Provide wait list notification options

I have not been able to get the waitlist functionality working. When all users register, they are automatically placed on the wait list, but receive no notification. Registration status is always open no matter how many are registered. On the registration form there is a drop down for State that has one option "Waitlist" which is selected.
I see this works for other people, and I don't see anything wrong in the setup after days of hunting and trying things. I suspect some other module is effecting it. I tried a number of other module combinations before realizing that the whole thing is in one module. Yaworski's for one.... using node references and EVA.
I've also applied 2 patches I found here.

Do these clues point to anything for you experts?

Registration status is always open no matter how many are registered.
When all users register, they are automatically placed on the wait list.
Receive no wait list notification.
Registration form drop down for State has one option "Waitlist" which is selected.

This will be an awesome feature if I get it working.
Thanks/Regards, Phil Wetzel