While the overarching theme of this thread is most posters are actually nice people, and I don't disagree with that, it also must be noted the difference between meeting someone and interacting with them on a near daily basis.
We all have good manners and know how to behave when meeting new people. Rarely are you going to find someone who actually acts like an asshole when meeting new people. However, on the boards, you are interacting with people beyond just pleasantries.
If I met TheReff in person, we would be very friendly I am sure. However, if we started discussing the reffing in the NCAA, I have a feeling I would very quickly be annoyed by him. Similarly, if people started talking to OGD about religion, many posters would still be turned off by him.
Maybe I'm just an asshole for thinking this but I think I'm just saying how it is.