Big business just makes no sense sometimes. I agree, donating the supplies would be a much better option, and about the same tax right off I would imagine. I think it comes down to the business version of the golden rule, "he who has the gold makes the rules". My thinking is the powers that be are afraid someone else would profit from the supplies, and they wouldn't get their share. Just my opinion. A petition may be a good idea, let us know how it progresses. We have no Michael's close by, but if you can get an internet version going, I'll be more than happy to add my name to it.