"I can't recall ever being anything other than civil to people who wanted to engage in genuinely civil discussions."
Absolutely true. Your restrained and polite responses to being baited here are a case in point.
It is very strange to complain about being pinged - for ten or more posts no less.
Helpful internet hint: If you don't like the ping, ignore it.
Now you've gone and done it.
The inevitable Wrath of Howlin.
;-)
Seriously though, good advice.
It's a rule I try to follow.
-good times, G.J.P. (Jr.)