Let's see if we can put a cap on this thread.
First of all, thanks to (almost) all of you for your responses.
Second, I was wrong in using MM's name in the post that inspired this thread. I ought to have used a more generic, non-individual term instead, as I have done before. My apologies for that, MM.
It was never my intent to be or appear to be patronizing of the females on this board. My point, poorly articulated, was that I was offended by some of the comments made.
Lastly, if and when I come across a bigoted comment in the future, I will speak out, bluntly, but politely. Of course, you all are perfectly free to ignore any and all comments I may make. That's your freedom, and nobody, least of all myself, wants to take that away from you. My freedom is to call 'em as I see 'em. And I'll exercise it as my best judgement calls for it.
With the highest respect for all of you, raf.