YourHub launched its Fountain hub today, welcoming "America's City" into the fray of The Gazette's community news sites. As the community journalist hosting the site, I wanted to explore the city a little bit and find out what makes this town so special.

Last Saturday was a great day to be out. It was warm and pleasant, especially for late November. I ran into local resident Diane Knapp in Cowbells off of Main Street. She told me she was born and raised in Fountain, and that it suits her because the surrounding areas are "turning into town houses and condominiums. I like small town living."

Cowbells owner Deb Nichols has been in Fountain for 13 years and likes the small-town feel, too. "People come into my store and it's 'Hey Deb, how are you?'" she said. "And if you don't know them, it isn't long before they're your new best friend."

Outside the store, I spoke to Luther and Michelle, a couple preparing for a Saturday ride on their Harley-Davidson. Michelle likes living in Fountain because "It's quiet." Luther said, "It's small. You don't have the big city problems like you have in Colorado Springs."

Sarah Ginsin sat enjoying the afternoon sun on a bench outside city hall. Ginsin was born in Fountain and said she likes living in the city because "Everyone is nice here."

At Fountain Creek Regional Park, I saw an entire family - dad, mom, and two girls - playing a touch football game. Some folks ran or rode bikes around the park while others sat relaxing and chatting at picnic tables. I met Bill Moorman and Britney Titus walking their Boxer, Mack, and two Bischons, Homer and Maggie. Moorman said the park was his favorite thing about Fountain. Titus said, "It just has a real at-home feel. It's very community oriented."

I enjoyed talking with all of the people I met on Saturday. I suspect when people say they like the small-town feel of Fountain, they mean they like their neighbors and the real courtesy everyone in town seems to show each other.

I'd like to hear what your impressions of the city are. If you haven't done so yet, get registered by clicking in the red circle in the top left corner of the Web site. Then write in with a story or blog and let everyone know what you like best about living in Fountain.