OT - Changing username?

Hi, two quick non-bc questions. Is there a way to change our username (the one that appears in the box to the left of our posts)? It think I remember that at one time, mine was my email address and I didn't want that out there for spammers and Joe offered to change it for me. I'd like to be "Debbie" in that spot but can't find the way to do it myself and it's too trivial a thing to bother Joe with. Is there a way we can change it?

Also, lately I notice that I'm frequently signed out, and having to log back in, to appear as me on this site (like right now, and I posted earlier today). That never used to happen - whenever I came here, somehow it knew me. Do any of you computer-savvy people know how to fix that? I'm not even sure if it's a setting on my computer or on my profile here.

These image verification letters are the hardest I've ever seen! I'm on my third try.

Thanks,
Debbie Laxague