I would also suggest finding a more regional publication if not a local newspaper. I recently had my first official publication in a regional sporting journal. This bi-monthly tabloid publication is given away at local hunting and fishing shops as well as wal-mart/gander mtn. etc. You can also subscribe for a fee and I think he has about 10,000 subscribers.
My submission was a first person narrative, on the comedic side, and was welcomed with open arms. I think at a more regional level you can have an opportunity to cut your teeth and try out some things that most of the big boys won’t touch. I’m working on a few more ideas and plan on writing for this publication as often as possible.
For anyone interested or in the Ohio area the publication I am referring to is called Country Anglin Outdoor Guide.
http://www.countryanglin.com/