I think everyone is missing my overall point. It's not about Epoch or CCBill or AVN or who did what to whom, or who is better.

It's about not creating factions within the industry.

There are plenty of ways to compete fairly, and plenty of ways for friendly competitors to be cordial and respectful, and work hard to earn for people's business, whether it's attendance and sponsorship at a trade show or membership billing services.

These companies are in a position to model leadership on how to work together, which could strongly benefit everyone in the industry. But at least two of the three are throwing that opportunity away for their own selfish interests.

Yes, we're a capitalist economy and some would say that all is fair game. But I think there's a bigger picture here, and I really wish these guys would "get it" so that they and everyone else could continue to benefit from the cooperation and collaboration that is possible within this industry.

Perhaps I'm just too much of an idealist.