Choose your path and walk it

Among the points of interest in Thermopolis, there are an abundance of hiking trails, from the well known paths up Roundtop, T-Hill and Memorial Hill to the less prominent Owl Creek Hill and Star Trail.

At the Thermopolis Independent Record, we help make sure people are aware of where these trails are, points of interest along the way and any special precautions they might need to take. This is done largely through our annual Visitor's Guide, though it also takes the community to make the publication possible and see the trails are put to good use.

Other points of interest specific to this year concern the upcoming elections. Be it the budget, hospital ballot initiatives or any number of issues affecting this year’s campaign, it again falls to us at the newspaper to ensure people are aware of the issues and gather interest about the candidates. Though much of this has already been put out for print, we will also be presenting a look at all the candidates on the ticket in the upcoming primary.

Though precautions are a part of the information put out regarding the hiking trails, when it comes to the political arena it also falls on the people to educate themselves on the candidates and the issues, in order to make educated decisions at the local, state and national level.

Monday night, residents of Thermopolis showed they are ready to take on that responsibility. At a public “meet and greet” forum, the term “packed to the gills” was heard in reference to the number of people in attendance.

The next forum is set for October, but we ask you don’t wait that long to speak up, ask questions or take out an advertisement to get involved in this year's political race. Though it’s said again and again, it truly is the voice of the people that determine on which path our town, our county and our state are heading.

Though election years are often more hectic than not, with the barrage of campaign ads and even more campaign promises, it’s up to you to learn about what’s out there and make your choice.

And hey, if it gets a bit too much to handle and you need a break, we might have some information on a few trails where you can take a walk and clear your head.