Community Spotlight: Celebrating Local Heroes and Events in Hastings - April 26, 2024
Local Spotlight: Intek Plastics Shines with Workplace Safety Award
In the heart of Hastings, Minnesota, a town known for its vibrant community and industrial prowess, Intek Plastics stands out not only for its expertise in custom plastic extrusions but also for its commitment to workplace safety. This dedication was recently honored with the Silver Minnesota Safety Council Governor's Workplace Safety Award, a testament to the company's continuous efforts in ensuring a safe working environment for all its employees.
Founded over five decades ago, Intek Plastics has become a cornerstone in the manufacturing sector, particularly noted for its innovative approach to plastic extrusion and its ability to meet specific customer needs across various industries, including construction, lighting, and refrigeration. The company's recent accolade reflects its philosophy of putting employee well-being at the forefront of its operations.
The award comes at a time when Intek Plastics is expanding its capabilities and infrastructure. In May 2022, the company planned an expansion at its facility in the Hastings Business Park, with support from the State of Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. This expansion is not just about increasing physical capacity but also about enhancing the company's ability to serve its customers more efficiently while maintaining its high standards for employee safety and environmental stewardship.
Intek's proactive approach to safety and health is part of a broader culture of continuous improvement and servant leadership, which emphasizes mutual support and cooperation among all team members. This culture has been pivotal in navigating the challenges posed by the global pandemic, during which Intek managed not only to retain its workforce but also to implement significant operational improvements.
As Intek Plastics continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of modern industries, its focus on safety, employee development, and environmental sustainability remains clear. The community of Hastings and the broader industrial sector watch eagerly as Intek leads by example, demonstrating how businesses can thrive by prioritizing the health and safety of their workforce.
For more about Intek Plastics and their innovative work, visit their website or the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau's page on Intek Plastics.
Local Spotlight: Muddy-Mutts Grooming, LLC - A Haven for Pet Pampering in Hastings
Nestled in the scenic town of Hastings, Minnesota, Muddy-Mutts Grooming, LLC is a cherished destination for pet owners seeking top-notch grooming services for their furry friends. Known for its comprehensive and compassionate care, Muddy-Mutts offers a range of grooming options that cater to both dogs and cats, ensuring they leave looking and feeling their best.
Owned and operated by Miranda, a dedicated and skilled groomer, Muddy-Mutts has earned a reputation for transforming pet grooming into a delightful experience for both pets and their owners. The recent Facebook accolades highlight Miranda's ability to bring owners' requests to life, with services that include everything from basic grooming to adding a splash of color for those pets ready to sport a new look for summer.
What sets Muddy-Mutts apart is not only the quality of care but also the flexibility and innovation in their service delivery. Their state-of-the-art mobile grooming unit brings the salon to your doorstep, offering convenience without compromising on the quality or range of services. This mobile service is particularly appreciated for its stress-free environment, where pets receive individual attention without the anxiety of a typical salon setting.
For those preferring a traditional setting, the Muddy-Mutts salon in Hastings provides a cage-free environment where pets are treated with the utmost care. The salon experience includes a variety of treatments such as oatmeal baths, fluff drying, nail clipping, and even specialized treatments like Furminator de-shedding, depending on the pet's needs.
The community feedback for Muddy-Mutts is overwhelmingly positive, with customers noting Miranda's kind demeanor and professional expertise. Whether it's a puppy’s first haircut or a more challenging grooming session for older pets with special needs, Miranda’s approach is always tailored to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of each pet and owner.
Muddy-Mutts Grooming, LLC stands out as a prime example of a local business that goes above and beyond to serve its community, fostering a long-term relationship with each client and their pet, ensuring they are not just well-groomed but truly cared for.
For more details on their services or to book an appointment, visit Muddy-Mutts Grooming's official website or their detailed service descriptions on their mobile grooming and salon pages.
Local Spotlight: Hastings Public Schools - Engaging Students in Real-World Learning
In Hastings, Minnesota, education is not confined to the classroom. Hastings Public Schools recently showcased its innovative approach to learning with Ms. Childers' College Criminal Justice class visiting the River Falls campus of Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC). This field trip exemplifies the district's commitment to providing students with hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond traditional educational settings.
During their visit, students engaged in a variety of practical activities that brought their coursework to life. They learned fingerprint extraction techniques, processed a mock "crime scene," and participated in virtual reality scenarios that simulate real-world law enforcement situations. Additionally, they explored the physical fitness requirements for entering the Law Enforcement Academy and interacted with local law enforcement professionals from River Falls and Hudson, gaining insights into the daily responsibilities and operational aspects of policing.
This active learning experience is part of Hastings Public Schools' broader educational philosophy, which emphasizes a personalized and adaptive learning environment. The district strives to meet the unique needs of each student through a comprehensive curriculum and a supportive educational atmosphere that encourages high achievement and personal growth (Hastings Public Schools) (Home).
Hastings Public Schools serve a diverse student body across several communities and are dedicated to fostering an educational environment that respects and celebrates this diversity. With a focus on preparing students for both academic and life success, the district offers a wide range of programs and services designed to help students thrive in a changing world (Wikipedia) (Wikipedia).
For more information on Hastings Public Schools and their programs, visit their official website.
Local Spotlight: Hastings Community TV - Capturing the Pulse of the City
Hastings Community TV (HCTV) has long been a staple in the vibrant city of Hastings, Minnesota, offering local residents a window into the community's most exciting events and stories. This year, HCTV continues its tradition of bringing local highlights into the homes of its viewers by broadcasting the 2024 Hastings High School Prom live. This event is set to air this Saturday at 4 pm, providing an opportunity for friends, family, and community members to partake in the festivities remotely through HCTV's YouTube channel and local cable on channel 15 (859 HD).
Founded in 1983, HCTV operates as a non-profit public access station, independent of the city and school district, though it enjoys strong partnerships with both. As a vital part of the Hastings community, HCTV aims to produce a variety of programs that cater to viewers of all ages and interests, ensuring the local community is well-represented and connected (Mysite).
HCTV's programming isn't limited to special events; the station has a robust sports coverage arm that has been broadcasting local sports events for over 27 years. Whether it’s covering every Raider Football home game or partnering with other community media stations to ensure comprehensive coverage even when teams play away, HCTV strives to keep fans in the loop all season long (Mysite).
Community engagement doesn't end with live broadcasts. HCTV also makes it easy for viewers to stay connected with on-demand services, ensuring that those who miss the live airing of events can catch up at their convenience. The station’s operations are supported by local sponsors and a team of dedicated volunteers and staff who are passionate about media and community service (Mysite) (Mysite).
For those interested in tuning in to the Hastings High School Prom or exploring more of what HCTV has to offer, visit their YouTube channel or their official website for live and archived content.
Local Spotlight: Dakota County's Commitment to Agricultural Land Conservation
Dakota County, Minnesota, is stepping up its efforts to preserve agricultural land and enhance sustainable farming practices. Recognizing the invaluable contribution of farmland to both current and future generations, the county is offering a significant incentive to agricultural landowners. Through a collaborative initiative with the Dakota Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), landowners can receive up to $80 an acre for adopting land management and conservation practices that improve land health.
This initiative is part of Dakota County's broader commitment to land conservation, which has been a focus since the adoption of their comprehensive Land Conservation Plan. The plan outlines a strategy for protecting and restoring significant natural areas and productive agricultural land, with a keen focus on improving water quality and wildlife habitats (Dakota County) (Dakota County).
Moreover, the county has made considerable progress in this area, protecting over 11,425 acres of land since 2003, aiming to enhance the county's ecological health and ensure the sustainability of its natural resources (Dakota County).
Additionally, Dakota County is actively involved in reducing agricultural chemicals through the Agricultural Chemical Reduction Effort (ACRE). This program targets the reduction of harmful chemicals like nitrates and herbicides, which are prevalent in row-crop farming, to prevent them from affecting the county's drinking water and broader environmental health (Dakota County).
For more detailed information on the programs and incentives available for landowners, you can visit the official Dakota County Land Conservation page here
Local Spotlight: Dakota County Parks Celebrates Law Enforcement and Community
Dakota County Parks, renowned for their commitment to preserving natural spaces and enhancing community recreation, invites residents to a special event celebrating the contributions of local law enforcement. The Dakota County Sheriff's Office is hosting a free open house that promises an engaging afternoon for all ages, featuring a close-up look at the diverse tools and technologies used by deputies, including boats, drones, and ATVs.
This event, set to kick off Police Week, is more than just a display of law enforcement tools. It offers a unique opportunity for community members to interact directly with the deputies and learn about the various ways the Dakota County Sheriff's Office serves the area. Additionally, neighboring law enforcement agencies and community groups will participate, making it a comprehensive community affair.
The open house also caters to families with the inclusion of food trucks, ensuring that attendees can enjoy a variety of local flavors while participating in the day's activities. It's an excellent way for residents to gain insight into the vital role law enforcement plays in maintaining safety and order in the community while enjoying a day out in one of Dakota County's beautiful parks.
Dakota County Parks, funded through Minnesota's Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, is dedicated to offering high-quality recreation and education opportunities that align with natural resource preservation (Dakota County) (Dakota County) (Kids Out and About Minneapolis/St. Paul). This event reflects their ongoing effort to integrate community engagement with environmental stewardship, providing a dynamic and informative experience for every visitor.
For more details on the event and other programs, you can visit the Dakota County Parks' official website or check out their YouTube channel for more insights into what makes the parks a cherished part of the community.
Local Spotlight: Celebrate Early Mother's Day at Red Wing Arts' Creative Retreat
This May, Red Wing Arts is inviting community members to a unique early Mother's Day celebration at their Clay & Creative Center located in the heart of downtown Red Wing, Minnesota. Scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this event promises a creative retreat designed to strengthen family bonds through art.
Dubbed "Mom & Me: A Pre-Mother's Day Creation Retreat," the event is an excellent opportunity for participants of all ages, whether you're a mom, grandma, or anyone who cherishes a motherly bond. It's a day to create new memories while celebrating the magic of family through various creative activities. Participants can indulge in activities like mug making to painting, providing a perfect platform to unleash their creativity and spend quality time with loved ones.
The event is set in the Clay & Creative Center, a space dedicated to nurturing creativity within the community. For those interested in a more structured activity, there are special mug-making sessions available for registration. These sessions are not only fun but are crafted to allow participants to create a personalized keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, food trucks will be on site to offer a variety of delicious local cuisines, making it a complete family outing. This gathering is not just about creating art but also about building a community, as neighboring law enforcement agencies and community groups will also be in attendance.
Located at 436 West 3rd Street in Red Wing, the venue is set to fill this day with laughter, creativity, and love. For those interested in the special mug-making sessions or any other details about the event, more information can be found and registrations can be made through their event page.
Don't miss this chance to kick off Police Week with a blend of creativity and community spirit at Red Wing Arts' Early Mother's Day Celebration.
Local Spotlight: City of Hastings Enhances Community Recycling Efforts with Special Disposal Event
The City of Hastings is expanding its community services with an innovative approach to recycling by combining its annual paper shredding event with a new mattress and box spring disposal service. This event, set to take place on May 11, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Cal Ruedy Public Works Building, emphasizes the city's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
During this event, residents of Hastings will have the opportunity to dispose of their unwanted mattresses and box springs for a fee of $30 per piece, payable directly to Certified Recycling. This initiative is not only about disposal; mattresses that are in good condition will be donated to Bridging, a local nonprofit organization that provides quality furniture and household goods to those transitioning out of homelessness and poverty. Those that are not in reusable condition will be deconstructed and recycled, ensuring that each component is responsibly handled and repurposed.
The event also offers free document shredding, a service that continues to be highly appreciated by the community. The shredding is performed on-site by a National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) certified company, with all shredded material being recycled into paper pulp. This service allows residents to safely dispose of sensitive documents, helping to prevent identity theft and reduce clutter, while also supporting recycling efforts.
The combination of these services at a single event underlines the City of Hastings' proactive approach to waste reduction and recycling. It not only facilitates the responsible disposal of bulky items like mattresses but also caters to the growing need for secure document destruction, all within the convenience of a local setting.
For those interested in participating in the mattress disposal or the paper shredding, or for more information on the specifics of the event, you can click here to visit the City of Hastings official website. This event is an excellent opportunity for Hastings residents to contribute to a cleaner, greener community while ensuring their personal documents are disposed of securely.
Local Spotlight: Hastings Family Service Celebrates Volunteers with Special Gathering
Hastings Family Service (HFS), a cornerstone of community support in Hastings, Minnesota, is celebrating its dedicated volunteers with a special event hosted at the Hastings Public House. The gathering is not just a social event but a heartfelt thank you to the 443 active volunteers who made significant contributions throughout 2023, embodying the organization's mission of delivering help and hope to the community.
This week, HFS highlights the impact of these volunteers, who are integral to the organization’s ability to provide a range of emergency and supportive services. From assisting with food distribution to helping with housing and clothing needs, these volunteers are the backbone of the service delivery that HFS prides itself on.
The event at Hastings Public House provides a fun and communal atmosphere where volunteers can connect, share experiences, and enjoy a well-deserved celebration of their hard work and dedication. It's an opportunity for the community to learn more about the volunteer efforts at HFS and the various roles available that help make a difference in the lives of many.
For those inspired to join the HFS Volunteer Family, the event also serves as a perfect occasion to gather more information and sign up. Interested individuals can learn about the different volunteering opportunities and how each role contributes to the overarching goal of community service and support.
Hastings Family Service continues to thrive on the spirit of community and collaboration, with events like these not only appreciating current volunteers but also inviting new members to start their journey in community service. The commitment of these volunteers helps ensure that the vision of HFS—to assist and guide neighbors in need through a spirit of caring and respect—is realized day after day.
For more information on how to get involved with Hastings Family Service and to learn about upcoming volunteer opportunities, please visit their website at Hastings Family Service Volunteer. Join and help continue the tradition of #helpandhope in Hastings.
Local Spotlight: Hastings Bands Celebrate Musical Talent at Annual Jazz Night
Hastings Bands - Minnesota recently hosted its annual jazz night concert, showcasing the extraordinary talents of middle school jazz bands and the spiral singers. This event, held in the vibrant community of Hastings, highlighted the rich musical tradition fostered by Hastings ISD200's comprehensive music department, which integrates band, orchestra, and choral programs at both the high school and middle school levels.
The event featured a variety of performances that captivated the audience, demonstrating the high level of skill and passion these young musicians possess. It's a testament to the strong music education program in Hastings, which not only focuses on musical proficiency but also on creating a collaborative and supportive environment for students to grow artistically and personally.
Hastings Bands offers a wide array of co-curricular band opportunities to students, ensuring that there is something for everyone. From concerts to national and international tours, jazz festivals, marching band competitions, and more, the program is designed to enhance students' musical talents while also providing them with enriching life experiences.
The annual jazz night is just one of the many platforms that Hastings Bands uses to celebrate and promote its students' talents. It also serves as a community-building event, bringing together families, educators, and music enthusiasts to enjoy and support the arts in Hastings.
For those interested in becoming part of the Hastings Bands family or learning more about the program, opportunities for engagement extend beyond performing to include volunteering and community participation. The program's success is a collective effort that relies on the support and involvement of the entire community.
To learn more about Hastings Bands and their upcoming events or to get involved, visit their official website or follow their social media channels. Join them in their next event and be part of a community that values and nurtures the power of music education.
