Konstantine,
you were surprised that people would pay for this Board.
It’s the only Internet site I have ever paid for. This is because of the quality of the posters and moderating. I like having grown-up discussions with people who know what they are talking about!
You mentioned earning around $40,000 a year - I don’t know your financial circumstances, but I can’t believe one needs that much to pay the SDMB fees.
For your interest, I live in the UK. I don’t have a car :eek: , but do pay about $150 a year to watch the BBC output on TV.