Colorful snapshot

“Discover Hamilton County.”
That’s the front page greeting on one of the county’s most comprehensive marketing pieces, which is hot off the press this week in the form of an 80-page full-color magazine.
The Hamilton County Guide offers guests and prospective newcomers a Reader’s Digest version of a place that’s very special to those who call it home. It is available online as well (auroranewsregister.com) to any and all who want to enjoy a colorful snapshot of our community.
There is indeed a lot to offer here in Hamilton County -- great schools, quality health care, top-notch recreational facilities, a diversified economy and a proud, ag-based heritage rooted in some of the best soil and water resources in America. That’s not a sales pitch, but rather a heart-felt sentiment shared by many.
The News-Register staff enjoys the process of putting this piece together every other year, though it was a bit more of a challenge this year starting that effort in the midst of a pandemic. For starters, we’re amazed how much change and progress there is to report in 24 months time. It’s also a refreshing reminder of all there is to see and do here, which long-time residents may sometimes take for granted.
The 2021 edition features a noticeable new look and format, starting with its size. Based on local feedback, the decision was made to cut the size in half, making it easier to keep in a purse or vehicle storage area. The whole idea is to offer a user-friendly information guide, with the hope being that the smaller size will make it easier to use.
As always, there are photos and articles about the area’s main tourism attractions, including the Edgerton Explorit Center and Plainsman Museum. Readers can also learn about the area’s history, education and health care facilities, community services, as well as the many events that make Hamilton County unique. 
It should be noted that this project is a joint venture with the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, which received a grant from the Hamilton County Visitors Committee to help fund printing costs. The collaborative effort helps make the Guide available at numerous locations. 
And who knows, someone stopping through for a first-time visit or a local alum back in town for a class reunion or community celebration just might realize this is a great place to work, live and raise a family. It wouldn’t be the first time that happened, or the last.
Kurt Johnson