In order to get more control over the forum (chat box, special unread post searches, etc.), we'll have to upgrade to a hosting package. I've done a bit of research today to see what all is involved in that, and how to use the Community Chest contributions to that aim (thanks Seat Sniffer!). It turns out they don't allow the application of those donations for anything other that what happens on freeforums (domain name, ad removal, etc.), so we can't apply those to the hosting.

So I set up a Chip-In. It's on the Community Chest page, but I'll post it on the portal as well. We just need about 70 clams to cover us for the next year. I've researched the hosting company, and it seems some folks have had issues (there's always going to be people with problems), so if things go to hell at least we have access to stuff like the database so we can do a hosting transfer (which we don't have now).

I'm in the process of setting up a test system. I'm going to install phpBB 3 on it and get it all worked out so that when we go to the new server, we can make the transition. The new software is loaded with new features.

B

I'll be happy to pitch in, but it'll need to get back to work first

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Team Chode!

I'll pay of course dooder. I don't understand what the lefthanded ratcheting valve does for the php database hosting watchyamacallit, but you do...so what ever it is my neanderthallean brain can comprehend, let me know what kind of help I can give, and I will.

thanks guys.

one more thing: no doohickeys. what you get for your trouble is a site that's 10 bucks better than it was before..

o.k. done
looks like the community chest is full..or the chip in rather.

Awesome!!!

I'll get on this ASAP.

I can keep the one I was born with though? I really don't want to Bobbit myself for the site. I mean I love it here, but there are just some places I can't go.

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Team Chode!

dude , you REALLY need to start getting your own material! That's like the 3rd time this week!

lay off the drink and take some vitamins! save some brain cells!

Hosting is paid for. I did a little more poking around, and this host looks like it will be better than the other one. The other one had a list of sites on google saying how much they sucked.

Anyway, we're rolling. There might be a little down time. Hopefully not too much, but I'm at the will of the freeforums.org guys.

Thanks for your patience.

support just contacted me. they're going to start the transfer soon.

yeah!