What Hastings Is Talking About Today (Front Page Edition ▲ August 12, 2025)
Pictured: On Sunday, the talented team from Squeaky Wheel Pottery created beautiful and unique artwork during a frothy Steins & Pints event, in historic downtown Hastings, Minnesota! The atmosphere was lively and inspiring as participants enjoyed crafting their pieces at Spiral Brewery. Image by HastingsNow.com/ashley
Hey there, neighbors! Your friendly HastingsNow.com reporter is here with a smile on my face, a spring in my step and a stack of fresh stories under my arm. Grab a cup of coffee, settle into your favorite chair and let’s explore what everyone in Hastings is talking about today!
Local News & Important Updates
International Overdose & Fentanyl Awareness Month
The Hastings City Council took a solemn but hopeful step by declaring August as International Overdose and Fentanyl Awareness Month. Officials reminded residents that the opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities across Minnesota and the nation. The proclamation encourages schools, faith communities, businesses and families to come together, remember those we’ve lost, support those in recovery and commit to creating a more compassionate and informed town. It’s a sober reminder of the work still to be done but also a call to unity and kindness.
👉 Link: City of Hastings
Youth Hockey Registration Deadline Approaches
There’s still ice time available! The Hastings Hockey Association has opened registration for boys and girls at all levels and ages. Families are encouraged to sign up soon, because registration for travel levels—including 10U, 12U and 15U girls as well as Squirts, Peewees, Bantams and Jr Gold—closes on August 31. Whether your child dreams of scoring the winning goal or just wants to learn to skate, this is the opportunity to get involved in one of Hastings’ favorite sports.
👉 Link: Hastings Hockey Association
People & Profiles
Binx Finds His Forever Home
Happy Adoption Day, Binx! This ten‑year‑old black cat with an outsized personality (and an extra set of toes!) recently found a loving family through Animal Ark. Binx had lived outside until a kind family brought him to the shelter. Despite his rough start, he remained affectionate and outgoing, winning over volunteers and visitors with his cuddly nature. His polydactyl paws—affectionately dubbed “boxing gloves”—are pure charm. Now Binx is starting a new chapter filled with cozy naps and paw‑some adventures. If this story warms your heart, consider visiting Animal Ark to meet other pets waiting for a forever home.
👉 Link: Animal Ark
Senior Portraits: Cali, Class of 2026
Local photographer Kristen Calgaro shared a sneak peek of a recent senior photo session with Cali, a soon‑to‑be Class of 2026 graduate. Bathed in a golden‑hour glow, Cali’s radiant smile and relaxed style made the shoot feel effortless. It’s a joyful milestone for the upcoming senior—and a reminder that the new school year is just around the corner. Expect more photos soon as the community cheers on this talented young woman.
👉 Link: Kristen Calgaro
Upcoming Events & Happenings
Roll Up Your Sleeve: Community Blood Drive
If you can spare a pint, the Branch Line Church blood drive needs your help. The drive runs Friday, August 15 from 10 AM–4 PM, and organizers say there are still openings for donors Donors under 18 are welcome with a parent or guardian’s consent. It’s an easy way to make a lifesaving difference and show some hometown love.
👉 Link: Branch Line Church
Theater Spotlight: Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead
Black Dirt Theater is taking on Tom Stoppard’s witty classic Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead. The play runs concurrently with Shakespeare’s Hamlet and follows the titular side characters as they wrestle with big questions about existence and destiny. Directed by Steve Soler, the production promises colorful dialogue and imaginative staging at Hastings Middle School in late September. It’s a must‑see for theater lovers and anyone curious about this clever spin on a classic tragedy.
👉 Link: Black Dirt Theater
Music & Pies at the LeDuc Estate
History meets harmony at the LeDuc Historic Estate, where Sunday night concerts continue throughout August. According to the Hastings Area Historical Society, there are three shows left and this coming Sunday, August 17 features homemade pies and treats. Bring a lawn chair, enjoy live music and support the estate’s fundraiser while sampling a slice (or two!).
👉 Link: Hastings Area Historical Society
National Sons & Daughters Day Celebration
This National Sons & Daughters Day, The Quarry Taphouse invites families to celebrate with burgers, brews and big laughs. The event encourages parents to treat their kids—young and grown—to juicy smash burgers, hand‑battered cheese curds and signature cocktails for adults. The Rock Range will offer fun activities, and guests are encouraged to snap pictures and tag the restaurant to share the memories. It’s a delicious way to celebrate family time.
👉 Link: The Quarry Taphouse
Deals & Treats
BOGO Women’s Tops + $2 Swimwear
Rivertown Treasures is making summer shopping irresistible. For a limited time, buy one women’s top and get another free, plus pick up swimwear for just $2. The second item must be of equal or lesser value, so bring a friend, match outfits and indulge in a mini shopping spree. Supplies are limited and exclusions apply, so hurry before your favorite styles are gone.
👉 Link: Rivertown Treasures
New Spinach & Cheese Croissants
Spiral Food Co‑op has added a tasty new treat to its bakery case: spinach and cheese croissants. These soft, buttery pastries are baked fresh daily and combine flakey pastry with savory filling. They’re perfect for breakfast on the go or an afternoon snack. Add one to your shopping list and savor the taste of summer.
👉 Link: Spiral Food Co‑op
Closing Thoughts
That wraps up today’s front‑page edition! From inspiring public-health proclamations and hockey dreams to adorable cats, local theatre and tasty treats, Hastings is bursting with energy. Keep the conversations going by visiting our website for the full LOCAL 10 story. We’d love to hear from you—if you spot a misstatement or have a hot tip, drop us a line at HastingsNow.com/contact—our newsroom loves neighborly notes! Until next time, stay kind, stay curious and keep cheering for one another.
