The root problem is that the old software listed groups you could join by request. In the software upgrade, these groups (of which there were 3, guests, members, Loyal Islanders) did not make the translation.

Since it became "exclusive" in that it wasn't mentioned anywhere registered users could see it, we've agonized over what to do with it because it has become exclusive, though not by anyone's intent or plans.

The fact that it has risen to be such an issue pretty well convinces me that it's outlived it's usefulness. Jeff and I knew it was going to cause problems, sooner or later, but dealing with it wasn't a priority.

Since it's being discussed in a very public forum, I guess its a priority now. I'll suggest eliminating that forum and being done with it once and for all. The rest of the staff may weigh in with their opinions, and the majority decision will prevail.