Double standard?

THUMBS DOWN: This past week ABC TV took the unusual step of cancelling its top-rated comedy series, the “Roseanne” reboot, after series star Roseanne Barr tweeted a scurrilous, racist insult about Valerie Jarret, a former aide to President Barack Obama. As unusual and swift as the action was, it was the right thing to do.

A few nights later, political satirist Samantha Bee, in a scripted monologue performed in front of an audience and taped for later use, referred to presidential daughter Ivanka Trump as a “feckless (female body part).” She has since apologized for “crossing the line,” but so far her show is still on the air. TBS, which airs the show, accepted her apology and apologized for its own substantial part in airing the scurrilous, mysoginistic comment. But it hasn’t fired Bee. We have to wonder why not. It couldn’t be because she was insulting a Trump, could it?

New playground

THUMBS UP: New Ulm has a lot of parks, to be sure, and it takes care of them very well. The latest example is the new Bavarian Castle playground installation at German Park, which features a great collection of different features, like the gravity swing that circles around the park, and a small bells and chimes installation for young music makers. The playground also features a poured rubber surface similar to the inclusive playground at Hermann Heights park.

It should make German Park a great attraction for kids and families this summer.

School’s out

THUMBS UP: Jefferson Elementary School students took off for summer on Friday, so summer vacation has officially arrived for all.

We wish to thank all the teachers and school staff who make each year successful, and wish a special farewell to those teachers who are retiring this year. Their careers have touched the lives of countless children, and helped build a great community.

As always, we encourage motorists to keep an eye out for kids, and remind kids not to let summer vacation enthusiasm make them forget safety.