Precious pachyderms: Even resolutely nostalgic events like a traveling circus are not immune to the signs of the politically correct times.
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With its collection of exotic and domestic animals, its red-nosed clowns, scarlet-coated ringmaster and huge canvas big top, the Kelly-Miller Circus that landed in Mokena earlier this month was a visitor from the rural past.
As it always has, the circus in its brief stop offered treats, including cotton candy and elephant rides.
But a sign posted on the elephant corral reassured an anxious public that the animals receive healthy food, affection from their handlers and regular medical care. Animals that do not interact with humans, the sign pointed out, are more likely to become extinct.
Similar testimonials to the tender, loving care lavished on the circus’ human performers were nowhere to be found.
Maybe some animals are, indeed, more equal than others.