I can't believe what this post has turned into, and how long it has lasted.
Bottom line 1: Lipo offers people a choice of power source. Some people here love Lipo, others love NiMH. Having such a choice will make it easier for people to enter and stay with the hobby.
Bottom line 2: Nobody can argue that the high discharge capability of Lipo batteries has actually increased interest in the hobby. Most people want insane speed from their cars, boats, and planes, and Lipo offers that with the added benefit of a significant weight savings.
Enough with the other crap already.