposition will be capital gain or loss. The amount of an optionee’s gain or loss will be the difference between the amount realized on the disposition of the shares and the optionee’s basis in the shares.

If, however, an optionee disposes of the acquired shares at any time prior to the expiration of the Required Holding Periods, then (subject to certain exceptions), the optionee will recognize ordinary income at the time of such disposition which will equal the excess, if any, of the lesser of (a) the amount realized on such disposition or (b) the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise, over the optionee’s basis in the shares. the Company generally will be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by an optionee. Any gain in excess of such ordinary income amount will be a short-term or long-term capital gain, depending on the optionee’s holding period. If an optionee disposes of such shares for less than the optionee’s basis in the shares, the difference between the amount realized and the optionee’s basis will be short-term or long-term capital loss, depending upon the holding period of the shares.

The excess of the fair market value of the shares acquired on the exercise date of an Incentive Stock Option over the exercise price of such option generally is required to be included in the optionee’s alternative minimum taxable income for the year in which the option is exercised and, accordingly, may subject an optionee to the alternative minimum tax. See “Special Rules for Insiders,” below.

Nonqualified Stock Options.    In general, there are no tax consequences to the optionee or to the Company on the grant of a stock option which does not qualify as an incentive stock option (a “Nonqualified Stock Option”). On exercise, however, the optionee generally will recognize ordinary income equal to the excess of the fair market value of the sharesexercisable as of the exercise date over the purchase price paid for such shares, and the Company will be entitled to a deduction equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the optionee. See “Special Rules for Insiders,” below. Upon a subsequent disposition of the shares received under a nonqualified stock option, the difference between the amount realized on such disposition and the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise generally will be treated as a capital gain or loss.December 31, 2014.

Special Rules for Insiders.    If an optionee is a director, officer or stockholder subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act (an “Insider”) and exercises an option within six months of the date of grant, the timing of the recognition of any ordinary income should be deferred until (and the amount of ordinary income should be determined based on the fair market value (or sales price in the case of a disposition) of the Class A Common Stock upon) the earlier of the following two dates: (i) six months after the date of grant or (ii) a disposition of the Class A Common Stock, unless the Insider makes an election under Section 83(b) of the IRC (an “83(b) Election”) within 30 days after exercise to recognize ordinary income based on the value of the Class A Common Stock on the date of exercise. In addition, special rules apply to an Insider who exercises an option having an exercise price greater than the fair market value of the underlying Class A Common Stock on the date of exercise.

  Equity Compensation Plan Information 
Plan Category Number of
securities
to be issued
upon exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
  Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
  Remaining available for
future issuance
under equity
compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column
(a))
 
  (a)  (b)  (c) 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders  1,816,204  $4.88   1,329,048 
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders         
             
Total  1,816,204  $4.88   1,329,048 

26

Performance Awards and Stock Appreciation Rights.    Generally, the recipient of a Performance Award or a holder of a stock appreciation rights will recognize ordinary income equal to the amount paid by the Company under either arrangement on the date the recipient or holder receives payment from the Company. If the Company places a limit on the amount that will be payable under an stock appreciation rights, the holder may recognize ordinary income equal to the value of the holder’s right under the stock appreciation rights at the time the value of such right equals such limit and the stock appreciation rights is exercisable. The Company will generally be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the recipient or holder.

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Restricted Stock.    Unless the recipient makes an 83(b) Election within 30 days after the receipt of the restricted stock, the recipient is not taxed and the Company is not entitled to a deduction until the restriction lapses, and at that time the recipient will recognize ordinary income equal to the difference between the then fair market value of the Class A Common Stock and the amount, if any, paid by the recipient for the Class A Common Stock, and the recipient’s tax basis in the Class A Common Stock will equal the then fair market value of the Class A Common Stock. If the recipient makes a timely 83(b) Election, the recipient will recognize ordinary income at the time of the election equal to the difference between the fair market value of the restricted stock on the date of grant and the amount, if any, paid by the recipient for the Class A Common Stock, and the recipient’s tax basis in the Class A Common Stock will equal the fair market value of the Class A Common Stock on the grant date. Any subsequent sale of the Class A Common Stock by the recipient generally will, depending upon the length of the holding period beginning just after the date the restriction on the Class A Common Stock lapses or where an 83(b) Election is made just after the grant date, be treated as long or short term capital gain (loss) equal to the difference between the sale price (the recipient’s tax basis) and the recipient’s tax basis (sale price). The Company generally will be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the recipient.

Miscellaneous Tax Issues.    An award may be granted under the Stock Plan that does not fall clearly into one of the categories described above. The federal income tax treatment of such an award will depend upon the specific terms of such award. In such case, the recipient should consult his or her tax advisor regarding the tax treatment applicable to such award.

Generally, the Company will be required to make arrangements for withholding applicable taxes with respect to any ordinary income recognized by a participant in connection with an award made under the Stock Plan.

With certain exceptions, an individual may not deduct investment-related interest to the extent such interest exceeds the individual’s net investment income for the year. Investment interest generally includes interest paid on indebtedness incurred to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock. Interest disallowed under this rule may be carried forward to and deducted in later years, subject to the same limitations.

Special rules will apply in cases where a recipient of an award pays the exercise or purchase price of the award or applicable withholding tax obligations under the Stock Plan by delivering previously owned shares of Class A Common Stock or by reducing the amount of shares otherwise issuable pursuant to the award. The surrender or withholding of such shares will in certain circumstances result in the recognition of income with respect to such shares or a carryover basis in the shares acquired. A recipient should consult his or her tax advisor regarding the tax consequences associated with using previously owned shares of Class A Common Stock or reducing the amount of shares issuable pursuant to the award for the foregoing purposes.

The terms of the agreements pursuant to which specific awards are made to employees under the Stock Plan may provide for accelerated vesting or payment of an award in connection with a change in ownership or control of the Company. In that event and depending upon the individual circumstances of the recipient, certain amounts with respect to such awards may constitute “excess parachute payments” under the “golden parachute” provisions of the IRC. Pursuant to these provisions, a recipient will be subject to a 20% excise tax on any “excess parachute payments” and the Company will be denied any deduction with respect to such payment. A recipient of an award should consult his or her tax advisor as to whether accelerated vesting of an award in connection with a change of ownership or controlNon-employee Directors of the Company would give rise toreceive an excess parachute payment.

Company Withholdingsannual retainer and Information Reports

If an award recipient is an employee of the Company, withholdings required to be made by the Company with respect to ordinary compensation income recognized under stock options ordinarily will be accomplished by withholding the required amount from other cash compensation due from the Company to the employee, by having the employee pay to the Company the required withholding amount, or by such other permissible methods as the Company may deem appropriate. Whether or not such withholdings are required, the Company will make such information reports to the Internal Revenue Service as may be required with respect to any income (whether or not that of an employee) attributable to transactions involving stock options.

Plan Benefits

fees. The following table sets forth the compensation of the Company’s non-employee Directors in 2014:

Name Fees Earned
(1)
($)
  Option
Awards
($)
  TOTAL
(2)
($)
 
David Davenport  52,000      52,000 
Roland S. Hinz  44,000      44,000 
Richard A. Riddle  66,500      66,500 
Jonathan Venverloh  49,500      49,500 
James Keet Lewis  29,755      29,755 

(1)Reflects all fees paid to non-employee Directors for participation in regular, telephonic and special meetings of the Board and committees and retainer fees.

(2)Messrs. Davenport, Hinz, Riddle and Venverloh each held 20,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2014.

The cash compensation paid as of December 31, 2014 to the Company’s non-employee Directors (“Designated Directors”) as approved by the Company’s Board of Directors at the recommendation of the Committee is as follows:

COMPENSATION AMOUNT  PAYABLE TO PAYABLE
Annual Retainer $27,000  Designated Directors Quarterly
         
Attendance Fee
(Full Company Board)
 $2,500  Designated Directors Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Company Board Meeting
         
Attendance Fee
(Board Committee)
 $1,500  Designated Director Committee
Members
 Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Committee Meeting
         
Chairperson Fee
(Audit and Compensation Committees)
 $2,000  Chairperson of Audit and
Compensation Committees
 Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Committee Meeting
         
Chairperson Fee
(Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee)
 $1,000  Chairperson of Nominating and
Corporate Governance
Committee
 Per Regularly Scheduled or Noticed
Committee Meeting
         
Attendance Fee
(Special Committee)
  N/A  Special Committee Members Per Special Committee Meeting or
Task

In addition to the above fees, Directors are compensated on an ad hoc basis for special committee or subcommittee meetings held or tasks performed by a committee or subcommittee designated by either the full Board of Directors or by a standing committee of the full Board of Directors, with such compensation determined by the establishing body at the time the special committee or subcommittee is established. Designated Directors who are also chairmen of the Company’s Board committees shall receive the applicable chairperson fee in addition to a committee attendance fee for each regularly scheduled Company Board committee meeting. Designated Directors shall also receive reimbursement for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with travel to and attendance at regularly scheduled Company Board and Board committee meetings.

Company Directors who are also employees of the Company (Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of the Board, and Edward G. Atsinger III, CEO) are not additionally compensated for their services as Directors. Compensation for Mr. Atsinger is summarized in the “Summary Compensation Table” appearing in this Proxy Statement under the heading “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.”

27

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

This Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed soliciting material or to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), nor shall any information in this report be incorporated by reference by any general statement into any past or future filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except to the extent determinable,that Salem Media Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) specifically incorporates this information by reference into such filing, and shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such Acts.

The purpose of the benefits underAudit Committee (the “Committee”) is to oversee, on behalf of the Plan that have been receivedentire Board of Directors (the “Board”): (a) the accounting and financial reporting processes of the Corporation, (b) the audits of the Corporation’s financial statements, (c) the qualifications, independence and performance of the public accounting firm engaged as the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm to prepare or issue an audit report on the financial statements of the Corporation, and (d) the performance of the Corporation’s internal auditor and independent registered public accounting firm.

The Committee has adopted, and annually reviews, a charter outlining the practices it follows. The charter complies with all current regulatory requirements, including requirements pertaining to the NASDAQ Stock Market listing standards definitions, provisions and applicable exceptions concerning the independence of audit committee members.

In 2014, the Committee held seven meetings, four of which were regularly scheduled and three of which were special telephonic meetings. The Committee’s meeting agendas are established by the Committee chairman based upon the Committee’s charter and an annual meeting planner approved by the entire Committee. At each of these meetings, the following asCommittee met with the senior members of April 24, 2012: (i) our Chief Executive Officerthe Corporation’s financial management team and two most highly compensated executive officers other thanGeneral Counsel. Additionally, the CEO who were serving as executive officersCorporation’s internal auditor met with the full Committee at the endfour regularly scheduled meetings and the independent registered public accounting firm met with the full Committee at the seven meetings. Prior to each regularly scheduled meeting, the Chairman of the 2011 fiscal year; (ii) all current executive officers, as a group; (iii) our directors who are not executive officers, as a group;Committee also met privately with the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm and, (iv) all other employees, including all current officers who are not executive officers, as a group.

Amendedseparately, with the Corporation’s internal auditor, at which times candid discussions of financial management, accounting and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Planinternal control issues took place.

 

Name and Position Number of Shares (1)  

 

  

 

 

Edward G. Atsinger III
Chief Executive Officer and Director

      

David A.R. Evans
President – New Business Development, Interactive and Publishing

    100,000    (2) 

David P. Santrella
President – Radio Division

    100,000    (2) 

Executive Group (7 persons) (3)

    350,000  

Non-Executive Director Group (5 persons)

    50,000    (4) 

Non-Executive Officer Employee Group (approximately 1,423 persons)

    276,000    (5) 

 

    

(1)The Compensation Committee made a grant of stock options to officers and other employees on March 7, 2012. Additional grants during 2012, if any, are not determinable at this time.
(2)Each of these stock options was granted on March 7, 2012 with an exercise price for each share of $2.74.
(3)This group consists of 7 persons, including each of the named executive officers listed above.
(4)This figure includes the following: (a) options to purchase 5,000 shares of the Company’s class A common stock granted on January 12, 2012 with an exercise price for each share of $2.50 and (b) options to purchase 621,000 shares of the Company’s class A common stock granted on March 7, 2012 with an exercise price for each share of $2.74.
(5)Determined as of April 24, 2012 and excluding executive group listed above.

PROPOSAL 3

PROPOSAL TO RATIFY THE APPOINTMENT OF

SINGERLEWAK LLP AS THE

COMPANY’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Company’s board of directors has selectedCommittee appointed SingerLewak LLP to serve as itsthe Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year endingended December 31, 2012. SingerLewak LLP has served as2014, and reviewed with the Company’s independent auditor since June 2007. A representative of SingerLewak LLP is expected to attendCorporation’s financial managers, the Annual Meeting, and the representative will have an opportunity to make a statement if he or she so desires. The representative will also be available to respond to appropriate questions from stockholders.

Reasons for the Proposal

Selection of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, is not required to be submitted for stockholder approval. Nonetheless, the board of directors is seeking ratification of its selection of SingerLewak LLP as a matter of further involving the Company’s stockholders in its corporate affairs. If the stockholders do not ratify this selection, management and the boardCorporation’s internal auditor, overall audit scopes and plans, the results of directors will reconsider its selectioninternal and external controls and the quality of SingerLewak LLPthe Corporation’s financial reporting.

The Corporation’s management is primarily responsible for the preparation, presentation, and will either continueintegrity of the Corporation’s financial statements, accounting and financial reporting principles, internal controls, and procedures designed to retain this firm or appoint newensure compliance with accounting standards, applicable laws, and regulations. As the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm, upon recommendationSingerLewak LLP is responsible for performing an independent audit of the Audit Committee. Even ifCorporation’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and for expressing an opinion on the selection is ratified,conformity of the Auditaudited financial statements to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

The Committee or our boardhas reviewed and discussed with management the Corporation’s audited financial statements as of directors, in their discretion, may directand for the appointment of differentyear ended December 31, 2014. The Committee has also discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm at any time duringthe matters required to be discussed by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”).

The Committee has received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from the independent registered public accounting firm required by the rules of the PCAOB and the Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm that firm’s independence from the Corporation and its management.

Based on the Committee’s reviews and discussions referred to above, the Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements referred to above be included in the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year if they determineended December 31, 2014, to be filed with the SEC.

The Audit Committee is currently comprised of Richard A. Riddle, Chairman, Jonathan Venverloh and James Keet Lewis.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

Richard A. Riddle, Chairman

Jonathan Venverloh

James Keet Lewis

March 4, 2015

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of the Company’s Class A and Class B common stock as of March 23, 2015 (unless otherwise indicated) by: (a) each person believed by the Company to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of either class of the outstanding Class A or Class B common stock; (b) each Director; (c) each of the NEO’s; and (d) all Directors and NEO’s as a group.

  Class A
Common Stock
  Class B
Common Stock
  % Vote of
All
Classes
of
Common
 
Name and Address(1) Number  % Vote(2)  Number  % Vote(2)  Stock(2) 
Stuart W. Epperson  3,874,574(3)  19.14%  2,776,848(4)  50.00%  41.76%
Nancy A. Epperson  3,874,574(3)  19.14%  2,776,848(4)  50.00%  41.76%
Edward G. Atsinger III  4,426,580(5)  21.87%  2,776,848(5)  50.00%  42.48%
David Davenport  18,500(6)  *         * 
Roland S. Hinz  33,150(7)  *         * 
Richard A. Riddle  112,391(8)  *         * 
Jonathan Venverloh  45,500(9)  *         * 
James Keet Lewis  0   *         * 
Frank Wright  9,810   *         * 
David P. Santrella  54,966(10)  *         * 
David A.R. Evans  95,350(11)  *         * 
Evan Masyr  85,518(12)  *         * 
All Directors and NEO’s as a group  8,756,339   43.26%  5,553,696   100.00%  84.84%
GAMCO Investors, Inc.
    One Corporate Center
    Rye, NY 10580
  1,762,451(13)  8.71%(13)        2.33%(13)
Neuberger Berman Group, LLC
   605 Third Avenue
 41st Floor
 New York, NY 10158
  1,638,608(14)  8.09%(14)        2.16%(14)
Edward C. Atsinger  1,093,078(15)  5.40%        1.44%
Epperson Children’s Trusts  1,007,520(16)  4.98%        1.33%

*Less than 1%.

(1)Except as otherwise indicated, the address for each person is c/o Salem Media Group, Inc., 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California 93012. Calculated pursuant to Rule 13d-3(d) under the Exchange Act, shares of Class A common stock not outstanding that are subject to options exercisable by the holder thereof within 60 days of March 23, 2015, are deemed outstanding for the purposes of calculating the number and percentage ownership by such stockholder, but not deemed outstanding for the purpose of calculating the percentage owned by each other stockholder listed. Unless otherwise noted, all shares listed as beneficially owned by a stockholder are actually outstanding.

(2)Percentage voting power is based upon 19,836,855 shares of Class A common stock and 5,553,696 shares of Class B common stock all of which were outstanding as of March 23, 2015, plus shares of Class A common stock that are subject to options exercisable by holders within 60 days of March 23, 2015 and the general voting power of one (1) vote for each share of Class A common stock and ten (10) votes for each share of Class B common stock.

(3)Includes shares of Class A common stock held by a trust of which Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are trustees and shares held directly by Mr. Epperson. As husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are each deemed to be the beneficial owner of shares held by the other and share voting and dispositive power; therefore, their combined beneficial ownership is shown in the table. Includes 85,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days. Also includes 384,318 shares of Class A common stock pledged on December 20, 2014 by a joint account of Mr. and Mrs. Epperson and 251,880 shares of Class A common stock pledged on December 2, 2013 by a trust of which Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are trustees.
(4)Includes shares of Class B common stock held by a trust of which Mr. and Mrs. Epperson are trustees.

(5)These shares of Class A and Class B common stock are held by trusts of which Mr. Atsinger is trustee. Includes 100,000 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(6)Includes 4,000 shares of Class A common stock held by a trust for which Mr. Davenport is a trustee. Also includes 12,500 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(7)Includes 1,411 shares held by Mr. Hinz’s wife. Mr. Hinz disclaims beneficial ownership of shares of Class A common stock held by his wife. Also includes 900 shares held by a trust for which Mr. Hinz is a trustee and 12,500 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(8)Includes 12,500 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(9)The shares of Class A common stock are held by Jonathan and Mehridith Venverloh as trustees of the Ecclesiastes Trust 2004 U/A 11/19/04. Also includes 12,500 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(10)Includes 48,246 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(11)Includes 600 shares of Class A common stock held in custody for his minor daughter and 44,750 shares of Class A common stock subject to options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(12)Includes 78,500 shares of Class A common stock subject to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days.

(13)The ownership of common stock and voting percentage calculations are made as of December 31, 2014 based on information obtained from the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (“NASDAQ”).

(14)The ownership of common stock and voting percentage calculations are made as of December 31, 2014 based on information obtained from NASDAQ.

(15)Includes 1,090,078 shares of Class A common stock held in a trust for the benefit of Edward C. Atsinger, who is Edward G. Atsinger III’s son. Edward G. Atsinger III is the trustee of the trust and these shares are included in the shares beneficially owned by Edward G. Atsinger III as reflected in this table. Also includes 3,000 shares of Class A common stock held by a trust for the benefit of Edward C. Atsinger. Edward C. Atsinger and his wife are trustees of the trust. These 3,000 shares are not included in shares beneficially owned by Edward G. Atsinger III as reflected in this table.

(16)The shares of Class A common stock are held by the Kathryn Epperson Fonville Trust u/d/t 3/31/99, Stuart W. Epperson, Jr. Trust u/d/t 3/31/99, Kristine J. Epperson McBride Trust u/d/t 3/31/99 and Karen Epperson DeNeui Trust u/d/t 3/31/99 (collectively the “Trusts”). There is a voting arrangement in place whereby a majority of the shares held collectively by the Trusts must be voted in order for all the shares of the Trusts to be voted.

31

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Leases with Principal Stockholders

As of December 31, 2014, Salem leased the studios and tower and antenna sites described in the table below from the Principal Stockholders. All such leases have cost of living adjustments. Based upon management’s assessment and analysis of local market conditions for comparable properties, Salem believes that such leases do not have terms that vary materially from those that would have been available from unaffiliated parties.

Market Station Call Letters 2014 Annual
Rental(1)
  2013 Annual
Rental(2)
  Expiration
Date(3)
 
Leases with both Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson:              
Denver-Boulder, CO KNUS-AM(4) $27,232  $26,890   2016 
Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN KKMS-AM/KYCR-AM(5)  195,764   193,452   2016 
Sacramento, CA KFIA-AM(4)  122,344   121,676   2016 
San Antonio, TX KSLR-AM(Day site)(4)  48,840   48,840   2017 
Los Angeles, CA KTIE-AM(6)  31,653   31,096   2016 
Dallas, TX KLTY-FM(4)  33,488   31,894   2020 
Houston-Galveston, TX KNTH-AM(4)  49,675   48,901   2023 
Houston-Galveston, TX KTEK-AM(4)  43,758   41,675   2037 
Philadelphia, PA WFIL-AM/WNTP-AM(5)  209,737   206,479   2023 
Phoenix, AZ KPXQ-AM(4)  69,337   68,257   2023 
Portland, OR KPDQ-AM(4)  29,252   28,794   2023 
Seattle—Tacoma, WA KLFE-AM(4)  38,631   38,030   2023 
Seattle—Tacoma, WA KNTS-AM(4)  38,631   38,030   2023 
San Antonio, TX KSLR-AM (Night site)(4)  19,870   19,561   2023 
San Francisco, CA KFAX-AM(4)  237,334   233,637   2023 
Orlando, FL WTLN-AM(4)  80,004   86,195   2045 
               
Subtotal   $1,275,550  $1,263,407     
               
Lease with Mr. Atsinger:              
San Diego, CA KPRZ-AM(4)  174,848   169,696   2028 
               
Total   $1,450,398  $1,433,103     

(1)Annual rent calculated as of December 31, 2014.
(2)Annual rent calculated as of December 31, 2013.
(3)The expiration date reported for certain facilities represents the expiration date assuming exercise of all lease term extensions at the Company’s option.
(4)Antenna/Tower Site.
(5)Antenna/Tower/Studio Site.
(6)Office/Studio Site.

Rental expense paid by Salem to Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson or trusts or partnerships created for the benefit of their families for 2014 amounted to approximately $1.5 million. Rental expense paid by Salem to Mr. Atsinger or trusts created for the benefit of his family for 2014 amounted to approximately $0.2 million. Rental expense paid by Salem to Messrs. Atsinger and Epperson or trusts or partnerships created for the benefit of their families for 2013 amounted to approximately $1.4 million. Rental expense paid by Salem to Mr. Atsinger or trusts created for the benefit of his family for 2013 amounted to approximately $0.2 million.

Terminated Affiliate Lines of Credit with Principal Stockholders

On November 17, 2011, Salem entered into lines of credit with Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem, and Stuart W. Epperson, Chairman of Salem’s Board of Directors. Pursuant to the agreements, Mr. Epperson committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in a change wouldprincipal amount of up to $3 million, and Mr. Atsinger committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in a principal amount of up to $6 million (together, the “Affiliate Lines of Credit”). The proceeds of the Affiliate Lines of Credit could be used for any purpose. Outstanding amounts under each Affiliate Line of Credit bore interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) five percent (5%) per annum or (2) the maximum rate permitted for subordinated debt under the “Credit Agreement” (as defined below) plus 2% per annum and was required to be repaid within three (3) months from the time that such amounts were borrowed. The Affiliate Lines of Credit did not contain any covenants. In 2012, Salem paid $75,000 in interest to Mr. Atsinger and $121,875 in interest to Mr. Epperson under the Affiliate Lines of Credit. As of March 14, 2013, there was no balance outstanding under the Affiliate Lines of Credit. As of May 3, 2013, the Affiliate Lines of Credit were terminated. For purposes of this paragraph, the term “Credit Agreement” means that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2009, and as amended, by and between Salem Media Group, Inc., as the borrower, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

On May 21, 2012, Salem entered into a binding letter of intent (“LOI”) with Roland S. Hinz, a Salem Board member. Pursuant to the LOI, Mr. Hinz committed to provide an unsecured revolving line of credit to Salem in the best interestsprincipal amount of up to $6 million. On September 12, 2012, Salem and Mr. Hinz amended and restated the original LOI (“Amended and Restated LOI”). The Amended and Restated LOI increased the unsecured revolving line of credit by $6 million, resulting in a total line of credit of up to $12,000,000 (the “Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit”). The proceeds of the Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit could be used for any purpose. Any outstanding amount under the Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit bore interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (1) five percent (5%) per annum or (2) the then-current, applicable indexed rate under the Credit Agreement plus two percent (2%) per annum and was required to be repaid within six (6) months from the time that such amounts were borrowed. The Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit did not contain any covenants. In 2012, Salem paid $125,000 in interest to Mr. Hinz under the Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit. As of March 14, 2013, there was no balance outstanding under the Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit. As of May 3, 2013, the Amended and Restated Hinz Line of Credit was terminated.

Radio Stations Owned by the Eppersons

During 2012, 2013 and 2014, Nancy A. Epperson, the wife of the Chairman of the Board, Stuart W. Epperson, served as an officer, director and stockholder of several radio broadcasting entities as follows:

Secretary, Treasurer, and a Director of Truth Broadcasting Corporation, licensee of: KTIA-AM, Boone, Iowa; KTIA-FM, Boone, Iowa; KUTR-AM, Taylorsville, Utah; WBZK-AM, York, South Carolina; WCRU-AM, Dallas, North Carolina; WDRU-AM, Creedmoor, North Carolina; WKEW-AM, Greensboro, North Carolina; WPOL-AM, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; WSMX-AM, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and WTRU-AM, Kernersville, North Carolina. In 2008, Truth Broadcasting Corporation transferred the license for radio station WLVA-AM, Lynchburg, Virginia, to Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation, an affiliated corporation whose current licenses are described below.

President, a Director and 100% stockholder of Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corporation, licensee of: WBOB-AM, Jacksonville, Florida; WHKT-AM, Portsmouth, Virginia; WLES-AM, Bon Air, Virginia; WLVA-AM, Lynchburg, Virginia (received from Truth Broadcasting Corporation in 2008); WPMH-AM, Portsmouth, Virginia; WRJR-AM, Claremont, Virginia; and WTJZ-AM, Newport News, Virginia.

President and a Director of Delmarva Educational Association (“DEA”), licensee of: noncommercial station WAYL-FM, St. Augustine, Florida; noncommercial station WCRJ-FM, Jacksonville, Florida; noncommercial station WTRJ-FM, Orange Park, Florida; WWIP-FM, Cheriton, Virginia. DEA is also a permittee of BNPED-20071022BCX (FM), California, Maryland.

The markets in which these radio stations are located are not currently served by stations owned and operated by the Company. Under his employment agreement, Mr. Epperson is required to offer the Company a right of first refusal of opportunities related to our business.

Radio Stations Owned by Mr. Hinz

During 2012, 2013, and 2014, Mr. Hinz, a Salem Director, through companies or entities controlled by him, has and continues to operate the following radio stations in Southern California: (a) KLTX-AM, Long Beach, California, and KEZY-AM, San Bernardino, California (which were acquired from the Company in August 2000 and December 2001, respectively); and (b) KSDO-AM, San Diego, California. These radio stations are formatted in Christian Teaching and Talk programming in the Spanish language.

Split-Dollar Life Insurance

The Company purchased split-dollar life insurance policies for its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 1997. During 2011, the then existing policies were cancelled and new policies were entered into. The Company is the owner of the policies and is entitled to recover all of the premiums paid on these policies. The Company records an asset based on the lower of the aggregate premiums paid or insurance cash surrender value. The premiums were $193,000, $386,000 and $386,000 for each of the years ended December 31, 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, 2013, and 2014 we recorded net assets of $1.3 million, $1.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively. Benefits above and beyond the cumulative premiums paid will go to the beneficiary trusts established by each of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Transportation Services Supplied by Atsinger Aviation

From time to time, the Company rents aircraft from a company that is owned by Edward G. Atsinger III, Chief Executive Officer and director of Salem. As approved by the independent members of the Company’s Board of Directors, the Company rents these aircraft on an hourly basis at what the Company believes are market rates and uses them for general corporate needs. Total rental expense for these aircraft for 2012, 2013 and 2014 amounted to approximately $386,000, $239,000, and $274,000 respectively.

THE COMPANY’S RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The following table summarizes the fees billed by the Company’s current registered public accounting firm, SingerLewak LLP (“SL”), for professional services rendered during fiscal year 2014 and fiscal year 2013:

  Fees Paid During Year Ended 
  December 31,  December 31, 
  2014  2013 
Audit Fees $454,034  $461,612 
Audit-Related Fees $  $2,500 
Tax Fees $  $ 
All Other Fees $  $ 
         
Total Fees For Services(1) $454,034  $464,112 

(1)None of the fees listed in the table above were approved by the Audit Committee in reliance on a waiver from pre-approval under paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

In accordance with the Audit Committee’s pre-approval policies and procedures and the requirements of applicable law, all services to be provided by SL are pre-approved by the Audit Committee. Pre-approval includes audit services, audit-related services and other permissible non-audit services. Pre-approval is generally provided by the full Audit Committee for up to a year and is detailed as to the particular defined tasks or scope of work and is subject to a specific budget. In some cases, the Audit Committee has delegated authority to the Chairman of the Audit Committee to pre-approve additional services, and any such pre-approvals granted by the Chairman must then be communicated to the full Audit Committee at or prior to the next scheduled Audit Committee meeting. When assessing whether it is appropriate to engage the independent registered public accounting firm to perform a service, the Audit Committee considers, among other things, whether such services are consistent with the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence and whether such services constitute prohibited non-audit functions under Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Audit Committee considered the provision of the services listed in the table above by SL and determined that the provision of such services was compatible with maintaining the independence of SL.

PROPOSAL 1

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

At the Annual Meeting, stockholders of the Company will be asked to vote on the election of seven (7) Directors. Two (2) nominees are nominated as “Independent Directors” and its stockholders.shall be elected by the holders of Class A common stock as a class, exclusive of all of the holders of Class B common stock. Roland S. Hinz and Richard A. Riddle have been nominated as the Independent Directors. The nominees receiving the highest number of votes of shares entitled to vote for such Directors at the Annual Meeting will be elected Directors of the Company. All Directors elected at the Annual Meeting will be elected to a one (1) year term and will serve until the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in the year 2016 or until their respective successors have been duly elected and qualified.

Set forth below are the names of persons nominated by the Company’s Board of Directors for election as Directors at the Annual Meeting:

Stuart W. Epperson

Edward G. Atsinger III

Roland S. Hinz

Richard A. Riddle

Jonathan Venverloh

James Keet Lewis

Eric H. Halvorson

For a description of the nominees’ principal occupation and business experience during the last five (5) years and present Directorships, please see the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS—Board of Directors” above.

The Company has been advised by each nominee named in this Proxy Statement that he is willing to be named as such herein and is willing to serve as a director if elected. However, if any of the nominees should be unable to serve as a director, the enclosed proxy will be voted in favor of the remainder of those nominees not opposed by the stockholder on such proxy and may be voted for a substitute nominee selected by the Board of Directors.

Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the meeting, at which a quorum representing a majority of the voting power of all outstanding shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock is present and entitled to vote, is required to approve Proposal 3.1.THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE FOR PROPOSAL 3.1.

PROPOSAL 2

PROPOSAL TO RATIFY THE APPOINTMENT OF

SINGERLEWAK LLP AS THE

COMPANY’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Company’s Board of Directors has selected SingerLewak LLP to serve as its independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015. SingerLewak LLP has served as the Company’s independent auditor since June 2007. A representative of SingerLewak LLP is expected to attend the Annual Meeting, and the representative will have an opportunity to make a statement if he or she so desires. The representative will also be available to respond to appropriate questions from stockholders.

Reasons for the Proposal

Selection of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm is not required to be submitted for stockholder approval. Nonetheless, the Board of Directors is seeking ratification of its selection of SingerLewak LLP as a matter of further involving the Company’s stockholders in its corporate affairs. If the stockholders do not ratify this selection, management and the Board of Directors will reconsider its selection of SingerLewak LLP and will either continue to retain this firm or appoint new independent registered public accounting firm upon recommendation of the Audit Committee. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee or our Board of Directors, in their discretion, may direct the appointment of different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if they determine that such a change would be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

Vote Required and Board of Directors’ Recommendation

The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the meeting, at which a quorum representing a majority of the voting power of all outstanding shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock is present and entitled to vote, is required to approve Proposal 2.THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE FOR PROPOSAL 2.

STOCKHOLDERS’ PROPOSALS FOR 20132016 PROXY STATEMENT

Any stockholder of the Company wishing to have a proposal considered for inclusion in the Company’s proxy solicitation materials relating to the Company’s 20132016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders must, in addition to other applicable requirements, give notice of such proposal in writing to the Secretary of the Company at its principal executive offices and such notice must be received on or before January 4, 2013.December 11, 2015. The proposal may be included in next year’s proxy statement if it complies with certain rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC. Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the Company’s Bylaws and comply with SEC regulations promulgated pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act.

Stockholder proposals which are not to be included in the Company’s proxy solicitation materials relating to the Company’s 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders must be submitted in accordance with our bylaws, which set forth that notice of such proposal must be sent in writing to the Secretary of the Company at its principal executive offices and such notice must be received on or before February 18, 2016.

OTHER MATTERS

At the time of preparation of this Proxy Statement, the boardBoard of directorsDirectors of the Company was not aware of any other matters to be brought before the Annual Meeting. No eligible stockholder had submitted notice of any proposal 90ninety (90) days before the date of the Annual Meeting. However, if any other matters are properly presented for action, in the absence of instructions to the contrary, it is the intention of the persons named in the enclosed form of proxy to vote, or refrain from voting, in accordance with their respective best judgment on such matters.

If a stockholder desires to have a proposal presented at the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders in 20132016 and the proposal is not intended to be included in the Company’s related 20132016 proxy solicitation materials, the stockholder must give advance notice to the Company in accordance with the Company’s Bylaws. Pursuant to the Company’s Bylaws, only such business shall be conducted, and only such proposals shall be acted upon at an annual meeting of stockholders as are properly brought before the meeting. For business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, in addition to any other applicable requirements, timely notice of the matter must first be given to the Secretary. To be timely, a stockholder’s written notice must be delivered to the Secretary at the Company’s principal executive offices not later than the 90th day nor earlier than the 120th day prior to the first anniversary of the preceding annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event the date of the annual meeting is more than 30 days before or more than 60 days after such anniversary date, then notice of the stockholder proposal must be delivered to the Secretary not earlier than the 120th day nor later than the 90th day prior to such annual meeting or the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such annual meeting is first made. If such proposal is for a nominee for director, such stockholder’s notice must set forth with respect to such director nominee all of the information relating to such person that is required to be disclosed in solicitations for elections of directorsDirectors under the rules of the SEC; for any stockholder proposal, the notice must comply with Section 2.2 of Article II of the Company’s Bylaws (a copy of which is available upon request to the Secretary of the Company), which section requires that the notice contain a brief description of such proposal and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, the name and address, as they appear on the Company’s books, of the stockholder making such proposal, the number of shares of Class A common stock and Class B common stock beneficially owned by such stockholder and any material interest of such stockholder in such proposal.

SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

Pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act and the rules promulgated thereunder and applicable requirements of NASDAQ, officers and directorsDirectors of the Company and persons who beneficially own more than 10% of the common stock of the Company are required to: (a) report their initial ownership and change in ownership with respect to all equity securities of the Company; and (b) furnish such reports to the Company.

Based solely on its review of the copies of such reports received by it during or with respect to the year ended December 31, 2011,2014, and/or written representations from such reporting persons, the Company believes that its officers, directorsDirectors and more than ten-percentten (10) percent stockholders complied with all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to such individuals, except as follows: (i) Stuart W. Epperson inadvertently failed to timely report an open market purchase of Class A Common Stock on Form 4 which occurred on November 30, 2011 (this transaction was accounted for on the Form 5 filed by Mr. Epperson on February 14, 2012).

individuals.

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K to Stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2011,2014, including audited financial statements, is being made available to stockholders along with these proxy materials, but such Annual Report is not incorporated herein and is not deemed to be a part of this Proxy Statement. The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011,2014, as filed with the SEC (without exhibits) is available to stockholders via the Company’s Internet website (www.salem.cchttp://salemmedia.com) or without charge on written request to the Company. Exhibits to the Annual Report on Form 10-K may be obtained from the Company upon payment of the Company’s reasonable expenses to furnish such exhibits. To obtain any of these materials, contact Christopher J. Henderson, Secretary, Salem Communications Corporation,Media Group, Inc., 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California 93012.

 

By order of the boardBoard of directors,Directors,
 

LOGO

CHRISTOPHER J. HENDERSON

Secretary

Camarillo, California

May 4, 2012April 9, 2015

PLEASE VOTE YOUR SHARES ON-LINE,ONLINE, BY TELEPHONE OR BY SIGNING, DATING AND

RETURNING THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD TODAY.

NO POSTAGE IS REQUIRED IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES.

If you have any questions, or have any difficulty voting your shares, please telephone Christopher J. Henderson of Salem at (805) 987-0400.

Appendix A

AMENDED AND RESTATED

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

1999 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

(AS AMENDED AND RESTATED

THROUGH JUNE 22, 2012)


TABLE OF CONTENTS 

 

ARTICLE I PURPOSE OF PLAN

A-1

ARTICLE II EFFECTIVE DATE AND TERM OF PLAN

A-1
2.1 Term of PlanA-1
2.2 Effect on AwardsA-1
2.3 Stockholder ApprovalA-1

ARTICLE III SHARES SUBJECT TO PLAN

A-1
3.1 Number of SharesA-1
3.2 Source of SharesA-1
3.3 Availability of Unused SharesA-1
3.4 Adjustment ProvisionsA-2
(a) AdjustmentsA-2
(b) No Fractional InterestsA-2
(c) Adjustments Related to Company StockA-2
(d) Right to Make AdjustmentA-2
(e) LimitationsA-2
3.5 Reservation of SharesA-2

ARTICLE IV ADMINISTRATION OF PLAN

A-2
4.1 Administering BodyA-2
(a) Plan AdministrationA-2
(b) Administration by CommitteeA-2
4.2 Authority of Administering BodyA-3
(a) Authority to Interpret PlanA-3
(b) Authority to Grant AwardsA-3
(c) ProceduresA-3
4.3 No LiabilityA-3
4.4 AmendmentsA-4
(a) Plan AmendmentA-4
(b) Award AmendmentsA-4
(c) LimitationA-4
4.5 Other Compensation PlansA-4
4.6 Plan Binding on SuccessorsA-4
4.7 References to Successor Statutes, Regulations and RulesA-4
4.8 Issuances for Compensation Purposes OnlyA-4
4.9 Invalid ProvisionsA-4
4.10 Governing LawA-4
4.11 InterpretationA-4

ARTICLE V GENERAL AWARD PROVISIONS

A-5
5.1 Participation in the PlanA-5
(a) Eligibility to Receive AwardsA-5
(b) Eligibility to Receive Incentive Stock OptionsA-5
(c) Awards to Certain Eligible PersonsA-5
5.2 Award DocumentsA-5
5.3 Exercise of Stock OptionsA-5
5.4 Payment For AwardsA-5
(a) Payment of Exercise PriceA-5
(b) Company AssistanceA-5
(c) Cashless ExerciseA-6 

 

 

i  


(d) No PrecedentA-6
5.5 No Employment RightsA-6
5.6 Restrictions Under Applicable Laws and RegulationsA-6
(a) Consents, ApprovalsA-6
(b) No Registration Obligation; Recipient RepresentationsA-6
5.7 Additional ConditionsA-7
5.8 No Privileges of Stock OwnershipA-7
5.9 NonassignabilityA-7
5.10 Information to RecipientsA-7
5.11 Withholding TaxesA-8
5.12 Legends on Awards and Stock CertificatesA-8
5.13 Effect of Termination of Employment on AwardsA-8
(a) Termination of VestingA-8
(b) Alteration of Vesting and Exercise PeriodsA-8
(c) Leave of AbsenceA-8
5.14 Limits on Awards to Certain Eligible PersonsA-8
5.15 Lock-Up AgreementsA-8

ARTICLE VI AWARDS

A-9
6.1 Stock OptionsA-9
(a) Nature of Stock OptionsA-9
(b) Option Exercise PriceA-9
(c) Option Period and VestingA-9
(d) TerminationA-9
(e) Special Provisions Regarding Incentive Stock OptionsA-9
6.2 Performance AwardsA-10
(a) Grant of Performance AwardsA-10
(b) Payment of Performance AwardsA-10
6.3 Restricted StockA-10
(a) Award of Restricted StockA-10
(b) Requirements of Restricted StockA-10
      (i)   No TransferA-10
      (ii)  CertificatesA-10
      (iii) Restrictive LegendsA-11
      (iv) Other RestrictionsA-11
(c) Lapse of RestrictionsA-11
(d) Rights of RecipientA-11
(e) Termination of EmploymentA-11
6.4 Stock Appreciation RightsA-11
(a) Granting of Stock Appreciation RightsA-11
(b) Stock Appreciation Rights Related to OptionsA-11
(c) Stock Appreciation Rights Unrelated to OptionsA-12
(d) LimitsA-12
(e) PaymentsA-12
6.5 Stock PaymentsA-12
6.6 Dividend EquivalentsA-12
6.7 Stock BonusesA-12
6.8 Stock SalesA-12
6.9 Phantom StockA-12
6.10 Other Stock-Based BenefitsA-12
6.11 Termination of EmploymentA-12 

ii


ARTICLE VII REORGANIZATIONS

A-13
7.1 Corporate Transactions Not Involving a Change in ControlA-13
7.2 Corporate Transactions Involving a Change in ControlA-13

ARTICLE VIII DEFINITIONS

A-13 

 

iii  


AMENDED AND RESTATED

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

1999 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

(AS AMENDED AND RESTATED THROUGH JUNE 22, 2012)

ARTICLE I

PURPOSE OF PLAN

The Company has adopted this Plan to promote the interests of the Company and its stockholders by using investment interests in the Company to attract, retain and motivate employees and other persons, to encourage and reward their contributions to the performance of the Company, and to align their interests with the interests of the Company’s stockholders. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them inArticle VIII.

ARTICLE II

EFFECTIVE DATE AND TERM OF PLAN

2.1Term of Plan. This Plan became effective as of the Effective Date and will continue in effect until the earlier of (a) the Expiration Date or (b) the date of any Plan termination pursuant to the provisions ofSection 7.2, at which time this Plan shall automatically terminate.

2.2Effect on Awards.Awards may be granted only during the Plan Term, but each Award granted during the Plan Term will remain in effect after the Expiration Date until such Award has been exercised, terminated or expired in accordance with its terms and the terms of this Plan.

2.3Stockholder Approval.This Plan was initially approved by the Company’s stockholders within 12 months after the Effective Date. The Second Amendment to the Plan was approved by Company’s stockholders on June 11, 2003. The Third Amendment to the Plan was approved by the Company’s stockholders on May 18, 2005. The Fourth Amendment to the Plan was approved by the Company’s stockholders on June 3, 2009. The Fifth Amendment to the Plan was submitted for approval by the Company’s stockholders at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders on June 22, 2012. The effectiveness of any Awards granted contingent upon stockholder approval of the Plan or any amendment to the Plan is subject to such stockholder approval.

ARTICLE III

SHARES SUBJECT TO PLAN

3.1Number of Shares.The maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Awards shall be 5,000,000, subject to adjustment as set forth inSection 3.4.

3.2Source of Shares.The Common Stock to be issued under this Plan will be made available, at the discretion of the Board, either from authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock or from previously issued shares of Common Stock reacquired by the Company, including, without limitation, shares purchased on the open market.

3.3Availability of Unused Shares.Shares of Common Stock subject to unexercised portions of any Award that expire, terminate or are canceled, and shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to an Award that are reacquired by the Company pursuant to the this Plan or terms of the Award under which such shares were issued, will again become available for the grant of further Awards under this Plan.

However, if the exercise price of, or withholding taxes incurred in connection with, an Award is paid with shares of Common Stock, or if shares of Common Stock otherwise issuable pursuant to Awards are withheld by the Company in satisfaction of an exercise price or the withholding taxes incurred in connection with any exercise or vesting of an Award, then the number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan will be reduced by the gross number of shares for which the Award is exercised or for which the Award vests, as applicable, and not by the net number of shares of Common Stock issued to the holder of such Award.

3.4Adjustment Provisions.

(a)Adjustments. If the outstanding shares of Common Stock are increased, decreased or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares or other securities, or if additional shares or new or different shares or other securities are distributed in respect of such shares of Common Stock (or any stock or securities received with respect to such Common Stock), including without limitation through merger, consolidation, sale or exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split, spin-off or similar transaction, then, subject toSection 7.2, an appropriate and proportionate adjustment shall be made in (i) the maximum number and kind of shares subject to this Plan as provided inSection 3.1, (ii) the number and kind of shares or other securities subject to then outstanding Awards, and (iii) the price for each share or other unit of any other securities subject to, or measurement criteria applicable to, then outstanding Awards.

(b)No Fractional Interests. No fractional interests will be issued under this Plan resulting from any adjustments.

(c)Adjustments Related to Company Stock. To the extent any adjustments relate to stock or securities of the Company, such adjustments shall be made by the Administering Body, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.

(d)Right to Make Adjustment. The grant of an Award pursuant to this Plan shall not affect in any way the right or power of the Company to make adjustments, reclassifications, reorganizations or changes of its capital or business structure or to merge or to consolidate or to dissolve, liquidate or sell, or transfer all or any part of its business or assets.

(e)Limitations. No adjustment to the terms of an Incentive Stock Option shall be made unless such adjustment either (i) would not cause such Option to lose its status as an Incentive Stock Option or (ii) is agreed to in writing by the Administering Body and the Recipient.

3.5Reservation of Shares.The Company will at all times reserve and keep available a number of shares of Common Stock equaling at least the total number of shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to then outstanding Awards.

ARTICLE IV

ADMINISTRATION OF PLAN

4.1Administering Body.

(a)Plan Administration. This Plan shall be administered by the Board or by a Committee of the Board appointed pursuant to Section 4.1(b).

(b)Administration by Committee. The Board in its sole discretion may from time to time appoint a Committee (which may be a subcommittee of an existing committee of the Board) of not less than two Board members to administer this Plan and, subject to applicable law, to exercise all of the powers, authority and discretion of the Board under this Plan. As long as the Board has delegated authority to administer this Plan to the Committee and the Company has a class of equity securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act, this Plan may be administered by the Committee comprised of not less than two (2) Board members appointed by the Board in its sole discretion from time to time, each of whom is (i) a Non-Employee Director, and (ii) in addition, if Awards are to be made to persons subject to Section 162(m) of the IRC and such Awards are intended to constitute Performance-Based Compensation, then each member of the Compensation Committee shall, in addition to being a Non-Employee Director, be an “outside director” as defined in the regulations adopted under Section 162(m) of the IRC. The Board may from time to time increase or decrease (but not below

two) the number of members of the Committee, remove from membership on the Committee all or any portion of its members, and/or appoint such person or persons as it desires to fill any vacancy existing on the Committee, whether caused by removal, resignation or otherwise. The Board may disband the Committee at any time and revest in the Board the administration of this Plan.

4.2Authority of Administering Body.

(a)Authority to Interpret Plan. Subject to the express provisions of this Plan, the Administering Body shall have the power to implement (including the power to delegate such implementation to appropriate officers of the Company), interpret and construe this Plan and any Awards and Award Documents or other documents defining the rights and obligations of the Company and Recipients hereunder and thereunder, to determine all questions arising hereunder and thereunder, and to adopt and amend such rules and regulations for the administration hereof and thereof as it may deem desirable. The interpretation and construction by the Administering Body of any provisions of this Plan or of any Award or Award Document shall be conclusive and binding. Any action taken by, or inaction of, the Administering Body relating to this Plan or any Award or Award Document shall be within the absolute discretion of the Administering Body and shall be conclusive and binding upon all persons. Subject only to compliance with the express provisions hereof, the Administering Body may act in its absolute discretion in matters related to this Plan and any and all Awards and Award Documents.

(b)Authority to Grant Awards. Subject to the express provisions of this Plan, the Administering Body may from time to time in its discretion select the Eligible Persons to whom, and the time or times at which, Awards shall be granted or sold, the nature of each Award, the number of shares of Common Stock or the number of rights that make up or underlie each Award, the exercise price and period for the exercise of each Award, and such other terms and conditions applicable to each individual Award as the Administering Body shall determine. The Administering Body may grant at any time new Awards to an Eligible Person who has previously received Awards or other grants (including other stock options) regardless of whether such prior Awards or such other grants are still outstanding, have previously been exercised as a whole or in part, or are canceled in connection with the issuance of new Awards. The Administering Body may grant Awards singly, in combination or in tandem with other Awards, as it determines in its discretion. The purchase price, exercise price, initial value and any and all other terms and conditions of the Awards may be established by the Administering Body without regard to existing Awards or other grants; provided, however, that the purchase price, exercise price, and initial value of any existing Award shall not be re-priced or modified by the Administering Body unless all such modifications are approved by the duly authorized vote of a majority of all outstanding shares of the Company as of the date said modification to any existing Award(s) is authorized by the Administering Body. The Administering Body may from time to time delegate authority to the Chief Executive Officer of the Company to grant Awards under this Plan, such authority shall not extend to (a) authority to grant Stock Options covering more than $150,000 of Common Stock annually (measured each calendar year without carry over of unused grant authority from year to year), subject to the Chief Executive Officer seeking ratification of each such grant at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, with the $150,000 being calculated at a price equal to the price of the Common Stock at the NASDAQ market close on the date the Stock Options are granted, (b) any Awards granted at less than Fair Market Value, (c) any Awards vesting in less than one year from the date of grant or (d) Awards to directors or executive officers of the Company who are (or would as of the date of the Award become) subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act. The Administering Body may designate the Secretary of the Company or other Company employees to assist the Administering Body in the administration of the Plan, and may grant authority to such persons to execute Award Documents evidencing Awards made under this Plan or other documents entered into under this Plan on behalf of the Administering Body or the Company.

(c)Procedures. Subject to the Company’s Charter or bylaws or any Board resolution conferring authority on the Committee, any action of the Administering Body with respect to the administration of this Plan shall be taken pursuant to a majority vote of the authorized number of members of the Administering Body or by the unanimous written consent of its members; provided, however, that (i) if the Administering Body is the Committee and consists of two members, then actions of the Administering Body must be unanimous, and (ii) if the Administering Body is the Board, actions taken by the Board shall be valid if approved in accordance with applicable law.

4.3No Liability.No member of the Board or the Committee or any designee thereof will be liable for any action or inaction with respect to this Plan or any Award or any transaction arising under this Plan or any Award, except in circumstances constituting bad faith of such member.

4.4Amendments.

(a)Plan Amendment. The Administering Body may, insofar as permitted by applicable law, rule or regulation, and subject toSection 4.4(c), from time to time suspend or discontinue this Plan or revise or amend it in any respect whatsoever, and this Plan as so revised or amended will govern all Awards hereunder, including those granted before such revision or amendment. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administering Body is authorized to amend this Plan to comply with or take advantage of amendments to applicable laws, rules or regulations, including the Securities Act, Exchange Act, the IRC or the rules of any exchange or interdealer quotation system upon which the Common Stock is listed or traded. No stockholder approval of any amendment or revision shall be required unless (i) such approval is required by this Plan or by applicable law, rule or regulation or (ii) an amendment or revision to this Plan would materially increase the number of shares subject to this Plan (as adjusted underSection 3.4).

(b)Award Amendments. The Administering Body may, with the written consent of a Recipient and subject to the limitations on re-pricing set forth inSection 4.2(b) of this Plan, make such modifications in the terms and conditions of an Award as it deems advisable. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administering Body may, in its discretion with the written consent of the Recipient, at any time and from time to time after the grant of any Award accelerate or extend the vesting or exercise period of any Award as a whole or in part.

(c)Limitation. Except as otherwise provided in this Plan or in the applicable Award Document, no amendment, revision, suspension or termination of this Plan or any outstanding Award may impair or adversely affect any rights or obligations under any Award theretofore granted without the written consent of the Recipient to whom such Award was granted.

4.5Other Compensation Plans.The adoption of this Plan shall not affect any other stock option, restricted stock, incentive or other compensation plans in effect from time to time for the Company, and this Plan shall not preclude the Company from establishing any other forms of incentive or other compensation for employees, directors, advisors or consultants of the Company, whether or not approved by stockholders.

4.6Plan Binding on Successors.This Plan shall be binding upon the successors and assigns of the Company.

4.7References to Successor Statutes, Regulations and Rules.Any reference in this Plan to a particular statute, regulation or rule shall also refer to any successor provision of such statute, regulation or rule.

4.8Issuances for Compensation Purposes Only.This Plan is intended to constitute an “employee benefit plan,” as defined in Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act, and shall be administered accordingly.

4.9Invalid Provisions.In the event that any provision of this Plan is found to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable under any applicable law, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not be construed as rendering any other provisions contained herein invalid or unenforceable, and all such other provisions shall be given full force and effect to the same extent as though the invalid and unenforceable provision were not contained herein.

4.10Governing Law.This Plan shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the principles of the conflicts of laws thereof.

4.11Interpretation.Headings herein are for convenience of reference only, do not constitute a part of this Plan, and will not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Plan. References herein to Sections or Articles are references to the referenced Section or Article hereof, unless otherwise specified.

ARTICLE V

GENERAL AWARD PROVISIONS

5.1Participation in the Plan.

(a)Eligibility to Receive Awards. A person shall be eligible to receive grants of Awards under this Plan if, at the time of the grant of the Award, such person is an Eligible Person or has received an offer of employment from the Company; provided, however, that Awards granted to a person who has received an offer of employment will terminate and be forfeited without consideration if the employment offer is not accepted within such time as may be specified by the Company. Status as an Eligible Person will not be construed as a commitment that any Award will be granted under this Plan to an Eligible Person or to Eligible Persons, generally.

(b)Eligibility to Receive Incentive Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to Eligible Persons meeting the employment requirements of Section 422 of the IRC.

(c)Awards to Certain Eligible Persons. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Administering Body may, in order to fulfill the purposes of this Plan, modify grants of Awards to Recipients who are foreign nationals or employed outside of the United States to recognize differences in applicable law, tax policy or local custom.

5.2Award Documents.Each Award granted under this Plan must be evidenced by an agreement duly executed on behalf of the Company and by the Recipient, or by a confirming memorandum issued by the Company to the Recipient, setting forth such terms and conditions applicable to the Award as the Administering Body may in its discretion determine. Awards will not be deemed made or binding upon the Company, and Recipients will have no rights thereto, until such an agreement is entered into between the Company and the Recipient or such a memorandum is delivered by the Company to the Recipient, but an Award may have an effective date on or after the date of grant but prior to the date of such an agreement or memorandum. Award Documents may but need not be identical and shall comply with and be subject to the terms and conditions of this Plan, a copy of which shall be provided to each Recipient and incorporated by reference into each Award Document. Any Award Document may contain such other terms, provisions and conditions not inconsistent with this Plan as may be determined by the Administering Body. In case of any conflict between this Plan and any Award Document, this Plan shall control.

5.3Exercise of Stock Options.No Stock Option shall be exercisable except in respect of whole shares, and fractional share interests shall be disregarded. A Stock Option shall be deemed to be exercised when the Secretary or other designated officer of the Company receives written notice of such exercise from the Recipient, together with payment of the exercise price made in accordance withSection 5.4 and any amounts required underSection 5.11 or, with permission of the Administering Body, arrangement for such payment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Company and/or the Administering Body may impose, by rule and/or in Award Documents, such conditions upon the exercise of Stock Options (including without limitation conditions limiting the time of exercise to specified periods) as may be required to satisfy applicable regulatory requirements including, without limitation, Rule 16b-3 and Rule 10b-5 under the Exchange Act, any amounts required underSection 5.11, or any applicable section of the IRC.

5.4Payment For Awards.

(a)Payment of Exercise Price. The exercise price or other payment for an Award shall be payable upon the exercise of a Stock Option or upon other purchase of shares pursuant to an Award granted hereunder by delivery of legal tender of the United States or payment of such other consideration as the Administering Body may from time to time deem acceptable in any particular instance.

(b)Company Assistance. The Company shall not assist any person to whom an Award is granted hereunder (including without limitation any officer or director of the Company) in the payment of the purchase price or other amounts payable in connection with the receipt or exercise of that Award by lending such amounts to such person.

(c)Cashless Exercise. If permitted in any case by the Administering Body in its sole discretion, the exercise price for Awards may be paid by delivery of Common Stock to the Company by or on behalf of the person exercising the Award and duly endorsed in blank or accompanied by stock powers duly endorsed in blank, with signatures guaranteed in accordance with the Exchange Act if required by the Company, or retained by the Company from the stock otherwise issuable upon exercise or surrender of vested and/or exercisable Awards or other equity Awards previously granted to the Recipient and being exercised (if applicable) (in either case valued at Fair Market Value as of the exercise date); or such other consideration as the Administering Body may from time to time in the exercise of its discretion deem acceptable in any particular instance; provided, however, that, subject to applicable laws and regulations, the Company and/or the Administering Body may allow exercise of an Award in a broker-assisted or similar transaction in which the exercise price is not received by the Company until promptly after exercise.

(d)No Precedent. Recipients will have no rights to the assistance described inSection 5.4(b) or to the exercise techniques described inSection 5.4(c), and the Company may offer or permit such assistance or techniques on an ad hoc basis to any Recipient without incurring any obligation to offer or permit such assistance or techniques on other occasions or to other Recipients.

5.5No Employment Rights.Nothing contained in this Plan (or in Award Documents or in any other documents related to this Plan or to Awards granted hereunder) shall confer upon any Eligible Person or Recipient any right to continue in the employ of or engagement by the Company or any Affiliated Entity or constitute any contract or agreement of employment or engagement, or interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Affiliated Entity to reduce such person’s compensation or other benefits or to terminate the employment or engagement of such Eligible Person or Recipient, with or without cause. Except as expressly provided in this Plan or in any statement evidencing the grant of an Award pursuant to this Plan, the Company shall have the right to deal with each Recipient in the same manner as if this Plan and any such statement evidencing the grant of an Award pursuant to this Plan did not exist, including without limitation with respect to all matters related to the hiring, discharge, compensation and conditions of the employment or engagement of the Recipient. Any questions as to whether and when there has been a termination of a Recipient’s employment or engagement, the reason (if any) for such termination, and/or the consequences thereof under the terms of this Plan or any statement evidencing the grant of an Award pursuant to this Plan shall be determined by the Administering Body and the Administering Body’s determination thereof shall be final and binding.

5.6Restrictions Under Applicable Laws and Regulations.

(a)Consents, Approvals. All Awards granted under this Plan shall be subject to the requirement that, if at any time the Company shall determine, in its discretion, that the listing, registration or qualification of the securities subject to Awards granted under this Plan upon any securities exchange or interdealer quotation system or under any federal, state or foreign law, or the consent or approval of any government or regulatory body, is necessary or desirable as a condition of, or in connection with, the granting of such an Award or the issuance, if any, or purchase of shares in connection therewith, such Award may not be exercised as a whole or in part unless and until such listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval shall have been effected or obtained free of any conditions not acceptable to the Company. During the term of this Plan, the Company will use its reasonable efforts to seek to obtain from the appropriate governmental and regulatory agencies any requisite qualifications, consents, approvals or authorizations in order to issue and sell such number of shares of its Common Stock as shall be sufficient to satisfy the requirements of this Plan. The inability of the Company to obtain any such qualifications, consents, approvals or authorizations it deems necessary shall relieve the Company of any liability in respect of the nonissuance or sale of such stock as to which such qualifications, consents, approvals or authorizations pertain.

(b)No Registration Obligation; Recipient Representations. The Company shall be under no obligation to register or qualify the issuance of Awards or underlying securities under the Securities Act or applicable state securities laws. Unless the issuance of Awards and underlying securities have been registered under the Securities Act and qualified or registered under applicable state securities laws, the Company shall be under no obligation to issue any Awards or underlying securities unless the Awards and underlying securities may be issued pursuant to applicable exemptions from such registration or qualification requirements. In connection with any such exempt issuance, the Administering Body may require the Recipient to provide a written representation and undertaking to the Company, satisfactory in form and scope to the Company and upon which the Company may reasonably rely, that such Recipient is acquiring such Awards and underlying securities for such Recipient’s own account as an investment and not with a view to, or for sale in connection

with, the distribution of any such securities, and that such person will make no transfer of the same except in compliance with any rules and regulations in force at the time of such transfer under the Securities Act and other applicable law, and that if securities are issued without registration, a legend to this effect (together with any other legends deemed appropriate by the Administering Body) may be endorsed upon the securities so issued. The Company may also order its transfer agent to stop transfers of such securities. The Administering Body may also require the Recipient to provide the Company such information and other documents as it may request in order to satisfy the Company as to the investment sophistication and experience of the Recipient and as to any other conditions for compliance with any such exemptions from registration or qualification.

5.7Additional Conditions. Any Award may also be subject to such other provisions (whether or not applicable to any other Award or Recipient) as the Administering Body deems appropriate, including without limitation provisions to assist the Recipient in financing the purchase of Common Stock through the exercise of Stock Options, provisions for the forfeiture of or restrictions on resale or other disposition of securities acquired under any Award, provisions giving the Company the right to repurchase securities acquired under any Award in the event the Recipient elects to terminate employment with the Company or dispose of such securities, and provisions to comply with federal and state securities laws and federal and state income tax withholding requirements.

5.8No Privileges of Stock Ownership.Except as otherwise set forth herein, a Recipient or a permitted transferee of an Award shall have no rights as a stockholder with respect to any shares issuable or issued in connection with the Award until the date the Recipient has delivered to the Company all amounts payable and performed all obligations required to be performed in connection with the exercise of the Award, and the Company has issued such shares. Status as an Eligible Person shall not be construed as a commitment that any Award will be granted under this Plan to an Eligible Person or to Eligible Persons generally. No person shall have any right, title or interest in any fund or in any specific asset (including shares of capital stock) of the Company by reason of any Award granted hereunder. Neither this Plan (nor any documents related hereto) nor any action taken pursuant hereto shall be construed to create a trust of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between the Company and any person. To the extent that any person acquires a right to receive an Award hereunder, such right shall be no greater than the right of any unsecured general creditor of the Company.

5.9Nonassignability. Unless the Administering Body shall otherwise determine on a case-by-case basis, no Award granted under this Plan shall be assignable or transferable except (i) by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, or (ii) subject to the final sentence of thisSection 5.9, upon dissolution of marriage pursuant to a qualified domestic relations order. Unless the Administering Body shall otherwise determine on a case-by-case basis, during the lifetime of a Recipient, an Award granted to such person shall be exercisable only by the Recipient (or the Recipient’s permitted transferee) or such person’s guardian or legal representative. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) no Award owned by a Recipient subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act may be assigned or transferred in any manner inconsistent with Rule 16b-3, and (ii) Incentive Stock Options (or other Awards subject to transfer restrictions under the IRC) may not be assigned, transferred or exercisable in violation of Section 422(b)(5) of the IRC (or any comparable or successor provision) or the regulations thereunder, and nothing herein is intended to allow such assignment or transfer.

5.10Information to Recipients.

(a) The Company shall determine what, if any, financial and other information shall be provided to Recipients and when such financial and other information shall be provided after giving consideration to applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations, including without limitation applicable federal and state securities laws, rules and regulations.

(b) The furnishing of financial and other information that is confidential to the Company shall be subject to the Recipient’s agreement that the Recipient shall maintain the confidentiality of such financial and other information, shall not disclose such information to third parties, and shall not use the information for any purpose other than evaluating an investment in the Company’s securities under this Plan. The Company may impose other restrictions on the access to and use of such confidential information and may require a Recipient to acknowledge the Recipient’s obligations under thisSection 5.10(b) (which acknowledgment shall not be a condition to Recipient’s obligations under thisSection 5.10(b)).

5.11Withholding Taxes. Whenever the granting, vesting or exercise of any Award, or the issuance of any Common Stock or other securities upon exercise of any Award or transfer thereof, gives rise to tax or tax withholding liabilities or obligations, the Company shall have the right to require the Recipient to remit to the Company an amount sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax requirements arising in connection therewith. The Administering Body may, in the exercise of its discretion, allow satisfaction of tax withholding requirements by accepting delivery of shares of Common Stock of the Company or by withholding a portion of shares otherwise issuable in connection with an Award, in each case valued at Fair Market Value as of the date of such delivery or withholding.

5.12Legends on Awards and Stock Certificates.Each Award Document and each certificate representing securities acquired upon vesting or exercise of an Award shall be endorsed with all legends, if any, required by applicable federal and state securities and other laws to be placed on the Award Document and/or the certificate. The determination of which legends, if any, shall be placed upon Award Documents or the certificates shall be made by the Administering Body and such decision shall be final and binding.

5.13Effect of Termination of Employment on Awards.

(a)Termination of Vesting. Awards will be exercisable by a Recipient (or the Recipient’s successor-in-interest) following such Recipient’s termination of employment with or service to the Company or any Affiliated Entity only to the extent that installments thereof had become exercisable on or prior to the date of such termination.

(b)Alteration of Vesting and Exercise Periods.Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, (i) the Administering Body may, in its discretion, designate shorter or longer periods for the vesting or exercise of any Award, or the lapse of transfer or other restrictions pertaining thereto, following a Recipient’s termination of employment with the Company or any Affiliated Entity, provided, however, that any shorter periods determined by the Administering Body shall be effective only if provided for in the Award Document that evidences the grant to the Recipient of such Award or if such shorter period is agreed to in writing by the Recipient; and (ii) the Administering Body may, in its discretion, elect to accelerate the vesting of all or any portion of any Award that had not become exercisable on or prior to the date of such termination or to extend the vesting period beyond the date of such termination.

(c)Leave of Absence.In the case of any employee on an approved leave of absence, the Administering Body may make such provision respecting continuance of Awards granted to such employee as the Administering Body in its discretion deems appropriate.

5.14Limits on Awards to Eligible Persons.Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, in order for the compensation attributable to Awards hereunder to qualify as Performance-Based Compensation, no one Eligible Person shall be granted any Awards with respect to more than 100,000 shares of Common Stock in any one calendar year. The limitation set forth in thisSection 5.14 shall be subject to adjustment as provided inSection 3.4 or underArticle VII, but only to the extent such adjustment would not affect the status of compensation attributable to Awards hereunder as Performance-Based Compensation.

5.15Lock-Up Agreements. Each Recipient agrees as a condition to receipt of an Award that, in connection with any public offering by the Company of its equity securities and upon the request of the Company and the principal underwriter (if any) in such public offering, any shares of Common Stock acquired or that may be acquired upon exercise or vesting of an Award may not be sold, offered for sale, encumbered, or otherwise disposed of or subjected to any transaction that will involve any sales of securities of the Company, without the prior written consent of the Company or such underwriter, as the case may be, for a period of not more than 365 days after the effective date of the registration statement for such public offering. Each Recipient will, if requested by the Company or the principal underwriter, enter into a separate agreement to the effect of thisSection 5.15.

ARTICLE VI

AWARDS

6.1Stock Options.

(a)Nature of Stock Options.Stock Options may be Incentive Stock Options or Nonqualified Stock Options.

(b)Option Exercise Price.The exercise price for each Stock Option shall be determined by the Administering Body as of the date such Stock Option is granted. The exercise price shall be no less than the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock subject to the Stock Option as of the date of grant. Subject to approval by the stockholders, the Administering Body may, with the consent of the Recipient and subject to compliance with statutory or administrative requirements applicable to Incentive Stock Options, amend the terms of any Stock Option to provide that the exercise price of the shares remaining subject to the Stock Option shall be reestablished at a price not less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the effective date of the amendment. No modification of any other term or provision of any Stock Option that is amended in accordance with the foregoing shall be required, although the Administering Body may, in its discretion, make such further modifications of any such Stock Option as are not inconsistent with this Plan.

(c)Option Period and Vesting.Stock Options granted hereunder shall vest and may be exercised as determined by the Administering Body, except that exercise of such Stock Options after termination of the Recipient’s employment by or service to the Company shall be subject toSection 5.13. Each Stock Option granted hereunder and all rights or obligations thereunder shall expire on such date as shall be determined by the Administering Body, but not later than ten years after the date the Stock Option is granted (or, for Nonqualified Stock Options, such date later than ten years after the Stock Option is granted as shall be determined in the discretion of the Administering Body) and shall be subject to earlier termination as provided herein or in the Award Document. The Administering Body may, in its discretion at any time and from time to time after the grant of a Stock Option, accelerate vesting of such Stock Option as a whole or part by increasing the number of shares then purchasable, provided that the total number of shares subject to such Stock Option may not be increased. Except as otherwise provided herein, a Stock Option shall become exercisable, as a whole or in part, on the date or dates specified by the Administering Body and thereafter shall remain exercisable until the exercise, expiration or earlier termination of the Stock Option.

(d)Termination.Unless determined otherwise by the Administering Body in its sole discretion, Stock Options shall expire on the earliest of (i) one year from the date on which the Recipient ceases to be an Eligible Person for any reason other than death; (ii) one year from the date of the Recipient’s death; or (iii) with respect to each installment of such Stock Option, the fifth anniversary of the vesting date of such installment. If a Recipient who is an employee of the Company or any Affiliated Entity ceases for any reason to be such an employee, that portion of the Stock Option that has not yet vested shall terminate, unless the Administering Body accelerates the vesting schedule in its sole discretion (in which case, the Administering Body may impose whatever conditions it considers appropriate on the accelerated portion). Stock Options granted to a Recipient who is not such an employee may be made subject to such other termination provisions as determined appropriate by the Administering Body.

(e)Special Provisions Regarding Incentive Stock Options.

(i) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the exercise price and vesting period of any Stock Option intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option shall comply with the provisions of Section 422 of the IRC and the regulations thereunder. As of the Effective Date, such provisions require, among other matters, that (A) the exercise price must not be less than the Fair Market Value of the underlying stock as of the date the Incentive Stock Option is granted, and not less than 110% of the Fair Market Value as of such date in the case of a grant to a Significant Stockholder; and (B) that the Incentive Stock Option not be exercisable after the expiration of ten years from the date of grant of such Incentive Stock Option, or the expiration of five years from the date of grant in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Significant Stockholder.

(ii) If for any reason other than death or Permanent Disability, the employment or service of a Recipient of Incentive Stock Options with the Company or any Affiliated Entity terminates, such Recipient’s Incentive Stock Options, whether or not vested, shall cease to qualify as such and will be treated as Nonqualified Stock Options as of the earlier of: (A) the date such Incentive Stock Options would expire in accordance with their terms had the Recipient remained employed with or in service to the Company or any Affiliated Entity; and (B) three months after the date of termination of the Recipient’s employment or service.

(iii) If as a result of death or Permanent Disability, the employment or service of a Recipient of Incentive Stock Options with the Company or any Affiliated Entity terminates, such Recipient’s Incentive Stock Options, whether or not vested, shall cease to qualify as such and will be treated as Nonqualified Stock Options as of the earlier of: (A) the date such Incentive Stock Options would expire in accordance with their terms had the Recipient remained employed with the Company or any Affiliated Entity; and (B) one year after the date of termination of the Recipient’s employment or service.

(iv) The aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the respective date or dates of grant) of the Common Stock for which one or more Stock Options granted to any Recipient under this Plan (or any other option plan of the Company or any Parent Corporation or Subsidiary Corporation) may for the first time become exercisable as Incentive Stock Options under such plans during any one calendar year shall not exceed $100,000.

(v) Award Documents evidencing Incentive Stock Options shall contain such terms and conditions as may be necessary to comply with the applicable provisions of Section 422 of the IRC.

(vi) Any Stock Options granted as Incentive Stock Options pursuant to this Plan that for any reason fail or cease to qualify as such shall be treated as Nonqualified Stock Options. If the limit described inSection 6.1(f)(iv) is exceeded, the earliest granted Stock Options will be treated as Incentive Stock Options, up to such limit.

6.2Performance Awards.

(a)Grant of Performance Awards.The Administering Body shall determine in its discretion the pre-established, objective performance criteria (which need not be identical and may be established on an individual or group basis) governing Performance Awards, the terms thereof, and the form and time of payment of Performance Awards.

(b)Payment of Performance Awards.Upon satisfaction of the conditions applicable to a Performance Award, payment will be made to the Recipient in shares of Common Stock valued at Fair Market Value as of the date payment is due.

6.3Restricted Stock.

(a)Award of Restricted Stock.The Administering Body shall determine the Purchase Price (if any), the terms of payment of the Purchase Price, the restrictions upon the Restricted Stock, and when such restrictions shall lapse.

(b)Requirements of Restricted Stock.All shares of Restricted Stock granted or sold pursuant to this Plan will be subject to the following conditions:

(i)No Transfer.The shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise disposed of, alienated or encumbered until the restrictions are removed or expire;

(ii)Certificates.The Company may require that the certificates representing Restricted Stock granted or sold to a Recipient pursuant to this Plan remain in the physical custody of an escrow holder or the Company until all restrictions are removed or expire;

(iii)Restrictive Legends.Each certificate representing Restricted Stock granted or sold to a Recipient pursuant to this Plan will bear such legend or legends making reference to the restrictions imposed upon such Restricted Stock as the Company deems necessary or appropriate to enforce such restrictions; and

(iv)Other Restrictions.The Administering Body may impose such other conditions on Restricted Stock as the Administering Body may deem advisable, including, without limitation, restrictions under the Securities Act, under the Exchange Act, under the requirements of any stock exchange or interdealer quotation system upon which such Restricted Stock or shares of the same class are then listed or traded and under any blue sky or other securities laws applicable to such shares.

(c)Lapse of Restrictions.The restrictions imposed upon Restricted Stock will lapse in accordance with such terms or other conditions as are determined by the Administering Body.

(d)Rights of Recipient.Subject to the provisions ofSection 6.3(b) and any restrictions imposed upon the Restricted Stock, the Recipient will have all rights of a stockholder with respect to the Restricted Stock granted or sold to such Recipient under this Plan, including, without limitation, the right to vote the shares and receive all dividends and other distributions paid or made with respect thereto.

(e)Termination of Employment.Unless the Administering Body in its discretion determines otherwise, if a Recipient’s employment with the Company or any Affiliated Entity terminates for any reason, all of the Recipient’s Restricted Stock remaining subject to restrictions on the date of such termination of employment shall be repurchased by the Company at the Purchase Price (if any) paid by the Recipient to the Company, without interest or premium, and otherwise returned to the Company without consideration.

6.4Stock Appreciation Rights.

(a)Granting of Stock Appreciation Rights.The Administering Body may at any time and from time to time approve the grant to Eligible Persons of Stock Appreciation Rights, related or unrelated to Stock Options.

(b)Stock Appreciation Rights Related to Options.

(i) A Stock Appreciation Right granted in connection with a Stock Option granted under this Plan will entitle the holder of the related Stock Option, upon exercise of the Stock Appreciation Right, to surrender such Stock Option, or any portion thereof to the extent previously vested but unexercised, with respect to the number of shares as to which such Stock Appreciation Right is exercised, and to receive payment of an amount computed pursuant toSection 6.4(b)(iii). Such Stock Option will, to the extent surrendered, then cease to be exercisable.

(ii) A Stock Appreciation Right granted in connection with a Stock Option hereunder will be exercisable only when, and only to the extent that, the related Stock Option is exercisable, will not be transferable except to the extent that such related Stock Option may be transferable, will not expire later than the underlying Stock Option, and will be exercisable only when the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock subject to the underlying Stock Option exceeds the exercise price of such Stock Option.

(iii) Upon the exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right related to a Stock Option, the Recipient will be entitled to receive payment of an amount determined by multiplying (A) the difference obtained by subtracting the exercise price of a share of Common Stock specified in the related Stock Option from the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of exercise of such Stock Appreciation Right (or as of such other date or as of the occurrence of such event as may have been specified in the instrument evidencing the grant of the Stock Appreciation Right), by (B) the number of shares as to which such Stock Appreciation Right is exercised.

(c)Stock Appreciation Rights Unrelated to Options.The Administering Body may grant Stock Appreciation Rights unrelated to Stock Options to Eligible Persons. Section 6.4(b)(iii) shall be used to determine the amount payable at exercise under such Stock Appreciation Right, except that in lieu of the exercise price specified in the related Stock Option, the initial base amount specified in the Award shall be used.

(d)Limits.Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Administering Body, in its discretion, may place a dollar limitation on the maximum amount that will be payable upon the exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right under this Plan.

(e)Payments.Payment of the amount determined under the foregoing provisions may be made solely in whole shares of Common Stock valued at their Fair Market Value on the date of exercise of the Stock Appreciation Right or, alternatively, at the sole discretion of the Administering Body, in cash or in a combination of cash and shares of Common Stock as the Administering Body deems advisable. The Administering Body has full discretion to determine the form in which payment of a Stock Appreciation Right will be made and to consent to or disapprove the election of a Recipient to receive cash in full or partial settlement of a Stock Appreciation Right. If the Administering Body decides to make full payment in shares of Common Stock, and the amount payable results in a fractional share, payment for the fractional share will be made in cash.

6.5Stock Payments.The Administering Body may approve Stock Payments of the Company’s Common Stock to any Eligible Person for all or any portion of the compensation (other than base salary) or other payment that would otherwise become payable by the Company to the Eligible Person in cash, on such terms and conditions as the Administering Body may determine. Stock Payments will replace such cash payments at the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date payment is due.

6.6Dividend Equivalents.The Administering Body may grant Dividend Equivalents to any Recipient who has received a Stock Option, Stock Appreciation Right or other Award denominated in shares of Common Stock. Dividend Equivalents may be paid in cash, Common Stock or other Awards; the amount of Dividend Equivalents paid other than in cash shall be determined by the Administering Body by application of such formula as the Administering Body may deem appropriate to translate the cash value of dividends paid to the alternative form of payment of the Dividend Equivalent. Dividend Equivalents shall be computed as of each dividend record date and shall be payable to recipients thereof at such time as the Administering Body may determine. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the payment of a Dividend Equivalent with respect to a Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right intended to constitute Performance-Based Compensation shall not be contingent upon the exercise of such Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right.

6.7Stock Bonuses.The Administering Body may issue shares of Common Stock to Eligible Persons as bonuses for services rendered or for any other valid consideration on such terms and conditions as the Administering Body may determine.

6.8Stock Sales.The Administering Body may sell to Eligible Persons shares of Common Stock on such terms and conditions as the Administering Body may determine.

6.9Phantom Stock.The Administering Body may grant Awards of Phantom Stock. Phantom Stock is a cash bonus granted under this Plan measured by the Fair Market Value of a specified number of shares of Common Stock on a specified date, or measured by the excess of such Fair Market Value over a specified minimum, which may but need not include a Dividend Equivalent.

6.10Other Stock-Based Benefits. The Administering Body is authorized to grant Other Stock-Based Benefits. Other Stock-Based Benefits are any arrangements granted under this Plan not otherwise described above that (a) by their terms might involve the issuance or sale of Common Stock or (b) involve a benefit that is measured, as a whole or in part, by the value, appreciation, dividend yield or other features attributable to a specified number of shares of Common Stock.

6.11Termination of Employment.Except as otherwise provided for in this Plan or determined by the Administering Body in its discretion, all Awards granted to a Recipient, and all of such Recipient’s rights thereunder, shall terminate upon termination for any reason of such Recipient’s employment with the Company or any Affiliated Entity (or cessation of any other service relationship between the Recipient and the Company or any Affiliated Entity in place as of the date the Award was granted).

ARTICLE VII

REORGANIZATIONS

7.1Corporate Transactions Not Involving a Change in Control.If the Company shall consummate any Reorganization not involving a Change of Control in which holders of shares of Common Stock are entitled to receive in respect of such shares any securities, cash or other consideration (including without limitation a different number of shares of Common Stock), each Award outstanding under this Plan shall thereafter be exercisable, in accordance with this Plan, only for the kind and amount of securities, cash and/or other consideration receivable upon such Reorganization by a holder of the same number of shares of Common Stock as are subject to that Award immediately prior to such Reorganization, and any adjustments will be made to the terms of the Award in the sole discretion of the Administering Body as it may deem appropriate to give effect to the Reorganization.

7.2Corporate Transactions Involving a Change in Control.Unless otherwise set forth in an Award Document or in thisSection 7.2, as of the effective time and date of any Change in Control, this Plan and any then outstanding Awards (whether or not vested) shall automatically terminate unless (a) provision is made in writing in connection with such transaction for the continuance of this Plan and for the assumption of such Awards, or for the substitution for such Awards of new awards covering the securities of a successor entity or an affiliate thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kind of securities and exercise prices or other measurement criteria, in which event this Plan and such outstanding Awards shall continue or be replaced, as the case may be, in the manner and under the terms so provided; or (b) the Board otherwise shall provide in writing for such adjustments as it deems appropriate in the terms and conditions of the then-outstanding Awards (whether or not vested), including without limitation (i) accelerating the vesting of outstanding Awards and/or (ii) providing for the cancellation of Awards and their automatic conversion into the right to receive the securities, cash or other consideration that a holder of the shares underlying such Awards would have been entitled to receive upon consummation of such Change in Control had such shares been issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective date and time of the Change in Control (net of the appropriate option exercise prices). If, pursuant to the foregoing provisions of thisSection 7.2, this Plan and the Awards shall terminate by reason of the occurrence of a Change in Control without provision for any of the actions described in clause (a) or (b) hereof, then subject toSection 5.13 andSection 6.11, any Recipient holding outstanding Awards shall have the right, at such time immediately prior to the consummation of the Change in Control as the Board shall designate, to exercise or receive the full benefit of the Recipient’s Awards to the full extent not theretofore exercised, including any installments which have not yet become vested.

ARTICLE VIII

DEFINITIONS

Capitalized terms used in this Plan and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings set forth below:

“Administering Body” means the Board as long as no Committee has been appointed and delegated authority by the Board and shall mean the Committee as long as the Committee is appointed and has been delegated authority and has not been disbanded by the Board.

“Affiliated Entity” means any Parent Corporation of the Company or Subsidiary Corporation of the Company.

“Award” means any Stock Option, Performance Award, Restricted Stock, Stock Appreciation Right, Stock Payment, Stock Bonus, Stock Sale, Phantom Stock, Dividend Equivalent, or Other Stock-Based Benefit granted or sold to an Eligible Person under this Plan.

“Award Document” means the agreement or confirming memorandum setting forth the terms and conditions of an Award.

“Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

“Change in Control” means the following and shall be deemed to occur if any of the following events occur:

(a) Any Person (other than a Permitted Transferee) becomes the beneficial owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of thirty percent (30%) or more of either the then outstanding shares of Common Stock or the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors; or

(b) Individuals who, as of the effective date hereof, constitute the Board of Directors of the Company (the“Incumbent Board”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company, provided that any individual who becomes a director after the effective date hereof whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders, is approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered to be a member of the Incumbent Board unless that individual was nominated or elected by any Person having the power to exercise, through beneficial ownership, voting agreement and/or proxy, twenty percent (20%) or more of either the outstanding shares of Common Stock or the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, in which case that individual shall not be considered to be a member of the Incumbent Board unless such individual’s election or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders is approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board; or

(c) Consummation by the Company of the sale or other disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets or a reorganization or merger or consolidation of the Company with any other person, entity or corporation, other than:

(i) a reorganization or merger or consolidation that would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior thereto (or, in the case of a reorganization or merger or consolidation that is preceded or accomplished by an acquisition or series of related acquisitions by any Person, by tender or exchange offer or otherwise, of voting securities representing five percent (5%) or more of the combined voting power of all securities of the Company, immediately prior to such acquisition or the first acquisition in such series of acquisitions) continuing to represent, either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of another entity, more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the Company or such other entity outstanding immediately after such reorganization or merger or consolidation (or series of related transactions involving such a reorganization or merger or consolidation); or

(ii) a reorganization or merger or consolidation effected to implement a recapitalization or reincorporation of the Company (or similar transaction) that does not result in a material change in beneficial ownership of the voting securities of the Company or its successor; or

(d) Approval by the Stockholders of the Company or any order by a court of competent jurisdiction of a plan of liquidation of the Company.

“Commission” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

“Common Stock” means the Class A common stock of the Company, as constituted on the Effective Date of this Plan, and as thereafter adjusted as a result of any one or more events requiring adjustment of outstanding Awards underSection 3.4 above.

“Company” means Salem Communications Corporation, a Delaware corporation.

“Committee” means the committee appointed by the Board to administer this Plan pursuant toSection 4.1.

“Dividend Equivalent” means a right granted by the Company underSection 6.6 to a holder of a Stock Option, Stock Appreciation Right or other Award denominated in shares of Common Stock to receive from the Company during the Applicable Dividend Period payments equivalent to the amount of dividends payable to holders of the number of shares of Common Stock underlying such Stock Option, Stock Appreciation Right, or other Award.

“Effective Date” means May 25, 1999, which is the date this Plan was initially adopted by the Board.

“Eligible Person” means any director, officer, employee, consultant or advisor of the Company or of any Affiliated Entity.

“ERISA” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.

“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

“Expiration Date” means the 20th anniversary of the Effective Date.

“Fair Market Value” of a share of the Company’s capital stock as of a particular date shall be (i) if the stock is listed on an established stock exchange or exchanges (including for this purpose, the Nasdaq Global Market), the average of the highest and lowest sale prices of the stock quoted for such date as reported in the Transactions Index of each such exchange, as published in The Wall Street Journal and determined by the Administering Body, or, if no sale price was quoted in any such Index for such date, then as of the next preceding date on which such a sale price was quoted; or (ii) if the stock is not then listed on an exchange or the Nasdaq Global Market, the average of the closing bid and asked prices per share for the stock in the over-the-counter market as quoted on The Nasdaq Capital Market on such date (in the case of (i) or (ii), subject to adjustment as and if necessary and appropriate to set an exercise price not less than 100% of the fair market value of the stock on the date an option is granted); or (iii) if the stock is not then listed on an exchange or quoted in the over-the-counter market, an amount determined in good faith by the Administering Body; provided, however, that (A) when appropriate, the Administering Body, in determining Fair Market Value of capital stock of the Company, may take into account such other factors as it may deem appropriate under the circumstances and (B) if the stock is traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market and both sales prices and bid and asked prices are quoted or available, the Administering Body may elect to determine Fair Market Value under either clause (i) or (ii) above. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Fair Market Value of capital stock for purposes of grants of Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights shall be determined in compliance with applicable provisions of the IRC. The Fair Market Value of rights or property other than capital stock of the Company means the fair market value thereof as determined by the Committee on the basis of such factors as it may deem appropriate.

“Incentive Stock Option” means a Stock Option that qualifies as an incentive stock option under Section 422 of the IRC, or any successor statute thereto.

“IRC” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

“Non-Employee Director” means a director of the Company who qualifies as a “Non-Employee Director” under Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act.

“Nonqualified Stock Option” means a Stock Option that is not an Incentive Stock Option.

“Other Stock-Based Benefits” means an Award granted underSection 6.9 of this Plan.

“Parent Corporation” means any Parent Corporation as defined in Section 424(e) of the IRC.

“Payment Event” means the event or events giving rise to the right to payment of a Performance Award.

“Performance Award” means an Award payable in Common Stock that vests and becomes payable over a period of time upon attainment of pre-established, objective performance criteria established in connection with the grant of the Award, which may be based on Qualifying Performance Criteria or other standards of financial performance and/or personal performance evaluations.

“Performance-Based Compensation” means performance-based compensation as described in Section 162(m) of the IRC. If the amount of compensation an Eligible Person will receive under any Award is not based solely on an increase in the value of Common Stock after the date of grant or award, the Committee, in order to qualify an Award as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the IRC, can condition the grant, award, vesting, or exercisability of such an Award on the attainment of one or more Qualifying Performance Criteria.

“Permanent Disability” means that the Recipient becomes physically or mentally incapacitated or disabled so that the Recipient is unable to perform substantially the same services as the Recipient performed prior to incurring such incapacity or disability (the Company, at its option and expense, being entitled to retain a physician to confirm the existence of such incapacity or disability, and the determination of such physician to be binding upon the Company and the Recipient), and such incapacity or disability continues for a period of three consecutive months or six months in any 12-month period or such other period(s) as may be determined by the Administering Body with respect to any Award; provided, however, that for purposes of determining the period during which an Incentive Stock Option may be exercised pursuant toSection 6.1(e), Permanent Disability shall mean “permanent and total disability” as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the IRC.

“Permitted Transferee” means: (a) Edward G. Atsinger III, Stuart W. Epperson, or Nancy A. Epperson; (b) the spouse, child or grandchild of any of the persons described in (a); (c) a revocable trust funded by any of the persons described in (a); or (d) a trust for the benefit of any of the persons described in (a) so long as one of the persons described in (a) is the trustee of such trust.

“Person” means any person, entity or group, within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act, but excluding (i) the Company and its subsidiaries, (ii) any employee stock ownership or other employee benefit plan maintained by the Company that is qualified under ERISA and (iii) an underwriter or underwriting syndicate that has acquired the Company’s securities solely in connection with a public offering thereof.

“Phantom Stock” means an Award granted underSection 6.9 of this Plan.

“Plan” means this Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Incentive Plan of the Company (as amended and restated through June 22, 2012).

“Plan Term” means the period during which this Plan remains in effect (commencing the Effective Date and ending on the Expiration Date).

“Purchase Price” means the purchase price (if any) to be paid by a Recipient for Restricted Stock as determined by the Committee (which price shall be at least equal to the minimum price required under applicable laws and regulations for the issuance of Common Stock which is nontransferable and subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture until specific conditions are met).

“Qualifying Performance Criteria” means any one or more of the following performance criteria, or derivations of such performance criteria, either individually, alternatively or in any combination, applied to either the Company as a whole or to a business unit or Affiliated Entity, either individually, alternatively or in any combination, and measured either annually (or over such shorter period) or cumulatively over a period of years, on an absolute basis or relative to a pre-established target, to previous years’ results or to a designated comparison group, in each case as specified by the Committee: (a) cash flow, (b) earnings per share (including earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), (c) return on equity, (d) total stockholder return, (e) return on capital, (f) return on assets or net assets, (g) income or net income, (h) operating income or net operating income, (i) operating margin, and (j) return on operating revenue.

“Recipient” means an Eligible Person who has received an Award under this Plan.

“Reorganization” means any merger, consolidation or other reorganization.

“Restricted Stock” means Common Stock that is the subject of an Award made underSection 6.3 and that is nontransferable and subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture until specific conditions are met, as set forth in this Plan and in any statement evidencing the grant of such Award.

“Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act.

“Second Amendment to the Plan” means the Second Amendment to the Amended and Restated Salem Communications Corporation 1999 Stock Incentive Plan, dated as of June 11, 2003, which amended the Plan to increase the number of shares of Common Stock available under the Plan, among other things.

“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

“Significant Stockholder” is an individual who, at the time a Stock Option is granted to such individual under this Plan, owns more than ten percent (10%) of the combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or of any Parent Corporation or Subsidiary Corporation (after application of the attribution rules set forth in Section 424(d) of the IRC).

“Stock Appreciation Right” means a right granted underSection 6.4 to receive a payment that is measured with reference to the amount by which the Fair Market Value of a specified number of shares of Common Stock appreciates from a specified date, such as the date of grant of the Stock Appreciation Right, to the date of exercise.

“Stock Bonus” means an issuance or delivery of unrestricted or restricted shares of Common Stock underSection 6.7 of this Plan as a bonus for services rendered or for any other valid consideration under applicable law.

“Stock Option” means a right to purchase stock of the Company granted underSection 6.1 of this Plan.

Stock Payment means a payment in shares of the Company’s Common Stock to replace all or any portion of the compensation or other payment (other than base salary) that would otherwise become payable to the Recipient in cash.

“Stock Sale” means a sale of Common Stock to an Eligible Person underSection 6.8 of this Plan.

“Subsidiary Corporation” means any Subsidiary Corporation as defined in Section 424(f) of the IRC

LOGO

SALEMCOMMUNICATIONSCORPORATION

ATTN:MYRASTEVENS

4880SANTAROSAROAD

CAMARILLO,CA93012

VOTE BY INTERNET -www.proxyvote.com

Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information up until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form.

ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE PROXY MATERIALS

If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by our company in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the Internet. To sign up for electronic delivery, please follow the instructions above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to receive or access proxy materials electronically in future years.

VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903

Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions.

VOTE BY MAIL

Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717.

TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS:

M46656-P19887                 KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS

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THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED.            DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

    The BOARD OF DIRECTORS recommends a vote “FOR”

    the following proposals:

1.

To elect eight (8) members to the Board of Directors of Salem:

†The holders of Salem’s Class A common stock are entitled to vote on the election of the two additional nominees as independent directors, Messrs. Davenport and Riddle.

ForAgainstAbstainForAgainstAbstain

Nominees:

1a.   Stuart W. Epperson

¨¨¨1g.   Dennis M. Weinberg¨¨¨

1b.  Edward G. Atsinger III

¨

¨

¨

1h.   Frank Wright

¨

¨

¨

1c.  David Davenport†

1d.  Roland S. Hinz

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

2.  

Approval to amend Salem’s Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) to increase the number of shares reserved for issuance under the Plan.

¨

¨

¨

1e.  Richard A. Riddle

1f.  Jonathan Venverloh

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

3.  

Ratification of the appointment of SingerLewak LLP as Salem’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2012.

¨

¨

¨

At their discretion, the proxies are authorized to consider and vote upon such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

For address changes and/or comments, please check this box andwrite them on the back where indicated.

¨

Please sign exactly as your name(s) appear(s) hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, or other fiduciary, please give full title as such. Joint owners should each sign personally. All holders must sign. If a corporation or partnership, please sign in full corporate or partnership name by authorized officer.

Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX]DateSignature (Joint Owners)Date 


Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting:

The Notice and Proxy Statement and Form 10-K are available at www.proxyvote.com.

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M46657-P19887        

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

PROXY FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD JUNE 22, 2012

Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors

The undersigned hereby authorizes Edward G. Atsinger III and Christopher J. Henderson, and each of them individually, with power of substitution, to vote and otherwise represent all of the shares of Class A common stock of Salem Communications Corporation (“Salem”), held of record by the undersigned, at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Salem to be held at Salem’s corporate office, 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California 93012, on Friday, June 22, 2012, at 9:30 a.m. PDT, and any postponement(s) or adjournment(s) thereof, as indicated on the reverse side hereof.

The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement dated, in each case, May 4, 2012. All other proxies heretofore given by the undersigned to vote shares of Salem’s Class A common stock are expressly revoked.

The shares represented by this proxy will be voted as described on the reverse hereof by the stockholder. If not otherwise directed, this proxy will be votedFORthe election as directors of all nominees nominated in Item 1, andFORProposals 2 and 3 for which the stockholder is entitled to vote.

Address Changes/Comments:  ____________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

(If you noted any Address Changes/Comments above, please mark corresponding box on the reverse side.)

(Continued, and to be signed and dated on the reverse side.)


LOGO

SALEMCOMMUNICATIONSCORPORATION

ATTN:MYRASTEVENS

4880SANTAROSAROAD

CAMARILLO,CA93012

VOTE BY INTERNET -www.proxyvote.com

Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information up until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form.

ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE PROXY MATERIALS

If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by our company in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the Internet. To sign up for electronic delivery, please follow the instructions above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to receive or access proxy materials electronically in future years.

VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903

Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions.

VOTE BY MAIL

Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717.

TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS:

M46658-P19887                 KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS

— — — — — — — — —  — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —  — — — — —  — — — — —  — — — — — — — 

THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED.            DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

��

    The BOARD OF DIRECTORS recommends a vote “FOR”

    the following proposals.

1.

To elect six (6) members to the Board of Directors of Salem†:

†The holders of Salem’s Class A common stock are entitled to vote on the election of the two additional nominees as independent directors, Messrs. Davenport and Riddle.

ForAgainstAbstainForAgainstAbstain
Nominees:

1a.   Stuart W. Epperson

1b.  Edward G. Atsinger III

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

2.  

Approval to amend Salem’s Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) to increase the number of shares reserved for issuance under the Plan.

¨

¨
¨

1c.  Roland S. Hinz

1d.  Jonathan Venverloh

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

3.  

Ratification of the appointment of SingerLewak LLP as Salem’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2012.

¨

¨

¨

1e.  Dennis M. Weinberg

1f.  Frank Wright

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

¨

At their discretion, the proxies are authorized to consider and vote upon such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

For address changes and/or comments, please check this box andwrite them on the back where indicated.

¨

Please sign exactly as your name(s) appear(s) hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, or other fiduciary, please give full title as such. Joint owners should each sign personally. All holders must sign. If a corporation or partnership, please sign in full corporate or partnership name by authorized officer.

Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX]DateSignature (Joint Owners)Date


Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting:

The Notice and Proxy Statement and Form 10-K are available at www.proxyvote.com.

— — — — — — — — —  — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —  — — — — —  — — — — —  — — — — — — — 

M46659-P19887        

SALEM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

PROXY FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD JUNE 22, 2012

Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors

The undersigned hereby authorizes Edward G. Atsinger III and Christopher J. Henderson, and each of them individually, with power of substitution, to vote and otherwise represent all of the shares of Class B common stock of Salem Communications Corporation (“Salem”), held of record by the undersigned, at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Salem to be held at Salem’s corporate office, 4880 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo, California 93012, on Friday, June 22 2012, at 9:30 a.m. PDT, and any postponement(s) or adjournment(s) thereof, as indicated on the reverse side hereof.

The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement dated, in each case, May 4, 2012. All other proxies heretofore given by the undersigned to vote shares of Salem’s Class B common stock are expressly revoked.

The shares represented by this proxy will be voted as described on the reverse hereof by the stockholder. If not otherwise directed, this proxy will be votedFORthe election as directors of all nominees nominated in Item 1, andFORProposals 2 and 3 for which the stockholder is entitled to vote.

Address Changes/Comments:  ____________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

(If you noted any Address Changes/Comments above, please mark corresponding box on the reverse side.)

(Continued, and to be signed and dated on the reverse side.)