Welcome to a bright, shining day in Hastings, Minnesota, where the nearby Minnesota Zoo is abuzz with anticipation. In just a few days, they're inviting everyone to experience nature like never before on the Treetop Trail. Look, friends, it's not just about viewing animals from afar; they're bringing you closer than ever to these beautiful creatures. Picture yourself high among the tree branches, getting a bird's-eye view of animals in their habitats, from sprawling grasslands to cold taiga. And if you're lucky, you might even encounter Zoo ambassador animals native to our very own Minnesota. Isn't that something to look forward to?

Not far from the excitement of the zoo, the Hastings American Legion has a hearty call to arms. This Wednesday, they're asking all those with a moment to spare to come down and send off their team in style. The local baseball team, generously sponsored by the Hastings American Legion, is off to the Minnesota American Legion state baseball tournament for the first time in 24 years. In the midst of the anticipation, you can almost taste the hot dogs and hear the crowd's roar.

While the local baseball team gears up for glory, the TLC of Hastings is basking in the glow of a successful weekend. Over 600 people stopped by their booth, each one a testament to the strong spirit of community we hold dear here in Hastings.

Let's take a moment to savor the rich and fruitful news from Cannon River Winery. Veraison - a fancy French term for the color change in grapes - has begun at their vineyard. Soon those green grapes will be ripe, succulent purple, heralding a bountiful harvest and some fine wine.

But let's not forget our students and teachers as the new school year approaches. Rivertown Eye Care has a special offer - a whopping 20% discount on glasses. They're calling on all educators, teachers, and students to come and take advantage of this deal, because nothing says ready for the new school year quite like clear, focused vision.

Meanwhile, Hastings Community Education is ready to nurture the future engineers of our town. They're hosting a 3D printing course where students can learn to bring their creations to life, kindling a spark of curiosity that might someday lead to something truly remarkable.

Me & Julio Hastings is keeping the community spirits high with weekly specials. The Steak Sandwich and Shrimp Linguine Alfredo seem like they'll fly off the plates. And the Karaoke and live music? Now that's the heart of our community. There's even a Pups & Pints adoption event with Animal Ark that’s sure to tug on some heartstrings.

The Hastings Hockey Association isn't to be left behind either. They're opening registration for the 2023-2024 hockey season, ushering in a new wave of athletes eager to take to the ice.

Our neighbor, The Arbor at Young Acres, on the other hand, invites you for an unforgettable gastronomic experience. The Chef's Table Tasting Dinner and the Summer Nights Pizza Night are sure to leave your tastebuds dancing in delight.

And finally, HYAA Youth Baseball and Softball will be joining the Legion Baseball Team send-off. Imagine the energy and spirit! It's been since 1999 that a Hastings Legion team made it to State, and we're all rooting for them this time.

And that, my friends, concludes our tour of Hastings this week. You can see that our beautiful town is as vibrant as ever, with people and events that knit us together into a close-knit community. Life moves at its own pace here, bringing with it new stories each day. So whether you're getting a bird's-eye view at the zoo or cheering on our baseball team, remember that you're part of something special. We'll see you next week for another stroll around town. Until then, be kind, stay curious, and keep celebrating our wonderful Hastings. Good night.

Organic distribution.

30K+ monthly: estimated organic reach, impressions and views from local friends, family, and customers.

CONTRIBUTORS

• LocalPigeon’s Midjourney art

• Powered by ChatGPT

• Edited by LocalPigeon