I've read much of the thread. Enough, at least, to know there are no easy solutions to the funding problem. I personally would vote for subscriptions, but understand the downside to that option. Maybe a requirement that all proprietary news articles be linked rather than posted to threads would allow for advertising and subscriptions. Just a thought.
In any case, do whatever you have to do to keep FR running. If it's fundraising - let's get it on. Good luck, Jim. And where's my news, JH? =')
I bow in awe, to your pinging list :o) .. Mary Ann