Supercenter would affect Ronan, too

Editor,

Please do not think for one minute that this new Wal-Mart Supercenter is just a Polson problem. If you do, you are badly mistaken.

How many of you remember when they opened the existing store? I sure do. I had a music store inside my video store that I ended up selling out because people would rather drive to Polson to save $1. I ended up taking a loss of $10,000.

I have a business in Ronan, so I shop Ronan when at all possible. Do you remember when we could buy sheets and towels in Ronan? How about women's shoes or a dress?

I, too, miss the dress shops that were once in Polson. I do enjoy having Yogi's and Jackie M's for quality and Dr. Ofstad. With a super store will they still be with us?

So the next time you see a new business come into town that sends their money out of town to a corporate headquarters, think about your real local business person that has been here all along. Think about how hard that person works to keep in business and to earn your dollars.

When you hit a pay per view movie for $3.99 where does that money go vs. $2.50 for a movie rental? Or Netflex vs. Ronan, Montana?

The reason I ask you these questions is, where are these people when you are out asking for donations for different community groups?

They are not the ones giving to anyone, we are. So, folks, the only way we can give is if we are supported, and that means shopping at home and with the people on the frontline that call you by your name — the ones that know your family, your kids, and are there when times get tough.

Rhonda Emerson

Owner, Video Plus

Ronan