Out in the face of fear

The Stranger's blog "Slog," has a nice post covering last night's pub crawl in support of all 11 Seattle bars targeted by the ricin threat. Apparently, the bars were packed, and patrons are either not afraid or aren't letting fear stop them from supporting well-meaning, victimized businesses. 

I lived in Capitol Hill for years before I bought my condo (too expensive of a neighborhood for me to own in.) People there support their neighbors and won't put up with being bullied. It's an artistic neighborhood; it's a spirited neighborhood; and it's a tough, determined neighborhood. I'm sure the best in all of that was on display last night. 

Death Threats to Patrons of Seattle Gay Bars

Some creep is using the threat of death to communicate an anti-gay message to the residents of Seattle.

Anonymous letters were sent to 11 bars in Capitol Hill, Seattle's largest urban neighborhood, and a historic home of much of Seattle's gay population. Many of the targeted bars are either specifically gay bars or just happen to draw a large gay clientele.

The letters claim to be from someone in possession of the poison ricin. He/she threatens to use it on at least five patrons from each of the 11 bars.

A letter was also sent to The Stranger, Seattle's leading weekly paper, advising them to watch for the deaths. It was addressed to their obituary section.

At this point, no one is really sure whether these are empty threats or whether real attempts will be made to use ricin. I'll keep you updated as more info. comes out. You can see a copy of the actual letter at this link.