You're definitely right @flaversham
The community is one where once you're "in", you're in, the challenging part is getting on the inside, to begin with! I have found the whole process much easier in the Minneapolis area where I live, so I'm taking all the small victories that I can get here.
I'm so embarrassed about my incorrect use of your! I'M A TEACHER! I should probably quit now.
This is what I get for commenting right before bed.
I'm going to edit it right now, so nobody knows my shame.