The auction of Hudson-based Joann, which had been scheduled for 9 a.m. on Friday, finally got underway at 4:05 p.m. after a long series of delays that the craft retailer's law firm communicated to virtual attendees logged in to the New York sale.

The closings are part of a Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Chapter 11 gives companies breathing room to get finances in order without going out of business.

Joann has started going-out-of-business sales at some of its stores around the country, including two locations in Vermont. The fabric and craft retail chain announced last week that it would be closing roughly 500 of its more than 800 stores around the country.