I like the trigger happy TV reference. Maybe we could persuade each bar owner in town to keep animal suits in storage for such occasions?

Good points, and I can see why some of you think it isn't a big deal. You're probably right, but I still think it's worth saying something about it. I spoke to the owner of Chapter that evening and he was shaken and quite nervous by his own admission. I can see why- he's just trying to run a business and doesn't want this sort of thing to happen.

And foreigners are certainly judged for behavior like this. I realize that the booze is cheap and the girls are cute and the life is easy and the weather is great but it's worth keeping in mind that there are likely to be repercussions if people keep treating their time in Kunming like they're on Navy shore leave.

I wish it were as obvious to everyone else as it was to you, then we wouldn't have to worry these things happening. If you enjoy a good drama there are a handful of sewing circles around town that I'm sure could use a new member.

One more thing- please avoid using this thread to inquire about what happened exactly, who was involved, who was to blame, or any other details. They aren't important.

Hey folks,

I wanted to comment briefly on a bar-fight that occurred Tuesday at Chapter One. The details of the fight aren't important, nor are the players involved.

I think it's pertinent to remember that we as foreigners are here as guests of the Chinese government. Our presence here isn't guaranteed by law, and at any time we can be asked to leave. This has happened throughout Chinese history, in fact, but I digress.

The point is when we behave like animals we show an alarming lack of respect to our hosts. Quite a few foreigners have built lives here with careers, spouses, and children. Whenever something like a fight happens, it casts aspersions on the entire community, fairly or not.

I'm the last person to tell people to cloister themselves indoors and avoid going out and having fun. But the next time something like this happens, I think it's apt to remember that we're not in our home countries, and that frankly that kind of behavior isn't acceptable.

Anyway, I hate to be a nag or a concern troll or what have you. I'm all for people going out and having a good time. But let's not embarrass ourselves, shall we?

-Matt

Looks like Chris Taylor wins the thread.