Commentary
Forum touches on anchors, sails, Aurora’s path forward
Kurt Johnson
Communities, like ships, need both anchors and sails. The anchors ground us in the values, traditions and relationships that define who we are. The sails, meanwhile, are what allow us to move — to catch shifting winds, navigate uncertainty and pursue opportunity rather than merely hold our place.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Frozen streets and more moments that mattered
Kurt Johnson
In Nebraska, winter doesn’t knock. It moves in, makes itself at home, and expects you to adapt. An inch of ice gets our attention, but we’ve been there, done that so many times it’s just another day in January.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
A most embarrassing moment in Scamville
Ron Burtz
Full disclosure: This is the most embarrassing column I have ever written, and hopefully the most embarrassing I ever will write. But the truth is I got scammed.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Seeking a place to walk in winter
News Staff
Dear Editor:Good afternoon! Another cold day in January. Living is Nebraska, as we do, we know it can be bitterly cold in the winter, and blistering hot in the summer. We have some lovely walking paths here in Aurora, including Streeter and Cole parks.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Lawmakers available for capital visits
Kelsey Bergen
Every year around this time I write about state legislative issues and how they may or may not impact our local businesses, based on guidance Aurora Development Corporation receives from the Nebraska Economic Developers Association (NEDA) and the Nebraska State Chamber.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
The answer to a prayer named Scottie Jean
Kurt Johnson
“Scottie Jean, you changed the game.”Those words from a catchy acoustic ballad became an instant hit the first time I heard them, echoing a heartfelt sentiment that’s hard to fully capture in words alone.
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Hamilton County needs leaders willing to step forward and serve
Kurt Johnson
These are challenging times for rural communities. Decisions made in local board rooms today can have significant long-term consequences, affecting both tax-supported finances and the quality of life we all value. That reality makes this an especially important election year for Hamilton County.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Evnen response ‘a blatant lie’
News Staff
Dear Editor:Sen. Lippincott did a great job describing all the different facets of the Secretary of State office last week. I appreciate the weekly informative, thought-provoking articles by our senator. I have great respect for Sen.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Protecting our state’s water should be a top health priority
Kurt Johnson
Some public health debates feel abstract, buried in statistics and distant places. This one does not.For many in Hamilton County and across rural Nebraska, dealing with the question of nitrates in drinking water is deeply personal.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Support for Cheer Fund appreciated
News Staff
Dear Hamilton County community:I am writing this letter on behalf of the Hamilton County Ministerial Association. The HCMA is made up of representatives from churches in Hamilton County. Together, we share what is called the Cheer Fund.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026