A new year is almost here, but before we close the book for good on 2022 here is a look back at the events that made headlines on the local front. What follows is a week-by-week capsule summary of the top news stories from January through June 2022.

Dawn and Rusty Ogden stand by an RV with sewer pipe and skeletal Cousin Eddie from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” as well as the “Hanging with my Gnomies” sign won last year Hampton’s Annual House Decorating contest. A second place winner this year in the Hampton Christmas decorating contest, Rusty enjoys the work and community appreciation that comes with his decorations.

Bruce Ramsour hands a frozen turkey to one of the many families receiving a holiday meal during Saturday’s Hamilton County Food Pantry distribution event.

In the last several seasons, the Aurora wrestling team has landed athletes in the finals at the NSAA state wrestling championships and senior Jack Allen looks to be another prime candidate for 2022-23

Working hard to get donations ready for their trip to the food pantry after a week of collecting, Aurora fifth graders Josiah Peterson (center) and Cody Rinke (far right) spent time choosing the perfect items to balance out boxes. Parent volunteers like Kim Eberly also assisted, including helping to transport goods to their end destination.

These Hampton kindergarteners gave the Aurora News-Register an up-close scoop on Thanksgiving, what there is to eat, how it’s made and where to get it. They include, front row, from left: Holly H., Autumn J., Violet H. and Chance G. Middle row, from left: Gavin W., Cameron W., Eric D., Jayden W., Ryder S., Violet M. and Jackson B. Back row, from left: Leyton B., Ciji J., Reid O., Simon DLC., Elliott F., Liam F., Cooper K., Jackson W. and Bailey G.

Aurora’s defense swarmed to the ball all night long in the Nov. 18 C1 semifinals against Boone Central, and will be put to the test Tuesday in the state championship game against Pierce at Memorial Stadium.

Judy Sullivan poses near her piano, one that was broken in a tornado in 1980, prompting the purchase of another piano until it was fixed. Sullivan has taught hundreds of students music from elementary to private lessons.

Kelsey Mersch’s family helped her construct the final form of her 4-H playground project at Pioneer Trails outside of Aurora. Mersch is excited that the equipment will provide entertainment for children now and in the future.