> PS: just because Firebird itself is free, doesn't mean you have to
> take it for free - everyone, everywhere needs money and there
> are several ways to sponsor Firebird, so, that in the future, your
> favourite database engine will stay without license fees, but is continued
> as well.

Right, and the magic word is "FirebirdSQL Foundation". If someone
wants to support the Firebird project in an financial way, then
go here. http://www.firebirdsql.org/ff/foundation/

Your membership/sponsoring will be much appreciated!

Thomas
(Committee member of the FirebirdSQL Foundation) ;-)