Perhaps a better layout to position the Ads on each page would be, after it's size is firstly reduced by 30%/ 50%, an Ad should be placed/inserted after the 2/ 3 newest posts/topics, rather than on top of each page. Just 2 cents!
I agree -- I tend to ignore ads...that look like...ads. If it was smaller, and in between (very relevant) posts...then I'm more naturally poised to check it out. (i can't believe i'm giving you advice on how to improve/place ads -- i hate ads )
There are well known statistics when it comes to ad placement. Large ads near the top of the page perform best.
Getting all of the advertisers on board with dimension changes and page position changes is incredibly difficult, and considering I just went through that whole process late last year, it's not something I'm really craving to do again.
I have an idea. Use Google Adsense banners ads in the Chit Chat forum. Presently there is no sponsors for Chit Chat. The content of the posts will dictate the ads displayed, and a simple PHP script can be used to randomly switch from Google Adsense to the current ads being displayed now.
A PHP script would randomly switch from Google Adsense and the current ads whenever the page is re-loaded. Some Chit Chat threads and the Google Adsense banner ads that would be displayed: EMG Brewery and Pizzeria = Brewery and pizza ads. Do you think GoPros are worth the cost? = Camera ads. Ferrari crashes in LA = Car ads, travel to LA ads