I ran a witness server on AWS and while it was fun I totally agree with your ROI. AWS is cheap, but the it scarcely profitable enough to run.
I started using my witness votes organically as I came across folks doing something really cool with or for the platform.
While I think my proxy would be in excellent hands with you @jerrybanfield, I think I'll continue to find witness as I swim around on my minnow tail.
I really appreciate all the Steem Education 🎓!