Victimizing our young people

THUMBS DOWN:

Another sex sting set up by area law enforcement nets three more arrests. All three men are accused of solicitation of a minor under the age of 16 for prostitution. They appeared in Lyon County District Court Wednesday. While one of the men is from Marshall, the other two are from out of the region. Of course, none of the men arrested this week have been convicted in a court of law. However, one of the suspects might have traveled from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It’s scary that some people might travel long distances and go great lengths to support sex trafficking and prostitution. But it’s good to see law enforcement working hard to round up bad guys. But these arrests also make you think about the number of sex crimes that are victimizing young people that may get undetected.

Business provider helps DNR

THUMBS UP:

Thanks to a business provider, The Department of Natural Resources and area boaters have been alerted to zebra mussels in Lake Sarah in Murray County. The DNR told media outlets that “it helps a lot when lake property owners, lake service businesses and others notify us when they’ve spotted an invasive species.”

Sometimes farmers need help

SIDEWAYS THUMB:

Recent farm accidents are a reminder of the potential dangers they face, especially during a hectic harvest season. Besides the dangers, State Rep. Chris Swedzinski reminds us many stresses also come with farming. Among the biggest stresses involves finances and economic issues out of their control. Swedzinski said farmers can get help through the Minnesota Extension’s Farmer-Lender Mediation program. The mediation is confidential and the number is 218-935-5785. The Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline is open around the clock each day to help people with stress, anxiety, depression or suicidal thoughts. That number is 833-600-2571, ext. 1.