The annual listing of the nation's 10 most mannerly cities released by etiquette author Majabelle Young Stewart had again ranked Seattle No. 8. Well, before the city descends into depression over its fall from grace, let's get a grip and define our terms. It may take some time to determine if Seattle police did too little or too much too soon or too late. Two years after violence during the APEC conference in Vancouver, B.C., officials there still ask the same question. But right this minute, we know a few things for sure, here in Seattle.
Vandals are one thing.
Protesters are another. To be the latter, one must have a point of view. To be the former one must have only a pointed head. While Mayor Schell was busy blaming TV news for fueling vandalism by glorifying the goons, we know that mob mentality is intoxicating when it's mixed with youth and adrenaline. Given the opportunity and and even a few onlookers, some people will smash things, shriek and pound their bony breasts.