Thanks for your comments. Lately "T" has been asking for more money, claiming there are already 600 supporting members. I'm definitely not sending any money now, but do feel some concern that whoever does will end up with a bad impression of what communities are.

I know its not my responsibility to "defend" the reputation of communities, but still .....Its already difficult enough for honest thoughtful people to start and nurture communities. That's partly due to a common fear of "cult" around the idea of communities, which makes it harder for sincere folks to be attracted to and commit to community living. "T" seems to justify those fears. Any ideas of what the ethical thing to do is? Or are communities just like mainstream society where "caveat emptor" reigns supreme?