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.

A look at the event schedule for Ox Cart Days 2022

Crookston's premier summer festival, Ox Cart Days, returns August 15-21, 2022, and the event schedule is out, plus there's a surprise festival button release party June 24 at the Crookston Eagles Club starting at 8 p.m. with a performance by Nashville up-and-comer Dariann Leigh. Additionally, the festival's summer cookouts will make a return at Hugo's Family Marketplace in Crookston on the third Tuesdays - June 21, July 19 and August 16.

CHEDA special meeting recap

Crookston Housing & Economic Development Authority (CHEDA) board of directors held a special meeting May 31 to host public hearings and discuss a number of items. Here's a recap of what was discussed, approved and tabled:

Virtual and In-Person Drawing Classes for Kids Scheduled at Local Libraries

Lake Agassiz Regional Library is bringing an underwater exploration-themed Summer Library Experience to youth and adults of all ages this summer. The program will include a reading challenge with the opportunity for participants to win prizes and a series of enriching programs for children.

NW MN Cancer Crusaders debut travel grant program

Northwest Minnesota Cancer Crusaders has debuted a travel grant program for people undergoing cancer treatment that may need assistance getting back and forth from appointments and procedures, and are encouraging applicants that live within Polk, Red Lake, Pennington, Norman and Marshall counties to apply. The grant comes in the form of a gas card and each applicant can apply once every six months. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Crookston Parks & Rec joining GF youth football league

Crookston Parks & Rec will be offering K-2nd grade flag football and 3rd & 4th grade tackle football for 2022 Fall Season. We will be joining the GF Youth Football League. Information about the league and how to register visit https://www.gfyouthfootball.com/.

DNR offers advice for dealing with storm damaged trees

Cleanup following a storm can be an overwhelming task for homeowners. If trees have been damaged, knowing which to save and which to remove can enhance people’s safety and the survival of remaining trees, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Lloyd and Shirley Lee

Lloyd and Shirley Lee, longtime Crookston Central High School educators, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at Amira Choice in Plymouth. They had moved to Plymouth a year ago to be near their daughter, Sondi, and her family. Shirley passed away in the early morning hours and Lloyd in the evening. They shared their lives together for over 63 years and will now share eternity.