You are right. The old "joie de vivre" has been taken out of the bull session, and thrown to the distant winds. The ol' grey mare just ain't what she used to be.
SH is probably grinning from ear to ear, as this has been his greatest desire for several months. Sometimes a person needs to be careful because they just might get what they wish for.
Another reason this happened is because this is now Macon Gravlee's web page. The old format was the brain child of Jody Brown, and was a resounding success. Mr. Gravlee purchased Ranchers.Net, so now for better or for worse, it has his ideas and thoughts rather than those of Mr. Brown. It is human nature. Any time real estate changes hands, the new owner must add his personal touches. If a ranch is bought up by another rancher, have you noticed that the existing fences and buildings are never quite right? There must be changes made to reflect the personality and management skills of the new owner. Like a lady that moves to a new house, they must "knock out a wall here" and "put in a new window there". The only thing certain is that status quo will not remain.
I consider myself progressive, and try not to be against changes for the better. I do tend to drag my heels in the dirt at change just for the sake of change. If something ain't broke, for heck's sake, don't try to fix it. The bull session on Ranchers.Net sure wasn't broke and it sure didn't need fixing. It will just not be as fun and free-feeling as it used to be. It's just like everything else in these modern times--too many rules and regulations, and way too much bureaucracy Like all good things in life, a few ruin it for the many.