Judy,
I agree. PYT was an inappropriate reference. They were simply the first words that came to mind while filling out the response box. Although I know full well you’re an educated, professional woman who has made inroads in a predominately male industry, one could refer to you as a pretty young thing too. I’ve seen your picture. The label applies.
As an active admin, I have to stick my neck out at the risk of being decapitated. This is a very public place, with the eyes of an industry, peers and friends watching. I certainly don’t want to make waves, but from time-to-time, I’m liable to stick my foot in my mouth. After all, I’m a guy. That’s what we do.
It has been difficult at best to build momentum with
YF. Yachts are not exactly an everyday topic. The majority of our readers remain lurkers and I have tried to find subtle ways to draw them into our discussions and make them feel comfortable sharing their experience, no matter how vast or limited.
While there are many experienced and knowledgeable women in yachting,
YF parallels the industry with a mostly male membership. I honestly don’t believe you need a “babe in a bikini” to sell a product, but sadly… history has proven otherwise. Quite simply, we have too many lurkers (probably male mind you), and I thought Teena might help stir things up.
In the end… what count’s around here is the quality of information and insight that results from the collective knowledge of experienced people. The Internet… (specifically forums)… are one of the great equalizers. It’s a platform that gives everyone a voice, no matter his or her gender, belief or avatar.
There will always be members that are recognized by their name and predictably… their words will carry greater impact. On the flip side, there may be names we have never heard before, yet we come to respect their opinions and thoughts more than those of traditional medias.
And in some extreme cases, we might find ourselves curiously drawn to the ramblings of some exotic looking girl possessing the knowledge of an Italian design firm (or boat builder) and wondering just exactly who she, or he, really is. Net result? We wouldn’t be discussing Teenna if her perspective & opinion wasn't acknowledged. Still, her avatar remains a Pretty Young Thing. And although you don’t use an avatar Judy, you remain a PYT as well. Slap me later, or hug me. Woman’s prerogative.
