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.

Among the headlines: a former leader of Powell hospital was accused of fraud and now remains a fugitive; a man was fatally shot during a standoff after shooting at Powell police; a Cody man was charged with killing his wife and could face the death penalty; and a young Cody girl was kidnapped and abused by a stranger.

Amid all these negative headlines, we also know that many good things happened this year in our communities. Stories of hope, generosity, kindness and service.

We invite you as readers to share the best parts of 2012. Write to us with your favorite moments of the past year — simple, extravagant, small or life-changing.

In the weeks ahead, we’ll print letters that feature your highlights of 2012. From lessons learned to babies born to accomplishments celebrated, we know residents experienced moments of beauty, love and happiness over the past year. Share them with us.

It doesn’t have to be anything particularly newsworthy — the best part of your year may have been a memorable trip to Yellowstone or reconnecting with an old friend or adopting a dog from the shelter.

We’d like to hear from readers of all ages. It’s unlikely that Powell’s younger residents read the Opinion page on a regular basis, so we’re asking our older readers to encourage kids to share highlights of their year.

Many stories shaped 2012, and as we reflect on the year as it comes to a close, we want to recognize the moments that mattered to you.