I am both sad and disappointed, but not surprised that in all likelihood we will have a new Super Wal-Mart in Bangor, in addition to the new Super Wal-Mart to be built in Lincoln and the Super Wal-Mart already in place in Brewer.

Unlike other Maine towns such as Belfast, Damariscotta and Nobleboro that have resisted such superstores after witnessing the ill effects that the megastore has on community in general and small business in particular, the rest of us have not been fortunate enough to restrict the size and scope of stores that we include. No one can tell me that a 24-hour superstore that includes a pharmacy and full-spectrum grocery and garden supply departments (in addition to their already cheap, huge supply of other commodities) will contribute to healthy general commerce in the area: that is not Wal-Mart’s plan and, if we’re not very careful, it will not be the outcome.

It is important that we continue to support wonderful small businesses or there will be no place to shop but Wal-Mart. Once there is no competition left, we may discover what we really have to choose from and how low – or high – the total cost of a typical shopping trip will become.

Suzanne Kelly

Bangor