Just for the Information as a need to know.
1. What date did the Forum start?
The original forum started back in May 2008. We had around 150 Brothers on the forum. In September 2008 I was attempting to change the forums from phpbb to vbulletin and somehow the database became corrupted. We had to start completely over as all accounts, posts, pms, etc. were completely wiped. So I guess you could say the launch date was September 2, 2008.
2. Was there a cost for the software?
The vBulletin (forum software) runs $100.00 per year. When that expires I'll purchase the license for $180. Hosting and domain runs about $60. Costs are offset by adding the Donation feature on the main menu, and the online store. The markup on products is $1 to $3.
3. What is the order and at what point do the numbers change?
a. Forum Administrator
Unless you are the Admin, you cannot achieve this.
b. Ruffian
Starting level
c. Workman
30 Posts
d. Moderator
Unless you are promoted, you cannot achieve this.
e. Expert Workman
100 Posts
f. Master Workman
500 Posts
g. Enlightened One
1000 Posts
h. Forum Master
5000 Posts