What Hastings Is Talking About Today (Neighbor Edition ▲ July 19 2025)

Summer always feels like a block party in Hastings. Between sizzlin’ BBQs, back‑to‑school sneak peeks, heroic first responders and even debates about walleye limits, our rivertown hums with excitement. Grab an iced tea and dive into today’s stories! AI image by Local Pigeon.

Community Events & Family Fun

57th Annual Chicken BBQ & Street Dance – Randolph‑Hampton Fire District

This August the Randolph‑Hampton Fire District will transform downtown Randolph into a giant block party. On Saturday, August 16 from 3–8 p.m. the 57th Annual Chicken BBQ serves up mouth‑watering chicken, followed by live music from Mark Joseph and the American Soul until midnight. The fundraiser invites everyone to support local firefighters while enjoying food, dancing and community spirit. Bring friends, family and dancing shoes for a hometown tradition that benefits our volunteer firefighters. It’s the perfect excuse to dance under the stars for a good cause.

👉 Link: Miesville Fire

Back‑to‑School Drop Sneak Peeks – Kid to Kid Eagan

School may still feel far away, but savvy parents know to circle Saturday, July 26. Kid to Kid Eagan’s “Back‑to‑School Drop” unveils thousands of stylish clothes, shoes and accessories for kids and teens. To sweeten the deal, the resale shop will serve complimentary ice‑cream treats from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s a smart way to stretch your budget, teach kids about sustainable shopping and enjoy a summer outing. VIP members should watch for a special text offer. The event is part of a growing “shop local” movement that keeps dollars in the community.

👉 Link: Kid to Kid Eagan

Foster & Adopted Youth Retreat at Camp Knutson

Children’s Home & Lutheran Social Service is hosting a free retreat for foster and foster‑adopted youth ages 13–17 at Camp Knutson from October 10–12. The event is designed to build connections among youth with shared life experiences, offering outdoor activities, team‑building exercises and a chance to make new friends. Registration is open now, and families are encouraged to sign up early. It’s a heartwarming example of our community creating safe spaces where young people can thrive.

👉 Link: CHLSS Adoption

Civic & Safety

Air Rescue Team Brings New Helicopter to First Responders Camp

On July 19 the Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART) touched down at The Learning Jet’s First Responders Camp with their new helicopter. Curious campers got a hands‑on look at lifesaving equipment, learned CPR/AED skills and discovered what it takes to protect Minnesotans on the ground and in the air. Public Safety officials said the visit aims to spark a passion for service and safety among youth. It’s a fun, educational way to connect kids with the professionals who keep our communities safe.

👉 Link: MN Public Safety

Task Force 1 Flood & Rescue Operations Update

Minnesota’s Task Force 1 has had a busy month. After a grueling week helping with flood recovery in Texas, the team took a “rehab day” to catch up on paperwork while their K‑9 partners enjoyed chiropractic and acupuncture treatments. The refreshed crews then joined Arizona Task Force 1 to search areas impacted by devastating floods. Back home, another Task Force 1 unit assisted the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office with a technical rescue—recovering a victim from a 230‑foot phone tower using assets from multiple fire departments. These stories underscore the dedication of our first responders and the collaborative spirit that defines Minnesota.

👉 Link: MN Public Safety

New State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) Showcases Sustainable Preparedness

Minnesota’s new State Emergency Operations Center isn’t just another government building—it’s a mission‑ready hub designed for resilience. Powered by geothermal and solar energy, the SEOC can remain fully operational for up to 72 hours during outages, lowering long‑term energy costs and enhancing readiness. Officials highlight that the facility’s innovative design helps keep Minnesotans safe during any emergency by ensuring communication, coordination and command capabilities remain intact. It’s an impressive investment in sustainability and disaster preparedness.

👉 Link: MN Public Safety

Environment & Outdoors

Public Input Sought on Minnesota’s Climate Action Framework

The state is updating its Climate Action Framework and wants residents’ feedback before July 21. Officials say the revised framework will place a stronger emphasis on local collaboration and community development. Minnesotans are invited to visit the state’s public engagement portal to share ideas on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing resilience and supporting green jobs. Your voice can help shape policies that will guide Minnesota’s response to climate change for years to come.

👉 Link: Minnesota DNR

Should the Walleye Possession Limit Drop to Four?

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is exploring whether to reduce the statewide walleye possession limit from six fish to four. The change wouldn’t take effect until 2027 and is driven by shifting lake habitats, ecological conditions and improved fishing technology. Anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to complete the DNR’s survey to provide input. The debate highlights Minnesota’s balancing act between cherished outdoor traditions and sustainable fisheries management.

👉 Link: MN Fish Wildlife

Sargent’s Nursery Celebrates Bright Blooms & Herb Bowls

Red Wing’s Sargent’s Nursery is bursting with color this month. Their summer zinnia bowls overflow with cheerful blooms that thrive in the heat. For cooks, the fresh herb bowls—packed with basil, cilantro, rosemary and parsley—offer garden‑to‑table magic. The nursery invites gardeners and novices alike to stop in while supplies are fresh. It’s a reminder that a little greenery can bring joy to porches, patios and meals. Local nurseries like Sargent’s are important sources of beauty and community expertise.

👉 Link: Sargent’s Nursery

Sports & Business

Vikings Training Camp Networking – DCR Chambers

Football fans and business leaders can mix fandom with networking at the Dakota County Regional Chamber (DCR) Vikings Training Camp event. Scheduled for Monday, August 11 from noon to 5 p.m. at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan, the afternoon promises high‑energy networking and behind‑the‑scenes access. Organizers urge prospective attendees to register before July 27 and note that sponsorship opportunities are available. Wear your purple, exchange business cards and celebrate the approaching NFL season.

👉 Link: Dakota County Regional Chamber

Hastings, and its surrounding area, is alive with festivals, innovative public safety efforts, environmental debates and sports excitement. Whether you’re hungry for BBQ, curious about climate policy or eager to mingle at training camp, there’s something for everyone. For more local stories and complete coverage of our LOCAL 10, visit HastingsNow.com.

If you spot a misstatement or have a hot tip, drop us a line at HastingsNow.com/contact—our newsroom loves neighborly notes!