Mon., Sept. 12
Wal-Mart Redux

Wal-Mart's had its sights set on big cities for years. The retail giant has been vague on specific plans for Boston, but what started as rumors in the Bay State have now coalesced into firmer plans. The retailer is entertaining two possible store sites, one in Somerville, one in Roxbury, and there maybe more in the pipeline. Reaction has been swift and heated.

On one side are small business owners - those who would compete head-to-head with Wal-Mart - and labor leaders worried about workers' rights. On the other, community leaders, and the voices for the under and unemployed, those who welcome a quick infusion of low-skill jobs, and the addition of cheap groceries and goods at low, low prices.

Today we'll hear from both sides of the debate: City Councilor Tito Jackson, who is skeptical about allowing Wal-Mart space to grow in his district; Darnell Williams, President of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts, a cautious supporter of Wal-Mart's efforts; Professor David Merriman, co-author of a study on Wal-Mart's impact on people and businesses in a dense Chicago neighborhood; and Steven Restivo, Director of Community Affairs for Wal-Mart.

We'd like to hear from you, too. Does Wal-Mart belong in your neighborhood? Are you ready for low prices and cheap groceries? Dudley Square business owners, are you worried about Wal-Mart snatching up your customers? Roxbury residents, will this mean the possibility of a new job for you, or is it just another dead-end, bottom-of-the-ladder retail position?