OK, folks. I spent the time to install a test version of the myBB forum software and make it look "Earthwavesy". I've encouraged everyone to take a look at it and play around. I'm sure there's more minor improvements that could be made, and suggestions are welcome.

I realize the idea of change can be a pain in the tukus for people to adapt to. I'm the same way, sometimes to a fault. Really. Just ask anyone who knows me in person.

Over time there have been many ideas and wishes for features to have on the Earthwaves forum, and I think they're all great.

Now, I could take a bunch of time to master PERL and then take the time to modify the code and rewrite the software so that it had all these features, and debug it, and hope it works right because I'm not sure what I'm doing, or...

I could install new up-to-date software that already has those features (and more) and know it works because I *didn't* write it. In fact, that "test forum" is exactly that.

So the question is, do we want to stick with what we've got?

Or do we want to switch?

A couple of people have already registered so I take it they're OK with the idea. But I know there's others we've not heard from.

I have to admit, there's a certain familiarity with the way things are that I'd miss if we do switch. Like I said, I don't enjoy change that much, either.

And I don't want to hear "it's your board, you can do what you want with it." Well, yes it is, but I'm not the only one who makes this a community. Many of you have been here far longer than I have. And we've all had our ups and downs over the years. I think of Earthwaves as a group and I just happen to be the current caretaker. I am truly appreciative that everyone has accepted my ownership of Earthwaves despite any problems I have been a part of in the past.

If we do switch, I'd like to do it with the new year. The old board would remain as an archive, but posting would be disabled. Also, if we do switch, it would require that everyone go through the registration process on that forum. There's just no realistic way for me to simply transfer the accounts over. But all current users here will be authorized ASAP. Registration requires admin approval because the spammers have already found it, somehow. geez.... don't they have a life?

So, please everyone speak up!!! Good. Bad. Indifferent. No opinions barred.

Brian