The elementary school across the street from my house is having the playground re-surfaced. Dust, grit, and noise.

It is estimated to cost over $2 million. For blacktop and a cement curb around the perimeter. Contracted work.

In all fairness, I admit that they had to tear down the backstops for soccer and baseball games, the hoops for basketball, and the tetherball poles. All of which will have to be restored.

But 2 million dollars? No wonder the school district has just laid off 2400 support employees (not teachers).

Neither story has made it into the news.