On Friday, January 26th, CJNE FM informed their listeners that the Nipawin News, which they had broadcast at 9 and noon since August 2017, was coming to an end. Their listeners will still be hearing about some of the important news and events that affect Nipawin and it’s surrounding communities, however the formal format is being retired effective immediately. CJNE FM is, first and foremost, a music station and they have decided it’s time to focus back on that.
Nipawin News’ business relationship with CJNE is ending, however not on bad terms. I appreciate all they have done to contribute to the success of Nipawin News.
In particular, I would like to thank Leslie Hodge for all she has done, her hard work and professionalism has been key to the success of our arrangement.
In order to nip the possibility of any erroneous rumours in the bud… Nipawin News, the website, is not shutting down. Quite the opposite.
It’s no secret that Nipawin News has not been a revenue producing venture, but it has proven itself to be both needed and wanted in Nipawin and the region. My website visitors continue to increase with an average of over 30,000 page views from 20,000 visitors each month, with January being on track to reach 40,000 page views.
This first six months has been a learning curve and a test market. I have tackled many obstacles in that time and managed to keep going. I have made many personal sacrifices to provide local news and, while it has been difficult, I have no regrets.
As Nipawin News continues to grow, I will be covering more of what readers want. Council news, events coverage, human interest stories and policing will be a prime focus once the website reaches it’s goals. I will be providing a simplified method for clubs and organizations to contribute, not only to the coming events calendar, but in articles as well.
My readers have told me, both through the recent survey and with direct feedback, that they want more than just a news outlet. They want a community portal that goes beyond the news, and that is what I intend to offer.
Thanks to all my readers for your loyalty and support these past 6 months and I look forward to the next 6!
Joanne Francis, Editor – Nipawin News
