Protecting our state’s water should be a top health priority

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.

Support for Cheer Fund appreciated

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.

Aurora’s 2025 building permit report better than it looks

Building permit totals are in for 2025 and any way you add up the numbers there is reason for cautious optimism in Aurora and Hamilton County heading into the new year.

Less is more in 2026

I’m not a fan of New Year’s resolutions and have given little thought over the years to pledging a better me based on year-end inspirations. When I seldom have, they didn’t last.

Funerals deserve police presence

Dear Editor:I recently attended a funeral in Aurora. I was very displeased and disheartened to find out that the local law enforcement no longer leads the funeral processions to the cemetery.

Opportunity continues to grow in Hamilton County

I am one of several people who receives the building permit list from the city each month.  Some months I am looking for projects I have worked on that finally reached the building permit stage and other months I am surprised by projects that I had no idea were in the works.

Top stories of year signal tough fiscal decisions ahead

There is a lot of food for thought to digest in this year’s top 10 stories of the year poll if you are a Hamilton County taxpayer.

‘Yes, there is a Santa Claus’ a timeless Christmas message

A little girl’s question and the local newspaper’s answer as to the authenticity of Santa Claus is timeless.Commonly called the ‘Yes Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus’ editorial, it’s been quoted in full or in part in newspapers, TV shows and movies for decades.

A musical twist on a familiar Christmas classic

The famous leg lamp never looked or sounded so good. What’s that you say, leg lamps don’t talk or sing? Well on Saturday they sure did at the Lied Center, putting a new spin on an old holiday classic that made me smile from start to finish.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all

Dear Editor:The evening seemed just like any otherexcept perhaps for Gods sons’ mother.Joseph led a donkey, carrying a woman about to give birth,into a stable where the Christ child would soon be born on earth.So that wonderful day is remembered, it’s celebrated during this season.