For many years, and while most other newspapers have long-charged for obituaries, The Ceres Courier has published them as a free service, with only expanded obituaries or extra days being charged for the additional space.

In our Sept. 5, 2011 edition, we will begin charging modest fees for obituaries and will include one photograph, for page continuity. The obituaries will be handled through most funeral homes. Families will be allowed to write as much or little as they like about their lost loved one, which has been popular in other newspapers around the country. Obituaries will also be posted on our website, cerescourier.com.

As is the case now, we will work diligently with funeral homes, and newspaper staff members will take utmost care in handling these sensitive and final stories about the lives of community friends and family.

In some cases, where public figures, or those who have specially touched the lives of our communities pass on, you will continue to see separate news stories written about them.

We appreciate your readership and ask for your understanding with this change in our business.

How do you feel? Let Hank know at hvanderveen@cerescourier.com