I found this information. WAY over my head but it might be helpful.
https://www.toptal.com/php/a-utf-8-primer-for-php-and-mysql
Also, I am wondering if database specs come into play here. I recall a few years ago my server gods changed my dedicated server's database configurations and I had to address that on php pages. Too long ago to recall details though.
Can any database gurus shed light on this? Is there any relationship between the upper case change and server set up for db?
I am preparing to migrate my server to a new machine in a few months so trying to anticipate all changes needed for WA pages.
The information I received from server gods is this:
~~~
We checked the server and I could see that the server is having MySQL version 10.2.44-MariaDB. Please note that some MySQL functions and methods that are supported in older versions of MySQL are not supported in newer versions. So, the applications that are using such deprecated functions will not work properly after the MySQL upgrade.
~~~~~
About 6 months ago, Ray said he didn't see any problems.
Any thoughts most welcome.