Is China the 'great big box'?
By: Blake Thomas

Coincidence or is China yet to blame for nearly 2000 camels dying from a mysterious illness over these past two weeks in Saudi Arabia? "Veterinary experts say the symptoms indicate cases of poisoning and not an infectious disease, and this accords with what camel owners have said about animal feed they bought," Agriculture Minister Fahd Bilghoneim told a news conference. RIYADH (Reuters)

Is this terrorism or is China simply letting the world know their disdain for man's best friend, children, and now possibly camels? With the recent attacks on our dog and cat food supplies, toothpaste, leadladen toys for kids, and rumored dirty chopsticks, this latest camel scare has the Middle-east concerned. I guess the phrase "I'd walk a mile for a camel" has new meaning now.

If China is to be viewed as the "great big box" store of our planet, I think it's time we stop trying to resolve this problem with their version of customer service. It's time we start doing what most people do when they are not satisfied with a particular restaurant - they just don't go back. Maybe it's time they go back to what they are good at, making firecrackers, and squashing the hope of freedom from their youth like in Tiananmen Square.

I think it's time we as a people stop buying on impulse and start practicing a little more self control when it comes to selecting toys for our children. I can remember when getting a toy was a special event, and a spanking was my reward for every senseless outburst I demonstrated while shopping with Mom or Dad. It's time we put our money back into those companies that are making safe products for our children and pets right here at home. Here are a few companies that are filling the void as we speak.

There's theWhittle Shortline Railroad you can find online at: www.woodentrain. com, and Maple Landmark Toys at: www. maplelandmark.com, and lastly you may find Roy Toy online at: www.roytoy. com. If you're thinking about Christmas shopping this year, then start now. I imagine these companies are small compared to the great toy wall of China. Give them a fighting chance to secure your business by ordering early, so they will have plenty of time to fill your gifts.

As for pet food manufacturers who are proudly based right here in the USA, there are several to choose from. Here are just a few: www.hillbillysmokehouse. com maker of fine all natural dog treats. You can also go to www. whitedogbone.com for an almost mall shopping experience. You may visit my website at: www.blakethomasedtorial. com.