To the Editor:

I would like to address the latest round of hysteria that has resurfaced in this community in regard to the proposed relocation of Walmart to West Wareham.

1) Auto insurance premiums will go up due to accidents. First of all, question how many accidents and fatalities have occurred at Wareham Crossing since its opening. Secondly, how many accidents over the years have occurred on the Cranberry Highway resulting in death? It would appear to me that people in their cars, unfamiliar with the rules of the road, and most importantly tourists unfamiliar with our roads, are responsible.

2) Increased accidents will tie up emergency personnel. This is utter nonsense brought up by a vivid imagination. I'm sure there is adequate personnel and that citizens of our community are well-protected against any carnage.

3) Consumers from neighboring towns will shop in our town and tie up our streets. I'm sure they don't come here with the intent to tie up our streets. They come here, I imagine, to purchase groceries and spend money at our specialty shops and eat in our restaurants. I'm sure they are concerned about their insurance premiums, as you are. They are here to have a shopping experience and not inconvenience you. They are, in part, tourists, except they are from around here. There are no walls around our town. We are accessible by roads.

4) The super center is not a good thing. Well, that sure is debatable. What is wrong with shopping at one location to purchase your groceries and the items you need to survive these days at a lower cost, which translates to more revenue and additional jobs for our young people?

Let me reaffirm my support for this project. Walmart has earned a chance to succeed at what they do best: providing the consumer an opportunity to save on an expanded line of goods and services, such as a deli and baked goods. More importantly, Walmart promises jobs, more revenue, and a chance for everyone to feel good about saving on their grocery bill.

The criticism of Walmart's proposed relocation seems unfair and cynical. Everything was quiet until the announcement came out. I ask, do you think it is fair to criticize someone or something for trying to make expenses around here more affordable? To make our lives easier?

All we've heard from you people (because it's all about you) is how unbearable it will be for all of us, and I know it is your opinion, and that is your freedom. But some of the criticisms are pathetic fallacies.

Remember, we're all in this life together. When something like this comes along, we must find common ground. Let's find a solution to the problem, not a problem to the solution.

We all have our self interests. Mine are purely economical, like many other people around here. All of the above is wrapped around a plan by a major retailer/grocer to make life better for everyone and better fiscally for themselves, without the cynics being suspicious of their motives.

Arthur Sandland

East Wareham