[elfman2]

I like the new format except for the left sidebar. There needs to be a control at the top of the page to open/close it.

Over all, it looks very nice!

[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.