Some who read this are already aware of the abrupt disappearance of Group M35, but I feel it is necessary to address the photographic community as a whole concerning the events that have unfolded in recent months.In November of 2003, Charles Clark and myself began what was to eventually become Group M35, quite literally, in our living room. The intent was to build a place for those of us who took great care and pride in our work. A community where an artist could feel at home and find support from like minded photographers. It was our goal to provide a place for the work that does not belong in the archive of Corbis or Getty.The result, unfortunately, bares little resemblance to the original idea. The dishonest and fraudulent practices of Charles Clark while at the helm have destroyed the aspirations of a talented group of individuals. It has been made overwhelmingly clear that Group M35 is no longer and in fact never was a viable entity. The New York and San Francisco studios has been shutdown, and nearly all of the members have resigned, and their respective material returned.I cannot help but feel responsible for the current state of things. Many of the issues that have lead us to this point I have been aware of for sometime. I wanted to believe that we would one day be a successful self-sustaining organization. Unfortunately, that desire blinded me to the reality of the situation, and like the rest of those in the group, I had no idea just how deep the rabbit hole really goes. I only wish that I had voiced my opinion earlier. Perhaps much of what we are now dealing with could have been avoided.I am ashamed at what has become of the agency, and appalled by the manner in which all of you have been treated by Charles Clark. You have been cheated by the very person who was entrusted to protect you. Your generosity, your trust and your work has been taken advantage of, and for that there is no excuse. I offer all of you my most sincere apologies for the catastrophe that this has become. I hope that we can put these unfortunate events behind us and that some good may come out of the relationships made in the last three years.Perhaps the most disturbing fact, this is not the first racket that Charles Clark has pulled on un-suspecting photographers. His sociopathic and destructive behavior goes back decades and is well documented. I urge all of you out there in the industry, spread the word, and steer clear of this individual.I wish all of the former members and visitors to groupm35.com the best, and thank you for your support and dedication to the group. Once more I offer my deepest apologies for all that has transpired.Sincerely,Joseph SzymanskiFormer Member, Group M35 / Webmaster, www.groupm35.com