It also is not really to read, especially the quote which probably uses a #666666. I only really skimmed the quote so missed a great part of what was quoted.
Yes looks much better. Personally I would not have it iteliced but it looks fine.
I was going to make a general comment though which was that designers do sometimes miss what is the actual function of the site, which in the case of an information site is to read the content. I think therefore perhaps the primary focus should be on making the reading of the content easy. Then, one can design and ornament the site and add beauty and harmony and all else. But sometimes a designer designs for the sake of great design, or so that the site looks good, which does indeed have an effect on the way the site is perceived, its authority, etc., but that effect only lasts a few seconds and wanes very quickly when one starts to read and feels discomfort.
You can see that for example on sites which use a black background and a #666666 font, or those sites which have those tiny square boxes which create real distraction and annoyance when scrolling down. Those things are a sure way to lose return visits or to require really hard work, such as absolutely awesome, very interesting, or perhaps content that I really need to know.
I am not in anyway qualified to make any suggestions whatever, but I just wanted to express that opinion. I have noticed it in other areas as well and not just websites. To make things beautiful is of course desirable, but not at the expense of functionality. For example, all those pictures of different designs that you posted have certain things in common, which is that you can enter through a door, you have windows, you can navigate easily, it is of certain hight. What they have added are in no way related to the actual function of the building, which is of course to house people, but compliment this function by making the outer surroundings more pleasing to look at.
