A’ROR’N Days 2021 reflects that we have much to celebrate

“This looks like the set of a Hallmark movie.”
That comment heard from an Aurora alumni just before the parade began Saturday summarized the A’ROR’N Days vibe all weekend long. It was a feel-good gig from start to finish, reminding us all that here in Hamilton County, this year especially, we have so much to celebrate.
A’ROR’N Days has evolved over the years to be a highlight of the summer. It’s the weekend friends, family and alumni often circle on the calendar well in advance, simply because you’re sure to see people you know and will have a lot of activities to enjoy while in town. In 2021, the anticipation hit a whole new level after NOT being able to get together last year thanks to COVID-19. 
Add to that the added festivities tied to Aurora’s 150th birthday as a city and the 125th anniversary of the Hamilton County courthouse and it made Aurora the place to be, especially on Saturday. Both of those events celebrated our past, while also recognizing the need for leaders to step up and keep Aurora and Hamilton County moving forward. There’s a not-so-subtle message there reminding us that it takes vision, hard work and fortitude to make good things happen. Our community ancestors had those qualities, in spades!
Nobody left Aurora disappointed, though rain made organizers nervous throughout the weekend and scattered the crowd, at least for a while, on Friday evening. We all know better than to complain about rain in corn country, but overall the weather was not a factor.
What was a compelling factor for me and so many of the folks I heard and talked to was the genuine sense of community permeating the air all weekend long. Hallmark movies are known for the family-friendly tone and predictable love story endings. But this isn’t Hollywood, and what unfolded over the weekend wasn’t scripted. It was very real, and so much more enjoyable as a live show in your own hometown.
Folks who had a hand in making A’ROR’N Days happen didn’t do it for the credit, but they sure deserve the community’s thanks. Several committees were hard at work behind the scenes, including the A’ROR’N Days group, Courthouse 125 Committee and those who helped produce a special video celebrating the city’s 150th birthday. There were others helping with various events on the agenda, and all played a part in making this a weekend to remember.
Kurt Johnson