Interviews | Podcast | Blog
The Writing on the Wall: Murals from Cave Paintings to Street Art in Hastings
From prehistoric cave art to modern street murals in downtown Hastings, Minnesota, walls have always told our stories. Explore the epic global history, cultural significance, and digital future of murals — with a local twist that brings it all home.
The Many Faces of the Landlord: A Journey from Ancient Times to Tomorrow
From ancient Babylonian lease tablets to tomorrow’s AI-powered property bots, landlords have shaped where—and how—we live for 4,000 years. This deep-dive traces the global rise of landlordism, dissects the psychology of good (and bad) owners, and forecasts how automation could upend renting in Hastings, Minnesota and beyond. Whether you’re a tenant, investor, or curious historian, discover the surprising twists behind the people who hold the keys to our homes.
Unpacking Imagine Hastings: When a Bar’s Philanthropy Meets Our Schools
In Hastings, Minnesota, a new nonprofit called Imagine Hastings is funneling bar-room dollars into field trips, mini-grants, and more—sparking cheers and questions in equal measure. Dive into our independent investigation of how Dugarel’s charitable arm reshapes school funding, youth alcohol norms, and community ethics, and discover what’s at stake for local families.
When Reality Melts: Truth, Trickery, and Hope in the Age of Deepfakes in Hastings
In an age where AI blurs the lines between fact and fiction, how will Hastings, Minnesota, cope when deepfakes erode trust in our courts, classrooms, and community? Explore practical tips, thoughtful insights, and local initiatives for staying grounded in truth—even as reality itself seems to melt.
When Hastings Roared: Daily Life in 1925
Step onto the planked Spiral Bridge, breathe the scent of fresh‐baked bread downtown, and feel the jazz-age optimism that pulsed through Hastings in 1925. Our immersive feature paints a vivid, fact-rich portrait of faith, schooldays, river commerce, and community spirit that still echoes along the Mississippi today.
Alcohol, Cancer, and Society: A Comprehensive Exploration
Discover how alcohol’s long-celebrated role in social life clashes with its hidden impact on health. “Alcohol, Cancer, and Society” delves into the Surgeon General’s latest warning, explores each of the seven cancers linked to drinking, and uncovers the economics and ethics driving breweries and bars. From personal stories of survivorship to Minnesota-specific best practices for responsible service, this in-depth exploration equips you with everything you need to know—so you can make informed choices without sacrificing community spirit.
Good Grief and Great Joy: Hastings High’s ‘Charlie Brown’ Musical Delights and Inspires
Hastings High School's production of “You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown” enchanted local audiences with humor, heart, and youthful energy. Featuring outstanding student performances, emotional senior farewells, and vibrant community support, the beloved Peanuts characters truly came to life on stage.
Loneliness in America, 2025: An Odyssey of Isolation and Connection
In 2025, America faces a loneliness crisis—affecting young men, middle-aged adults, and entire communities. This epic deep-dive traces the origins of loneliness from ancient philosophy to modern neuroscience. We explore how loneliness manifests in Hastings, Minnesota, unpack cutting-edge global studies, and look ahead to a future shaped by AI companions, hybrid work, and cultural change. With warmth, wit, and rigorous research, this is your guide to understanding—and healing—loneliness in our time.
Hidden Treasures on 6th Street: Linda’s Vintage Estate Sale Turns 300 into Hastings’ Hottest Hunt (May 2-4)
From hand-painted Nippon plates to a storybook steamer trunk, Linda’s estate sale turns 300 6th Street into Hastings’ weekend treasure hunt. Swing by May 2-4 (9 AM-4 PM), discover history you can hold, and share your #HastingsFinds with the neighborhood.
Exciting News for Downtown Hastings: HastingsNow.com and the DBA Unite!
HastingsNow.com is now a member of the Hastings Downtown Business Association, the official organizers of local favorites like the CarShow and Holiday Hoopla! Learn how this partnership will benefit the Hastings community.
Making Waves & Memories: Hastings Middle School Swim & Dive Team Splashes to Success
Hastings Middle School’s Swim & Dive team capped off the season with personal bests, big smiles, and a pool full of hometown pride. Dive into our recap of the April 16th meet – and don’t miss the photo gallery packed with amazing moments! Click to view the splash-tastic photos and read more.
Envisioning the Perfect Economy: From America’s Founding to Hastings’ Future
Hastings, Minnesota takes a local look at what a “perfect economy” could be. From America’s founding ideals to today’s realities, we connect the dots between national trade policies, Minnesota’s tax strategy, and local initiatives shaping life in Hastings. Along the way, voices of local business owners and community leaders lend a human perspective – making big economic ideas engaging, accessible, and relevant for our community. (HastingsNow.com – building community through informed local storytelling)
Pente: The Classic Game of Five Stones – Now Bringing Hastings Together Online
Pente, the classic strategy board game of five-in-a-row, has arrived in Hastings – and it’s bringing our community together in a whole new way! 🎲 Born in an Oklahoma pizza parlor and now reborn online, Pente blends ancient game roots with modern fun. Discover the game’s fascinating origin story, its rise to 1980s fame (even President Reagan had a set!), and the brain-tickling strategy and philosophy behind each move. Whether you’re a puzzle lover, a competitive spirit, or just looking for a new family game night favorite, Pente has something for you. HastingsNow.com is proud to launch Pente online – challenge your friends and neighbors, sharpen your wits, and see who can connect five first. Ready to play? It’s your move, Hastings! 🔵⚪🔵⚪🔵
Hastings Meets AI: Neighbors in a High-Tech Future
Hastings is embracing the age of AI with open arms and common-sense caution. From classrooms where teachers use ChatGPT as a creative teaching tool to local farms and businesses leveraging smart tech, our community is learning to work with AI, not against it. Discover how educators, healthcare workers, farmers, and shop owners in Hastings, MN are using artificial intelligence to enhance (not replace) what they do best – all while keeping our famous small-town heart and humanity at the center. This in-depth guide shares local voices, practical examples, and hopeful tips for thriving alongside our new high-tech helpers.
Ice, Pools, and Zambonis: Hastings' Epic Guide to the Coolest Seasonal and Internship Jobs in Town!
Looking for epic job opportunities right here in Hastings? From mastering the Zamboni at the Civic Arena to making a splash at the Aquatic Center, find your perfect local gig and become a Hastings legend!
Investing in Hastings: How Community Investment Funds Shape Our City's Future
Learn how Community Investment Funds (CIFs) enable Hastings residents to invest in local improvements—from streetscape beautification to park enhancements—and shape the future of our vibrant city.
Epic Summer Returns: Hastings Music + Market 2025 – Vendor Applications Now Open!
Hastings Music + Market returns this summer, blending live music, local artisans, and family activities at downtown Hastings' Levee Park. Vendor applications are now open—join the fun!
Get Active with Hastings, MN Athletics: A Comprehensive Guide
Explore Hastings, MN's vibrant athletic scene! Join epic leagues in Bags, Pickleball, Sand Volleyball, and Slow Pitch Softball. Build friendships, stay active, and embrace local sports heritage!
Co-Intelligence in Hastings: What Ethan Mollick Can Teach Us About AI (And Why It’s Not Just Sci-Fi Stuff)
Discover how Ethan Mollick’s groundbreaking insights on AI and entrepreneurship can help local businesses in Hastings, Minnesota thrive. Learn practical AI strategies that level the playing field for small businesses, streamline operations, and drive innovation.
Where Are All the Single Old Men Hiding?
Join us at HastingsNow.com as we embark on a laugh-out-loud quest to uncover the secret spots of Hastings' elusive bachelors! From KFC hangouts and ice fishing shanties to early morning gas stations and more, our community's witty responses reveal that these single old men are hiding in plain sight. Dive in, enjoy the local humor, and join the conversation in true H-town style.