Several lurking, non-paying-ever, members with single digit post counts chime in to criticise that Karl is taking away the punch bowl.

That there is part of the problem. But TF has always had a few of those who revealed by their comportment, in stark detail, the issues we face.

I know my solution is unpopular, but I moved 4+ years ago and Leviathan gets almost none of my money (wire maintenance cash into accounts occasionally). Also, and this is very telling, overseas life is often NATURALLY more 'Galt' as you must learn to *ahem* garden, repair your own stuff, build it, maintain it, and people get by with far far less.

My TV is sitting behind me, unplugged and covered with a table cloth. Still trying to get someone to take it away. It's a behemoth ~1996, nearly half a cubic yard in volume and weighs ~200lbs.

So that's one solution that you all may try if you wish. It ain't easy, and there are additional issues to work through, but it CAN be done if one commits. Oh, and it takes FAR less cash than you think.