It's dependent upon number of posts (chit chat doesn't count.) Also, premium members pay a monthly fee of $5 to help defray the costs of keeping the forum running. This is strictly voluntary, and does not neccessarily confer any more say in how the forum is run. Obviously, some of us have been here longer, and Steve may have more respect for our opinions due to a proven track record of sensibility, but the ultimate decisions are his alone.