I'm a tad surprised that Howard has gone along for the ride.
I agree rather a harsh and hasty post by me, I will edit it somewhat!
I still stand by my comment however that there is a certain amount of 'turf protecting' going on, even if by your own admission they are in the minority. Do these people by chance hold senior positions within the company? Within AIPA?
Perhaps this is where this perception (valid/or not) comes from?
