My Hometown is Not Very Supportive

I wrote and submitted a press release, something I also have to do on my own as a self-published author since I am my own press agent and publicity person, and emailed it to my local newspaper. The response I received back was that I could contact the sales department and buy ad space. Really? I pay over $200.00 a year for a subscription- I think they get enough of my money for the size paper I get daily. I shouldn't have to pay to submit an article.  I have nothing in my author budget for purchasing ad space at this time. Sorry Westfield News- I mistook you for a local interest, hometown newspaper. Guess not. Rather disappointed in my hometown at this point.