Our View: Hi-Line darts and laurels, June 28, 2013

Laurel — Northern Agricultural Research Center held its annual Field Day event this week, once again a reminder of the services it offers to area farmers and ranchers and the community at large. This year, Montana State University President Waded Cruzado was on hand to tell people that she appreciates the work of research stations and will fight for funding.

Laurel — The Woodwick brothers — Vince and Woody — will once again sponsor the annual July Fourth Festival at Pepin Park next week. The grassroots festival is Americana at its best. No particular group sponsors it. The brothers many years ago decided to hold something for the community, never guessing it would attract as many as it did last year — 1,700 people. Thanks to the Woodwicks for their many years of providing this service to the community.

Laurel — Havre Jaycees will also be providing a tremendous public service Thursday night by sponsoring the annual fireworks display that will light up the sky and entertain local people. It takes time and money, and we thank them.

Dart — There are lots of reasons why people should take a dim view of American Tradition Partnership, and the shady, dark money group has added another one. The group's attorney, Quentin Rhoades, carried on in federal court this week about how former Montana Political Practices Commissioner Jim Murry had leaked what Rhoades called confidential information to newspapers and had been biased in his work with ATP. Judge Donald Molloy reprimanded Rhoades, saying he should be careful about repeating unfounded allegations. At one point, he said Rhoades appeared to be "making stuff up."

Laurel — Lisa Stroh has had her hands full as Blaine County school superintendent in recent months. Most school districts run smoothly, and her job involved minor oversight. But the Hays-Lodge Pole district has been in absolute turmoil, and she has done as much as possible to bring things under control. She will be leaving to become superintendent of the Valdez, Alaska, school district. Best of luck in her new job.