but I'll decide for myself who I respond to, thank you

Of course you will, PFR. That is your right. But I would draw your attention to the recommendations from the Mudcat faq and newcomers guide

I've said it before, and I'm sure I'll say it many times more: the best way to deal with both flamers and trolls is to ignore them. Give them silence, and they'll go away. They feed on attention - don't give it to them.

Now, it is entirely up to you whether you heed that advice but may I suggest that having a go at those that do is not a good idea. Nor is having a go at the mods for doing their (unpaid and unappreciated) job. I am as much a rebel as you and agree that bars do need to be rattled at times. But, when in Rome etc. We are all guests in Mac's house here. Let us respect him.