I'm not sure the ads alone help pay for Mudcat. I think maybe you clicking on them does.

I've had AdBlock Plus on my computer since I first noticed the ads slowed it down unbearably. I still have a browser without AdBlock on it in case I want to see them.

I think Max would be happy if he didn't need the revenue from them. Until he doesn't, we can choose to either find a solution for ourselves or complain. One of those actually makes one's experience better.