I would check your spam filters. It appears a majority of the members received the e-mail.
The e-mail basically says you have to opt-in to view the Dog Pound and The Alley.
As far as the donations... Right now, it's just a way to donate to help with the costs involved with running Big Dog Biker. I gave the options of being a supporter for 6 months, 1 year or the option to donate more if you so desired. Since the forum expenses are on going, I set it up so donations are on going.
I'm looking at what a friend did with his Vette site and will probably implement some of what he's doing. As it stands today, there is nothing special other then the tag of being a supporting member.
Now, being a supporting member in no way allows you to step outside of the rules, nor does it mean those who decided not to donate will be restricted in anyway.