Month: March 2024

The Severe Weather Awareness Week Topic for Monday is Weather Alerts and Warnings with Crookston Firefighter Brian Hanson. Hanson began Monday’s theme by explaining how important it is to stay in tune with updates regarding severe weather.

“We are fortunate to live in an age and country where our technology can communicate with us almost from anywhere and give us advanced warnings of impending hazards,” said Hanson, “Knowing where and how you can receive the warnings and what to do when you get them can mean the difference between life and death.”

In weather emergencies, warnings can save lives. Traditional warning methods such as television, radio, and outdoor sirens don’t always reach everybody. Emergency officials now have a new way to send warnings directly to cell phones in affected areas. “Wireless Emergency Alerts or WEAs,” said Hanson, “These short messages may look like a text message, but unlike texts, which are sent directly to your phone number, these warnings will be broadcast to all phones within the range of designated cell towers.” These new alerts will tell you the type of warning, affected area, and the duration.

You may need to turn to other sources, such as your television or radio, to receive more detailed information about what is happening and what actions you should take.

The week of April 8-12, 2024, is designated Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week. Severe Weather Awareness Week is a public education campaign promoted by the National Weather Service, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, and local Emergency Management Agencies. Each day of the week features a different weather hazard, and two statewide tornado drills will be conducted on Thursday, April 11.

Weather Alerts and Warnings are Monday’s topic. Several different types of watches and warnings may be issued for an area. Remember that watches mean that conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather or tornadoes, and warnings mean that severe weather or tornadoes are occurring, likely to occur or are imminent. Advisories and special weather statements may come from the National Weather Service for storms that will impact an area but don’t quite meet warning criteria. Thunderstorms are considered severe when they have one-inch hail or winds higher than 58mph.

Severe weather, including hail and lightning, is covered on Tuesday. Hail develops during thunderstorms when a strong updraft is featured, especially in supercell thunderstorms. Hail causes nearly a billion dollars in damage annually and can range from pea-size to over the size of softballs. Lightning kills around 100 people each year, more than tornadoes. If you are outdoors and encounter lightning, remember the saying, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Lightning can strike ten miles from a storm even when it isn’t raining.

Wednesday’s topic is flooding. Flooding kills approximately 200 people, and in Minnesota, floods kill more people than other weather events. Flooding deaths occur at night 75% of the time, and of those deaths, half died in vehicles. As little as six inches of rapidly flowing water can knock you off your feet. Never drive through flooded roadways; a foot of water will float most vehicles. Turn around, don’t drown!

Minnesota’s statewide tornado drill will take place on Thursday. Outdoor warning sirens and NOAA Weather Radios across the state will be sounded at 1:45 P.M. and 6:45 P.M. The two drills are intended to allow workplaces and schools an opportunity to test their severe weather plans. The second drill is to allow second shift workers and families at home a chance to test their plans. In accordance with the Association of Minnesota Emergency Manager’s best practice guidelines, outdoor warning sirens in Polk County are used for tornadoes and intense thunderstorms with expected winds above 70mph. There is never an “all clear” activation for sirens. According to the National Weather Service, Minnesota experiences an average of 40 tornadoes per year. In 2012, 37 twisters touched down. A record was set in 2010 with 104 tornadoes across the state. Understanding this threat and knowing what to do when a tornado is approaching can save lives.

So don’t forget! The statewide tornado drills are on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 1:45 P.M. and 6:45 P.M. Please take this opportunity to review emergency plans and procedures and conduct emergency drills at work and at home.

Friday is dedicated to heat-related emergencies. Even here in Minnesota, temperatures can soar to near or over 100 degrees during the summer months. Combined with high humidity, these temperatures can create dangerous conditions. To avoid heat-related ailments, drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest time of day, check on the elderly, wear lightweight, loose clothing, and never leave children or pets in vehicles. Even on warm days, vehicles act like a greenhouse, and temperatures can rise to lethal levels in minutes.

Specific information about these topics, including factsheets, checklists, data, and other resources, is provided on the HSEM Weather Safety and National Weather Service, Chanhassen websites. Contact HSEM for comments, questions, or support at ready.minnesota@state.mn.us.

 

“Recovery for Everyday People.” Rev. Gretchen Enoch will host a six-session class using the 12 Steps of Recovery with the Bible to bring healing and wholeness to all people. Monday nights starting April 1, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church. The cost for materials is $20. Scholarships are available upon request. Call 812.639.7816 to register. A ministry of the Northern Lights Ministry Collaborative. 

The Crookston Lion’s Club will meet and have lunch on Monday, April 1, at 12:00 p.m., at the Golden Link Senior Center.

The Golden Link Senior Center will have a Sit, Stand, and Dance Class on Monday, April 1, starting at 2:00 p.m.

The Crookston Eagles Club will have $8 burger baskets on Monday, April 1, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The Crookston Public Library will have Baby Bounce on Tuesday, April 2, at 10:30 a.m. for children born to 3 years of age and their caregivers. Join them for songs, stories, and action poems.

The Golden Link Senior Center will have Pinochle and Recycled Cards on Tuesday, April 2, starting at 1:00 p.m., followed by SAIL at 2:30 p.m., and a VFW meeting at 5:00 p.m.

The Crookston Eagles Club will host an Aerie and Auxiliary meeting on Tuesday, April 2, at 7:00 p.m.

The Fisher American Legion will host an Auxiliary meeting on Tuesday, April 2, at 7:00 p.m.

The Golden Link Senior Center will have Men’s Cards on Wednesday, April 3, starting at 8:00 a.m., followed by Cribbage at 10:00 a.m.

The Crookston Eagles Club will have UMC Swing Dance Club on Wednesday, April 3, starting at 8:00 p.m. This is free for all UMC students and $5 for others.

The Fisher American Legion will have Wednesday Burger Night on Wednesday, April 3.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 4, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more.

The Golden Link Senior Center will have Bridge on Thursday, April 4, starting at 12:30 p.m., followed by SAIL at 2:30 p.m., and an American Legion Auxiliary meeting at 6:00 p.m.

The Crookston Eagles Club will have Bar Bingo on Thursday, April 4, starting at 6:30 p.m. The kitchen will serve baskets.

The Crookston Eagles Club will have Bar Bingo on Friday, April 5, starting at 6:30 p.m. This will include a $500 must-go jackpot, and the kitchen will serve baskets.

The Crookston Eagles Club will have Bar Bingo on Saturday, April 6, starting at 1:00 p.m. This will include a $400 must-go jackpot. The Cathedral Spring Gala will follow at 5:00 p.m.

The Crookston Early Childhood Initiative Breakfast Fundraiser will be on Sunday, April 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge #141, 112 West Robert Street in Crookston. The menu includes waffles, French toast, gluten-free pancakes, juice, and sausage.

Explore science, technology, engineering, and math activities during STEMsational Tuesday, April 9, from 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. at the Crookston Public Library. This is geared for Kindergarten through 5^th graders.

The Fisher American Legion will host a Legion and SAL meeting on Tuesday, April 9, at 7:00 p.m.

Kindergarten Round-Up will be on Thursday, April 10, at Washington School in Crookston. This is for families who have a child who will be five years old by September 1, 2024. If you have a child who is eligible for Kindergarten and has not been contacted, please call Washington School at 281-2762.

The Fisher American Legion will have Wednesday Burger Night on Wednesday, April 10.

Senior Citizens are invited to the Senior Citizen Breakfast on April 11. The Leo Club seniors will serve breakfast at 8:30  a.m.; you’ll be excused to the auditorium at 9:15 a.m. to be entertained by the CHS drama students who will perform Mean Girls.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 11, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more. 

Join the Crookston Public Library for a Gardening for a Health and Well-Being presentation on Saturday, April 13, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The presentation will feature local Master Gardener Lisa Loegering, University of Minnesota Extension, and the Community Wellness team from Polk County Public Health.

The First Lutheran Church in Warren will have a Bake Sale and Lunch on Saturday, April 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Lunch will include barbeques, chips and pie.

Spring Clean-Up Week in Crookston will be April 15 through 19. Single-family dwelling items will be picked up only on your regular garbage pickup day, and they must be placed on the street boulevard by 7:00 a.m. and not more than 24 hours prior to your collection day. Yard Waste Collection will be the week of April 22.

The Crookston Public Library will have Baby Bounce on Tuesday, April 16, at 10:30 a.m. for children birth to 3 years of age and their caregivers.  Join them for songs, stories, and action poems.

The Celebrate the Young Child Collaborative invites you to come PLAY together at their CYC Family Festival on Tuesday, April 16, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Crookston High School.  Many hands-on stations will be available, along with information booths and a light meal.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 18, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more.

The Wild Rice Electric Cooperative Annual Meeting of the Members will be held on Thursday, April 18, at the Shooting Star Event Center in Mahnomen. Registration opens at 4:30 p.m. with a plated dinner served at 5:00 p.m. Entertainment by Blu Kanu from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. The business portion of the meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. Members can sign up to win prizes.

The Downtown Crookston Development Partnership will present its final Broadway at the Grand on Thursday, April 18, at 7:00 p.m. at the Grand Theatre. They will be showing Into the Woods, and concessions will be available as well. 

A Veteran’s Benefit Fair will be held on Friday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Crookston National Guard Armory. Many vendors will be on hand.

The Crookston Public Library will offer Spring Watercolors, a special painting program, on Friday, April 19, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. for ages 5 through 13.  Youth must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver. All supplies will be provided, and no registration is required.

A Cancer Benefit for Cindy Bingham will be held on Friday, April 19, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Crookston Eagles. There will be food, a silent auction and Stars in Bars Karaoke to follow. Donations can also be made to the Bingham Benefit Fund at Bremer Bank in Crookston. All proceeds will benefit Cindy’s medical bills and associated expenses.

Yard Waste & Branch Collection in Crookston will be collected the week of April 22. All residents will need to have their yard waste and branches out by Monday as City crews will begin picking up on Monday and collect until they’ve been through the route. (This may only take a couple of days, not the entire week.) Place the materials on your curbside. Branches must be cut in four-foot lengths and bundled in order for the crews to take them away. Bagged yard waste must not exceed 30 pounds. per bag. Any branches or tree trunks not cut to this length and bundled will be left for the owner to haul away. Twigs may be in boxes or bags. Individuals removing their diseased elm trees should call City Hall to schedule pickup. Please note that yard waste is defined as leaves, grass, and other compostable material and will NOT be required to be in the clear City of Crookston bags during this week only.

Polk County Family Resource Center  Spring activities are on the fourth Monday of the month from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Crookston Public Library. Make your own journal on April 22. All supplies and snacks are provided.

The Books and Brews Book Club will meet at Drafts Sports Bar and Grill on Tuesday, April 23, at 6:00 p.m. to discuss Solito by Javier Zamora.  Appetizers are provided by the Friends of the Crookston Public Library. Participants are responsible for the cost of their own food and drinks. All adults are welcome and no registration is required.

The Lake Agassiz Regional Library will host a Notable Minnesota Coaches and Athletes Then & Now Virtual Event featuring Ross Bernstein on Wednesday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m. at www.larl.org/nfldraft. The recording will be available until May 8. This program is offered free of charge, thanks in part to funding from the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

The Fisher American Legion will have Wednesday Burger Night on Wednesday, April 24.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 25, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more.

The Fisher American Legion will have Wednesday Burger Night on Wednesday, May 1.

The Benedictine Living Community in Crookston Is having an Adult Prom Fundraiser on Friday, May 3, at the Crookston Eagles. Tickets are $50 per person and include your meal with a choice of New York strip steak or walleye and a drink ticket. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and dinner at 7:00 and dance to follow with Big Papa’s DJ. A prom king and queen will be crowned. Tickets can be purchased at the Benedictine Living Community office from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 218-281-3424.

Washington School School Readiness and ECFE families, along with Washington staff and families, will celebrate together at a fun End of the Year Picnic on Monday, May 13, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Washington School.  This event offers great food and family fun.  In the event of rain, activities will be held inside.

The Mark Olsonawski Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held Thursday, June 6, in Hallock at Two Rivers Golf Course, and the UMC Teambacker Golf Classic on  Friday, June 14, at Minakwa Golf Course in Crookston. UMC Teambackers host both tournaments and raise funds for Golden Eagle Athletics. To learn more or register a team, use these links: https://z.umn.edu/olsonawski24 and https://z.umn.edu/umcgolf24.

The Trinity Lutheran Church in Crookston will host a Rhubarb Festival on Thursday, June 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

CONTINUING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Crookston March pool hours Monday through Friday are – lap swim  6:00 to 9:00 a.m., aqua aerobics 9:00 to 10:00, homeschool open swim 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Fridays only, and open swim 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Saturday, open swim from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., birthday party slots from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., call 218-1242 for reservations.  Closed on Sundays. Costs are: Open swim $5 a person, aqua aerobics $5 a person, lap swim $5 a person, and aqua and lap swim membership is $36 a month.

The application period for many healthcare scholarships through the RiverView Foundation is now open. Applications for the following scholarships are due to the Foundation office by noon on April 15, 2024. Bishop Afonya Healthcare Scholarship, Lenertz Family Healthcare Scholarship, June E. Shaver Healthcare Scholarship, Richard Maves Healthcare Scholarship, Lynette “Pud’’ Joseph Healthcare Scholarship, RiverView/Glenmore Foundation Scholarship, and Rongen Family Healthcare Scholarship. Guidelines and applications are available online at https://www.riverviewhealth.org/foundation/scholarships/, by calling the Foundation office at 281-9249, emailing Foundation Director Randy Schoenborn at rschoenborn@riverviewhealth.org, or by stopping at the Foundation office located at 721 S. Minnesota Street, Crookston.

Buy your tickets now for the 16^th Annual Crookston High School Triple A Academics, Arts, and Athletics Senior Recognition Banquet, which will be on Monday, April 29, at 6:00 p.m. in the CHS Commons. Tickets must be purchased by Monday, April 22, and can be purchased at the Crookston High School, KROX, or Wonderful Life Foods. The cost of tickets is $17. Make checks payable to Triple-A. If you have any special dietary needs, please contact Irishman’s Shanty at 281-9912. Sponsored by Crookston Rotary, Crookston Lions, Pirate Fine Arts Boosters, and Pirate Boosters.

DNR Hunter Safety Traning for ages 11 and older will take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays beginning May 7. The classes will be held at the Crookston Gun Club. To register, contact Youth Activities Coordinator Steve Videen at 218-289-2115 or by email at stevevideen@yahoo.com

The Driftbusters Snowmobile Club has a $500 scholarship available to children of all club members who have successfully completed snowmobile safety training and submitted the application form. Applications are available at the Crookston High School or by emailing joelleb21@yahoo.com. Applications must be postmarked no later than April 1, 2024 to be eligible.  

The 2024 Crookston Firefighters Association Memorial Scholarship Award is now taking applications. This scholarship is for a graduating high school senior residing in Crookston or one of the townships served by the Crookston Firefighters Association. Applicants must plan to attend a 2-year community college or a 4-year college or university. Applications must be received by April 15, 2024. Applications can be downloaded at www.crookstonfirefightersassociation.org. Please submit questions to firereserve@crookston.mn.us.

The Crookston Eagles Auxiliary #873 awards a $500 scholarship annually. Applications are available at the Crookston High School or by contacting Sheila Menard at 218-289-3212 or by email at crookstoneaglesauxiliary.873@gmail.com. Applicants must have a relative who is a member of the Crookston Auxiliary but does not need to attend school in Crookston. Applications must be postmarked no later than April 1, 2024.

As the Crookston Care and Share expands its women’s dormitories are in need of twin bed frames, dressers, lamps, and end tables. Donate: call 218-281-2644.

The Crookston Squadron Civil Air Patrol meets every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Call 218-281-3954 for more information.

Parents of children are invited to register their children for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The program provides one book every month to your child for FREE from when you enroll until they turn five. Crookston Public School manages the program, and you can register at www.ImaginationLibrary.com.

The Crookston Care and Share is now accepting donations of Women’s, Men’s, and children’s clothing, toiletries, and other everyday items. Donations may be dropped off at the Care and Share Center at 220 East Third Street or call 281-2644. The Donation Room is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Fridays from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Polk County Family Resource Center  Spring activities are on the fourth Monday of the month from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Crookston Public Library. Plant flowers and veggies and take home your own mini pot. All supplies and snacks are provided.

Polk County Public Health and ECFE will host a Newborn Baby Talk event for parents with babies newborn to 12 weeks every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Crookston Public Library. There will be 2-12 week sessions. January 9-March 26, and April 2-June 18. A public health nurse, parent educator, and lactation specialist will be available to answer questions about your newborn and provide support and information on your journey of parenting. A facilitated discussion will cover feeding, attachment, sleep, development, family changes, and returning to work. You can have your baby weighed too.

Every Tuesday (except for Federal Holidays), The Crookston Public Library will host New Born Baby Talk from 9:30 am. to 11:00 a.m. This is for parents with babies 0-12 weeks old. A public health nurse, parent educator, and lactation specialist will be available to answer questions about your newborn and provide support and information on your new journey of parenting.

The Crookston Public Library’s Books & Brews Book Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of every other month at 6:00 p.m. at Drafts Sports Bar and Grill. They will discuss books and enjoy beverages. Appetizers are provided by the Friends of the Crookston Public Library; participants are responsible for the cost of their food and drinks. All are welcome.

The Crookston Public Library’s Reading by the Red Book Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of every other month at 6:00 p.m. They will discuss books and enjoy beverages.

The Crookston Public Library will have StoryTime every Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The Golden Link is serving noon lunch Monday through Friday. All are welcome to dine in between the hours of 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Crookston Friends of the Library meet on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

The Crookston Library Board meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:15 p.m.

The Cove Youth Center in Crookston is open Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Students and parents should call ahead to check the availability of the youth center at 218-470-0149.

The Crookston Care and Share Center’s Donation and New Hope Food Shelf will be open every Monday and Wednesday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and every Friday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. For more information or to donate, call 218-277-0000.

Saturday, March 30 is National Doctors’ Day! RiverView Health can only provide exceptional services because of the men and women working to make our community healthier every day. 

Not only do doctors diagnose our illnesses, but they also address our fears and anxiety. They offer valuable advice to help us both physically and mentally. Doctors help us survive and thrive.

While March 30 is officially recognized as the day for celebrating our providers, we should show our appreciation daily to those who help us manage our health.

Regular visits to your provider can reveal problems before they progress and improve your chances of living a long, healthy life. Take the initiative to schedule regular visits to ensure you are on the right track to better health by calling RiverView Health at 281-9595.

No matter their specialty, doctors significantly improve our well-being and are critical in furthering the lives of their patients. Thank you to all of RiverView’s truly remarkable providers.

The Crookston Eagles Club will have Bar Bingo this afternoon beginning at 2:00 p.m. This will include a $400 must-go jackpot.

“Recovery for Everyday People.” Rev. Gretchen Enoch will host a six-session class using the 12 Steps of Recovery with the Bible to bring healing and wholeness to all people. Monday nights starting April 1, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church. The cost for materials is $20. Scholarships are available upon request. Call 812.639.7816 to register. A ministry of the Northern Lights Ministry Collaborative. 

The Crookston Public Library will have Baby Bounce on Tuesday, April 2, at 10:30 a.m. for children born to 3 years of age and their caregivers. Join them for songs, stories and action poems.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 4, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more.

The Crookston Early Childhood Initiative Breakfast Fundraiser will be on Sunday, April 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge #141, 112 West Robert Street in Crookston. The menu includes waffles, French toast, gluten-free pancakes, juice, and sausage.

Explore science, technology, engineering, and math activities during STEMsational Tuesday, April 9, from 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. at the Crookston Public Library. This is geared for Kindergarten through 5^th graders.

Kindergarten Round-Up will be on Thursday, April 10, at Washington School in Crookston. This is for families who have a child who will be five years old by September 1, 2024. If you have a child who is eligible for Kindergarten and has not been contacted, please call Washington School at 281-2762.

Senior Citizens are invited to the Senior Citizen Breakfast on April 11. The Leo Club seniors will serve breakfast at 8:30  a.m.; you’ll be excused to the auditorium at 9:15 a.m. to be entertained by the CHS drama students who will perform Mean Girls.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 11, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more. 

Join the Crookston Public Library for a Gardening for a Health and Well-Being presentation on Saturday, April 13, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The presentation will feature local Master Gardener Lisa Loegering, University of Minnesota Extension, and the Community Wellness team from Polk County Public Health.

The First Lutheran Church in Warren will have a Bake Sale and Lunch on Saturday, April 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Lunch will include barbeques, chips and pie.

Spring Clean-Up Week in Crookston will be April 15 through 19. Single-family dwelling items will be picked up only on your regular garbage pickup day, and they must be placed on the street boulevard by 7:00 a.m. and not more than 24 hours prior to your collection day. Yard Waste Collection will be the week of April 22.

The Crookston Public Library will have Baby Bounce on Tuesday, April 16, at 10:30 a.m. for children birth to 3 years of age and their caregivers.  Join them for songs, stories, and action poems.

The Celebrate the Young Child Collaborative invites you to come PLAY together at their CYC Family Festival on Tuesday, April 16, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Crookston High School.  Many hands-on stations will be available, along with information booths and a light meal.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 18, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more.

The Wild Rice Electric Cooperative Annual Meeting of the Members will be held on Thursday, April 18, at the Shooting Star Event Center in Mahnomen. Registration opens at 4:30 p.m. with a plated dinner served at 5:00 p.m. Entertainment by Blu Kanu from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. The business portion of the meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. Members can sign up to win prizes.

The Downtown Crookston Development Partnership will present its final Broadway at the Grand on Thursday, April 18, at 7:00 p.m. at the Grand Theatre. They will be showing Into the Woods, and concessions will be available as well. 

A Veteran’s Benefit Fair will be held on Friday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Crookston National Guard Armory. Many vendors will be on hand.

The Crookston Public Library will offer Spring Watercolors, a special painting program, on Friday, April 19, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. for ages 5 through 13.  Youth must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver. All supplies will be provided, and no registration is required.

A Cancer Benefit for Cindy Bingham will be held on Friday, April 19, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Crookston Eagles. There will be food, a silent auction and Stars in Bars Karaoke to follow. Donations can also be made to the Bingham Benefit Fund at Bremer Bank in Crookston. All proceeds will benefit Cindy’s medical bills and associated expenses.

Yard Waste & Branch Collection in Crookston will be collected the week of April 22. All residents will need to have their yard waste and branches out by Monday as City crews will begin picking up on Monday and collect until they’ve been through the route. (This may only take a couple of days, not the entire week.) Place the materials on your curbside. Branches must be cut in four-foot lengths and bundled in order for the crews to take them away. Bagged yard waste must not exceed 30 pounds. per bag. Any branches or tree trunks not cut to this length and bundled will be left for the owner to haul away. Twigs may be in boxes or bags. Individuals removing their diseased elm trees should call City Hall to schedule pickup. Please note that yard waste is defined as leaves, grass, and other compostable material and will NOT be required to be in the clear City of Crookston bags during this week only.

Polk County Family Resource Center  Spring activities are on the fourth Monday of the month from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Crookston Public Library. Make your own journal on April 22. All supplies and snacks are provided.

The Books and Brews Book Club will meet at Drafts Sports Bar and Grill on Tuesday, April 23, at 6:00 p.m. to discuss Solito by Javier Zamora.  Appetizers are provided by the Friends of the Crookston Public Library. Participants are responsible for the cost of their own food and drinks. All adults are welcome and no registration is required.

The Lake Agassiz Regional Library will host a Notable Minnesota Coaches and Athletes Then & Now Virtual Event featuring Ross Bernstein on Wednesday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m. at www.larl.org/nfldraft. The recording will be available until May 8. This program is offered free of charge, thanks in part to funding from the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

The Crookston Public Library will have Storytime on Thursday, April 25, at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 3 to 6, although children of all ages are welcome to join the fun. There will be stories, songs, rhymes, flannel boards, special guests, and more.

The Benedictine Living Community in Crookston Is having an Adult Prom Fundraiser on Friday, May 3, at the Crookston Eagles. Tickets are $50 per person and include your meal with a choice of New York strip steak or walleye and a drink ticket. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and dinner at 7:00 and dance to follow with Big Papa’s DJ. A prom king and queen will be crowned. Tickets can be purchased at the Benedictine Living Community office from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 218-281-3424.

Washington School School Readiness and ECFE families, along with Washington staff and families, will celebrate together at a fun End of the Year Picnic on Monday, May 13, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Washington School.  This event offers great food and family fun.  In the event of rain, activities will be held inside.

The Mark Olsonawski Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held Thursday, June 6, in Hallock at Two Rivers Golf Course, and the UMC Teambacker Golf Classic on  Friday, June 14, at Minakwa Golf Course in Crookston. UMC Teambackers host both tournaments and raise funds for Golden Eagle Athletics. To learn more or register a team, use these links: https://z.umn.edu/olsonawski24 and https://z.umn.edu/umcgolf24.

The Trinity Lutheran Church in Crookston will host a Rhubarb Festival on Thursday, June 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

CONTINUING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Crookston March pool hours Monday through Friday are – lap swim  6:00 to 9:00 a.m., aqua aerobics 9:00 to 10:00, homeschool open swim 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Fridays only, and open swim 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Saturday, open swim from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., birthday party slots from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., call 218-1242 for reservations.  Closed on Sundays. Costs are: Open swim $5 a person, aqua aerobics $5 a person, lap swim $5 a person, and aqua and lap swim membership is $36 a month.

The application period for many healthcare scholarships through the RiverView Foundation is now open. Applications for the following scholarships are due to the Foundation office by noon on April 15, 2024. Bishop Afonya Healthcare Scholarship, Lenertz Family Healthcare Scholarship, June E. Shaver Healthcare Scholarship, Richard Maves Healthcare Scholarship, Lynette “Pud’’ Joseph Healthcare Scholarship, RiverView/Glenmore Foundation Scholarship, and Rongen Family Healthcare Scholarship. Guidelines and applications are available online at https://www.riverviewhealth.org/foundation/scholarships/, by calling the Foundation office at 281-9249, emailing Foundation Director Randy Schoenborn at rschoenborn@riverviewhealth.org, or by stopping at the Foundation office located at 721 S. Minnesota Street, Crookston.

Buy your tickets now for the 16^th Annual Crookston High School Triple A Academics, Arts, and Athletics Senior Recognition Banquet, which will be on Monday, April 29, at 6:00 p.m. in the CHS Commons. Tickets must be purchased by Monday, April 22, and can be purchased at the Crookston High School, KROX, or Wonderful Life Foods. The cost of tickets is $17. Make checks payable to Triple-A. If you have any special dietary needs, please contact Irishman’s Shanty at 281-9912. Sponsored by Crookston Rotary, Crookston Lions, Pirate Fine Arts Boosters, and Pirate Boosters.

DNR Hunter Safety Traning for ages 11 and older will take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays beginning May 7. The classes will be held at the Crookston Gun Club. To register, contact Youth Activities Coordinator Steve Videen at 218-289-2115 or by email at stevevideen@yahoo.com

The Driftbusters Snowmobile Club has a $500 scholarship available to children of all club members who have successfully completed snowmobile safety training and submitted the application form. Applications are available at the Crookston High School or by emailing joelleb21@yahoo.com. Applications must be postmarked no later than April 1, 2024 to be eligible.  

The 2024 Crookston Firefighters Association Memorial Scholarship Award is now taking applications. This scholarship is for a graduating high school senior residing in Crookston or one of the townships served by the Crookston Firefighters Association. Applicants must plan to attend a 2-year community college or a 4-year college or university. Applications must be received by April 15, 2024. Applications can be downloaded at www.crookstonfirefightersassociation.org. Please submit questions to firereserve@crookston.mn.us.

The Crookston Eagles Auxiliary #873 awards a $500 scholarship annually. Applications are available at the Crookston High School or by contacting Sheila Menard at 218-289-3212 or by email at crookstoneaglesauxiliary.873@gmail.com. Applicants must have a relative who is a member of the Crookston Auxiliary but does not need to attend school in Crookston. Applications must be postmarked no later than April 1, 2024.

As the Crookston Care and Share expands its women’s dormitories are in need of twin bed frames, dressers, lamps, and end tables. Donate: call 218-281-2644.

The Crookston Squadron Civil Air Patrol meets every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Call 218-281-3954 for more information.

Parents of children are invited to register their children for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The program provides one book every month to your child for FREE from when you enroll until they turn five. Crookston Public School manages the program, and you can register at www.ImaginationLibrary.com.

The Crookston Care and Share is now accepting donations of Women’s, Men’s, and children’s clothing, toiletries, and other everyday items. Donations may be dropped off at the Care and Share Center at 220 East Third Street or call 281-2644. The Donation Room is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Fridays from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Polk County Family Resource Center  Spring activities are on the fourth Monday of the month from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Crookston Public Library. Plant flowers and veggies and take home your own mini pot. All supplies and snacks are provided.

Polk County Public Health and ECFE will host a Newborn Baby Talk event for parents with babies newborn to 12 weeks every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Crookston Public Library. There will be 2-12 week sessions. January 9-March 26, and April 2-June 18. A public health nurse, parent educator, and lactation specialist will be available to answer questions about your newborn and provide support and information on your journey of parenting. A facilitated discussion will cover feeding, attachment, sleep, development, family changes, and returning to work. You can have your baby weighed too.

Every Tuesday (except for Federal Holidays), The Crookston Public Library will host New Born Baby Talk from 9:30 am. to 11:00 a.m. This is for parents with babies 0-12 weeks old. A public health nurse, parent educator, and lactation specialist will be available to answer questions about your newborn and provide support and information on your new journey of parenting.

The Crookston Public Library’s Books & Brews Book Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of every other month at 6:00 p.m. at Drafts Sports Bar and Grill. They will discuss books and enjoy beverages. Appetizers are provided by the Friends of the Crookston Public Library; participants are responsible for the cost of their food and drinks. All are welcome.

The Crookston Public Library’s Reading by the Red Book Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of every other month at 6:00 p.m. They will discuss books and enjoy beverages.

The Crookston Public Library will have StoryTime every Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The Golden Link is serving noon lunch Monday through Friday. All are welcome to dine in between the hours of 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Crookston Friends of the Library meet on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

The Crookston Library Board meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:15 p.m.

The Cove Youth Center in Crookston is open Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Students and parents should call ahead to check the availability of the youth center at 218-470-0149.

The Crookston Care and Share Center’s Donation and New Hope Food Shelf will be open every Monday and Wednesday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and every Friday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. For more information or to donate, call 218-277-0000.

The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Hubbard County Attorney’s Office recently charged Scott Allen Forbes, of Park Rapids, with one felony count of filing a false or fraudulent income tax return, five gross misdemeanor counts of failure to file individual income tax returns, six gross misdemeanor counts of failure to pay individual income tax, six gross misdemeanor counts of failure to file sales tax returns, and six gross misdemeanor counts of failure to pay sales tax.

According to the complaint, Forbes failed to file an income tax return from tax year 2018 through 2022 and failed to pay income for tax years 2017 through 2022. The complaint states that Forbes did file an income tax return in 2017, but bank records showed he filed the return fraudulently by claiming no taxable income. Forbes also allegedly failed to file sales tax returns or pay sales tax for his business, Affordable Tree Service. According to the complaint, Forbes owes over $62,000 in income and sales taxes, penalties, and interest.

Each tax-related felony charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. Each tax-related gross misdemeanor charge carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a $3,000 fine, or both. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Although most taxpayers comply with tax laws voluntarily, the department takes enforcement action against noncompliant taxpayers to ensure that tax laws are administered fairly.

Many of the department’s criminal case referrals come from public tips. There is a 24-hour tip line for anyone who suspects that a person or business is violating Minnesota tax laws. Local callers may dial 651-297-5195 or call toll-free by dialing 1-800-657-3500. Tips can also be submitted to the department by email at tax.fraud@state.mn.us. Tipsters may choose to remain anonymous.

Minnesota State has named two finalists in the search for the interim president of Northland Community & Technical College. The candidates are Anthony Kinkel and Shari Olson.

The candidates are scheduled to conduct campus visits on Wednesday, April 3, and Thursday, April 4. The campus visits provide an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and members of the community to meet each of the candidates and offer feedback. Details of the candidates’ campus visits and the process for providing feedback are available at www.northlandcollege.edu/president-search.

Anthony Kinkel has served the Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home (FL) as the vice president of development since 2021. Previously, he served the Minnesota State Board for School Administrators as Executive Director from 2017 to 2022, Motlow State Community College (TN) as president from 2015 to 2017, Wichita State University-Tech (KS) as president from 2010 to 2015, Pikes Peak Community College (CO) as president from 2007 to 2010, the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville as chancellor from 2004 to 2007, the Maryland Association of Community Colleges as executive director and CEO from 2002 to 2004, and Northwest Technical College (MN) as dean of general education from 2000 to 2002. He also served in the Minnesota State Senate from 1999 to 2002 and the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1986 to 1998. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota Duluth and a doctorate from the University of Minnesota.

Shari Olson served the South Mountain Community College (AZ) as president from 2011 until her retirement in 2022. Previously, she served Anoka Technical College (MN) as interim president from 2010 to 2011, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (now Minnesota State) as system director of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act from 2009 to 2010, Eastern Wyoming College as president from 2007 to 2008, and Northland Community & Technical College from 1995 to 2007 in several capacities, most recently as vice president of planning and administrative services from 2006 to 2007, vice president of outreach and planning from 2005 to 2006, and vice president of outreach and technology from 2004 to 2005. She holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s from North Dakota State University, and a doctorate from the University of North Dakota.

The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is expected to consider Chancellor Scott Olson’s recommendation at its April 17, 2024 meeting. The anticipated start date of the interim president is July 1, 2024.