Hi-Line Darts and Laurel

LAUREL — Hill County Commissioner Jeff LaVoi gave county residents a much-needed reminder last week when he said Beaver Creek Park is a natural wonder the county should be proud to own. There are constant debates over cabin fees, cattle grazing fees and everything else, but that should not detract from the fact that the park is a tremendous asset to the county. It is Montana at its best. It's untold beauty attracts attention from people around the world.

LAUREL — State Rep. Rob Cook, R-Conrad, has introduced legislation designed to curb some of the excesses of groups such as American Tradition Partnership. The bill would require groups that surreptitiously raise money to at least disclose where the money was spent. They would also have to include in television commercials which groups sponsored the ad. "I guess it's old school," he said, "but I think if you can't put your name on it, you shouldn't say it." Amen.

DART — An Associated Press story last month raised hopes that American Tradition Partnership was on its death throes. That the group would quietly slither off into the grass. Those hopes were dashed this week when the group put out a press release announcing that it was alive and kicking. The group is often defined as a conservative political action group. Conservatives ought to be outraged at that definition. True conservatives, such as Rob Cook, are beginning to stand up to ATP.

LAUREL — We Love Northern Ball is an annual event that raises funds for Montana State University-Northern. In addition to the financial value of the annual fun-filled evening, it is an outward sign of support the community has for Northern. This year's ball is Saturday night. We hope all who attend have a good time for a good cause.