Please see the most recent updates in the "Where did the .com name go?" thread. Posts number 16 and 17.
I agree with you and will add that all of our community painters who freely submit their works for us to use are appreciated beyond words - they and the scenery and 3d modelers in the community make FSX what it is.
MS was at its very best with FSX in this regard, whether they liked it or not...it is the greatest strength of the franchise and sets it apart (x-plane just follows the leader)