paid version expiration

[ambiotic]

I bought Pro version 4.26.0001 about a year or so ago. Soon after, I was able to freely upgrade to 4.8.1.
Very recently, I had to reinstall my entire pc (Windows XP pro). I installed the 4.26.001 copy that I bought, went to the Limewire website to get the 4.8.1 version. It turns out that, even though I have the same email address, Limewire no longer recognizes my email address as valid. Therefore, I can't get the version 4.8.1 that I am entitled to.
Is this typical of Limewire's treating of paying customers?
ALSO, I keep getting this annoying message (upon Limewire startup) that a new version (that I must pay for) is available. I am content with not upgrading to the MOST RECENT version. I perceive this a Limewire crippling my version which I paid for.
Is this typical of Limewire's treating of paying customers?

This all seems very shodding and disrespectful to me.
I hope a Limewire admin sees this posting and responds. Otherwise, my money is going elsewhere next time.

Andrew