[Lordstan]

I say no to the change, especially if the format is as it is listed above. I think separating things out just fragments the board more without a specific need.

While I disagree with what happened to the autograph section for multiple reasons, I do understand why many wanted it. The constant fighting between a few members created a hostile atmosphere, which many wanted to avoid. I still think it's easier to not click on a thread that annoys you than it is to go to a new category, but that decision is already done. I will say that since the change, one of the things that I do notice, is that there seems to be less traffic from many people who I used to see post occasionally about autographs, as well as the other stuff.

In this case, is there really a NEED for a new category? Are there so many posts about GU that they bother those who don't collect that stuff? No. Are the people who collect GU on this forum fighting all the time as to create a negative atmosphere? No. Is there something about current format that is preventing those who collect GU from posting? I don't think so.

For me, I like to see everything. I read most of the threads on the board, at least initially, to see if it interests me. Would I make the effort to go to a separate GU forum? Probably not. Especially if I had to wade through a lot of new stuff. I think this is similar to what I noted above about less different people posting about autographs.

I guess my point is that I see this board as a sort of family. Most families have good times and bad. Many many fights and reconciliations. IMHO, more separation leads to less interaction, less unity, and less enjoyment. If autos had been separate when I joined, I don't know if I would've been influenced by Jimmy(kingofclout), David Atkatz, Ben(Forever Young), and a host of others who spurred on my interest in vintage photography collecting. I learned, enjoyed, and met so many more nice people than I would've had it all been separate. That benefit far outweighs any negatives.

Sorry, Leon. One last point.
If you do decide to do this, I would suggest you keep autographs, GU, and any others that come up, as a sub-forum of the memorabilia section. All these things should be grouped together, as they are specific foci of memorabilia collecting.

(Cool. I got to use the word FOCI in a post. Sorry I am easily amused.)

Best,
Mark