Despite the toxic threats from hydrogen fluoride, the possible environmental issues in the future, and the dangerous situation as a whole, I think the communities of Duluth and Superior did an excellent job of handling the April 26 refinery fire.
As I went on Facebook that day, I saw person after person offering their extra rooms to people who needed to evacuate. Some even offered space for animals to ensure that all lives were safe. Hotels offered free rooms to those who couldn't find places to stay. Schools closed down, and teachers made sure that each and every child was in their guardian's arms before evacuating themselves.
As we in the surrounding towns and area all held our breath and hoped the fire soon would be extinguished, Duluthians and Superiorites sprung into action. Firefighters came and battled the flames; even as it got too hot, they didn't give up. They waited for it to burn a bit and continued to work until they finally put it out that evening. The Environmental Protection Agency and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources tested nearby water and air quality, ensuring that conditions were safe to return. The effort and safety precautions were nothing less than outstanding.
As a junior in high school, the question of where I would like to attend college looms over my head; and attending a college in the Twin Ports area is something I've been considering. This excellent community action in the time of a crisis makes me feel confident I would be safe and well, no matter the situation at hand.
So whether we are on the west or east side of the border, in Minnesota or Wisconsin, know that we all are united.
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Kelly Lorenz
Carlton