South on Highway 61, where the Mississippi River defines the border between Washington and Dakota counties, lies the charming river town of Hastings, Minnesota. Since 1983, this city has been well served by Hastings Community Television (HCTV), an organization with a long history of meeting and event coverage and telling the stories that make up this community.
Supporting the Community
HCTV continues to support Hastings by being a trusted resource for connection, information, and storytelling. Led by Executive Director Mike Bremer, this community resource focuses on shining a light on Hastings by highlighting local businesses, talent, high school and community events, and much more.
HCTV also has a unique partnership with Hastings Public Schools, which, according to Bremer, "is at the heart of what we do."
Based inside Hastings High School, Bremer explains, "This unique setup allows us to work closely with students and educators on a daily basis. Together, we run The Bridge, a broadcast journalism course where students gain real-world media experience by producing a news show for their peers and the wider community. We also empower individuals by teaching them media skills--whether that's operating a camera, editing video, or hosting their own show--so they can share their voices."
Being embedded in the high school also allows HCTV to support staff through video production, mentor students, and help them build confidence, creativity, and career-ready skills.
The Importance of Community Television
HCTV truly brings the community of Hastings together. They are deeply committed to elevating local voices, stories, and events.
"In an age where much media is national or global, HCTV keeps the focus on Hastings--giving our residents the chance to see themselves, their neighbors, and their local institutions reflected on screen," Bremer proudly states.
Original Programming
In addition to covering high school sports and events, HCTV is also known for its original programming. With popular series like Around the Mic, the show that truly put HCTV on the map is Mike Bremer's own Take a Hike, Mike!--a program where Bremer visits local businesses and the fascinating people who make up the Hastings community.
"The best thing about Take a Hike, Mike! is how it uses humor to highlight the people and businesses of Hastings in a way that's both entertaining and community-building," Bremer says. "By stepping into different jobs for a day--often with a lighthearted twist--we give viewers a fun behind-the-scenes look at local businesses while bringing out the personalities of the people who run them. It's comedy with a purpose: promoting Hastings in a memorable, positive way. We continue to produce the show because it's a LOT of fun--and because it has become one of our most beloved programs, combining laughs with local pride."
To date, HCTV has produced over 75 episodes of Take a Hike, Mike! and has won several local and national awards.
This blend of original programming, sports coverage, and educational partnerships makes HCTV truly one-of-a-kind.
Find out more about HCTV at www.hastingstv.org
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