Mark,

I've heard similar criticisms regarding the cost of Pc courses in the
past. Of course every situation is different, but as far as I
understand it, RDI does not own the land the event is being hosted at.
Commonweal is a non-profit organization that studies illness and helps
people suffering with cancer: http://www.commonweal.org I am sure that
Commonweal's property taxes are high (unless they baought it aeons
ago), but I'm sure they're getting very little of the tuition money
for their own expenses -- mostly they'll be getting lots of free Pc
work on their property done in return for use of the land.

But think about this: for a two-week intensive course taught by three
main instructors, plus about 4 guest instructors, plus all meals for
the two weeks and materials, there really isn't much slush to go
around. Everyone should be paid a fair wage for their work and if
they're helping to insure that Pc knowledge continues to get taught
and shared, all the better.

There may be some work/trade opportunities offred in lieu of a portion
of tuition, but I don't know for sure, so contact RDI directly if you
have any questions.

Many Blessings,
Gryphon


--- In NorCalPermaculture@yahoogroups.com, "Mark A. Craig"
<mark.a.craig@...> wrote:
>
> I wish these things weren't so horrendously expensive; I'd like to
> participate in some of them, and I have ample time to do it right
now. With
> them operating from a 17-acre farm right on the Marin coast
(absolute prime
> real estate), I really have to wonder about their priorities? Is
that why
> the courses have to cost so much, to pay down their extravagant
choice of
> locale?
>
> Are there any workshops like this that are more egalitarian or
hostel-like
> and don't cost an arm and a leg and one's firstborn?
>
> Mark