The Science of Memory Meets the Art of Storytelling: How STIVAS and Engrams Build a Stronger Hastings Community
Meet Greg, Hastings’ very own pigeon racer, known for his passion and dedication to the sport. Be sure to view his STIVA and watch as Greg expertly releases his pigeons in the scenic area of Vasa, Minnesota, showcasing both his skills and the beauty of the surroundings.
At HastingsNow.com, we pride ourselves on being more than a news platform—we’re the keepers of Hastings’ stories, the curators of its heartbeat, and the friendly neighbor who always has the scoop. But what makes a story truly unforgettable? What makes it stick in your mind, evoke emotions, and inspire action? The answer lies in two powerful concepts: engrams and STIVAS.
Let’s dive into how we’re combining cutting-edge science and the timeless art of storytelling to create content that doesn’t just inform—it becomes a part of who we are as a community.
What Are Engrams?
Think of engrams as your brain’s filing system for memories. Every time you experience something—whether it’s the smell of a fresh chocolate chip cookie at Spiral Food Co-op or the sound of pigeons taking flight with Greg—the neurons in your brain create connections. These connections form a physical trace in your brain, a memory that can be recalled when triggered by a smell, a sound, or even an emotion.
The more senses and emotions involved in an experience, the stronger that engram becomes. That’s why you remember your first movie (The Karate Kid) at the Riviera Theater in vivid detail, but you probably can’t recall what you had for breakfast last Tuesday.
What Is a STIVA?
Now, let’s talk about STIVAS, a storytelling concept we developed at HastingsNow.com to bring your local stories to life. STIVA stands for Stories with Text, Images, Video, and Audio. It’s our way of making sure every story we tell engages your senses, triggers your emotions, and leaves a lasting impression.
STIVAS are like the Swiss Army knife of storytelling—each element serves a unique purpose:
Text gives you the details and narrative.
Images bring the visuals to life, letting you see the story.
Video adds motion and emotion, turning moments into cinematic memories.
Audio brings depth, rhythm, and an immersive experience.
When combined, these elements don’t just inform—they immerse you in the story, creating powerful engrams that stick with you long after you’ve clicked away.
HastingsNow.com is currently collaborating on a strategic STIVA project with owner Colin Doffing for DuffsMeats2.com, which includes the exciting development of their new website set to launch in the year 2025.
Why Engrams and STIVAS Matter for Hastings
In a small town like Hastings, stories aren’t just content—they’re community. Whether it’s a feature on a local entrepreneur, a recap of the latest community event, or a hidden gem you didn’t know about, these stories build a shared sense of identity. By combining the science of engrams with the art of STIVAS, we ensure our content doesn’t just sit in your feed—it becomes part of your life.
1. Making Memories Multisensory
Engrams form strongest when multiple senses are engaged. A good STIVA isn’t just about reading an article—it’s about seeing the smiling faces in the photos, hearing the excitement in a vendor’s voice, and feeling the rhythm of the music in a video. It’s an experience, not just information.
For example, imagine reading about Greg’s pigeon races:
Text tells you about his lifelong passion.
Images show the beauty of the pigeons in flight.
Video captures the emotional moment of release.
Audio lets you hear Greg’s own voice describing the thrill.
Suddenly, it’s not just a story—it’s a memory.
2. Building Emotional Connections
Memories tied to emotions are the most enduring. By telling stories that evoke pride, nostalgia, or excitement, we strengthen your connection to Hastings. A STIVA about a Hastings tradition, like Rivertown Days, doesn’t just remind you of the event—it makes you feel the joy and community spirit that comes with it. Check out a HastingsNow.com YouTube clip showcasing a lively and vibrant Rivertown Days parade that took place back in 2018. This festivity displayed an array of colorful floats, enthusiastic participants, and an engaging atmosphere that truly captured the spirit of the community.
3. Creating a Shared Memory Bank
Every story we tell becomes part of Hastings’ collective memory. When you read a STIVA about a local hero, attend an event we’ve covered, or share a deal we’ve promoted, you’re contributing to the fabric of our community. It’s like building a neural network for Hastings, one story at a time.
STIVAS in Action: A Case Study
Let’s say we’re covering a Makers Market at Levee Park. Here’s how a STIVA transforms a simple recap into a memory you’ll never forget:
Text: A blog post sharing the stories of the vendors, from the farmer selling heirloom tomatoes to the artist showcasing handmade jewelry.
Images: Stunning photos of colorful booths, smiling families, and the Mississippi River in the background.
Video: A montage of live music, kids playing, and vendors interacting with customers.
Audio: Interviews with vendors and attendees sharing their favorite moments.
By the end, it’s not just a market—it’s an experience you’ll remember and want to revisit.
HastingsNow.com publishes an array of image galleries as a foundational platform to develop the STIVAS initiative for the Maker’s Market located in the historic downtown area of Hastings, Minnesota. Pictured here is a vendor from the Maker’s Market, Special Moments by Aubs, expertly showcasing a stunning collection of jewelry on the banks of Mississippi River shores in Levee Park 2024.
How STIVAS Help Local Entrepreneurs
For local businesses, STIVAS aren’t just stories—they’re opportunities. Here’s how Hastings entrepreneurs can benefit:
Stronger Branding: Emotional, multisensory content creates lasting impressions that strengthen brand loyalty.
Better Reach: STIVAS boost engagement and shareability, putting your business in front of more people.
Deeper Connections: Customers don’t just learn about your business—they feel your story, making them more likely to support you.
Imagine a STIVA featuring your restaurant:
A blog post sharing your story.
Photos of your signature dishes.
A video tour of your kitchen.
Ambient audio of clinking glasses and happy diners.
This isn’t just marketing—it’s memory-making.
HastingsNow.com covers the momentous occasion of Downtown Tire & Auto’s 50th Anniversary, a significant milestone in the heart of historic downtown Hastings, Minnesota. This celebration not only marks five decades of dedicated service to the community but also highlights the rich history and growth of the business within our charming town.
Why This Matters for You
At HastingsNow.com, we’re not just telling stories—we’re creating engrams. Every STIVA we publish is designed to engage your senses, evoke your emotions, and make you feel connected to the people, places, and businesses that make Hastings special.
So next time you see a STIVA on our site, know that it’s more than just content—it’s a love letter to Hastings, crafted to stick with you for years to come.
Ready to Create Your Own STIVA?
If you’re a local business or entrepreneur, let’s work together to tell your story the STIVA way. Whether you’re launching a new product, hosting an event, or just want the community to know more about you, we’ll craft a story that leaves a lasting impression—and maybe even becomes part of Hastings’ collective memory.
Because at the end of the day, we’re not just building a platform. We’re building a community, one unforgettable story at a time.
Pigeons gracefully soar high above the expansive, pretty blue sky in the peaceful rural Township of Vasa, Minnesota. The pigeons circle gracefully above the fields before racing back homeward to their cozy residence in Hastings, Minnesota, where they find safety and comfort.
