I can't help but think that the true value to the operators of Pinside is the number of members. With all of the new pinball manufacturers, board manufacturers and professional mod developers you would think selling advertising would be the preferred approach... not taxing the free flow of sales between those that are just doing this as a hobby. Nickel and dimeing a hobby forum is usually not a sustainable business plan. That said, I'm sure the OPs have a lot of stress right now since their families are relying on them to make this work... so let's be supportive until they figure out the best approach to monetization. I'm sure nothing is set in stone.