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Old 12-30-2007, 01:18 PM
Mike Israel
 
Posts: n/a
Amphicar-Lovers Forum is Moving. Important FAQ & Date.

Hello All,

As previously announced, the Amphicar-lovers forum/digest will soon be migrating from Yahoogroups to a new home at www.amphicar770.com. The targeted cut over date is SATURDAY, 12 JANUARY 2008. This FAQ is intended to answer some common questions related to the migration, what is changing, what you need to do, etc. This FAQ will be sent out several times between now and the cut-over to ensure it is seen by as many members as possible.

1. Why move from YahooGroup?

The amphicar-lovers migrated to YahooGroups in 2001. Previously it was hosted on a now defunct service known as Listbox. Today, there are 17,000 messages in the archives with approximately 500 members.

While Yahoo has served us well, it has its limitations. For example, the files areafor storing pictures, manuals, etc., has been filled to capacity for many years. The procees for searching the archives is slow and cumbersome. The process of sigining up or opting out with Yahoo has always been confusing to folks and creates lots of work for the admin (me). Our new service overcomes these limitations and provides a platform to grow the community with new features such as Photo Gallety, Chat Room, bolgs, etc.


2. WillI still be Able to Send/Receive Messages via Email?

Yes, you will. One of the features users like best about YahooGroups is that they do not need to log into a forum web site everytime to see new messages. For amphicarlovers I have modified the software to accomodate the exact same functionality. Once your account is created you can opt to receive all messages instantly (full text, not just the title like on some forums). Registered users can post new messages and reply via email as well.

3. What do I need to do?

You should register (create an account) at www.amphicar770.com as soon as possible. This way you will not miss any messages.

4. Will my existing Yahoo ID and password work onthe new site?

No, it will not. You need to register and create an account at www.amphicar770.com While you may use the same ID name and password as you have elsewhere, this is a completly seperate system from Yahoo.

5. Can I still search all of the old messages from the Yahoo Group?

Yes. Just prior to the cutover I will be transfering all of the old messages to the new system. You will find that the new search capability is much easier and faster than before. At the moment I have migrated about 1 years worth for test purposes.

6. Will I still be able to use the old Yahoo Group.

On 12 January the existing YahooGroup will be closed to new posts and new members. You will still be able to access what is there, you will just not be able to update anything. Visitors will be directed to the new site.

7. I see several categories of forums such as "General Amphi Discussion", "For Sale", "IAOC Only". What gives?

It is always tricky determining the best way to set up buckets of info. So that visitors can stay mostly in one place we have chose to have only a few categories. We can add new categories in the future if users ask for it. For example, should Gibbs Aquada owners want their own area.

You will also see a "Testing Forum for New Users". This area is kind of a junk bucket if you want to post something just to become familiar with the site features. Test Forum messages do not get delivered via email.


8. I signed up a while ago but forgot my password / userid. What should I do?

If you enter the incorrect info, the error message will include a "click here to reset" link. Just enter the email address you registered with.

9. The Amphcar-Lovers Forum has been a valuable resource for me. How can I help?

Glad you asked!! Yes, there are many hundred dollars invested in the software, hosting, etc. invested here. Several hundred hours of labor on top of that. There are two ways you can help.

- There is a "Donate" button at www.amphicar770.com where you may make a Paypal contribution to the site in any amount. Contributions go toward site expenses. Even small donations are greatly appreciated.
- You will notice Google Ads throughout the site. Each time you click on one of these, a few pennies are directed this way. You do not need to buy anything, just visit the ad sponsors and see what they have to offer.

10. I have other questions not addressed here?
Just drop me a note at amphicar770@yahoo.com

Best Regards,

Mike Israel
Amphicar-lovers owner/admin




        
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