>One thing I wonder is what is the deal with this neighbor? She lives within eyesight of a world famous scholar, a Harvard professor, and doesn't recognize him? He's just "a black man"? OTOH, that definitely sounds like Boston.

Where did the "He's just "a black man" come from? Did I miss something somewhere? She saw two men leaning over a door attempting to get in and it looked like they were breaking and entering. With their backs turned to her, she may not have recognized him - especially if the 2nd gentleman was blocking her view. Gates admitted that he forgot his keys and jimmied his way into the house, correct? That is what the neighbor witnessed. It looked suspicious and if it had been anyone but Gates himself (and whomever was with him), then I'm sure Gates would have appreciated the police being called.

I think Gates should have been polite, cooperated, and not cried racism off the bat.
I think Gates should have shown the police his identification (regardless of whether he thought racism was involved)
I think Gates should have thanked his neighbor.
I think the police should NOT have arrested Gates, UNLESS they still had no verification as to who he was.