Our View: Hi-Line darts and laurels, April 11, 2014

Laurel — Special praise to the law enforcement and firefighting officials who put their heart and soul into saving the life of Robert Jay Thomas Sunday night and throughout Monday. Trying to save Thomas’ life while keeping the public safe was difficult. It involved shutting down downtown Havre, forcing business people to lose profits, employees to lose pay. It also made life difficult on Havre residents who depend on downtown businesses. But it was the least odius option facing police as they dealt with the crisis. Police acted with the ultimate degree of professionalism and commitment. Sadly, their efforts were unsuccessful, but we are proud that they did their best.

Dart — Pompeys Pillars is a sandstone rock formation displaying the signature of explorer William C. Clark, of Lewis and Clark fame, in 1806. It has been a vital part of Montana history for two centuries. Then Cole Randall of Plymouth, Minn., arrived on the scene. He etched into the historic sandstone, the words “Cole and Shpresa,” a tribute to he and his wife. Then he carved in a heart. Isn’t that cute. Montana officials say they believe the rock can be restored. It will take time, effort and money. It won’t be Randall’s time or effort, but he does have to fork over $4,400 to help the state with the work. It’s a shame the dolt couldn’t be fined more.

Laurel — For millions of years, the T.Rex on display now on display at Bozeman’s Museum of the Rockies has been on Montana soil. The T.Rex’s skeleton was found in eastern Montana in 1988 and has been on display in Bozeman since then. Now, it will be moved to the Smithsonian’s Museum of Natural History. It will be on display for millions of people to see every year. It will offer a tremendous educational opportunity. For this reason, we are glad the Smithsonian will take control of the dinosaur.

Dart — But we’re not so excited for poor T. Rex. After millions of years in the last best place, it now has to move to Washington, D.C.