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Yesterday i read in the local newspaper that most of our local charitys are going to be lucky if they get 50% of last year's donations. I really was wondering how this was possible, yeah, I know the whole 9/11 thing, but i really don't think that 9/11 could impact it that much..
Then it dawned on me, I have not seen any bell ringers at the local stores, not a one. Last year they were out in full force the day after Thanksgiving, but this year there isn't a single one, not even the Salvation Army, or the Knights of Columbus, period.
Has anyone else noticed this in their area, or are they out in full force in your neck of the woods?
I read in the news about some bell ringers out there that were fake! They were dressed in Salvation Army uniforms, but, they were collecting for themselves.
There aren't many out around me either. Theres one lady who rings a bell at the grocery store and if she's not there its empty. Its a sad thing to see.
I have seen a few, mostly at WalMart.
But I was disappointed to learn recently that the Salvation Army is having to PAY people to stand and collect for them. No one (they can trust) has any spare time they want to give up. It's a sad day when true charity is waning. On the other hand, many people are sickened to naseau about all the abuse of the government handouts and abuse one's generosity in general.
Some of the larger chains aren't allowing the bell ringers anymore because of occasional harassment of customers. Don't want to anger the customers, ya know....
[updated:LAST EDITED ON 19-Dec-02 AT 04:35 PM (EST)]Ya, I've seen them at Wal-Mart, they are usually so thick you need a machete to get in the door.