The Crookston Area Chamber Ambassadors gathered this week to recognize, honor, and congratulate a very vibrant and exceptional professional in the Crookston community, Karie Kirschbaum, Crookston Housing & EDA Executive Director.
When asked what brought her to Crookston, Karie jumped right in and shared her story of devotion to a small town, Gary, Minnesota. She grew up in Gary, was gone for 30 years as she and her Cali surfer hubby moved to a variety of states, and eventually came back to the area. He said it was now his turn to live where she wanted. Karie was the Mayor of Gary from 2013 until 2020 while owning and operating three local newspapers. Before coming to Crookston, she became the Chair of the Norman County Economic Development Authority and was the City Administrator for Mahnomen for a year and a half. She loved the business of economic development. Then she met Corky Reynolds, the guy that changed it all for her. “I’ve never met anyone who loves their community as much as I love Gary,” she explained. She also had the opportunity to meet with some of the city council and felt that Dale had a great vision for the city. She shared, “The right people are in place to make the changes. The internal staff is really great. She trusts the people’s energy.
Kirschbaum is currently working with the UMC marketing students and Professor Al Fattal, Ph.D. She met Fattal at UMC while working with Mitch Berg on another project. She is challenged to redefine CHEDA, with plans to include the marketing students on renaming CHEDA. Karie’s vision also includes rebranding, redefining, and creating a new direction.
Karie’s most excited about developing the 60 acres by the Crookston Sports Center. She has a vision for daycare as well. She really loves all the big industries in Crookston. “There are actually people that know what they’re doing. It’s the Crookston people that love Crookston that are making an impact. Passion is what will pull the city together. I’m full of hopium. Everyone gets the big picture, “she explained. She went on to realize how much downtown inspired her. We have all the faith in the world for Karie as well.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Ambassador Team, please contact Mark Landa at mlanda@visitcrookston.com or 218-281-4320.
