"Disconnected" versus ERROR!

There is a big difference in showing the user an error message (especially HTTPRequest Timed Out or some such) and telling them the app is running in Disconnected or Offline mode.

The first feels like the app is broken. The second makes the error seem almost normal.

If certain data cannot be loaded (like prior post), maybe put a symbol that says "Can't load. I'm disconnected" over it. Just a thought.