[optrex]

I'm afraid that's the difference between running a free forum and running one that is purchased, requires license renewals, a database back-end, backups, updates, hosting.........

Having a business outlook to promoting your forum doesn't necessarily mean it makes money (or even profit). These things are paid for by either donations or more often than not, out of the owners own pocket and are usually run for the love.

There is a huge difference between covering costs and making money from people and it should be noted that OW does not request money or even have a donation facility.

Likewise offering a link back to any website is a matter of choice for the owner and they shouldn't have to justify that decision.