I'm so sorry your experience was so awful! I just started quilting last year and I asked some people at my LQS about the local guild. I was told that the local guild was full of quilt police and not a pleasant place, especially for beginners. I never went to investigate. Like others on thread, I've really enjoyed the advice and camraderie of this board. I also have the owner and employees of my LQS for advice, kindness and patience with my beginner questions. Welcome from northeastern PA!
Barb