Local News

Norring Named Dakota County Public Health Individual Of The Year

On Tuesday, April 23, Hastings native Bridgette Norring was awarded the Public Health Achievement Individual Award by Dakota County. According to a press release from the County, Norring, who has worked tirelessly to shine a light on drug prevention, specifically the fentanyl epidemic, received the honor after making "a profound impact on the lives of youth by empowering them to make informed choices for their safety and well-being." Norring is also on the Dakota County Opioid Response Advisory Committee. Norring presents to students, parents, teachers and law enforcement alike.

Listen below for an interview with Jess Luce of Dakota County Public Health as he talks about Norring's award.

April 23 Hastings Fire Report

The Hastings Fire Department responded to 16 calls for service for the week ending April 22.

On April 22 at 10:20 a.m. fire crews were dispatched to a gas leak in the 800 block of 9th Street West. Crews arrived on scene at 10:24 and controlled the leak, clearing at 10:55 a.m.

Earlier that morning, on April 22 at 6:41 a.m., fire crews responded to a two car accident at the intersection of Highway 55 and Pleasant Drive. Both cars suffered significant damage in the accident and one reportedly caught fire. Crews arrived at 6:44 a.m. and cleared at 7:06 a.m. One person was transported to the hospital.

On April 21 at 8:14 p.m. firefighters were called to the 19000 block of Pine Ridge Road in Ravenna Township for a carbon monoxide incident. Crews arrived at 8:25 and cleared at 9:33. No other information was provided other than fire crews investigated and removed the hazard.

On April 21 at 12:07 p.m., firefighters were dispatched to 170th Street East for a grass or brush fire. Crews arrived on scene at 12:18, controlled the fire at 12:25 and cleared at 1:10.

That wasn't the first grass fire of that day, as on April 21 at 1:46 a.m. crews responded to Nicolai Avenue for a grass fire. They arrived at 2:00 and controlled the fire at 2:05, clearing at 2:08.

On April 20, firefighters were busy with a few simultaneous calls, but one of note happened around 12:35 p.m. when crews were called to a reported commercial structure fire at a business on the Frontage Road. Crews arrived at 12:40 and controlled the fire at 12:45, clearing at 12:58. Cottage Grove and Rosemount were dispatched mutual aid but were canceled en route to this call. The fire caused about $300 in damage and was deemed unintentional, caused by misuse of material or products

One hour prior to that, crews were dispatched to a traffic crash at the intersection of Highway 55 and Pine Street. Crews arrived at 11:33 and cleared at 12:02.

On April 18 at 12:51 p.m. crews responded to a grass fire at 205th Street East in Vermillion. They arrived at 1:02 and controlled the fire in one minute, clearing at 1:10.

On April 17 at 3:15 p.m., crews were dispatched to Lillehei Avenue in Marshan Township for a traffic crash. One person was transported with injuries from the two vehicle crash, with crews arriving at 3:22 and clearing a 3:57.

Also on April 17, at 10:04 a.m., crews responded to a report of power lines down on Goodwin Avenue. Crews arrived at 10:18 a.m. and controlled the situation at 10:25, clearing one minute later.

On April 16 at 12:40 p.m., Hastings firefighters handled a motor vehicle accident on the Prescott bridge. Crews arrived at 12:46 and cleared at 12:56.

On April 16 at 10:24 a.m. Hastings was dispatched mutual aid to Cottage Grove for a grass fire. They arrived at 10:39 and cleared at 11:16.

Two Arrested For Copper Wire Theft

Two people were arrested on Thursday for an alleged copper wire theft at 160th Street and Jacob Avenue outside of Hastings. According to the Dakota County Sheriff's Office, around 11:30 they received a call in reference to a theft in progress. When they arrived, they were met by an employee of CenturyLink who observed an individual stealing copper wire. A perimeter of the area was set up and the sheriff's office deployed their drone, which located an individual near the Vermillion River north of 160th and east of the river. That subject was taken into custody, which soon after, deputies learned of a second suspect. They were located shortly thereafter and taken into custody. The Hastings Police Department assisted the sheriff's office in this incident. There is no threat to the public.

Legislative Update with Senator Judy Seeberger

KDWA spoke with Minnesota State Senator Judy Seeberger on Thursday, April 18 for a legislative update. An update on PFAS was at the top of the list.

Seeberger also provided an update on the EMS bill working its way through the legislature.

Senator Seeberger is also waiting to see if her senior housing bill will be included in the housing omnibus.

One more bill Seeberger discussed had to do with copper wire theft in the area.

HFS Reports Record Donations for Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign

This year's Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign ran from February 26 through April 6, and set a new record. Hastings Family Service Executive Director Amy Sutton gave us the details.

Sutton continued that these numbers will help Hastings Family Service as the summer months approach.

Hastings City Council Meeting Recap

The Hastings City Council had a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, April 15. During the Awarding of Contracts and Public Hearing portion of the meeting, two contracts were awarded. Mayor Mary Fasbender gave us the details.

The Public Works Department gave a report on the pedestrian study for Highway 42 in Hastings.

The Parks and Recreation Department had a first reading for an update to City Ordinance 94.

Mayor Fasbender also gave us an update on the Strategic Plan.

Prescott Police Blotter

The Prescott Police Department responded to 130 calls for service from April 7 thru April 14.

On April 7, a traffic stop was conducted on Henry Street for a driver having an expired drivers license. 67-year-old Bill Frank Brush of Prescott was issued two citations, one for operating without a valid license, and the other for operating a motor vehicle without proof of insurance.

On April 8 at 7:33 p.m. officers pulled over a subject for an equipment violation. The driver, 41-year-old Brent Gordon Goodell of Prescott, was warned about his front plate and cited for operating without a valid license, as well as operating without insurance.

On April 9, officers spoke with an unidentified subject about a trespassing/harassment complaint. This case is still pending resolution.

On April 10, police were called in regards to an unwanted subject. 26-year-old Madison Lee Waldron was arrested for disorderly conduct and cited for Trespass to Land.

On April 11, officers responded to a motor vehicle crash where a driver struck 2 parked cars. 36-year-old Andrew Jospeh White of Prescott faces five citations, including hit an run of an unattended vehicle, failure to notify police of an accident, unreasonable and imprudent speed, inattentive driving, and failure to wear a seat belt.

On April 11 at 9:54 a.m., officers observed a semi parked on the westbound shoulder of US Highway 10 and State Highway 29. The driver reportedly parked there to walk to the nearby Dollar General location. The driver was advised due to safety concerns not to do that again and was given suggestions on where to park in the future.

On April 13, an officer made contact with a group of males in the 100 block of Broad Street around 2:30 a.m. In that interaction, police made an arrest of 28-year-old Daryale Donte Harris of Apple Valley for court restrictions.

On April 13, four vehicles were stopped near simultaneously on Jefferson Street at Highway 35 for traffic violations. All four drivers were cited for improper passing. 26-year-old Angel Ivan Ramirez Martinez of Apple Valley, 23-year-old Cody William Gray of Burnsville, 24-year-old Andrew William Haefner of Minneapolis, and 18-year-old Aidyn Chad Softich of Apple Valley were all cited for passing in a no passing zone.

Prescott School District Update

On April 2, the Prescott School referendum failed by a narrow vote margin. Prescott School Superintendent Rick Spicuzza gave his reaction.

Following the failed vote, a special session was held.

Spicuzza went on to discuss what happens next.

Luther Klug Memorial Highway Dedicated

On July 15, 1996, Deputy Luther Klug’s squad was hit by a drunk driver at the intersection of Highway 316 and 200th Street East after assisting Hastings Police on a call. He died at the hospital early the next morning.

After years of work, that stretch of road was named Deputy Luther Klug Memorial Highway and a dedication was held Thursday morning. Members of the Dakota County Sheriff, Hastings Police, and other agencies as well as the Klug family attended, and Commissioners Joe Atkins and Mike Slavik, Sheriff Joe Leko, and representatives from Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Angie Craig’s offices spoke, and the sign was unveiled. Below are pictures from the event. We will have an interview with Sheriff Joe Leko coming up in future newscasts.

Prescott City Council Meeting Recap

The Prescott City Council had a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, April 8. Prescott City Administrator Matt Wolf gave us a recap.

One Injured In Incident At Vermillion Falls

On Wednesday April 10, officials from Hastings and the Dakota County Special Operations Team responded to Vermillion Falls State Park for a report of a subject who fell along the bluff. Authorities arrived and after a short search were able to locate an injured subject along the north bank of the falls. The Dakota County Special Operations Team responded and conducted a rope rescue, and just after 12:30 the subject was rescued and transported to Regions Hospital in St. Paul.

City of Hastings Issues Updated PFAS Guidance

The City of Hastings issued Wednesday a new public notice regarding PFAS. Find out more below:

Hastings Fire Report for April 9

The Hastings Fire Department responded to 17 calls for service for the week ending April 9.

On April 9, firefighters were dispatched to Westview Drive for a report of a water or steam leak. Firefighters arrived on scene at 1:03 AM and cleared the scene at 1:25 AM. Firefighters investigated the leak and shut down the system.

On April 6, just before 2 p.m., firefighters responded to a grass fire at 210th Street and Coates Boulevard. We previously reported on this incident on KDWA. Firefighters arrived at 2:05 p.m. and controlled the blaze at 2:30, clearing the scene at 2:44. One total acre was burned in the fire.

Less than 45 minutes later, firefighters were called to another grass fire in Vermillion Township, this one on Donnelly Avenue. Firefighters were dispatched at 3:15 p.m. and arrived at 3:30, controlling the blaze at 3:50 and clearing at 4:17. 15 firefighters responded to control this fire and additional personnel were used to cover a fire alarm in the city at the same time, making for a very busy Saturday afternoon. This was reportedly timber that was on fire and the fire was deemed unintentional.

On April 4, firefighters were dispatched to a reported gas leak in the 100 block of 11th Street West. The call for service was dispatched at 3:05 p.m. and crews arrived at 3:21 p.m. The leak was controlled by 3:30 and crews departed the scene at 3:33.

Later that night, firefighters were called back to the same location for the same reason, dispatched at 10:48 p.m. After an investigation, crews cleared a short time later.

As previously reported on KDWA, crews were dispatched to an active garage fire in the 6300 block of Oakgreen Avenue in Denmark Township. The call came in at 3:31 p.m. and the first crews arrived on scene 10 minutes later. 10 pieces of apparatus and 12 firefighters contained the blaze, which reportedly caused more than $110,000 in damages. The cause of the fire remained undetermined.

On April 3, firefighters responded to Coates Boulevard for vegetation fire. Units were dispatched at 1:05 p.m. and arrived at 1:13 p.m., containing the fire in one minute and clearing the scene at 1:25 p.m.

Former Dakota County Commissioner Pat Scully Passes Away

Longtime Dakota County Commissioner Pat Scully passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 3. Scully was instrumental in the development of the Dakota County Parks system, most notably what is now known as Schaar's Bluff. Scully was also instrumental in retaining Hastings as the county seat and was at the forefront of the land purchase for what is now the Dakota County Government Center. He was also the co-owner of Hastings Sanitary and Disposal for 27 years, served as a board member at what is now Flint Hills Resources, and was a Metropolitan Board Council Member.

Scully was an avid gardener with a love for his native Ireland and the city of Hastings. He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

Former Hastings Mayor Paul Hicks gave his reaction.

Scully was 98 years old.

Hastings City Council Meeting Recap

The Hastings City Council had a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, April 1. Hastings City Councilman Dave Pemble joined KDWA to give us a recap, beginning with the Determination of Quorum and the Consent Agenda.

The Council then moved on to the awarding of contracts, starting with the 2024 Neighborhood Infrastructure Improvements.

The Council also got a monthly update regarding the PFAS situation. Pemble discussed where three water treatment facilities are planned to be built.

New Director at United Way of Hastings

Theresa Chatelle is the new Director at the United Way of Hastings. KDWA spoke with her on Monday and asked her about her background.

We then asked Chatelle what her motivation was for pursuing the role of Director.

Chatelle went on to share some of her goals for the United Way of Hastings in the future.

Dakota County Seeks Resident Input on Trash and Recycling Plans

Dakota County wants to hear from residents about waste and recycling. The county is revising its County Solid Waste Management Plan, which will guide how waste is managed for the next 20 years.

Public input will help the county develop policies and programs to reduce the amount of material sent to landfills, work toward a state goal to recycle 75 percent of waste by 2030, and follow new Minnesota Pollution Control Agency direction for metropolitan county waste management.

Residents are encouraged to provide input through an online survey through April 21. Surveys are available in English and Spanish. Input will guide the development of solid waste programs and policies that will affect residents, public and private organizations, and the waste industry.

You can take the survey at www.dakotacounty.us, use the search term "waste management plan".

Hastings City Council Meeting Preview

The Hastings City Council has a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, April 1. Mayor Mary Fasbender gave us a preview of the agenda.

Hastings School Board Meeting Recap

The Hastings School Board had a regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, March 27. Board Chair Carrie Tate gave us a recap.

MN Dept. of Health Updates Fish Consumption Guidelines Due to PFAS

The Minnesota Department of Health recently updated its guidance on PFAS and fishing regulations for the Mississippi River pools 2, 3 and 4 south of the Metro. Angela Priemsberger of the Minnesota Department of Health joined KDWA during a Community In Depth to fill us in on more.

Priemsberger explains what PFAS Chemicals are.

In addition to the guidance for those sensitve populations, there is also some guidance for the non-sensitive populations as well.

Hastings Street Projects 2024

The City of Hastings Public Works Department is gearing up for this year's street projects. In a recent episode of In Depth on KDWA, Hastings Public Works Director and City Engineer Ryan Stempski told us which streets are on the list this year.

Stempski then gave us a rough timeline of what to expect in the next couple months leading up to the start of road work.

Some streets will have a full reconstruction, while others will have a street reclamation. Stempski enlightened us on the difference.

Stempski also brought up potholes.

Stempski urged Hastings residents to report any potholes in their areas.

27th Annual Hastings Tastings a Success

It was another successful Hastings Tastings night on Monday, March 25th, raising money for Hastings Family Service. Area restaurants donated food and beverages for people to sample, and there were raffle drawings and silent auction items for bidding. Winners in each category included Missi's Sip & Savor winning Best Appitizer, Bimi Thai winning Best Entree, Culver's winning Best Dessert, Alexis Bailly Vineyard winning Best Beverage. Bimi Thai went on to win Best Overall. Over 350 people were in attendance. KDWA caught up with Hastings Family Service Executive Director Amy Sutton after the event.

Hastings Fire Department Promotes Staff

The Hastings Fire Department promoted one of their firefighters, as well as hiring a new one. Hastings Fire Chief John Townsend gave us more.

Hastings Police Blotter

The Hastings Police responded to 32 calls for service the week of March 11th through the 17th.

Volunteers Needed for All-Night Grad Party

Volunteers are still needed for the upcoming All-Night Grad Party for this year's seniors at Hastings High School. In a recent episode of Community In-Depth right here on KDWA, Parent Volunteer Emily Sherry gave us the rundown.

Sherry, along with fellow Parent Volunteer Michelle Tjomsland went on to explain how the need isn't limited to the night of the party itself.

Sherry and Tjomsland told willing volunteers how they can sign up.

Prescott Finance Committee Meeting Recap

The Prescott Finance Committee met on Wednesday, March 20. Prescott City Administrator Matt Wolf gave us the rundown.

Hastings Heritage Preservation Committee Meeting Recap

The Hastings Heritage Preservation Commission recently held a meeting to discuss a couple items. Hastings City Planner Justin Fortney provided KDWA with a recap.

Hastings City Council Meeting Recap

The Hastings City Council swore in a new councilmember during their Monday, March 18 meeting. Mayor Mary Fasbender gave us the details.

Multiple city staff were also promoted. Mayor Fasbender with the recap.

The council then moved on to the awarding of contracts for a resolution for the GO Charter Bonds.

The council also took up the Storage Werks proposal.

As part of the 2024 budget, the City Council continued the Community Investment Fund, and allocated funding to five individuals/organizations.

Grant Awarded For Highway 42, Highway 52 Improvements

The Minnesota Department of Transportation selected Dakota County's application to make interchange improvements at County Highway 42 and US Highway 52 in Rosemount. The $2.4 million grant awarded for the project will bring improvements to the existing diamond interchange, including two new traffic signals, several turn-lane improvements, and other improvements to the ramps and County Highway 42.

Hastings Car Show Dates Confirmed

The Hastings Historic Car Shows are back, and has confirmed dates for 2024. In the City of Hastings Update for March 13, the city announced the dates for the 18th annual car shows, set for the third Sunday of every month from May through October from 11 AM-4 PM. The dates are as follows:

Sunday May 19th 2024 - Public Service

Sunday June 16th 2024

Sunday July 21st 2024 -Rivertown Days

Sunday August 18th 2024 - History of Cars

Sunday September 15th 2024

Sunday October 13th 2024- 2nd Sunday of the month

The event is limited to classic cars and trucks from 1985 and older.

Guests can enjoy, in addition to the cars, music, food trucks, shops and local restaurants.

Gates are open starting at 10 AM and cars will be parked on a first come, first serve basis.

HASTINGS CITY COUNCIL MEETING PREVIEW

The Hastings City Council has a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 18th. Mayor Mary Fasbender with a preview of the agenda.

HAMPTON WOMAN INVOLVED IN SINGLE-VEHICLE ACCIDENT

On Tuesday March 12th, at approximately 2:53pm, the Pierce County Sheriff's Office was notified of a single-vehicle motor vehicle accident with injury on US Highway 63 near 825th St. in Trenton Township. It was determined that a 2020 Ford Edge being operated by 46-year-old Miche'le Huybers of Hampton had been traveling southbound when she lost control and struck a guardrail. Huybers was transported from the scene by the Red Wing Fire Ambulance Service to Mayo Red Wing Hospital with undetermined injuries. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office was also assisted on scene by the Red Wing Police Department.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE WITH SENATOR JUDY SEEBERGER

KDWA spoke with Minnesota State Senator Judy Seeberger on Wednesday to get an update on the legislative session. One bill she's been working on addresses Emergency Medical Services in the state.

Senator Seeberger goes on to describe the issues EMS workers are facing, along with proposed solutions.

Another bill Senator Seeberger is working on aims to provide greater rent protection for seniors.

Senator Seeberger also talked about the bonding request from the City of Hastings regarding PFAS.

One other bill Senator Seeberger is promoting involves Ticketmaster.

PRESCOTT CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECAP

The Prescott City Council had a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 11th. Prescott City Administrator Matt Wolf provided KDWA with a recap.

Accidents Increase, HPD Helps Burnsville

Every other week, Hastings Deputy Chief of Police Bryan Schowalter joins us to walk through the police landscape over the past two weeks, and this week, the focus is on the increase in traffic accidents in the community, and the crazy part about it, is that there has been no winter weather to cause all of these crashes. What is driving the situation? Slowing down, and obeying signs is the first item of business, especially with yield signs, and roundabouts. We also talked about a tough subject, the Burnsville shooting incident in which our county lost three first responders. Schowalter talked about the situation, how the Hastings First Responders helped Burnsville, and also how our own department is holding up mentally, after a tough three weeks.

Grass Fire Ignites Off Highway 61

If you were dialed in to Social Media on Wednesday afternoon, especially the KDWA Radio Facebook Page, you saw our LIVE coverage from an afternoon grass fire that spread from a 20x20 space, all the way across a pond and field just off of Highway 61 South, across from the Point gas station. You can watch the whole LIVE broadcast at our KDWA Facebook page, to see the smoke and flames for yourself. Hats off to the Hastings, Cottage Grove, and Miesville Fire Departments for their quick response in getting the fire, which was out of control at the page, to stopping the flames from spreading across Highway 61. The scene began to show signs of control around the top of the 2pm hour. According to scanner reports, the fire was started by the 911 caller, and erupted out of control in the 35 mile per hour wind gusts. KDWA will have more on the story, as a cause is determined, and damage has been tabulated. No injuries were reported as of 3:30pm, Wednesday.

Hastings Parks Ready For Spring

After the warmerst Winter on record in the Tri-County Area now (hopefully) in the rear-view mirror, the focus is shifting to Spring, and especially in our parks and trails across the City of Hastings. Hastings Parks and Recreation Director Chris Jenkins talked with KDWA News about the end of this wacky "Winter", new park amenity highlights, an Isabel Park construction update, and what to look forward through Hastings Park and Rec Spring and Summer Programs!

Hastings Council Meeting Recap

The Hastings City Council met for regular business on Monday night, at Hastings City Hall. On the agenda, included recognizing next week as Multiple Sclerosis Awareness week, with a local resident leading the charge. Plus, the Council also said good-bye to longtime City Council Person Tina Folch, who will be moving to Hudson, after seven years on the council. Dr. Tammy Champa also stopped by the meeting to say a big public thank you to the community for passing the last technology levy.

Two Dead In Afton Plane Crash

Two people are dead after a small plane crashed near a home in Afton Saturday morning. Just before 9:45am, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received several 911 calls from neighbors near the 15000 block of Afton Hills Blvd S. reporting what sounded like a small explosion. Emergency crews arrived and located a small, fully engulfed aircraft that had crashed in the yard of a residence near the attached garage. Lower St. Croix Valley Fire Department extinguished the flames and located the bodies of an 85-year-old man from White Bear Lake and 68-year-old man from Baytown Township. The families of the deceased have been notified. The Ramsey County Medical Examiner's Office has identified the deceased men from Saturday's plane crash as William Patrick Moore, 85 of White Bear Lake and Mitchell Jay Zahler, 68 of Baytown Township. This incident, including the cause of the crash and any contributing factors, remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Washington County Sheriff's Office Public Information Manager Laura Perkins joined KDWA with more.

St. Joseph's Corned Beef Dinner

Saint Joseph's Catholic Church of Miesville will be hosting their annual "Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner" on Saint Patrick's Day, Sunday, March 17th! Harry Roberts with St. Joseph's Catholic Church joined KDWA's Nick Tuckner for a preview of the menu, which will feature super-tasty corned beef, cabbage, irish soda bread, hot dogs for the kids, and much more! Also, learn more on how you can purchase a ticket before the dinner on the 17th!

River Blades Wows Saturday Crowd

In front of a packed house, at the Hastings Civic Arena's McGree Rink, River Blades Skating School of Hastings took to the ice for their "TV Glide on Ice" Show, memorializing some of the best television shows of the past four decades, with over 35 unique routines featured. Closing out her 18th year as the Director of River Blades Skating School, Amanda Truax joined KDWA for a recap of all of Saturday's fun, and to say goodbye to her two Seniors! (Photo Courtesy of Tague Patrick Photography)

Mayor Minute: City Council and More

The Hastings City Council will meet for regular business on Monday night, at Hastings City Hall, at 7:00pm, and though the agenda is short, Mayor Mary Fasbender joined us for a preview of the meeting. Also, Mayor Fasbender introduced KDWA listeners to our new Ward 1 City Councilperson, DawnMarie Vihrachoff, and thanked all of the High School Athletes and Fine Arts students that have kept us all occupied during the Winter season, while looking ahead to spring.

Prescott City Council Recap

The City of Prescott's City Council met for regular business this past Monday, at Prescott City Hall, and City Administrator Matt Wolf took some time out of his busy week, to recap the meeting from start to finish. KDWA's Nick Tuckner has more with Wolf on the meeting, and what is coming up for meetings in March, for the City of Prescott.

Jersey Mike's Giving Back In March

Jersey Mike's Subs of both Hastings and Albert Lea is one of our Radio Sponsors for the 2024 Team State Wrestling Meet, featuring the Hastings Raiders on Thursday, and both restaurants will also be participating in their "Month of Giving" which includes Wednesday, March 27th, when Jersey Mike's Subs will donate 100% of their profits on that day to the Special Olympics of Minnesota. Jersey Mike's Owner Kavrin McGuire joined KDWA to talk about the program, and the importance of giving back to the community.

Hastings City Hall Construction

As many may have noticed over the past week or so, that work is being down at Hastings City Hall, and as you walk or drive down Highway 61, you will notice work being done on the beautiful dome and annex, on the 100+ year old historic building. Hastings City Planner Justin Fortney joined KDWA News to talk about the work that is being done, the importance in keeping our old buildings to code or better, and how residents can follow along with the progress.

New MN Bills Protect Officials

In nearly 20 years of Sports Broadcasting in the Tri-County Area, KDWA's Nick Tuckner has met, and even befriended some of our local officials in numerous sports, and has heard horror stories about the way they are treated, leading to what has become an officials shortage, that started just before the pandemic hit. One of those officials is Minnesota District 56B State Representative John Huot, of Dakota County. Huot, and other Representatives are putting forth two bills, with one looking to fine unruly fans that interrupt play, and the other would give anybody who assaults an official steep penalties, including fines and or jail time. Huot joined Tuckner on Monday, to break down the importance of both bills.

My Current Obsessions Cuts Ribbon

My Current Obsessions Unique Gifts has been open since Black Friday, and business has been booming ever since in their new Westview Center location, and KDWA was there for all of the fun of their Chamber Ribbon Cutting! KDWA's Nick Tuckner talked with Owner Meenu Howland at the event, about business so far, her favorite items, and how you can shop with them! Be sure to also keep your eyes on the KDWA Super Saver Radio Shopping shows, for deals and certificates from My Current Obsessions!

Hastings School Board Meeting Recap

The School District 200 Board met for regular business on Wednesday night at 6pm, and the meeting lasted just over two hours. To break it down in to a quick, efficient, 3-minute recap, Board Chair Carrie Tate takes us through the meeting from start to finish, including looking forward to the next meeting towards the end of March.

Prescott Comedy Cabaret April 4th

The Prescott Football "Flying P Club" will be hosting an evening of food, drinks, and laughs, to go along with a wonderful catered dinner from Ptacek's IGA, as Nationally Known Stand Up Comedian Steve Gillespie will perform at the Old Ptacek's Event Center, on Thursday, April 4th, at 7:00pm. The doors will open at 5:00pm, and tickets can be purchased via TEXT at 952-994-2161. Representative Trisha Packard of the Flying P Club joined KDWA's Nick Tuckner to preview this huge event!

Hastings City Council Recap

The Hastings City Council met for regular business on Tuesday, due to the President's Day Holiday on Monday, and KDWA has some of the highlights from the meeting. The entire Council collaborated on a group proclamation recognizing March as National Food Share Month, Amy Sutton from Hastings Family Service accepted the honor on the community's behalf, and City Administrator Dan Wietecha recommended that the Council pass the latest "parklet" applications, which did, on a 6-0 vote, with Councilperson Jen Fox abstaining due to her ownership in Spiral Brewery.

Workman Family Galvanizing Burnsville

The Dakota County Community is very close, and it doesn't get much closer than the Workman Family of Burnsville, with Mom Liz Workman working as a Dakota County Commissioner, serving the Burnsville area, while Son Vince Workman serving as a Burnsville City Councilman. When it comes to a situation as Burnsville faced on Sunday morning, you need those closest to you, to get through the pain, and emotion of such a tragic day. Liz and Vince both are trying to cope with the losses of three Public Servants, while still getting work done for Burnsville, and surrounding area. The Mother-Son Burnsville Government duo joined KDWA News together, to talk about the incident, putting the pieces back together, and how you can help the families involved. (Photo Courtesy of City of Burnsville Facebook Page)

Mayor Fasbender Grieves For Burnsville

The City of Hastings mourns with our brothers and sisters to our West, in Burnsville, following Sunday morning's tragedy that took two police officers and a firefighters from our Dakota County community. Mayor Mary Fasbender shared some time with KDWA, to send our love and support, from one Dakota County family to another.

Sheriffs Department Reeling After Sunday

KDWA Radio's continuing coverage from Sunday's Burnsville Police Shooting tragedy, Dakota County Sheriff Joe Leko joined KDWA to talk about coping with the situation from a department perspective, the fact that everybody in Dakota County is hurting right now, and the importance of everybody banding together in the County, to support the City of Burnsville through this tragic, and horribly difficult time. We also mentioned the response from all over the area, from other law enforcement, and EMS agencies, and how when tragedy strikes, everybody steps up to help. We send our prayers and thoughts with our first responders, as Dakota County grieves together.

Burnsville Shooting Press Conference

The City of Burnsville held a press conference on Sunday afternoon, at Burnsville City Hall, following Sunday's tragedy that took the lives of three first responders, as officers Matthew Ruge and Paul Elmstrand, along with firefighter-paramedic Adam Finseth were killed in a Sunday morning shootout, that also injured another police officer, as Park High School Graduate, and Cottage Grove Native Adam Medlicott was shot, and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The shooter is also deceased. Here is Sunday's Press Conference, in its entirety, with City Staff, and Superintendent Drew Evans of the Minnesota BCA all speaking on a very emotional Sunday, in Dakota County.

BREAKING: Burnsville Shooting Kills 3 Responders

The Burnsville community is mourning the loss of Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge and Firefighter-Paramedic Adam Finseth. At 1:50 a.m. Sunday, February 18, Burnsville Police were called to the 12600 block of 33rd Avenue South on a report of a domestic situation where a man reported to be armed was barricaded with family members. After arriving, the situation escalated into gunfire with responders. Elmstrand, Ruge and Finseth were killed by the gunman during the response. One other Police Officer, Sgt. Adam Medlicott, was injured and transported to a hospital where he is believed to have non-life-threatening injuries. At approximately 8 a.m., the suspect was reported to be dead. Later in the morning, the other family members left the home and are safe. There is no ongoing threat. Residents are asked to allow public safety personnel to perform their duties and stay away from the area until further notice. Elmstrand, 27, joined the Burnsville Police Department in August 2017 as a Community Service Officer. He was promoted to Officer in July 2019. He was part of the department’s mobile command staff, peer team, Honor Guard and field training unit. Ruge, 27, joined the Burnsville Police Department in April 2020. He was part of the department’s crisis negotiations team and was a physical evidence officer. Finseth, 40, has been a Burnsville Firefighter-Paramedic since February 2019. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is investigating the incident. Additional information will be posted online at BurnsvilleMN.gov/communityupdates as it becomes available. KDWA's Nick Tuckner has a recap from the Press Release sent out on Sunday. (Photo Courtesy of City of Burnsville Facebook)

SWAT Warrant Finds Murder Suspects

In our Hastings Police Update with Deputy Chief of Police, Bryan Schowalter, we first broke down the warrant search that was executed on Malcolm Avenue in Hastings on Wednesday, as Saint Paul Police along with the South Metro SWAT Team executed the warrant, which provided the arrests of Morris Robert Ryan, 27, residence unknown, for two counts of murder, and one count of felony assault. Meanwhile, 29-year old Kelcie Marie Meyers was arrested at the same address on Malcolm Avenue, on one count of murder, one count of dangerous discharge of a firearm, and felony assault. Both are now in custody in Ramsey County, awaiting trials. There is no threat to the Hastings public. Also, some good news out of the department, as the "Coffee with a Cop" visits will be coming back soon! (Photo Courtesy of Erik Larsen)

Local Youth Raising Funds For EF

A local family is making the most out of a difficult situation, after a young 10-year old Hastings Girl was diagnosed with epilepsy, she then wanted to make sure that other families having to battle the same disorder, to have the same quality treatment that she has been receiving from the Epilepsy Foundation. Last year, instead of presents for her birthday, young Ava raised over $400 in short order, to benefit the foundation. This year, she wants to make it even bigger, with the help of her wonderful Mother, Ali Morland. Morland and a group of friends and EF faithful, will be hosting a Birthay Bash Fundraiser for Ava, raising money for EF, on Saturday, February 24th, at the American Legion, beginning at Noon, and joined KDWA with more information.

River Blades Hosting "TV Glide"

The River Blade Skating school will be hosting "TV Glide" a skating show that brings some of your favorite old television shows to life, on the ice of the Hastings Civic Arena, coming up on Saturday, March 2nd. River Blades Skating School Director Amanda Truax joined KDWA, to preview the event, coming up to start the month of March.

Prescott City Council Recap

The Prescott City Council met for regular business on Monday at Prescott City Hall, and City Administrator Matt Wolf joined KDWA to talk about the agenda, and what took place. Wolf mentioned a new road project, along with the assessments that go along with it, plus an update on the Prescott Food Pantry building sale, back to the pantry. Also, a hot topic has been parking downtown, and Prescott is looking to install some more public spaces. Plus, many Prescott Residents have noticed low-flying helicopters near the confluence of the Saint Croix and Mississippi Rivers over the last week. What are they? Wolf has more, right here!

Wietecha On Charitable Gambling

The City of Hastings is looking to monitor charitable gambling just a little bit closer, following last week's Hastings City Council meeting, installing a few more "checks and balances" on not only who is providing charitable gambling, but also making sure that the money raised by said gambling, stays right here in the City of Hastings. Hastings City Administrator Dan Wietecha joined KDWA News to explain the changes, that give the City a bit more of an idea as to who is doing what, where, and why.