Are we supposed to become vigilantes?

Here’s how to intentionally misinterpret a campaign pledge.

One candidate for a Spokane City Council seat lists the following as a top priority: “Ensure our neighborhoods are safe for seniors and young families.”

So some could respond, “Hey, I’m not in either of those categories. So I guess you’re saying it’s OK if criminals target me.”

Not-so-great songs that prompt summery nostalgia: “Anything by Tommy James and the Shondells,” said one baby boomer.

Feedback: Several readers said bringing up ancient European roads in a discussion of modern street paving is ludicrous.

One correspondent bristled at my assumption that routinely crossing paths with a local newsmaker wouldn’t happen in a big city. He suggested that is an example of the annoyingly smug “Spokane is special” attitude based on the myth that life everywhere else is inferior to our Edenesque experience.

Several readers who saw last Saturday’s column were livid that I would have the temerity to yield the right-of-way. (And, yes, I know all about the confusion caused by the reverse — motorists wanting to cede the right-of-way to cyclists.)

I heard from South Hill parents who insisted that their children are not feral.

I heard from readers angry that I didn’t mention their lake monster stories.

I heard from transplanted Southerners who resented the idea of the North seceding from Dixie.

A couple of readers got mad at me because I have not been to the Oregon coast.

People are still calling me to say they hate my new mug shot.

And others told me they think I’m swell.

Thanks to all.

Today’s Slice question: Did your family have quirks or idiosyncrasies that once embarrassed you but now, looking back, you have come to regard with sentimental fondness and retroactive loyalty?