The posters are desperate hanging on for any hope and afraid of backlash if the speak up. It is understandable. I mean if you look it as a job many have put in a long honest hard working resume. That is not something you want to give up when you have dedicated your life to that place. The "Pros" should be enraged though as making everyone "pro" is a slap in the face and devalued your points even more if they are worth anything.
Since we have the originators here, I think they should do something to honor their poster service so they know it was appreciated. Post count probably isn't an option but I am sure a badge and years of service would be possible??