On a tangeant but along the same lines, a couple of older posts, long predating the Ballasts, have popped up while searching the forum.
One thing that stands out, almost screams at me, is the integrity, humility, professionalism and courtesy of @BosKonay, @Warbonnet and @Garfield. Time and time again they stand up for other manufacturers, they chastise those taking pot shots and they try to do what is right.
Examples are @Davidand @Killucan2 sniping at ECM Trains and at Murphy Models, and the lads are straight in to defend the victims. There are lots of other examples but over time, the picture becomes clearer.
There are several members who stand out in this aspect, @WRENNEIRE, @JasonB @RedRichand several others whose usernames escape me right now.
There's a delicate balance between what IS right and what appears right - I try to find this balance when dealing with some of the nastier bullying posts that are made, sometimes I succeed, sometimes I fail.
But what strikes me is the consistency with which the IRM lads TRY to say and do what is right. Not what is popular nor what is easy, but what is right. Their effort is consistent and unquestionable.
Aside from the quality of the models, the diversity of the range, the activism and sponsorship of community events, the communication and customer service, the honesty and openness, the moral and ethical compass of IRM is beyond reproach.
Take a bow.