The Bryan County News is making improvements to the Community section of our Web site, www.bryancountynews.net.

"We’re always looking for ways to improve our newspaper and Web site," News publisher Mark Griffin said. "The change going into effect Sunday will be a big improvement."

Because of the change, the Community section of the site will not be available Sunday morning, possibly from 8 a.m. to noon.

Users will notice a big change in appearance of the Community section. Pictures will be larger and there are more places to go and things to do. It will be easier for users to post pictures, blogs and events into the calendar.

"It’s just a whole lot more attractive and easier to use than the current Community section," News editor Jeff Whitten said.

In addition, the site will allow instant messaging between users online, notifications to users when their blogs have responses, and a rating system so users can post opinions about photographs, other opinions, etc.

"In effect, it’s a social networking site for our community, where users can create groups of friends and have conversations right online," Griffin said.

Some bugs may crop up during Sunday’s transition, according to Pat Watkins, web editor for the News.

"The most likely problems are going to be with readers’ usernames and passwords," Watkins said. "The new system doesn’t have the same protocols as the old system. We think most people’s information will pass in the new system. But there could be a few - just a few, we hope - who have trouble logging in."

An example of the protocol differences is using spaces in usernames and passwords. The new system doesn’t allow them, although if you had spaces in your old username and password they will still be good. New users who register will not be allowed to use spaces.

As with the old site you’ll be able to view much of the content on the new site without logging in. But if you want to participate - post pictures, write a blog or include an event on the calendar - you’ll have to log in. And your existing username and password should get you in to participate.

If you have problems, email webed@bryancountynews.net or call Pat Watkins at 876-0156 on Monday.