Well done, Gordi!
Not sure about the black at the moment as I can't see my cursor when I try to place it in the message box. But then, the fact I can't see it then I know it's IN the box!!
Also, it says at the top "All welcome to join but blank applications are not accepted." What blank applications? All I did was join and activate my account and here I am. Nothing else to fill in but my username, email address and password.
Or are you intending to change applications to Admin approval later?
I imagine you'll be reviewing the finer points of the forum later but meanwhile, well done for making the move.