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...just for the record, I've booked a room in a hostel for the training... it's probably not as conducive to networking at the conference, but will cost 1/4 as much as the recommended hotels...

Sounds to me like a bitter response from someone who didn't get accepted. I didn't get accepted, and I'm happy to contribute to Tony's trip. He's one of the good ones, and I know he'll do a lot of good with the information. And he's already spent a large amount of his time and effort in supporting Habitat for Humanity, and I think he deserves some support.

I don't know you either but your attitude really sucks. Why don't you spend your time doing what you think is right instead of telling others that you think what they are doing is wrong. This is part of the problem in the world. Spending money you don't have and going into debt is another problem in the world. Your issues about money are your issues. Let others who don't have issues around asking for what they need ask. You are not obligated to donate to their trip but why sour it for them and others who feel glad and joyful in donating and supporting his trip and hotel room fees? Congrats to both of you for getting into the training. Why don't you just stretch yourself and try asking your network of friends and family for donations to cover your debt and reap the benefit of receiving love and support from people who care enough about you and what you are doing in the world to support you financially. Just a thought. It may help you have an attitude adjustment and open your heart and mind towards other ways to thinking/being.