Wow, long thread. I don't speak for anyone but myself, but I love & respect women by default. I can't help it, I'm hardwired that way. Women have to earn my DISrespect, and some do, as do many men. I feel privileged to be a part of this community, which seems to be a win-win environment. It offers providers a place to offer their services with as much safety as is likely possible because of the ability to share information, observe clients behaviors, attitudes, etc., and it's an environment where we all generally appreciate each other for being here. This place offers guys the same thing - information, reviews, a chance to screen, and a chance to be with women that they wouldn't have a shot at in the real world (in a lot of cases). If the rest of the hobby world operated like this place does, I'm pretty sure our hobby would have come out from underground a long time ago.
No matter what anyone says, in my opinion the core ingredient that helps to make this place work is a certain level of mutual respect. Respect for each other and respect for the Mods, without who's volunteer efforts this place would not work. When respect is not there - in either direction - it's blatantly obvious. Some people here - on both sides of the fence - are clearly troubled and bitter individuals.
An unfortunate consequence of being an open Internet community is that it allows bottom feeders to get into our community. Pimps, thieves, addicts, psychos, and of course, the Douchebag Posse that had to be dealt with this week. It's a fact of life, so we shouldn't get too wound up about it, but I think we need to make sure we never tolerate it. When respected providers and hobbyists come forward to report a problem, it needs to lead to swift and easy action. Eccie is pretty new so it took more drama than required this time through, IMHO. I bet it's easier next time.
Just my $.02 while I'm enjoying a Friday afternoon beer. Hope everyone has a great week-end - the hot season is already upon us!