Interviews | Podcast | Blog
Webhooks: An Epic Origin Story and Hastings' Connected Future
Explore how the powerful technology of webhooks revolutionized the internet and discover practical, real-time automation examples specifically tailored for Hastings, Minnesota's small businesses, developers, and local community. Learn how you can easily integrate webhooks today.
Symphony of Voice: The Evolution of AI’s Orchestration Layer in Voice Technology
Voice AI isn't just hearing—it's understanding. Dive into the epic journey of AI's orchestration layer, from early speech recognition to today's sophisticated multimodal, emotionally-aware systems. Learn how innovations like token-based emotional reasoning are crafting the future of seamless, human-like interaction with AI.
“Requests” in Tech: From HTTP Origins to AI and Community Applications
From the first web browsers to today's AI-driven voice assistants, “Requests” have transformed how technology communicates. Dive into their fascinating history, discover how APIs and JSON shape modern digital interactions, and learn practical ways communities leverage requests for civic tech and local empowerment.
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.
From Revolution to AI Revolution: George Washington’s Wisdom in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
George Washington’s story began in revolution and echoes today in our era of artificial intelligence. As we stand at the forefront of technological transformation, Washington’s timeless values of knowledge, integrity, unity, and prudent governance offer profound insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities AI presents. This thoughtful exploration imagines Washington’s views on AI's latest advancements, the role it should play in government, and how communities, from Hastings, Minnesota, to cities worldwide, can responsibly integrate technology while preserving democratic ideals. Learn how history's greatest lessons illuminate our path forward into the AI revolution.
The Pigeon Chronicles: From Sacred Messenger to Urban Survivor
In this whimsical yet informative deep dive, we explore the remarkable journey of pigeons – from their origin as cliff-dwelling rock doves domesticated 5,000 years ago, to their heroics as wartime messengers and their adaptation to modern city life. Centered on Hastings, Minnesota’s own feathered residents, the story highlights our love-hate relationship with these birds, their unique communication (do pigeons chirp? we find out!), and what the future might hold for pigeons in an ever-urbanizing world. It’s a celebration of one of our most underrated wildlife neighbors and a guide for locals to appreciate and coexist with the humble pigeon.
What Would the Buddha Say About AI? A Tech-Aware, Spirit-Led Vision for Hastings, Minnesota
Ever wondered what the Buddha would think about AI technology in Hastings? Dive into a spirit-led exploration, blending ancient Buddhist wisdom with modern-day insights to help our community embrace AI ethically and mindfully.
Horace Mann and the AI Revolution in Education: What Would the Father of Public Schooling Say Today?
Horace Mann, 19th-century champion of public education, meets the AI age in our Hastings schools. This in-depth look explores how Mann’s ideals of equity, community, and quality learning align with – and challenge – the rise of AI in today’s classrooms, offering guidance for educators, parents, and students navigating the future of education.
What Might Jesus Think of AI?
As artificial intelligence reshapes our daily lives, we’re left asking profound questions—like, "What might Jesus think of AI?" This insightful exploration examines how timeless Christian teachings and modern technology intersect, offering thoughtful perspectives on ethics, humanity, and faith.
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.
How SDKs Are Unlocking a Smarter, More Connected Hastings: A Story for Residents, Businesses, and Dreamers
Hastings is buzzing with DIY tech energy! Discover how software-development kits (SDKs) let neighbors, shop owners, and marketers build clever AI-powered apps—without Silicon-Valley budgets. From pop-up push-notifications at your favorite boutique to AR history tours downtown, see how these ready-made “toolboxes” are turning big-city innovation into small-town wins.
From Punch Cards to Coffee Shops: The Story of APIs and Why Hastings Should Care
From dusty punch-card labs to the latte-scented counters of downtown Hastings, discover how the humble API became the secret engine behind local coffee orders, social-media buzz, and Main-Street growth. This friendly deep-dive shows beginners, owners, and tech-pros alike why APIs matter—and how every Hastings business can tap them today.
Meet Your New Digital Neighbors: AI Agents in Hastings
Meet Hastings’ newest neighbors—AI agents! From 24/7 chat help for local shops to volunteer-wrangling sidekicks and virtual town-hall clerks, discover how these digital helpers tackle everyday tasks so people can focus on what matters most: building a vibrant, connected community.
From Prompt to Product: How Generative AI Amplifies Hastings Stories and Brands
In Hastings, a 30-second voicemail can now spark an entire blog post. Discover how generative AI turns simple prompts into powerful content, helping local business owners transform their authentic voice into SEO-friendly stories that boost visibility and engagement.
Vibe Coding: Hastings’ Guide to AI-Powered Creativity
Experience “vibe coding” – a playful new way to create software by chatting with AI. Learn how a viral idea from Silicon Valley lets Hastings locals build websites, apps, and creative projects without coding skills, just good vibes and imagination!
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.
Food for Thought: 10 Questions Sparked by a Fascinating AI Conversation
Explore 10 thought-provoking questions arising from a compelling AI conversation, touching upon the future of creation, knowledge access, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in our lives. Join the discussion on the societal impacts and ethical considerations of AI.
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)