I agree that the hysteria over media is exaggerated, and it's pointless to worry needlessly about an impression we can't entirely manage.
However, I don't think there's any correlatoin between "furries" and "linux users". Furries are distinguished principally by bizarre behavior, even in the nicest light--costuming and art that are most easily understood by outsiders as kin to fetish (which isn't entirely untrue). Linux users have a preference for an OS. Any negative stereotypes of Linux users are restricted specifically to geekdom. (There will never be a CSI episode with Linux users rubbing civet oil and ipecac on someone in a costumed orgy.)
I also disagree that furries are (yet) a substantial enough demographic as to negatively impact the economy if you piss us off. The only case where this may be true is for an already established convention, but in a case like this the hotel is already aware of the money at stake when they make their decision.
I agree that the hysteria over media is exaggerated, and it's pointless to worry needlessly about an impression we can't entirely manage.
However, I don't think there's any correlatoin between "furries" and "linux users". Furries are distinguished principally by bizarre behavior, even in the nicest light--costuming and art that are most easily understood by outsiders as kin to fetish (which isn't entirely untrue). Linux users have a preference for an OS. Any negative stereotypes of Linux users are restricted specifically to geekdom. (There will never be a CSI episode with Linux users rubbing civet oil and ipecac on someone in a costumed orgy.)
I also disagree that furries are (yet) a substantial enough demographic as to negatively impact the economy if you piss us off. The only case where this may be true is for an already established convention, but in a case like this the hotel is already aware of the money at stake when they make their decision.
Trickster