To the editor:

This is in response to all the Wal-Mart controversy.

First of all, the people of Lawrence are not 7-1 against a Wal-Mart on the northwest side of town. In case some of you have not noticed, there are many, many new homes in the area between Kansas Highway 10, Iowa Street/McDonald Drive, Sixth Street and Interstate 70.

These people want somewhere to shop. I conducted my own “scientific” survey and found that close to two-thirds of the people do want that Wal-Mart.

Further, Wal-Mart is not in direct competition with downtown, so will not be putting these businesses out the window. (Think high property taxes, high rent, higher cost of providing goods.)

Wal-Mart normally brings in a lot of business to the surrounding retail stores, as it generates many more customers in the area.

Wal-Mart wages are no different than any other entry-level jobs. They are not hiring rocket scientists, for heaven’s sake – just ordinary, everyday nice people. They offer health insurance to part-time as well as full-time employees.

Of course, you must pay your portion as at any job that offers insurance. And it is good insurance.

But, the proof will be in the pudding, so to speak. If no one works there, or shops there, they will leave.

I know whereof I speak, as my husband is a Wal-Mart employee.

Christine Taber,

Lawrence