Regarding the Riot in Vancouver

Watching coverage of the riot I became disgusted with media portrayals of "heros" in the crowd.

Citizens confronting rioters were guilty of a massive error in judgement and should not be congratulated or complimented. Public officials should condemn their actions.

Firstly there is the obvious fact that the stores and cars they were defending were insured. Even beyond that: it is not worth risking person on person violence for the sake of replaceable goods. It's not being a hero, it's being irresponsible, and it's being part of the problem. Think before you participate in and encourage the escalation from vandalism to confrontation.

On the other hand some people stepped in to stop person on person violence or to help the injured. To those thanks and admiration are certainly due.