Hello Tilii,
Your posting regarding Norman and the somewhat controversial nature of his comments is bravely stated. I applaud the manner and competence with which you defend yourself, to allow such statements unchallenged passage would be a terrible dereliction of moral duty. Charity being, however, in such short supply in these times of woe and want, perhaps you might cut him some slack; a doubtful parental lineage is most difficult to deal with.
Not wishing to divert the very interesting subjects addressed here, in particular the entrenchment of certain attitudes and practices within the industry at large, do you foresee a further polarization in the eventual development of an "Old Girl's" network?