To The Crookston Times readers,

It is with regret that CherryRoad Media announces the closing of The Crookston Times

Our company is dedicated to the preservation of community journalism. Since the purchase of our 1st paper in late-2020 to today, we have prided ourselves on our ability to fight the difficult battle that newspapers face in today’s digital society. Unfortunately, that battle cannot always be won.

The Crookston Times has struggled in recent years to find its footing in this community. Since purchasing The Crookston Times, CherryRoad Media has been unable to avoid financial losses every month. The paper was losing money when we bought it, and it continued to do so. We must now come to terms with the fact that we do not have a path forward to sustainability.

And we thank those who have supported us.

January 2022

Daniel Leroy Johnson

MENTOR - Daniel Leroy Johnson, 58, passed away Thursday night, January 6, 2022 in his home in Mentor, MN surrounded by his family. Dan was born October 30, 1963 to Stanley and Betty (Hinkley) Johnson in Grand Forks, ND.

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LaVonne Jobe Hinkley

BATESVILLE, AR - - LaVonne Jobe Hinkley, 85, of Batesville passed away January 7, 2022. She was born July 29, She was born July 29, 1936 in Eldred, Minnesota to Henry and Irene (Wachter) Jobe.

Read MoreLaVonne Jobe Hinkley

Council hears first reading of ordinance on traffic rules for UTV use

Crookston Police Chief Paul Biermaier spent time at the podium at this week's City Council meeting offering the first reading of an ordinance that details traffic rules for Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) use within the city. Should the Council pass the ordinance, a permit would be required to operate a UTV on city roadways, streets, alleys and other public property.

Read MoreCouncil hears first reading of ordinance on traffic rules for UTV use

Public Works purchase OK’d by Council

Crookston City Council approved Public Works' request this week to purchase a directional snow plow loader attachment and increase their budget after it was said that the attachment could do three times the "swipe" of their current plow. Recent snow events have kept city employees busy and following recommendations from two cities nearby, Public Works Director Brandon Carlson says the new attachment will go along with the upgraded equipment that will arrive this summer.

Read MorePublic Works purchase OK’d by Council

Minnesota National Guard soldiers reflect on time at Villa St. Vincent

Ten Minnesota National Guard soldiers turned nurses arrived in Crookston on December 17 the day before their first shift at the Benedictine's Villa St. Vincent and three weeks later they said farewell after what they called a "rewarding experience." The Times had the opportunity to sit down with guardsmen Karl Runningen, who has been in the military for 25 years (11 in the Army and 14 with the National Guard) and Zach Halvorson, who has been with the National Guard for eight years, just before their mission was complete.

Read MoreMinnesota National Guard soldiers reflect on time at Villa St. Vincent

Exercise is a natural high

Two of the most popular New Year’s resolutions are to exercise more and to lose weight. New Year, New You – right? However, by February – or even earlier – those purchased exercise machines are collecting dust and people are cancelling gym memberships in droves.

Read MoreExercise is a natural high