I find out something interest about this thread. This thread was created 5 years ago. I don't think these samples can reflect to thread poster's skill anymore.
I had to refresh the page a few times to get the banner to load... personally I see nothing wrong with the line through the m and the a.. i see a few people didnt like it the colors i think are great but i think the font its self is not very professional i agree that its kind of halloweenish... HTH ill be interested in seeing how you change it up, if you decide to!! Jessica