In today’s Whidbey News-Times readers are asked to tell us what they want from their hometown newspaper.

“The survey will help us shape our product, and understand how our community does business as we partner with local merchants and other advertisers to foster a strong local economy,” said Marcia Van Dyke, publisher of the Whidbey News-Times.

“Share your views with us, and you will be entered for a $1,000 cash drawing and a $500 gift certificate for Fred Meyer.”

Partnering with the newspaper in its market research is Pulse Research of Portland, Ore., an independent firm that works with media and retailers nationwide.

The survey can be found on our website at www.whidbeynewstimes.com and will provide valuable feedback to the News-Times staff, including what you enjoy about your newspaper, what you would like to see changed and how we could better serve the community.

“It will also help your local businesses better market their goods and services,” Van Dyke said.

Questions include reader preferences for local news and other media; consumer preferences for local and regional shopping; household purchasing plans for goods and services; your family choices for entertainment and travel; and basic household demographic information.

Readers are requested to log on to our website to take the survey. All responses will be kept confidential.

“We really appreciate your help,” Van Dyke said. “This is a chance for the community to help make our community newspaper even better.”