Kate,

I started reading your posts, and I was getting so nervous for you! I am glad the visit was a good one with positive steps moving forward.

I may be overstepping here, but as someone, who has been in both print media and ecommerce, it is very difficult to retain local advertisers. Their advertising dollars are being spent else where or they are trying "new" things to bring in revenue.

I recommend taking a partnership approach with them - we're in this together - how can I assist you in your marketing needs - what do you need from us?

Of course, you know how they will answer - more customers and less rates - but I once had a local ad rep say these words to me, and they got me thinking:

"Lately, the only people advertising are businesses going out of business."

I did not pull my ads, but we worked together to create a new look, and it worked. He also helped me with the rate.

Again, I hope I'm not over stepping. It's hard for small businesses right now, and advertising is key, as people won't come to you if they don't know you're there.

Good Luck!

Shannon