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Et Cetera …

Lodge marking 150th

The Chain Lake 64 Masonic Lodge of Fairmont is inviting the public to come visit today from noon to 5 p.m. at 204 Downtown Plaza. We encourage those interested or curious to take the Masons up on their offer.

The group is celebrating 150 years here. That is an amazing streak of longevity. We congratulate the Masons on the anniversary, and note the contributions of all who have served the group, past and present.

The lodge does good work through its scholarships for graduating seniors, and other charitable endeavors.

Facing opioid problem

The prescription painkillers known as opioids have sparked the pain of addiction for many of their users. This is true across the United States, in Minnesota and right here in Fairmont.

Opioids are commonly prescribed to treat acute and chronic pain, but this widespread use had led to them becoming misused, with the resulting addiction ruining and ending lives.

What can be done? The first thing is awareness, on the part of everyone, so that the use of opioids is not taken lightly, and so their hazards are known.

City, townships agree

The city of Fairmont and several surrounding townships have long cooperated on providing fire protection services, a relationship that benefits both. The two sides recently announced the successful drafting of a new five-year agreement to continue their cooperation. Kudos to those involved.

Providing firefighters with the gear, equipment and vehicles they need is not cheap. There are also costs for insurance, retirement, gas, oil and minor repairs. Under the agreement, both sides agree to do their parts to meet the needs of firefighters and to protect the public.

Phony defense scheme

A Minnesota judge recently decided to allow four protesters to use a “necessity defense” as justification for shutting down two Enbridge oil pipelines last year. The defendants argue that “climate change” is such a threat that they had no choice but to take action.

Now they will have to persuade a jury, whose members might ponder why those who regulate pipelines don’t share the protesters’ views.

Crimes committed against industry are still crimes, even if there are people who have no qualms about harming businesses. We hope jurors see through the phony defense strategy.

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