I would like to get a little input from all of you in regards to the state of the forum and of some changes I am thinking of making. Specifically pertaining to turning the forum off except to people that are registered. Some other sites have gone to this to keep the info being shared in the forum private from people who are not registered and logged in. I was wondering what everyone would think about this?
Anything you have to share in regards to this would be appreciated. Questions are great as well...
MC
I like the idea. Registration a requirement....
why not, its FREE!
THINK THAT THEY SHOULD BE LOGGED IN TO VIEW ANYTHING IN THE SITE.
ALSO DO NOT NOT SEE IP ADDY ANYMORE THINK SHOULD BE SEEN ALSO. 
Let them view the home page, and then request a registration to continue - it is free. Some people just browse and thing it is a "free picks" link. 
THERE'S NOTHING WRONG WITH BEING A LURKER. WHEN THEIR READING TO SIGN UP THEY WILL. I SAY LEAVE IT LIKE IT IS AND YOUR FORUM WILL PROSPER IN THE LONG RUN.
I see pros and cons. I guess it depends upon how much traffic you want to visit.
Make them register MC.