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.

Feds drop appeal in Sjodin killing, still seek death penalty

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Federal prosecutors are dropping their appeal of a judge's decision to overturn the death sentence for a Minnesota man convicted in the 2003 kidnapping and killing of Dru Sjodin, but they said they still intend to seek the death penalty when he is resentenced.

United Way of Crookston: Where Does The Money Go?

This is a question that is asked frequently, and a good one at that. What does your money do? Where does it go? Who benefits directly from my donation? I'm going to spend the next few posts answering these questions.

A life with purpose is a life full of promise

There is a great scene in “Alice in Wonderland” where Alice asks the Cheshire Cat, “Would you tell me please, which way I ought to go from here?” The cat replies, “That depends a good deal on where you want to get to.” It’s important to know where you want to go; to have a purpose in life. Finding that purpose is among life’s biggest challenges.

Bengtson Series: Minne-ventures at Betty’s Pies, Black Beach and Gordy’s Hi-Hat

Minnesota. It’s a great place to live, but an even better place to explore. We’ve got 10,000 lakes, 66 state parks, 87 counties, 853 cities, thousands of fantastic eateries, many known attractions and even more hidden gems and quirky places to visit. This column takes its readers on a “Minne-venture” through the state on trips that can be done solo, in an hour, over a weekend, on a spontaneous whim or on a planned adventure with friends or family. The series pops up at random times, covers random places and can sometimes cover only a portion of a city or area. Enjoy.

Supply chain training for small businesses hosted by SBDC, UMC and NWRDC April 9

The Northwest Small Business Development Center, University of Minnesota Crookston and Northwest Regional Development Commission are hosting a free training geared toward small business owners to help them understand the state of the global supply chain with three options for attendance. In-person events will be held April 9 in Crookston and Thief River Falls, and a pre-recorded event will be available to those that register.

Grand Forks DDA announces ‘Downtowner’ program

The Grand Forks Downtown Development Association recently announced the launch of the 'Downtowner Program' which is an opportunity for the community of Grand Forks to reinvest in the space that is Town Square. This program isin partnership with the City of Grand Forks to make Town Square "an active space year-round for people of all ages," said a media release by the GFDDA.

Local students receive Dean’s List honors from Bemidji State University

- Local students have earned Dean's List honors from Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minn., at the conclusion of the Fall 2021 semester. Those honored include: - Katelyn Wagner of Crookston - Savannah McDonald of Fisher - Kelsie Narlock of Fisher To be eligible for the Dean's List, Bemidji State University students must be enrolled for at least 12 credits and earn a minimum of a 3.5 GPA during the semester.

Shop fire in Garfield Township has minimal damage

The Polk County Sheriff's Office and Fertile Fire Department were dispatched to a structure fire March 22 at 44454 120th Ave SE in Garfield township. Upon arrival they discovered the fire was extinguished.