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First off I want to thank Clarity like everyone else here. While everyone wants to tell Clarity it is his site and do what he needs to do I really appreciate the fact that Clarity comes to us first to basically ask permission. That is what makes this site second to none. Despite your issues you go out of your way to confirm this site is run by the people.
Now, about the ads. While staying ad free is/was a noble cause the times we live in prevent that. A website that has grown to this size HAS to cost a ton. Not only money but time by everyone involved. Unless one is independently wealthy it is too much to ask one person to carry that burden.
Also I admire your stance on what had to be sale pitches from advertisers. Seriously this has become the #1 Ohio State site and with the fan base this has to be some serious high pitch salesman drooling at getting this site. A feather in the cap so to speak.
The great part of all of this is you found an advertiser that has the same beliefs as you. Now that sounds like a perfect marriage. The ads at the sites you linked aren't bad. Like you I hate popups and worse are those flash ones that expand to cover the content.
Now about the current situation. I would hate for BP to burden you with any costs at all. It is not right nor fair. If a few banner ads helps generate enough revenue to cover all the costs of BP then you should do it. If it actually gives you more than it costs and gives you something for your pocket than so be it. Consider it reimbursement for all that you have spent to make BP what it is today.
Hopefully in the near future everything will turn around health wise for you. And when that day comes and money is no longer an issue for you maybe that small amount you make from these ads over the costs can then go back into BP to serve the next need like servers or other charitable needs that may pop up that can help BP grow even further.
In summary... do it Clarity. As long as the ads are within good taste and don't dominate the page, do it. Not for you, but to make sure your idea continues on in the future. Because what would be worse is BP having to close or be sold.
Take care and get better.
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