Quote Originally Posted by basil View Post
I don't think this is an inappropriate question - it's not unheard of for financial support for boards to come from members. And, that way it stays member-owned/member-operated.

I for one am damn glad CSmokers is off the block.
Amen. I would be more than happy to donate. I'm a member of 2 other boards that I have donated.

It was mentioned that (under Jon's rule) the board would stay free with possibly a "members only" section. I don't see how a members only section would be beneficial here. But here's some things that could be upgraded for a paying member.

Avatar Size: offer a larger size
Gallery Space: more space
Profile Picture: we have one now, but make it for only paying members.
Private Message Storage: Larger PM storage
@cigarsmokers.com E-mail Address: nifty!
Attach Images To Posts: only to paying members
Colored Username: special color for donating members
Invisible Browsing: only for paying members
Search Members: this may keep spammers from copying all the names and mass PM'ing

Just something to consider. I wouldn't hesitate to donate with no extra privilages, but these might be somethings that would push a new member to donate.