Sorry if you got caught in the frey

Hey forum readers:

Sorry if you got caught in the frey of some interchanges with a few who just aren't open to diverse opinions. They brought out my sense of humor and frankly are some unreal dudes.

Actually, I hope most of you found most of it entertaining. I have.

I suspect that is it for me 'cause they can't tolerant me and dey da boss.

Go get some good hats.

Jrh,
I'm sure that it is not the diverse opinions you express that is so offensive, but rather the manner and tone in which you are expressing them. I have read all of your posts at least once and for the life of me I can't figure out why you went in the direction you did. PB has his point of view, you have yours and there is room for both. What there isn't room for is the nastiness. Please know that I have collected for many years, have worn hats most of my life, renovate vintage hats, make custom felts, and yes, I DO know Panama's. At the moment I own something in excess of 500 hats ranging from 1830 to 1960s in all grades. The point is that I am not a novice and there are many on this forum that are equally qualified if not more qualified to discuss hats both past and present. As for your questioning the liners being used in Panama's, yes, there was a time when some companies used them in the 1920s-30s for two reasons. First, it made them different and gave the illusion that they were better quality by offering something extra. Personally I think it is a nice touch, but does that mean that it makes a better hat? no The second reason it was used was not quite so generous.. It was used to cover flaws in the hat that would otherwise be noticed, thus reducing the value of the hat. I would prefer to believe that Mr. Johnson uses them for the first reason as he has an excellent reputation and I respect him and his work.
What a few on this forum are reacting to, myself included, is the attitude you are displaying. This post says you are/were kidding but I really doubt that. I have a pretty developed sense of humor and can't find anything funny about implying that every man on this board is a dick head. Perhaps in your world this is a joke, but not mine. Frankly, I'm a bit stunned at the language you are using. considering in one post you stated you were a scientist.
In closing, please know that you and your opinions are welcome here, but not the adolescent sniping. Yes, we are fortunate enough to live in a country of free speech, but fortunately, also where no one has the RIGHT to be heard.

Taking off the brown shirt

Stopped burning books and witches weeks ago

and yes, I AM cool already

some bridges need to be burned because they are not best serving the public.

Art see my reply on beaver