Fortunately I called Bill (yeah I have his number we're close, ok?) and apologized for the changes.
He's willing to give the new forum a try, if members commit to making some good content and helping each other. He did say he will try to pop in (as opposed to poop in) when he can, but is very busy. i have to admit the conversation got a bit tense then, as I hate the "I'm a big shot, I'm busy routine" he pulls some times, and we exchanged some unpleasant remarks after that. I think it was ok in the end though. I hope so, I really like the guy even with some of his faults, he is genuinely funny.