At the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Chicago this week Seattle was named the most "livable" city (over 100K).  Why?  Local officials summarize it as having to do with the city's commitment to curb greenhouse-gas emissions and "smart growth" strategies. 

Obviously trasportation wasn't considered wrt "livablity" nor thought of in conjunction with "smart growth" when they handed out the award.  But on a beautiful day like today I'm finding it hard to be *too* cynical. :-)