Wayne has a very different model. The forums are part of his business strategy, and unless he sold PP I can't see why he'd sell the BBS, as he'd lose control over them.
Most of the sites being bought up started as "fan" sites that caught on. Many were supported by donations and "membership" with minimal ads. Moderators were unpaid and dedicated enthusiasts in the particular content area. Once the corporate deal goes through, people don't want to give their free time to make money for some corporation.
It is interesting because of the gray areas. At what point does a fan site become profitable? At what point does it move to "corporate", and what are the drivers that cause mods to quit and users to flee?
I need to write a paper on this one. Not that I have any experience in BBS land
