Looks like it to me,too,Don. I've been noticing that,also. Phil

yes they did.
If you look at the top of the forum page, there's a link to something about the new advertising.

Here's the link. You can opt out and instructions are therein.

Here is a link that might be useful: New Advertising Links on GW

Thank you, Melissa. I just opted out. :)

"You will need to Opt-Out again: if you delete your cookies, cache files, buy a new computer, or change Web browsers. The opt-out is only maintained when Vibrant Media can read the opt-out status in the cookie folder."

I don't see any way to opt out of having them pollute one's posts with advertising. Ish.

I realize that is is unfair that we have to download something to prevent this, but if you run Firefox as your browser, you can download the add on "Ad Blocker" and it will block these. I don't see any of the embedded ads anymore, nor those obnoxious banner ads at the top of the page.

Greenmulberry.... I love Firefox and immediately installed Ad Blocker after reading your post.

Unfortunately, I am still getting the bing imbeds AND those hateful banner ads that unfurl. Hmph.

Ok, followup to previous post.

In Firefox after installing Adblock, if you go to Tools > Adblock Plus Preferences, you can add a filter for :http://s0.2mdn.net/*
This will stop the banner ads!

I still had to do the opt-out thing for the imbeds, but it's all good now!

Just my 2cents-

Just curious how much everyone else on average is donating in $ to keep GW running. I haven't donated any $, so while it may be annoying to see highlighted word links and banners - I suppose a free lunch is never without some cost.

I appreciate being able to post and view pictures and converse with like-minded hosta enthusiast.

GW did give an option to opt-out and I thought that was very decent of them. It would be a shame to see these forums disappear due to lack of operating funds.

Paul

Ads across the top and bottom and down the sides are enough, things popping up while you are trying to read a post is just plain annoying.
Pam