craigdailypress.com

The Craig Good Growth Committee made its first appearance Monday and members of the anti-Wal-Mart group left little question about their goals.

"We want to make sure they know we don't want them here," group member Tana Cook said of the retail giant.

By Tuesday, community members had responded with Daily Press Speak Up and Reader Forum comments, questioning who group members are and what their motives are.

Does it really matter? Members of this group are doing something important -- standing up for what they believe in.

They approached the Craig Planning and Zoning Commission and voiced their opinions about the retail giant moving into our town.

Some people are worried Wal-Mart will put smaller, locally-owned stores out of business. Others are excited for shopping choices in a town that many say is limited in its options.

Whether residents like Wal-Mart or not, there is no arguing that if the company opens a store in Craig, it will greatly change the community.

With an issue as important as Wal-Mart, Craig needs people who take an active role in the future of the town.

We understand some people will refuse to shop at Wal-Mart, while others will be waiting in line to be one of the first through the doors at the store's grand opening.

We expected Wal-Mart's plans to be controversial. And we encourage the Craig Good Growth Committee to continue their mission. We also urge others -- maybe those who want Wal-Mart in Craig -- to get out and do something, too.

Craig City Council and Planning and Zoning Committee meetings are open to the public and audience members are given a chance to speak, so there is plenty of opportunity for the pro-Wal-Mart crowd to voice its opinion.

We suggest residents don't criticize other people for standing up for their beliefs. Rather, take action toward something you feel strongly about.