I like the creativity though. If you have other ideas on how to keep the lights on, I like your thought processes.
I like that you've stepped up here man, I think you'd be a good fit, so I'll throw my two cents at you.
From what I've picked up the advertising either barely pays the bills or falls short. What about putting the ads on for users logged in? I know it's not that many users, but they probably have a lot more page views than the random visitor. Might make up the shortfall.
If that doesn't cover it, I don't see any way other than donations. Begging is not a sustainable model, but what about offering something in return?
Twitter has the blue check to verify your identity. We're anonymous for obvious reasons, but what if you got some kind of blue check equivalent by your username signifying you're a member who's a vested contributor to this site through donation/subscription. Maybe some other little perks like a larger or gif avatar, or limiting the ratings charm options for non donators.
Nothing to really restrict non donators because you don't want to run off new users, just a little something so people feel like they get something or get recognition for their donation.
Anyways, just some thoughts, thanks for stepping up man, I hope it works out.
