ES: You make a great point regarding ad hominem attacks.  I'm a frequent poster on this site and enjoy the exchange of ideas and opinions.  Like you, I tire of the all-too-frequent trolling comments.  I read your comments and appreciate your compassion and consideration for others.  

I have no problem with "persons expressing their opinions and rebutting any posting with which they disagree."  I spend a lot of time doing that myself.  However, it can be done w/o those nasty personal attacks you reference.  "Hang tough" and don't let 'em wear you down.  regards, Gary