Well, OP. as a former cop, I know as do most with years of wisdom on their side there is always 3 sides to EVERY story. Your Story, Ace's Story and the truth. Now that isn't to say either party is "lying", but rather the truth lies somewhere in between. As with most stories, something gets left out, either in error or in an attempt to make that story more compelling/believable/or genuine.
In this instance we still have a HUGE portion missing, (Ace's version). they are wise, (especially given the above posts), to not comment, as it seems most are already taking a stance in their defence, and stating they are satisfied and will continue to visit Ace. At this point, there is NO "upside" to their commenting, and they "could" run the risk of alienating some.
Now, as a small business owner, I have had to "fire" a few clients over the course. Some because the service they wanted performed, wasn't possible or practical, and as such went against my way of operating, (even had one say well so and so did that for me..... my response was good then have so and so do it again). Some, because I just had a "hinky" feeling about them, as potential clients. Some, because they had wronged another in my industry, (had failed to pay their bill). Some, because over time, they had become "an issue" for me, (too demanding, always late for appointments, trying to book last minute, constantly rescheduling or simply not showing up). Lastly, as seems to be the case in this instance, the "client" seems as if they "could" become an issue, now does that mean you would have been, NO one knows for sure, but the business owner has done a cost benefits analysis, and determined having you, as a continuing client, is not worth the potential cost to his business.
I was with you, part of the way, but as you continued to type and no doubt became more upset, and felt more justified that your position was correct, you crossed the line. So take this as a "teachable moment", and realize typing a negative review, or in this case the original post in this thread, while upset, is likely to have consequences.
Now if your conviction is that strong and you can "afford" the consequences, then go ahead, and type away. If as in this case it seems that the consequences are too high a price, then push away the keyboard, pick up the phone and discuss it man to man with the person. The internet can be a VERY devastating option to a small business, (negative comments or reviews), but it can also be a god send, (positive reviews and comments). This is a lesson it seems you have come to realize, (albeit too late in this case).
Ace, has laid out their position, (respect the owners wishes and take your business elsewhere), perhaps in a year or 2, personally reach out to him, be contrite, and ask if he would consider taking your business again, (of course while apologizing for THIS thread and advising you have learned from it, perhaps even verbalizing WHAT you learned). There exists, the possibility, that you will find another service provider that provides you with the top drawer service your seeking, and apparently had with Ace, and the previous will become a moot point.
Good luck in your quest for a new service provider.
