By being very involved in the sports memorabilia industry I have a different perspective on things than average people who don't buy collectibles that often. For instance, several days ago I went to a charity event in my area and was treated to a nice spaghetti dinner.

The dinner was great, the beer was even better, but what wasn't up to snuff were the autographed pieces of sports memorabilia that were featured in its silent auction. Now, this isn't an isolated instance. I can't even begin to count how many times I've attended a similar event, such as the one I am referring only to see a horrendous Brett Favre signed jersey, pathetic Michael Jordan autographed ball or even an unlicensed piece of some other variety.

Don't get me wrong, charities are holding these events for a great reason most of the time, but if the people in charge are acting irresponsibly by accepting donations with fraudulent characteristics, aren't they defeating the very purpose of their charity in the first place?

Are the "good Samaritans" who are making these "donations" getting tax relief money, or a cut from the charities? And is the charity venue just a way for them to get rid of their "bad" stuff in the process? Hmm...

Well, at least the spaghetti was good.