Quote - Personally, it's film and I think if some of the old masters were alive they would agree.

 

I'm old-ish :), not a master, but I have worked extensively (shooting and developing) with both PLUS-X and TRI-X Pan Kodak films.  In my opinion, these films provide the best overall results for shooting in black and white.  I always preferred TRI-X for its grain as well as to be able to push it quite a bit.  PLUS-X is much finer grain, better for studio work.  The last time I checked, TRI-X was still the number one choice for film-shooting photojournalists.

Whether or not film B&W can be mimicked by digital WITHIN the camera is certainly debatable (I personally don't feel it can be), but I believe if one has a good grasp of Photoshop one can do a fairly decent job of coming close using various filters or actions.

Quote - I decided to continue shooting film as long as they still make it and I have the gear. I don't think film will be obsolete in my lifetime.

I would agree with your statement; I don't think film will disappear anytime soon.  However, it will, if it hasn't already, fall into the niche or specialized categories of photography.  There is no denying digital reigns supreme now.  And for consumers, this means a much lower cost of ownership over the life of the camera.  But to this day, Arizona Highways Magazine will not accept digital submittals, even from the best Canon.

If there is anything good about all of this, you can get decent 35mm film cameras now for cheap...sans the film processing cost.

Quote - Right now I have one wish about digital. To buy just ONE digital body that is NOT obsolete or the value doesn't depriciate 50% as soon as you open the box.

Ahhh...but isn't it that way with everything?  :)

Gearheads will fret over a camera being obsolete or will spend thousands more on two more megapixels as soon as the camera hits the shelves.  Does it make them better photographers?  No.  Never.  Just like a fast, snazzy sports car doesn't make you a better driver.  It does, however, place you in a lot of debt.

And those who ignore the megapixel wars and focus on skill instead will produce outstanding photographic results while not sending themselves into financial chaos :)

@Chris:  You'll have a lot of fun in the darkroom!  But hold your nose!