Patronizing Wal-Mart does not identify a person with an economic or social class. If Walsh's visits there made her feel inadequate or compromised, perhaps she needs a good therapist to discuss personal insecurity or ego issues. It is a misperception to believe that shopping at Wal-Mart is politically incorrect or beneath one's self. This idea sets a foundation for other wrong ideas, such as class division and bigotry.

Globalization and “homogenization of the American marketplace” strengthen our country as exports and imports are traded around the clock. Those who disagree should remember this was an integral part of their argument for a “one world economy” as far back as the early 1980s. Consumers like Walsh who cry about the demise of “Mom and Pop” stores in phony nostalgia never honestly supported them in the first place.

Wal-Mart on the east bench should be applauded. I'll bet Walsh will be in line on opening day - behind dark glasses, of course, and paying cash.

Mark Edwards

Salt Lake City