Two other groups bid for Freedom's papers and real estate: an investor group headed by Freedom CEO Rich Mirman ; and Tribune Publishing, owner of the Los Angeles Times, San Diego Union-Tribune and other papers. Friedman added that several bids interested only in Freedom's real estate assets also are being evaluated. Spokespeople for Mirman's investor group could not be reached for immediate comment Sunday. Officials at Tribune Publishing declined comment. Freedom filed for bankruptcy protection in November, and the sale proceeds will help back pay its creditors. Digital First's bid does not include the Register's pension plan obligations. The federal government's Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. would take over Freedom's retirement obligations if the sale doesn't include the pension. The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. typically covers pension benefits up to $60,136 a year.