Hi Richard,
The latest version of 8 (8.1....not to be confused with 8.01) was released the first week of October. It truly is an awesome program. I have been a user since version 5 and it is the only graphics program that I use, though I have several of the others.
I was a private beta tester for version 8, but I am still learning things about the program that escaped me during the testing phase. I must admit I felt a little out of my element because most of the other testers were quite knowlegeable about the program http://www.talkgraphics.com/images/smilies/frown.gif
I will do my best to answer any questions you may have, and if I can't I will try and point you to someone who might be able to help.
Carolyn