MINNESOTA (trfnews.i234.me) – In a stunning blow to Minnesota’s media landscape, ten newspapers and a crucial printing facility in McLeod County are set to close their doors by the end of this month. The decision, announced by Southwest News Media, comes amidst a crippling decline in advertising revenue exacerbated by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here’s the timeline of closures:
- April 24: Hutchinson Leader and Meeker County Advertiser.
- April 25: Chaska Herald, Chanhassen Villager, and Jordan Independent.
- April 28: Shakopee Valley News, Prior Lake American, Savage Pacer, Southwest Saturday, and Litchfield Independent Review. Additionally, Southwest News Media confirms the shutdown of the Crow River Press Facility in Hutchinson.
This series of closures marks the end of an era for these long-standing publications, some of which have served their communities for over a century. The loss of these newspapers not only leaves communities without vital sources of local news but also puts numerous jobs at risk.
As Minnesota grapples with this media crisis, questions arise about the future of journalism in the region and the broader implications for democracy and community engagement.
We all knew print would end one day.
Sad