Paul - Posting this here as I could not post a reply to your News Announcement, even though the thread is unlocked. Here's my reply to your message:
Thanks for all you continue to do!

Just a couple of note on this mornings access steps when I signed in about 8:30 local time.

The main forum page opened immediately when I clicked on my favorite link in Firefox (latest version).
When I clicked on the Sign In button, I got 403 - You don't have permission... 3 different times before finally getting the sign in page to open. I had to go back to the main forum page each time as just hitting refresh continued the 403 response.
After entering my info in the sign on page and hitting the sign in button, I also got 403 - You don't have permission... response twice before the server let me in on the third attempt. Again, had to go back to the Sign In page, where my info was still entered and clicking the sign in button again.
Other than this post, I haven't attempted any other activity. Will see what does or doesn't happen and report back more later.
Very glad you've blocked the bots. Hoping you can figure out these remaining glitches without tearing your hair out.

Dan