It is not my habit to 'ventilate' my frustrations, especially in a
group as large as the MMD.  I write this in the hope that what I have
to say will save at least one member of the group from experiencing
what has happened to me.

I ordered some merchandise from a firm which specializes in esoteric
musical instruments from all over the world.  They are headquartered in
the state of California.  I am going to avoid using their name for
obvious reasons.

When I ordered the merchandise by phone, I was assured that the
products would be shipped the next day.  I paid for the purchases with
my credit card.  The merchandise has never arrived; yea, it has never
been shipped.

    "We have a firm policy of NEVER giving a shipping date." (Their
quotation with their emphasis).

In short they are using my money to run their business.  They would
give me no date as to shipment.  A call to my credit card company
revealed that my card was charged the amount the very next day after
the order.

I was also informed by the company that if I refused the parcel at the
post office and it was returned, I would still be charged for the
merchandise regardless.  Even the lady at the credit card company found
this difficult to believe.

Will I get credit or will I get my merchandise?  That is anyone's guess.
Just thought a word in all of your ears might keep you from dealing
with this firm, unless YOUR dealings have been perfectly harmonious.
If that is the case, congratulations.

Ed Gaida