Wow, I haven't heard of nerds getting bilked like this since the Wallet Inspector scam of 93'!

While I'm not involved with the local event either this year, I should reiterate what Mike told you. Portland's event is made all the more secure because in addition to simply having always been run professionally and above-board, last year and this year the events are at a venue which itself is owned by a non-profit whose cash flows are professionally maintained. There really is no danger here in Portland. (That's actually my position in general when it comes to the CSTS events around the world this year, but we definitely need to communicate here at home, as it were, that Portland's event is sound.)

UPDATE. Well, at least now we know where the money went. Once again, back to b!X, who seems to be keeping a much-needed eye on the behind-the-scenes dealings of the Can't Stop the Serenity movement: http://www.furiousnads.com/2008/06/the-coincidences-in-denver/