So is this thread dead?

I read over the requirements on the first post from the admin...

Creating Forum Software will be a big mistake. And do NOT leave MySQL.  There's a reason why its the MOST SECURE DB in the *Nix world.

Install and Pay for VBulletin 4.  Its BULLETPROOF.  Get a bunch of us together for SEO and attractiveness.

The ONLY vulnerabilities you will have is on the Nix side. 

And assuming this is at LEAST a VPS over at Softlayer, we can tighten it more than a Southern Baptist Raised Teenager on her Prom night.

You will regret hand writing a forum when a proven one exists for years. 
I did it once, than the particular programmer who did it, got very upset with me.

I was expected to spend SEVEN FIGURES (and I was preparing to) on obtaining my source code after a disupute.  Its not worth it.
You will not come close to the security and professionalism of VBulletin.

You have my word.