yes the forum has changed over the last few years and things might seem to be dying down but it actually means things are growing and expanding.
The hobby is in a fractured state. With more interest new ways of reaching more people was inevitable. Facebook, Instagram....etc.
So the big group that was all gathered up in great forums like this one has now branched out into new forms of exposure.
I know, it sucks in a way. I miss the way things were 3-4 yrs ago on this site but also cool to see what is happening with the hobby in the big picture.
Also sad I find myself on a hobby leave of absence so to speak probably till spring

it's hard to be going full throttle for 4 yrs and suddenly slam on the brakes and come to a complete stop as I have!

short term pain for long term gain but don't make it any easier I tell ya.
No matter what, I'm a die hard RCTC fan and will always stay here and look forward to the new growth and builds I'm sure we will see here again in the future.