[RonDog]

I vote for a VERY SIMPLE "default" format.

Let the tech-heads super-customize all the whistles and bells they want, but for a newbie, or a lurker, or an old-timer, there should be a CLASSIC VIEW option with NO flag graphic on the left side, NO poll question, etc.

Perhaps all the new "custom" features have significant benefit, but if they discourage visitors - both new and old - they are COUNTER-productive.

Please make http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/finduser MUCH easier to find, and return the ability to just CLICK ON a screen name, rather than forcing me to remember how to spell, for instance 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub - one of my favorites.

[elfman2]

I think it's a give and take. Some will find it confusing, some find it interesting. It'll probably be tweaked to improve it quite a bit.

BTW, What's this "Florida Have You No Shame" on your home page? Dude, we're responsible for fighting off the AlGore/JJ/Daily lawyer brigade after your state gave all your electors to Gore! :^)

[EdReform]

"Please make http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/finduser MUCH easier to find, and return the ability to just CLICK ON a screen name..." I agree. John would you please condsider this? Also, we were able to search within a forum for a word or phrase that appeared in either "replies and articles" or "articles only." For example, I could type "ed" in the search box and all the replies and articles posted containing the word "education" would be listed, with the most recent post on top. Please bring back this option. (If that option is available, I can't find it). Thanks!

[tpaine]

I vote for a VERY SIMPLE "default" format.

A 'well said' DITTO Ron!

Let the tech-heads super-customize all the whistles and bells they want, but for a newbie, or a lurker, or an old-timer, there should be a CLASSIC VIEW option with NO flag graphic on the left side, NO poll question, no right side 'breaking news', etc.

Perhaps all the new "custom" features have significant benefit, but if they discourage visitors - both new and old - they are COUNTER-productive.

Please make http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/finduser MUCH easier to find, and return the ability to just CLICK on 'find in forum' once you are at a users home page.