I'm familiar with some background and some of the issues. Unfortunately, what we are faced with is the idea that one group wants to "own" the concept of an Open SSL project. This is certainly not the way to start a successful, open source, group-based project.
Hey, everybody, here is a novel idea: Why don't we look at this as a great opportunity to make some really good free software that will make all of our lives easier. It is time for the free SSL implementation to move into a larger (and more continously updated) group project. OpenSSL is a great idea, a great name for the idea, and it is the right time to do it. So, how about we stop looking at this as a pissing contest between some strong personalities? There are alot of talented developers on this list, and I think that we would all be better off working together than turning into a bunch of bitter, petty, ego driven camps that are primarily concerned with proving how large their genitals are. What I am trying to say is, if (for instance) Ben and Ralph would like to sit down for a pint and make nice with one another, I am buying. Name the pub, in the neutral country of your choice, and we are there. ;-) j.