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.

June 2022

MN VA: ‘Support Our Troops’ License Plate Fund Awards Grants

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) recently announced the recipients of the competitive Support Our Troops (SOT) license plate fund grant program. - Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe: $93,767 - LegalCorps: $70,000 - American Heroes Outdoors: $60,000 - Prairie Five Community Action Council, Inc.: $80,000 - Mandatory Fun Outdoors: $30,000 - Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa: $75,000 The MDVA SOT grant program offers a competitive grant process which allows organizations to apply for funding.

Read MoreMN VA: ‘Support Our Troops’ License Plate Fund Awards Grants

City makes proclamations for National Skilled Nursing Care Week and Community Action Month

The City of Crookston recently proclaimed May 2022 as Community Action Month and recognized Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. for their dedication. They noted in the proclamation that Tri-Valley "served over 2,000 families and over 9,000 individuals including over 3,500 children and seniors in 2021 while utilizing over 650 volunteers." Pictured are Mayor Dale Stainbrook, left, and Tri-Valley CEO Jason Carlson. (Screenshot by Jess Bengtson)

Read MoreCity makes proclamations for National Skilled Nursing Care Week and Community Action Month

Libraries announce “Explore Underwater” summer reading challenge for all ages

Lake Agassiz Regional Library is bringing an underwater exploration-themed Summer Library Experience to youth and adults of all ages in communities in Becker, Clay, Clearwater, Mahnomen, Norman, Polk, and Wilkin counties. Beginning June 1, participants can read to win prizes as well as attend enriching events on an underwater exploration theme.

Read MoreLibraries announce “Explore Underwater” summer reading challenge for all ages

Ask a Trooper: 100 Deadliest Days on the Road

Summer in Minnesota brings sunshine and excitement with campgrounds and cabins opening and families heading out on vacation. All of the campers, trailers, and extra vehicle traffic makes Memorial Day to Labor Day a deadly time for traffic fatalities each year on Minnesota roads. Unfortunately this time frame is also dangerous for your young drivers as college and high school end and they’re driving more often during the summer. That’s why the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety is reminding all Minnesotans to drive safely.

Read MoreAsk a Trooper: 100 Deadliest Days on the Road

Rotary Club Student of the Month breakfast fundraiser check presented

Crookston Rotary Club recently held a Student of the Month breakfast fundraiser at the Crookston Masonic Lodge #141 and were presented with a check from the proceeds plus a match by the Masons for a total of $1,794. Masons George French, left, and Lester Wilkens, right, are pictured with a few of the 2022 Students of the Month George French, Claire Oman and Olivia Huck. (Photo by Jess Bengtson)

Read MoreRotary Club Student of the Month breakfast fundraiser check presented