On Wed, 22 Jun 2005 11:30:24 -0700, Ranee Mueller wrote:

> In article >,

> Thank you. I have a few columns already written that I could submit.
> I know they are willing to print me for free. My hesitation is that I
> am concerned that as long as I am willing to do it for free, there will
> never be a change in status. However, if I give them a few weeks' worth
> and then wait and see, they may call on me after all.
>
If you negotiate with them, you might come to an agreement that "x"
number of columns will be free - to build an audience. Be sure to
build in a section where the readers can respond to your column... a
poll, likes/dislikes, whatever. If they respond directly to the
newspaper, then the newspaper honchos can see how much you're
interesting readers. Since it's a weekly paper, there won't be much
increase in readership - but if you garner interest, the management
should take notice.

Wishing the best of luck to you!