Hmmm...it seems like a lot of people are thinking about leaving, or doing so. And you're right about the IRC, believe me I've witnessed some serious problems in there. Issue is that since the SB is gone and no one seems concerned enough about the problems in the IRC, it doesn't look like it's going to get the time of day for chance at a better solution. And...I think I know what you mean. You're not the first person I've heard from who is seeing problems with the way things are heading now. It's making me a bit nervous myself to be honest.
Yeah, I know the ad was added to bring in money, but it still doesn't bring good thoughts to mind. I usually associate a quality site with one that has no ads...but I guess we'll have to put up with it, or I'll just install an adblocker.
Anyway, it's alright if you're not active though, I understand. Even throwing other things aside, people are busy this time of year anyway. There's always skype on the side as you said at least.
Aside from that, I guess we'll just have to see how things go on here.