I have been on the list for some months, and lurked for some time before
that.   I probably should know what keeps it going financially. I have been
seeing messages on the subject  recently  but quite frankly don't
understand some of the vocabulary such as "hats" etc.   I gather,  from
these messages, that it works through some combination of volunteer effort
and contributions from members.

Could someone explain in a simple way what the principle is, in very plain
language.   I for one, find the list very useful and generally on topic
(few outbreaks of political ranting about cats, republicans, freedom of
speech aside) and  would like to contribute but don't know how, who to
contribute to, etc.

I suspect that there are others on the list who would like to understand
what our fair share is and how to pay it.