Merchz and Donations for Smokin Mils

I see a lot of posts that lead me to believe that if I donate 4.99 here, I will have access to the 1 month membership on Merchz. Would I be correct in assuming that? If not, how does that all work?

The VIP Member Status thread lists one month as $5.99, but yes. You would have one month of membership. VIP here = VIP there and vise versa.

Awesome, those who have had it, what time of the year do you guys see it as most beneficial. I know the market is going to decrease with summer ending (Doesnt mean money still cant be made) but do you see one time better than another?