I have just discovered this site and have read some of the info on it.  Very interesting!  I was actually trying to do some research on laminate for my mother-in-law.  I personally have Wilsonart in my kitchen and diningroom.  I have had it for 5 years,  and absolutely love it!  I have had no scratches, dings or anything (which is shocking with 2 small children and one large dog).  One day my son dropped a skillet from the counter to the floor -it ruined the pan, and didn't make a mark on the floor.  I thought this info might come in handy for someone trying to decide if laminate would hold up.  I have real wood in the rest of my home and it is not nearly as sturdy as my laminate.