Cernicalo1,

If you are looking for sympathy from us, you're not likely to get it. Rick and Mary dedicate a lot of time and energy to make this website and the magazine work. It's their site and their rules. I see nothing wrong with Mary's PM to you and I think it was bad taste for you to post it here expecting some sort of reaction. If you have a problem with the rules and someone in particular deal with it privately - it's how they tried to handle it. It's pretty standard that most forums don't allow open solicitation for goods for sale or wanted but I'm certain it wouldn't be an issue if you have some sort of 'for public good' project.