Thanks for the vote. While you said this:

To be honest, I think both your linked witness thread and this post/QA are rather weak and IMHO the cost of a solid node, and its failsafe setup, shouldn’t be used as a call to gain votes

It is far from weak. Losing more than $100 a month, for multiple months is not weak. It shows a dedication to the task and your long term goals. It should be seen as a sign of long term strength to continue to persevere into what you believe in...

If I do end up into a profitable position, I have no problem paying some of that forward in the way of promotion, contests, and giveways, much like I've done before. :)