Column expressions was one of the most useful and versatile nodes. I know this is the reason why they removed it, because most of the functionality is covered by other nodes (but not all!). It’s easier for newer users to use the more basic nodes, but I vastly prefer to use Column Expressions. Being able to define multiple expressions within the same node all at once allows for much simplified workflows. Removing it is vastly overcomplicating my workflows.
Realizing that I can’t use if statements in the String Maniupulation node is the last straw. Using Ifs within expressions is by far the best way to handle conditionals within Knime; all the options with other nodes are so confusing. Can they add if statements into the String Manipulation node?