By Deb Holdgrafer – Mississippi River Angel

Kevin Hansen, of Orlando, FL, began his journey on the Mighty Mississippi River at the headwaters in Itasca; with approximately 500 miles paddled, to reach Historic Hastings, Mn.

It was my honor, as a Mississippi River Angel, for three exciting days, to host Kevin. During that time, I gave a full tour of Hastings, to include lunch on the patio at American Legion. We attended the ‘Power of 10’ concert Thursday evening, September 3rd. The band was phenomenal and well attended.

Kevin shopped local for items needed to continue his journey down river. He especially enjoyed Quaint and Quirky, to purchase made in Minnesota items. No stop in Hastings would be complete without a patio visit at Spiral Brewery to enjoy one of their special brews. Another highlight for Kevin was to tour LeDuc Historic Estate, with amazing tour guide, Maria. Our very own esteemed local historian, Heidi Langenfeld, stopped in during our tour; adding a few more tidbits on Historic Hastings.

After spending three days in Hastings, Kevin departed on Sunday, September 6th. Kevin’s goal at this time is to reach St. Louis, MO. Or, if he is no longer having fun, will exit the river and mosey back home to Orlando, Florida.

Myself, along with other individuals, who host Mississippi River Paddlers, are known as Mississippi River Angels. Anyone who is interested in either the Paddlers or River Angel’s, go to Facebook for Mississippi River Angel’s or Mississippi River Paddlers. It is exciting to follow these Paddlers on their journey down the Mighty Mississippi River.

Kevin Hason of Orlando Florida spent 3 days in Hastings taking in the sites and shopping local as part of his paddling trip along the Mississippi river. A trip that started over 500 miles ago in Itasca. Photo by Deb Holdgrafer