I didn't get in your post that you were looking for welcome. No where in your OP did you say much about yourself. You even brought up
So you can't blame us for being wary.
AND to be honest I am a little insulted.
IF you are taking over a well established forum wouldnt' you read and lurk a bit first? There are whole threads about us. There is a sticky in the Fire Hydrant about us talking about ourselves and posting pics.
here is a thread with more info
http://chazhound.com/forums/showthread.php?t=82995
I too don't welcome every new member either.
The best way to get to know us is to jump in and join the discussions. Read, argue, join in the crazy chat sessions, post oodles of pics, look at oodles of picks. Make jokes, thread jack when possible, give Hugs and vibes. Shed tears and share laughter. THEN you will know us and we will know you.
We are a pretty good group and I hope you take the time to get to know us (just like all of us had to take time to get to know all the others too)