This is about a local "charity organization" known as "Community Aid". Lately, I've noticed a distinct lack of knick-knacks which many people like and collect (i.E., "Made in Japan" items, old glass (not antique, just old), attractive pictures, old furniture (again, not antique), etc. Well, I recently found out from another customer they apparently take these items and sell them online at higher prices. My beef is that ALL these items are donated by community members with the idea that these items will be sold to other members of the community at reasonable prices. Unfortunately for him, the owner has quite an unsavory reputation within the community and apparently with his minimum wage employees. This organization purports to be a non-profit entity. There are several disturbing rumors I've heard from various people regarding fraudulent charges stemming from the owners' previous employment at a local car dealership which apparently fired him. Further, I've heard this guy takes multiple frequent vacations - hmm, these cost quite a bit of $, especially since this guy was fired from his last job. That's quite a feat and a very quick financial recovery, especially in this economic climate. This organization states it makes donations to several worthy local charities, religious organizations, food pantries, and others in the community that are in need of assistance. I feel this is commendable and feel comfortable donating items on a frequent basis - just about every month, many of which are fairly new and all are clean and saleable. Of course, I also shop there, further supporting the store and the community. This is a small town where many residents have resided all their lives and everybody seems to know everybody, including this store owner, so I kind of feel where there's smoke there's quite often the proverbial fire. I have no dog in this race but I certainly am resentful that these on-line auctions take place instead of giving back these items to other members of the community. I can't quite believe nothing shady is taking place. There's getting to be quite a lot of talk in this area and many are noticing this shift in the store.
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