Local News

School Board Meeting Preview

The ISD 200 School Board meets for regular business at 6 PM, on Wednesday, May 25th. Agenda items include recognition of Employees of the Semester, and designating the Employee of the Year. The board will hear a report from the United Way of Hastings, and conduct first readings of Policy 503.2, Early Admission to Kindergarten, Policy 513, Student Promotion Retention and Program Design, and Policy 610, Field Trips, and a second reading of Policy 203.2, Order of the Regular School Board Meeting. The Board will then consider various Administrative Reports, and vote on the Consent Agenda. When all of the Agenda items have been considered, the meeting will adjourn.

HFD Weekly Calls

The Hastings Fire and EMS Department responded to six calls for service for the week ending May 24th. In addition to the previously reported fire on 207th Street on May 16th, at 3:45 AM on May 19th crews were dispatched to the 3900 block of 160th Street East for a building fire. Crews arrived on scene at 4 AM, provided mutual aid to the Rosemount Fire Department and remained until 5:15, providing firefighting support, water, and assisting with the investigation. On May 19th at 1:10 AM crews responded to a vehicle accident in the 21000 block of Coates Blvd East. Crews arrived at 1:26 to check for injuries and provide any needed first aid. The remainder of the calls were either false alarms or canceled en route.   

Prescott Well 3 Update

The City of Prescott continues to move forward with a project to install a reverse osmosis nitrate removal treatment plant at Well #3 because of elevated nitrate levels. At Monday evening's City Council meeting, City Administrator Matt Wolf reviewed two resolutions to authorize the City to pursue State bonding for the project.

After discussion regarding funding sources, the two resolutions were adopted by the Council.

UTV Concerns Raised In Prescott

During the Public Comment section of Monday evening's Prescott City Council meeting, Mayor Rob Daugherty expressed concern about the increase of side-by-side utility vehicles operating on city streets. Chief of Police Eric Michaels reviewed the circumstances where they are allowed on the streets.

No official action was taken by the Council, but the issue may arise again later this year.

Prescott Mayor Issues Mowing Reminder

With the coming of Summer, people are switching over their outdoor to-do list from snow removal to lawn care. Prescott Mayor Rob Daugherty took a moment at Monday evening's Prescott City Council meeting to issue a reminder to residents regarding mowing and removal of grass clippings.

Find the relevant City Code on the Prescott City website.

Fairy Wonderland Plans Move Forward

On Monday evening, the Prescott City Council deliberated a Memorandum of Agreement with Healing Play, Inc. regarding construction of the first phase of Fairy Wonderland Park. City Administrator Matt Wolf reviewed the agreement for the Council.

After a brief discussion regarding the warranties associated with the equipment, the Memorandum was adopted by unanimous voice vote.

Baskets And Banners Hung In Prescott

The Prescott Area Chamber of Commerce has begun the task of brightening up City streets with the hanging of plant baskets and banners on utility poles in the business district. Chamber of Commerce Coordinator Casey Johnson commented on the process while on the job.

Volunteers are still needed to assist in watering the plants. Interested persons should contact the Chamber by calling 715-629-0047.

Prescott Kiwanis Student Of The Week

The Prescott High School Counseling Office reports that the Prescott Kiwanis Student of the Week is Senior Faith Rohl. Rohl was also selected by the Prescott High School Staff to receive the Kiwanis Scholarship. According to a post on social media, this scholarship recognizes students for outstanding service to the community. The staff thanked Faith for her efforts in the school district and community, and wished her good luck on her future endeavors.

Kistner Gears Up For Second Run

U. S. Marine veteran and Prior Lake resident Tyler Kistner will once again challenge incumbent Angie Craig for Minnesota's 2nd District seat in the U. S. House of Representatives. Filing for candidacy on Monday, May 23rd, Kistner stated that the foundation of his campaign has always been based on serving the people of Minnesota's Second Congressional District, adding that he was honored to receive the unanimous endorsement of the Republican Party in the Second District and he looks forward to continuing to work with grassroots leaders. In the 2020 campaign, Kistner lost to Congresswoman Craig by just 2%, making it the 5th closest house race in the entire country.

ISD 200 Family Survey

ISD 200 has issued its Family Engagement Survey for 2022. The Hastings Family Engagement Survey is an annual survey given to all families with students in the district. When ISD 200 engaged in the district strategic planning process over a year ago, families provided input on what the desired daily experiences should be as a community. In addition, students and staff also shared their ideal desired daily experiences. These desired daily experiences guide the strategic plan, and District officials would like your feedback. Families are asked to take a few moments to complete the district-wide family survey. All responses are anonymous, and you are allowed to take it only one time. Feedback will help them celebrate what is going well and determine how they can do better to create the best school community for all of the ISD 200 families. A link to the survey is posted here.

Haus Declares Candidacy For Council

Hastings resident Angie Irene Haus has announced that she submitted her candidacy for one of the two at-large city council seats. Haus, 24, is a dental assistant at Smile Orthodontics in St. Paul and holds board positions with IDEA and Thrive in Hastings. A graduate of Hastings

High School and Century College, Haus points to her lifelong commitment to Hastings as a key driver for her campaign. According to a press release, Haus will focus her campaign on three issues: extending economic development citywide, deepening the city's journey toward greater inclusivity, and bolstering tourism through enhanced initiatives within the city's parks and recreation system. Haus has an "Angie Haus for Hastings City Council" page on Facebook, and her email is AngieHausMN@gmail.com.

Weekly HPD Blotter Report

The Hastings Police Department logged 36 entries to the Police Blotter for the week ending May 16th. Included among the entries was a report of theft in the 2100 block of Vermillion Street. According to the blotter, a commercial air conditioner was taken from a business in the two weeks prior to the report. No suspect information is available. This case remains under investigation. At 12:55 AM on May 12th, a traffic stop near the intersection of Tyler and 6th Streets resulted in the arrest of 56-year-old Hastings resident Elizabeth Orner for an active warrant of felony probation violation issued by Dakota County. And a warrant service call at 7 PM on May 14 resulted in the arrest of 20-year-old Hastings resident Gunner Lee Super for three active warrants. All persons listed on the blotter report are presumed innocent until proven guilty by due process of law.

Mudhens To Commemorate Heroes

The Miesville Mudhens will honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in serving our nation, and our first responders with a Field of Honor of Flags and Life sized Unsung Heroes, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel at the Jack Ruhr Field Stadium, from May 26 until Memorial Day, Monday May 30th. According to local veteran advocate Dean Markuson, the flags will be on display 24 hours a day, rain or shine. During this period, you will be able to enjoy some Minnesota Baseball Association action with games against the Hastings Hawks, on May 27, at 8 PM, the St Louis Park MacStrength Grizzlies on May 28, at 2 PM, and the Red Wing Aces on May 30, at 2 PM.

Rosemount Plan Meeting Preview

The Rosemount Planning Commission will hold four public hearings during a meeting scheduled for 6:30 PM, on Tuesday, May 24th. Hearings include a request to expand the SKB Landfill, a rezoning request and Site Plan for proposed Senior Housing at Rosewood Commons, a request for a variance for Side Yard Setback in the 2900 block of 120th Street West, and the Preliminary and Final Plats for the third addition of Amber Field Planned Unit Development. The meeting will be held in the City Council Chambers of Rosemount City Hall.

Johnson Declares For MN House

Cannon Falls resident Jesse Johnson has declared his candidacy for the upcoming election for the House of Representatives in District 20A. According to a press release, Johnson grew up in Cannon Falls, graduated from Cannon Falls High School and enlisted in the Army during his junior year of high school. He finished his 20-year career in the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel. His campaign will focus on bringing quality paying jobs and economic development to District 20A, which will include Goodhue County. Although Johnson does not have political office experience, he does have a background in policy. After attending Georgetown University and receiving a Masters Degree in Policy Management, he then used that degree at the Pentagon. Johnson was hoping to receive the Republican endorsement for the upcoming primary election. Johnson was under 1% from winning the Republican endorsement for District 20A, causing a runoff between himself and candidate Pam Altendorf. The primary election for the district 20A seat is August 9.

Pierce County Accident Injures One

On Friday, May 20th at 6:55pm, the Pierce County Sheriff's Office was notified of a single motorcycle crash with injury on U.S. Highway 10 near 800th Street in Trimbelle Township. A Harley Davidson driven by 29-year-old Ellsworth resident Jordan Kemmerer was traveling eastbound on U. S. Highway 10 near 800th Street when he lost control and came to final rest in the north ditch. Kemmerer was transported from the scene by Ellsworth Area Ambulance to Mayo Hospital in Red Wing, with undetermined injuries. Assisting the PCSO at the scene was the Ellsworth Fire Department and the Ellsworth Area Ambulance.

Prescott City Council Meeting Preview

The Prescott City Council meets Monday evening. City Clerk Jayne Brand provides a preview of the agenda.

Chief Schafer Comments On HPD/Retirement

Amid the tasks of handing off the reins of the Hastings Police Department to new leadership, retiring Chief Bryan Schafer stopped in to the KDWA studios for one final interview as Chief. He commented on the current state of affairs in the Department.

He also discussed his plans after hanging up the badge.

Hear the entire interview on Community In Depth on KDWA.

Aquatic Center Swim Passes On Sale Tuesday

Beginning May 24, season passes and punch cards will be available for purchase at the Hastings Family Aquatic Center. To optimize a faster admission process for when the pool opens on June 10, pool staff will not be processing passes during open swim times, until June 20. The Aquatic Center will be open for purchasing passes on Tuesday May 24th through Thursday, May 26th, Tuesday, May 31st through Saturday, June 4th, and Monday Jun 6th, through Friday, June 10th. See the City Website for ticket sales hours. The Aquatic Center Opening Day is Friday, June 10. Registration is also open for swimming lessons.

Planning Commission Meeting Canceled

Hastings Community Development Director John Hinzman reports that the Hastings Planning Commission meeting scheduled for 7 PM on Monday, May 23rd has been canceled. The Commission will meet next at 7 PM on Monday, June 13th in Council Chambers at Hastings City Hall.

Prescott To Deliberate Well 3 Funding Resolution

The City of Prescott plans to undertake Well #3 Improvements and expects to finance the Project on a long-term basis with financial assistance from Wisconsin's Safe Drinking Water Loan Program, which requires issuance of tax-exempt bonds. Because the Bonds will not be issued prior to commencement of the project, Prescott must provide interim financing to cover costs of the Project incurred prior to receipt of the proceeds of the Bonds. A resolution presented to the Council for consideration states that it is necessary, desirable, and in the best interests of the Municipality to advance moneys from its funds on hand on an interim basis to pay the costs of the Project until the Bonds are issued. The Council will deliberate the Resolution at Monday evening's meeting.

Fairy Wonderland Phase 1 Moving Forward

The Fairy Wonderland group in Prescott has notified the City that they would like to move forward with installation of the 1st phase of equipment of the Park. At the March 2022 Parks & Public Property Committee it was decided to wait until a more detailed plan was put together. Fairy Wonderland is currently estimating a delivery date for the equipment for Phase 1 on September 16, 2022. Currently the plan would be for the City to work with the Fairy Wonderland group to install the equipment, while Fairy Wonderland would be paying for all materials needed for installation. Additionally, Fairy Wonderland is working with Create Play to get specific installation drawings and working with additional contractors to handle the concrete footing installation and the curbing to go around the play equipment. The group has also had a very successful fundraising effort and is planning to put in the rubberized flooring around the equipment. A memorandum of Understanding will be considered by the Council at Monday evening's meeting.

Prescott Council Considers New Stop Signs

The Prescott City Council has been asked to consider a resolution to install stop signs at the intersection of Walnut Street and Tower Heights Drive. According to information provided to the Council, the City of Prescott Health and Safety Committee conferred with the Police Chief at their May 9th meeting and voted 3 to 0 to approve adding additional stop signs. The proposed resolution states that the Council has determined that it would enhance public safety and the Council will authorize two stop signs be posted by Prescott Public Works Department. The resolution was placed on the Consent Agenda for the May 23rd meeting of the City Council.

County Voting Systems Testing Set

Dakota County will be conducting Public Accuracy Testing for the 2022 elections, according to Minnesota Statute 206.83. The testing of the voting system is to show the system correctly marks the ballots and counts the votes cast for all candidates and questions. Testing will take place for the ?Primary Election on Tuesday, July 26, from 9 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 27, and Thursday, July 28, from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Testing for the General E?lection will be Tuesday, Oct. 25, from 9 to 11 a.m., and Wednesday, Oct. 26 and ?Thursday, Oct. 27, from 9 a.m. to noon and 1to 4 p.m. Tests will be conducted at the Administration Center, 1590 Highway 55, Hastings in the basement workroom.

Reis Discusses Censure

ISD 200 School Board Director Mike Reis recently sat down with KDWA's Dan Massman to discuss his experience as a new board member, the recent resolution to censure Reis and the practical details of that censure outlined in a May 6 letter from Superintendent Robert McDowell. One of the issues, in addition to several others noted in resolution, was questions Reis had regarding the teacher's contract, and his request to review actions regarding it.

As a result of Reis' action the board passed, with a split vote, a resolution to censure Reis, that says, in part, "the School Board hereby authorizes Superintendent McDowell with input from Chair Davis, to work with the District's legal counsel to place appropriate and reasonable time, place and manner restrictions on Mr. Reis' communications with District staff." He has been limited in the number of times he can present queries to Superintendent McDowell.

The entire interview is available on the In-Depth page of KDWA.com, and copies of the letter will also be posted on KDWA.com.

"Sound the Siren" Food Drive

United Way of Hastings has announced that the Hastings Police and the Dakota County Sheriff's Office are facing off in the second annual Sound the Siren food drive. The Food for Kids "Sound the Siren" Food Drive is in full swing and ends May 27. You can donate individual serving size food items that kids love or make a monetary donation. The bins for the Police Department are located at City Hall and in the Police Department Lobby. The buildings are open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. The food drive supports the United Way of Hastings Food 4 Kids program and is a fun, competitive event with the Dakota County Sheriff's Office. Let's fill the squads so they can Sound the Siren on May 27th. The department with the most contributions gets to put a pie in the face of the losing Police Chief or Sheriff!

RPD Cmdr. Walters Retiring

Commander John Winters of the Rosemount Police Department has announced that he is retiring. According to the Rosemount PD, Cmdr. Winters has been a part of the Rosemount community since 1974 and attended Rosemount Elementary, Middle, and High School where he graduated in 1987. Winters joined the Department in 1993 and served with passion and humility in a variety of positions during his 29-year career, including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, School Resource Officer, Investigator, SWAT Team Leader, Use of Force and Firearms Instructor, Sergeant, and Commander. He is known for his humble character, passion for the profession, and helping create a family-oriented culture. Over the last three years, while serving as the Commander, John's leadership helped bring the agency through one of the most difficult periods of time in the law enforcement profession. Notably, while John could have retired some years ago, he chose to help his partners ensure Rosemount received top public safety service.

Rosemount Photo Contest Open

The City of Rosemount announces its 12th annual city-wide photo contest will accept submissions until May 26th. The contest is hosted by Rosemount Area Arts Council and the Rosemount Parks and Recreation Department, and is open to Rosemount area residents, and participants can enter up to three photos in eight categories. Photo submissions can be dropped off at the Rosemount Community Center Office, according to the city. There will be an artists' reception June 20 at 6:30 PM at the Steeple Center, with the judge's presentation at 7. Complete details and entry information can be found on the City website.

MN DNR Recommends Trees for Arbor Month

With warmer weather and May being Arbor Month, now is a great time to plant a tree, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The DNR says that healthy trees are important to Minnesota and its residents, but Minnesota's trees are under stress from changing temperature and precipitation patterns, and more extreme weather events. Planting a healthy tree adapted to changing climate conditions and choosing a species that adds to the diverse mix of trees in the surrounding area improves resilience to these stressors. One recommended species is the Kentucky Coffeetree, which is a less common tree that is well-adapted to a changing climate because it grows in a wide range of habitats, has no major pests, is salt and ice-storm tolerant, and is pollinator-friendly. Learn more on the Arbor Month page of the Mn DNR website.

Student Selected

One Hastings High School Senior has made some lofty plans for after graduation. Student Counselor Steve Peterson has the initial details.

The student has not yet officially said what his course of study will be.

ISD 200 Staff Recognized

On Wednesday, ISD 200 conducted the 2022 Hastings Public Schools Employee Recognition Ceremony. 13 staff members were recognized for their years of service. Celebrating 20 years are Chris Beumer, Holly Bohlken, Laurie Chandler, Lori Gaertner, Chris Gardell, Tamela Moon, Cindy Pumphrey, Jen Seubert, Linda Varner, and Christy Warner. 30-year employees are Collin Anderson, Cindy Benson, and Pete McGinnis. Leadership of the District expressed appreciation for the time and effort each of the staff give to developing the next generations of Raiders for a productive life.[v:\N\News Department\2022\05_May\Complete\CNS_19_R_Has_ISDStaffRecognized_41.mp3]

HFS Golf Sign Up Open

While Hastings Family Service is completing expansion efforts on Main Street, they are also preparing for one of their biggest fundraising efforts of the year. Development and Community Relations Coordinator for Hastings Family Service, Kelly Carter, has the details.

The website is HastingsFamilyService.org.

BTYR Reaches Out To Hastings Vets

As Memorial Day approaches, a dedicated veteran advocate group, "Beyond the Yellow Ribbon", is working to raise awareness for the needs of service members who may need assistance in the civilian world. Ray Kane, Mississippi River Valley Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Board Chair discusses how Hastings veterans can seek the services of the recently re-branded Mississippi River Valley BTYR.

He also gave examples of the work the group does.

Learn more on the group's Facebook page.

House Fire Update

The City of Hastings has released further details regarding a home fire on 207th Street East in Ravenna Township on Monday afternoon. In a press release issued by the City, the initial response from Hastings and Miesville included three engines, two water tenders, and one ambulance. No injuries occurred during the fire. While responding, crews were advised that multiple 911 callers were reporting the garage was fully engulfed with flames 40 feet high. Multiple brush and grass fires were also starting due to flying embers. Upon arrival crews found the fire had extended into the attached garage and the attic of the residence. Neighbors were able to remove a dog from the home prior to arrival of the Hastings Fire Department. The release also states that additional resources were requested by Hastings Fire due to the size, complexity and location of the incident. 43 firefighters from Hastings, Miesville, Red Wing, Prescott, Cottage Grove and Rosemount worked to extinguish both the brush fires as well as the fire in the house. The fire was declared under control at 6:40 PM. Mutual aid units began to be cleared shortly after. Crews continued overhaul and extinguishment until 8:15 PM, and all units had left the scene by 8:55. Aside from the rescued dog, the home was unoccupied at the time. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

County Hopes To Lure Anglers to Miesville Ravine

Dakota County's parks offer abundant fishing, and for a remote, yet close-to-home fishing excursion, Trout Brook at Miesville Ravine has native brook trout and the introduced brown trout, with ample remote shore fishing throughout the middle of the park. Anglers may also want to consider the Cannon River, located along the park's southern boundary, which is home to an abundant population of walleye, smallmouth bass and channel catfish. The park reserve is open Daily, 5 AM to 10 PM, at 27970 Orlando Trail, in Cannon Falls. Admission and parking are free. Learn more on the Miesville Ravine Park Reserve web page at DakotaCounty.us.

County Beaches Opening

Memorial Day weekend kicks off summer in Dakota County. Beaches at Lake Byllesby regional park open and watercraft rentals open at Lebanon Hills Visitor Center. The water will also be on for the season at the Lake Byllesby splash pad. The 2022 beach season will run from May 28th through September 5th, daily, from sunrise to 8 PM. Bathhouse and visitor center hours will be daily, from 9 AM to 8 PM. Learn more on the Parks page of DakotaCounty.us.

Home Rehab Info Session Scheduled

The Goodhue County Economic Development Authority joins forces with local experts in the field of rehabilitation programs for housing and downtown buildings that can aid in revitalizing a community. These programs will give you an overview of how they may fit in your community and the presenters will offer their contact information for any follow up questions you may have. This free virtual session is scheduled for June 8th, at 9 AM, so register today. A link is provided here.

Joan Marie (Cook) Alexander,

Age 91 of River Falls died peacefully Tuesday, May 17th at the Wellhaven Senior Apartments in River Falls. Her husband Richard was with her for the past 70 years and never left her side as she left this earth to meet her savior. Funeral arrangements are pending.

HFD Responds To Fire On 207th Street E

On Monday afternoon, the Hastings Fire and EMS Department was dispatched to the 18,200 block of 207th Street East, in Hastings, on a report of a fire in an attached garage of a residence. According to published reports, the garage was fully engulfed, with Department officials requesting additional tenders and calling in a 2nd alarm. A 3rd alarm was issued for Inver Grove and Rosemount, with Ellsworth and Goodhue County also responding. Crews battled the blaze for approximately 2 hours. Damage estimates have not been released. In all, the Hastings Fire and EMS Department responded to 9 calls for service for the week ending May 17th, with the majority being false alarms, or malfunctioning alarm systems.

Century Home Award Bestowed

The Hastings Heritage Preservation Commission's Century Home Award Contest concluded on Monday evening with naming the winner of the contest during the City Council meeting. HPC Chair Cindy Toppin made the presentation at the City Council meeting.

The home was one of three nominated.

City Proclaims "Bryan D. Schafer Day"

At Monday evening's City Council meeting, the Hastings City Council made an official Proclamation recognizing the service of retiring Police Chief Bryan Schafer. Mayor Mary Fasbender read a resolution into the record at the start of the meeting.

A recording of the entire proclamation is available at KDWA.com.

Complete Proclamation:

Intek Expansion Planned

Intek Plastics is looking to expand their facility in the Hastings Business Park, and a request to support an application to the State of Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for funding through the Minnesota Investment Fund and the Job Creation Fund was brought before the City Council on Monday evening. Economic Development Coordinator Eric Maass introduced the request.

The City Council approved both requests unanimously without further discussion.

ISD 200 Pollinator Project

As ISD 200 nears the end of the school year, District Staff are working on ideas and opportunities for student to continue the learning process during Summer Vacation. Superintendent Dr. Bob McDowell recently commented on an opportunity with the MN DNR.

McDowell also commented on the recent school ranking study.

Learn about the District on the ISD 200 website.

Catalytic Converter Marking Kits Available

The Hastings Police Department in collaboration with the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau announces the launch of a catalytic converter marking program in the community. In the past year, the HPD has taken approximately 45 reports of stolen catalytic converters in the community. Thieves target these vehicle parts because they are relatively quick and easy to remove, valuable to be sold and difficult to trace. When these thefts occur, they not only cause a significant financial loss to the victim but also a tremendous disruption to their lives. In partnership with Valley Chevrolet, Hastings Chrysler, and Valley Buick/GMC, HPD is making catalytic converter marking kits available that will not only allow the police to track and trace any catalytic converters that may be stolen but to also deter these thefts in the city. Residents of Hastings who own vehicles with high vulnerability to converter thefts, from Ford to Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi and Toyota, and wish to participate in the free program, please come to the lobby of the Hastings Police Department, 150 3rd Street East, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, or speak with one of the local dealerships the next time you are there for the service of your vehicle.

Prescott Preparing For Graduation

The Prescott School District is making preparations for the end of the school year, and Superintendent Dr. Rick Spicuzza recently spoke with KDWA's Mo about the year that was.

Of course the culmination of the school year is the graduation ceremony for Seniors, and this year's ceremony should see a return to a more traditional setting.

Hear the entire Interview on Community In-Depth.

County Board Deliberates Vets Memorial Greenway

The Dakota County Board took a big step on the Veterans Memorial Greenway project last week, with public release of the draft Memorial Plan. A Veterans Advisory Group testified that the 10 memorial locations along the greenway, which are expected to be more than 90% privately funded, will be the most inclusive and comprehensive veterans memorial in Minnesota, attracting visitors and support from across the nation. The VMG also holds significant benefits for pedestrian and cyclist safety, since completion of the VMG will help pedestrians and cyclists avoid Highways 3 and 52 and an active rail line, while connecting Lebanon Hills to the Mississippi River Greenway. Following a 45-day comment period, the County Board will vote on adoption of the Memorial Plan. The draft plan is available for review on the County website.

Pierce County Accident Injures One

On Saturday, May 14th at about 10:25 AM, the Pierce County Sheriff's was notified of a two-vehicle accident with injuries on State Road 35 near County Road D in Isabelle Township. A motorcycle, driven by 68-year-old Burnsville resident Dale Degross, was traveling South on State Road 35 near County Road D, waiting for traffic to clear to make a left turn, when a Ford Focus, also traveling South on State Road 35 driven by 53-year-old Marshall, MN, resident Benjamin Schmid struck the motorcycle from the rear. Degross was transported from the scene by Red Wing Ambulance Service to Mayo Hospital in Red Wing with undetermined injuries. Schmid was not injured in the crash. The PCSO was assisted on scene by the Ellsworth and Red Wing Fire Departments, and the Red Wing Ambulance Service.

Karas Named Rotary Student Of the Month

The Hastings Rotary Club and Hastings High School have announced that HHS Senior Clay Karas has been selected as the Rotary Srudent of the Month for April. The Hastings Rotary Club recognizes Hastings High School seniors who exemplify the Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self", as a way to reward and foster these ideals and also build mutually rewarding relationships between school administration, staff, students, parents, and the Rotary members. His nominators describe Clay as an "all-around great kid, who never thinks twice about helping someone out". Clay's diligence in ensuring success for himself and others is one of the attributes that the Hastings Rotary seeks in awarding students. Clay was recognized at the Rotary Club meeting on Thursday, April 14th.

Hastings Chamber Holds Mentoring Session

The Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau has partnered with local business and non-profit organizations to provide mentoring for students at Hastings High School. Recently, Amy Sutton with Hastings Family Service, Sonya Prange with Intek Plastics and Johanna Paylor with Treasure Island Resort & Casino made a presentation to juniors at Hastings High School on understanding compensation packages. Each business representative spent time with students reviewing the cash value of benefits, hourly vs salary positions and what they look for in potential employees. The Hastings Chamber was happy to work with Hastings High School's career department to coordinate this event. The program will continue, and complete details can be found on the Hastings Chamber website.

HPD Blotter Review

The Hastings Police Department logged 35 entries to the Police blotter for the week ending May 9th. Included among the entries was a warrant arrest at 1 AM on May 3rd in the 1600 block of Vermillion Street. Officers located and arrested 32-year-old Cedar resident Dylan Johnson for an active warrant issued by Anoka County, and on a charge of 5th degree possession of a controlled substance. A suspicious vehicle call brought officers to the 600 block of Greten Court at 12:17 AM, on May 6th. The investigation resulted in the recovery of a vehicle reported stolen from Minneapolis. There are no suspects at this time. And at 2 PM, on May 8th, officers received a vandalism report from the 1800 block of Eddy Street. Investigation determined that an automobile was spray-painted using an apparent "washable" paint. There was no appraent damage seen and the incident was documented. All persons listed on the blotter report are presumed innocent until proven guilty by due process of law.

HHS Ranks In US News Study

A recent study conducted by US News and World Report determined that Hastings High School ranks 29th in Minnesota using ranking criteria of the College Readiness Index, College Curriculum Breadth, State Assessment Proficiency and Performance, and Graduation rate. According to the study, students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams, with a participation rate of 42%. The total minority enrollment is 13%, and 12% of students are economically disadvantaged. Hastings High School is ranked 28 among Metro Area schools, and 2,016 in the National Rankings. Out of a possible score of 100, HHS received an 88.7. Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college. A link to the study is provided here.

Hastings Man Arrested

A Hastings man is facing several charges after police said he was driving drunk with a toddler in his car last week in Cottage Grove. Published reports say Matthew Quade, 35, was charged with two counts of driving while impaired and one count of endangering a child, according to Washington County court records. Quade was pulled over by police May 10 near the intersection of Highway 61 northbound off ramp and 80th Street in Cottage Grove after officers saw his vehicle swerve between lanes and almost crash into another car, according to the criminal complaint filed against him. Police said they found a 2-year-old child in the car, as well as three bottles of vodka. A breath test conducted at the jail showed Quade had a blood-alcohol content of 0.38, almost five times the legal limit in Minnesota, the complaint states. Quade is scheduled to next appear in court July 13. Quade is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by due process of law.

Prescott Kiwanis Student Of The Week

The Prescott Kiwanis student of the week is Junior Kinsey Peterson. She was nominated by Mr. Larsen who shares, "I have only known Kinsey for a few months but I am confident that I will never forget her. In that short time, I have witnessed her pour her efforts into others and demonstrate empathy that is impossible to ignore. I've known her to deliver a gift to someone on her own birthday. Despite the demands of advanced classes and multiple extracurriculars, she offers a consistent smile in the hallways and a sincere conversation whenever we meet. I look forward to seeing her each day and look forward to seeing her grow".

Prescott Blotter Review

The Prescott Police Department responded to 120 calls for service between Sunday, May 8 and Sunday, May 15. Reported incidents include: traffic stops, vandalism, animal complaints, 911 calls, coroner calls, responding to suspicious vehicles and persons, fraud, paper service, juvenile complaints, a boat complaint, abandoned vehicles, a domestic call that resulted in an arrest, a noise complaint, a motor vehicle accident, and various ordinance violations.

Pine Bend Recognized

Flint Hills Resources' Pine Bend in Rosemount has earned the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Partner of the Year Award for 2022 for the second consecutive year, moving the refinery into Energy Star's Sustained Excellence category. Energy Star award winners lead their industries in the production, sale, and adoption of energy-efficient products, homes, buildings, services, and strategies; it is the highest honor bestowed by the EPA. Pine Bend has been recognized by the EPA as an Energy Star certified manufacturing site for three years in a row. Since 1997, the refinery has lowered emissions of traditional criteria pollutants by approximately 70%, while increasing production to help meet demand for transportation fuels. The refinery has reduced total on-site emissions in 12 of the last 15 years and its emissions per barrel are approximately 20% lower than other U.S. refineries. Pine Bend consistently ranks in the top quartile of all U.S. refineries for energy efficiency, and continues to improve.

Thompson Lake Sewage Spill

Dakota County has temporarily closed lake access at Thompson County Park in West St. Paul, and is recommending the public have no direct contact with Thompson Lake water following a wastewater sewage discharge. The lake closure followed the announcement on Monday, May 16 that about 50,000 gallons of sewage entered Thompson Lake over 24 hours due to a sewage line failure near the south end of the lake. The sewage leak has been stopped. County officials say that the public should not have direct contact, including no fishing, with Thompson Lake water until further notice. Thompson County Park remains open to the public. Cleanup efforts are underway. The Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of the Pollution Control are assisting with the incident.

Teen Drowining Victim IDd

The Washington County Sheriff's Office has identified the victim in Thursday's suspected drowning as 17-year-old Suleiman Ibrahim Abda Garado of Stillwater. Suleiman was recovered from the St. Croix River by the Washington County rescue dive team just after 6:30 PM Thursday, following a reported water emergency. He had been underwater for approximately 40 minutes at the time he was recovered. Suleiman was pronounced dead at Regions Hospital early Friday morning. According to a WCSO press release, just before 5:40 PM, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received several 911 calls after witnesses reported a juvenile was drowning near the 2000 block of Riviera Avenue South. According to reports, a group of friends had gathered near the river when at some point, one of them began to struggle in the water. Suleiman, along with several others, attempted to help the struggling teen and bring him to safety. The first teen made it out of the water, but Suleiman never resurfaced. The Washington County rescue dive team was on the scene within minutes of the initial call and divers immediately began searching the water where Suleiman was last seen. Once Suleiman was recovered, EMS crews began lifesaving efforts and transported him by ambulance to Regions Hospital where he later died. The official cause of death remains under investigation by the Ramsey County Medical Examiner.

HHS Plant Sale Extended Another Week

Hastings Highs School Horticultre Instructor John DeWall reports that there are still a few hanging baskets and Geraniums available for purchase from this year's Plant Sale at Hastings High School. Anyone interested in making a purchase may come to the High School Greenhouse starting Monday, and through Thursday, from 8 AM to 2 PM.

Hastings City Council Meeting Preview

The Hastings City Council meets Monday evening. Mayor Mary Fasbender provides a preview of the agenda.

Ceremony For Schafer Planned

Hastings Police Chief Bryan Schafer's watch will be ending at the end of the month, and Mayor Mary Fasbender recently offered praise for his time as Chief in Hastings.

She also announced that there will be a ceremony to honor his service.

Deputy Chief David Wilske will become Chief when Schafer steps down.