What I would like to know is whether it is going to be available when we want to participate or whether we are going to be subjected to lack of access because it is not available.
There is no excuse for lack of access unless there was a denial of service attack - which there was not. People who participate deserve the respect they have earned by contributing. Treating them to shabby service is unacceptable.
Bob, Chill out man these things happen. This forum is run by people who have other jobs and other responsibilities that are more important i.e they bring in money! Forum membership is free and is provided for newcomers and ambitious hobbyists to enjoy. You can't complain about "shabby service" when that service is provided free of charge.