Honestly I think some people have been trying to bring change to disco by threatening it with the loss of an excellent member. I have been offended and saddened by this behavior. While some have honestly left with RL purposes, others have really left a bad taste in my mouth and I will not be so excited to see them if they return.
I still welcome new players with open arms, whether I have been successful or not (I can't tell since I don't bother to find out their forum names) I think it has helped give a few new players a good experience (who wander into the Omicrons) and given them the direction they need. But I digress, be patient, be understanding and, most of all be mature. Do those things and everything will level again.