If they're crushing it from above, I'd think there's probably not much you can do with that particular paper unless the national news picks it up and they're forced to cover it because everyone else is. One other idea, though: if you know a local citizen who's prominent and conservative, maybe you could convince them to pressure the paper. Find some conservatives with clout in the area and get them to help, maybe.
Yes. Tried. That was strange too.
Appreciate the input though. Thanks.