The best moments of 2012

Entering the final month of 2012, it’s common for newspapers, magazines and TV stations to reflect on the year’s top stories.

Unfortunately, many of this year’s local headlines were tragic and difficult — stories that residents don’t expect to see unfolding in small towns similar to ours. In many ways, it was a year of bad news in Park County.

Dumpster divers, beware: It is no longer legal to dig through city trash containers in Powell.

Last week, Powell city councilmen approved an ordinance that prohibits taking out contents of city trash containers. It also makes it illegal to climb on Dumpsters.

Potential for old school site to be used for new purpose

A school building without students faces an uncertain fate in coming months.

For decades, the old Southside Elementary School has stood as a familiar fixture in Powell, but students haven’t occupied its classrooms for nearly two years.

With a few Christmas traditions already under way in Powell and Thanksgiving just days away, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of the holiday season.

Before the turkey is served Thursday and Black Friday sales hit, it’s important that as a community, we recognize those who give up holidays with their families to help others.

Last week’s election showed Americans just how divided our nation has become. That makes bipartisan efforts in the days that follow all the more important and encouraging.

Just a couple of days after a divisive Election Day, six senators — three Republicans, three Democrats — joined in asking for more work to reduce wildfire risks.

Wilkins Jewelry started 57 years ago

For more than half of Powell’s 103-year existence, Wilkins Jewelry has stood on main street. This weekend, after 57 years, the store will close.

Get informed and vote Tuesday

More than likely, you’ve heard a lot of numbers during this campaign season. From unemployment figures to deficit estimates to how much a 1-cent tax could cost you — we’ve all been bombarded with statistics as Nov. 6 approaches.

Lodging tax, infrastructure tax distinct issues

Among other significant ballot items, Park County voters will decide the fate of two proposed taxes next week.

It’s important not to confuse the two.

News travels fast in small towns, often through word of mouth. But it shouldn’t always be that way. Some news — especially that with broad impact — needs to be communicated directly.

Opportunities exist to aid local residents in need

Many Wyomingites never worry about where their next meal is coming from or how they will afford a bag of groceries. But for some residents struggling to make ends meet, those concerns are all too real.