With respect to the OP and other threadians...
Apologies for being slightly off topic with this
political-consumer commentary...
I have to concur with Wisebeardman, the Dollar Stores are nothing more than outlets for toxic, poorly crafted Chinese rubbish that didn't sell at a profit, or were passed over by semi-reputable American stores due to their substandard manufacturing...which will most likely end up in an American landfill, poisoning/trashing our country even more than it already is.
Yes, I know America is a complete MESS, however, adding to a pile of litter that is already there seems a little like a "two wrongs make a right" mentality. Even though your neighbor is buying Walmart/Chinese rubbish like
there's no tomorrow, it doesn't mean that
we, as
responsible Christian Americans, are required to.
Every little bit does make an impact, whether for good or bad.
I find that even though I despise what American society has become, and I don't put the faith in American craftsmanship that it once had, I have to consider what the alternative is. That alternative IS
supporting China and their policies.
These are dated, yet eye opening videos regarding the Chinese Corporation.
[video=youtube;xiey7UzW6zs]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiey7UzW6zs[/video]
Chinese soldiers shot Tibetan Refugees - YouTube
Is this corporation really who you want to do business with?
It does take some effort finding American made products, and they are generally twice as expensive, however, I have found on my quest, that most things are available with USA branding (or at least Mexico/Taiwan/Korea/Europe), and if they aren't, they may be something you really don't
need, or something you can manufacture yourself.
WARNING: China is now deceptively (and legally) stamping "USA" on some of their products. Products MUST be stamped "Made in USA" not just "USA" for them to be legitimate USA crafted wares.
If you are an American and wish to make a stand for what is right,
VOTE WITH YOUR DOLLAR.
You may lose the
election but at least you
VOTED.
On a side note, try making it through
this speech without shedding a tear at how far we've fallen.
Chief Seattle Speech
Peace and love to you all,
P.