© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Outlook bleak for heritage St. Johns mint farm

By Mark Bashore, WKAR News

EAST LANSING, MI – The outlook for a financially strapped St. Johns mint farm appears bleak after an important deadline to redeem the property passed on Friday. Linette and Jim Crosby were hoping to hear from their lender---Greenstone Farm Credit Services---about requests to workout new terms for a $330,000 loan.

Over the weekend, performers and supporters of the century-old farm gathered to raise money and rally support. Co-owner Linette Crosby hadn't tallied the money on Sunday evening, but said the response was a confidence-builder.

"I think we've accomplished community support, and a real hope," she said. "As much as we want to survive, they want us to survive too."

Crosby says she expects to meet with her attorneys Monday and hopes new terms can still be agreed upon. Attempts to reach Greenstone or its representatives for comment were unsuccessful.

Together we’ve already reduced WKAR’s $1.6 million budget gap created by the loss of federal funding. With your sustaining support we can close the remaining $500,000 gap and keep trusted public media strong for mid-Michigan. The best way to support WKAR is to become a sustainer. Already a sustainer? Please consider upgrading your current monthly gift.