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Syrinx Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:06 AM
Original message
do you ever shop at WalMart?
I admit it. I do.

I hate some of their policies. I really do.

If I had a lot of money, I would never shop there.

But I don't, so I do, because I can get about twenty to thirty percent more stuff for what I spend.

I hate WalMart for their employment policies. But their policies aren't that much worse than Food World or (especially) Winn Dixie. (Publix is new here, and I haven't checked their policies out yet.)

I'm just trying to stay afloat. I hate WalMart, but I still shop there. :crazy:

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rcrush Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:11 AM
Response to Original message
1. Yeah I try not to...
But sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do in hard times.
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brer cat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:26 AM
Response to Original message
2. No, I haven't shopped there for several years
I shop thrift stores and have a good garden. If you have corn, beans and peas on the table you don't need meat.
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silverojo Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:29 AM
Response to Original message
3. You pretty much explained why I shop there - n/t
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newfie11 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:35 AM
Response to Reply #3
4. Same here n/t
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Maru Kitteh Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:39 AM
Response to Original message
5. Yes.
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lamp_shade Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:46 AM
Response to Original message
6. Yes I do.
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shaniqua6392 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:48 AM
Response to Original message
7. I pretend they don't exist and never go there.
I just have to work a little harder and go to a few more stores. It is possible where I live to find plenty of bargains elsewhere. I know that is not possible for people who live in other parts of the country though. I can take the fliers from the local companies that I get in the mail and make my menu and grocery lists for the week. Then I usually pop into two stores on the average each week to get what I need.
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cboy4 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:50 AM
Response to Original message
8. Far be it from an imperfect person like myself to
ridicule Walmart shoppers. I'm serious.

I'm already on record as saying I absolutely don't blame anyone for shopping at places they need to shop in order to help makes ends meet.

I think it's despicable the way many progressives and Democrats treat those who shop and work at Walmart .. particulary in some of the vulgar, nasty posts you see on DU (and will end up seeing in this thread, I'm afraid.)

I completely understand your situation Syrinx. :pals:
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ProfessorGAC Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:19 AM
Response to Reply #8
14. Got Your Back, cboy
People have to do what they have to do without taking slings and arrows from the purity police.
GAC
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cboy4 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:22 AM
Response to Reply #14
18. Purity Police.
Excellent description, even though a more appropriate description might be Purity A-holes.

These are some selfish-ass people.
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DainBramaged Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:17 AM
Response to Reply #8
66. Shopping at WalMart supports their Anti-American anti-labor policies
go to a WalMart parking lot and gaze on the acres of Foreign cars and you'll understand the problem America has. Cheap crap from overseas, which is why we are shedding jobs at such a furious pace, we barely make anything Americans will buy if it isn't cheap crap.
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ferrous wheel Donating Member (352 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 03:56 PM
Response to Reply #66
98. So who is to blame? People ask for it, they sell it.
You hate them because they provide what most people want???
That's pretty stupid.
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ProudToBeBlueInRhody Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:42 AM
Response to Reply #66
105. Um, couldn't I go to ANY parking lot and see that?
Toyota.....Honda.....I know....such shitty cars. :eyes:
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Syrinx Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:37 AM
Response to Reply #8
102. thanks man!
I appreciate it! :hi:
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:53 AM
Response to Original message
9. I learned to never say never.
Edited on Tue Feb-10-09 06:00 AM by sandyj999
I have always hated their policies toward their employees and said that I would NEVER shop there, but I do now. In fact I am a retired Target employee which makes it even worse but it's all about saving money. There are some things I won't buy there such as clothing because I don't think the quality is there.

And I will add that I don't run into crabby employees or people that don't look happy and generally if a place is rotten to work for it will show in one way or another. Everyone is helpful and pleasant so I can't believe they are too miserable.

When I can buy an item for $5.00 less at Walmart than Target and it's the identical item, you bet I'll shop there!

And I will add that "right now" things are okay for us but I learned you never know what tomorrow will bring so save the money while you can.

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4lbs Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:55 AM
Response to Original message
10. Only when I absolutely have to do so. However, my mother, to my dismay, loves going there
several times per month.

On the other hand, my father, hates going there because he grew up pro-labor/union and despises the way they treat their employees.

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DUlover2909 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 05:58 AM
Response to Original message
11. I stopped shopping at Wal-Mart.
I live in Pasadena, TX. We have one of the super-Wal Marts that has everything. I discovered, by shopping around, that their food isn't that cheap. Food Town is cheaper. Dollar stores often have cheaper commodities like toilet paper and dish detergent. Target is comparable when buying clothes and other things like appliances, video games, CD's, and Christmas cards. If you look around nowadays, other places offer prices that are very competitive to Wal Mart, if not actually cheaper. Food Town Natural Light six-pack is $3.79 and Wal Mart sells for $4.14. That's off the top of my head. I don't step foot in Wal Mart any more. The lines are long and checking out takes alot longer than other places. Fuck Wal Mart.
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izquierdista Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:05 AM
Response to Original message
12. A horrible place
I only shop there as a last resort. After Target, KMart, Big Lots, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Harbor Freight, Food4Less, Fallas Paredes, Marshall's (and Mervyn's before they closed), Burlington Coat Factory, Stein Mart, and Payless Shoes. If none of those place have what I want, and after checking the thrift stores and dumpster diving at the mall, I might take a look and see if they have it at Wal-Mart.

And after dumpster diving, I'm pretty much cleaner than if I spent the same amount of time in a cruddy, dirty Wal-Mart store. ALWAYS.
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K Gardner Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:33 AM
Response to Reply #12
42. Ditto here. n/t
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lame54 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:59 AM
Response to Reply #12
59. Here's a tip on the best dumpsters...
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summer borealis Donating Member (244 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:09 AM
Response to Original message
13. Never
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Bobbieo Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:20 AM
Response to Reply #13
15. I shop at Wal-Mart because it is only 8/10th of a mile from my carporte.
In these days of outrageous gas prices why would I shop anywhere else? I wish Frys were closer BUT it is not.
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Squatch Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:20 AM
Response to Original message
16. Since they stopped selling guns, no.
They always had good deals on guns, but since my local WM stopped selling them, I don't go back.
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ferrous wheel Donating Member (352 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 03:55 PM
Response to Reply #16
97. Really? The one by me still does. (I shop there because the next closest store
is 45 miles away.)
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LostinVA Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:21 AM
Response to Original message
17. Not for well over a dacade -- they have destroyed A,erican manufacturing
And, their employment practices are odious. Even my Republican Dad doesn't. Winn Dixie, Harris Teeter, etc. ARE better re: employment.

And, they honestly are NOT cheaper. This is honestly a myth. They ahve a few loss leaders and that's it.

Even when I was very, very poor I didn't. Even now, when I am shabbily genteelly white collar, I shop at places with much better quality food way cheaper. Wal Mart meat is graded very, very low, for example.
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:09 AM
Response to Reply #17
21. I agree about the food.
The day I came home with microwaveable peas and discovered they were from Thailand that did it. We don't grow peas here? But I shop their loss leaders and then go elsewhere for the rest. I am up on prices and I know what is a good buy and what isn't.
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eShirl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:28 AM
Response to Reply #17
24. consistently 20% cheaper on average for non-perishables & frozen foods, in my experience
their "fresh" vegetables and fruits don't last as long as the regular supermarkets', though

I haven't worked up the courage to try their "fresh" meats
(even their live lobsters look grody compared to the regular supermarkets')
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:45 AM
Response to Reply #24
29. The meat can stay there and yestereday they had shrimp that looked anemic.
But for name brand frozen food I have no problem. You just have to know your prices..
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LostinVA Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:49 AM
Response to Reply #24
51. Much cheaper places to shop tahn Wal-Mart for food, unless you luve in the boonies
I don't live in the city -- I am stradding the suburbs and rural.
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Behind the Aegis Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:52 AM
Response to Reply #51
109. Interestingly enough, that is not so here.
Where we are, the local grocery store, Rouse's, is MUCH more expensive than Wal-Mart. There used to be a fantastic food store three blocks from my house...Katrina took care of that (well, the looters did). Supposedly, the French Market is supposed to start selling fresh foods again, but they have been saying that for over a year now. They finally renovated it...looks really good.
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pnutbutr Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:41 AM
Response to Reply #17
47. Dickies
clothes are made in America as is the Walls work wear that many Wal-Marts sell. I have no problem buying those products from Wal-Mart but do try to avoid most everything else unless there is a sale that's too good to pass up on something I really need. Every couple of months they try to get rid of old inventory and will have really good sales.
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LostinVA Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:51 AM
Response to Reply #47
52. Wal-Mart is NOT a "Buy American" store at all -- they ruined the US textile industry
Almost single-handedly. It's why my Dad won't shop there. Many other places sell things like Dickies for teh same or cheaper.
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pnutbutr Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:55 AM
Response to Reply #52
54. I was just saying
that they do still sell some American made products and I buy them because they are actually cheaper there than anywhere else I can find them in my area.
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tavalon Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:31 AM
Response to Original message
19. I still have the ability to choose to shop elsewhere and I do
I understand those that can't.
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liberal N proud Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 06:47 AM
Response to Original message
20. I get a discount at Wal-Mart
So I almost have to.
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Papagoose Donating Member (361 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:21 AM
Response to Original message
22. Not when I have a choice
But where I live, there isn't much of a choice.

I try to do most of my shopping during the week on my lunch break - I work 50 miles from home near a good shopping area. I live near a Walmart, a Home Depot (even worse than Walmart perhaps!) and a gas station, but nothing else.
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Zywiec Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:26 AM
Response to Original message
23. All the time. It's the cheapest and most convenient
Why would I go anywhere else to spend more on the exact same toothpaste, laundry detergent, or soap?
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:49 AM
Response to Reply #23
50. I agree, That's smart shopping.n/t
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Raven Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:35 AM
Response to Original message
25. I do, once and awhile, and I can never shake the feeling that I
am going to get stopped and searched on my way out. :eyes:
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Syrinx Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:41 AM
Response to Reply #25
104. yeah, I hate that
They make you feel like a potential criminal, instead of a "valued customer." Come to think of it, that really pisses me off. Still, I put up with, because if I didn't, it would cost me money that I can't afford. Pretty sad, isn't it?
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a kennedy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:35 AM
Response to Original message
26. No I don't, I won't and I NEVER will......
that about sums it up for moi. :patriot:
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proud2BlibKansan Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:36 AM
Response to Original message
27. Very seldom
Fortunately I have options. And many stores here have better prices and higher quality merchandise.
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ogneopasno Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:42 AM
Response to Original message
28. No. I don't buy a lot of stuff anyway. Stuff I might get at Wal-Mart -- dog food, toilet paper,
and so on -- I can get at the grocery store for about the same price.
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Tracer Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:53 AM
Response to Original message
30. No, I don't.
The idea of walking into the nearest WalMart and being blasted by the smell of rancid popcorn makes me sick just thinking about it.

A few years ago, I happened to be driving by the SmellMart and needed some mulch, so I went to their garden section. As a gardener, I was appalled by the awful condition of the plants. Dried out and dying. I bought the mulch, and that's the last time I set foot in there.

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Kahuna Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 07:54 AM
Response to Original message
31. Uh.. No. Why? I realized a long time ago that it is more prudent to
spend a little extra on merchandise because quality lasts longer. You buy something cheap and then wonder why it breaks down right away. So, you didn't really save money because you will have to replace it right away. To me, buying cheap is pound wise, but penny foolish.
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Romulox Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:07 AM
Response to Original message
32. There's no magic to the "savings" at Wal Mart: crap selection, poor service, inferior goods. nt
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Kahuna Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:26 AM
Response to Reply #32
38. Right. You don't save money buying cheap goods that you will need
to replace in the immediate future when it breaks down.
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Romulox Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:33 AM
Response to Reply #38
43. Americans are taught that "the cheapest" MUST be "the best deal".
The failure to teach even basic (home) economics is one of school system's primary failures, imo.
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Kahuna Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:52 AM
Response to Reply #43
53. By experience I've learned that I actually save money by paying more up front. nt
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Romulox Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:33 AM
Response to Reply #38
44. Dupe, sorry. nt
Edited on Tue Feb-10-09 08:33 AM by Romulox
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Syrinx Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:44 AM
Response to Reply #32
106. I'm talking about groceries
Staples. Milk and bread and flour and canned soup. Stuff like that. They are way cheaper than the other stores on stuff like that. Really, twenty to thirty percent cheaper. I can't ignore that.
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durablend Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 08:09 AM
Response to Reply #106
112. Depends on the area...
Bread is substantially higher at Smiley Mart here than at most of the surrounding supermarkets. Many other things like soda and detergent you can also find cheaper than what seems to be prices Smiley isn't allowed to adjust to meet local competition.
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Midlodemocrat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 11:14 AM
Response to Reply #106
121. Groceries at the Wal Mart are staggeringly cheaper than the other stores.
I could easily save $100-$150 a week by shopping there.
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Marrah_G Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:12 AM
Response to Original message
33. Occassionally I do
And unless someone is adding to my budget, their opinions on where I shop mean absolutely nothing.

I've been a struggling single mother for a long time. I do what I need to do to raise my children.

Period.
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Balbus Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:15 AM
Response to Original message
34. 3 to 4 times a week.
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harun Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:16 AM
Response to Original message
35. I like Wal-mart. Get's too busy sometimes though so I go to Target.
Most groceries I get from the local small grocery or the Asian store. The big corporate grocery stores are too expensive around here (near Philly) for a lot of what I like, which is a lot of veggies.
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notadmblnd Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:23 AM
Response to Original message
36. not any more, Big Lots, Dollar General, Family Dollar and dollar stores
Wal Mart sucked the life blood out of our city, closed up shop and moved on to a more affluent area a couple of years ago. So it's not even convenient for me to go to a Wal-Mart. I buy sale items only, at the two grocery stores I shop at and buy my meat while it's still on the hoof from a local farmer. I also take a trip up north in the fall and buy 50# bags of potatoes, onions and squash for the winter, It's tough, but I do save a lot of money and my pantry and freezer are fully stocked.
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stuntcat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:24 AM
Response to Original message
37. this'll sound incredible, but I don't have one!
I wouldn't need to shop there though, for real bargains I can look through the mess at all the Dollar Stores, I have 4 within walking distance.
I'm the Thriftiest :D
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Fla_Democrat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:27 AM
Response to Original message
39. Sure
stopping by one today on my way into work, need me to pick you up anything? :shrug:


:hi:
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Syrinx Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:48 AM
Response to Reply #39
108. can you pick me up a pack of smokes?
It will require you to get in that one special line that sells smokes though.

:D
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Fla_Democrat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 07:07 AM
Response to Reply #108
110. I'm in Florida..
I'll just stop by the local Seminole outlet. :smoke:
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pnutbutr Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:29 AM
Response to Original message
40. Once a month big ass shopping trip
There is a super walmart in the big town near me. I live in the sticks so me and the fam do one big shopping trip per month and by going to Wal mart we save about $100-$200 on that trip compared to any other grocery store. The selection is also better for some things and we can buy certain things in bulk that last for months like Sugar and cooking oil etc... The only thing I don't like from there is the meat which I buy from local farms and the fresh fruit and veggies which I also buy local whenever possible.
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cherish44 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:30 AM
Response to Original message
41. I live in a rural area where there are 3 Walmarts in a 15 mile radius
So as you can imagine a lot of businesses in the area have been driven out or gone under. There is one Kmart. I go there first, usually noone there so I don't have the crowds to deal with. For food shopping, I find I can get better deals at Aldi. I wish Target would come to this area. I know a few people who have complained that there's nothing but Walmart and some variety would be nice...
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wuvuj Donating Member (874 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:17 AM
Response to Reply #41
67. Aldis and food....
I shop at Aldis every 3 weeks or so...find that it's easier due to the fact that the floor space is about 1/3 that of the food section of say a Super WM...95% of their food is of good quality...prices around here are always better than elsewhere. I can get done in less than 1/2 hour.

Shopping every 3 weeks not only keeps me from indulging in comfort foods...I save gas vs those who run to a store 2xs a week. I get some strange looks when I leave with a cart topped up with food...from the grazing herd who seem to think I eat too much. :eyes:

Dollar Stores and Tractor Supply for some basics. I do stock up on some basic things I use at Walmart (or as I like to say...Wallfart) each 3-6 months.

I research and buy major or tech purchases online and have it shipped. Amazon almost always has the best prices and sometimes free shipping. Opinions on things are useful too.

With a bit of research and so forth you can save major $ and headaches.

If you like the social part of shopping...go for it I guess. I'd rather take a walk out in the country.
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EmilyAnne Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:38 AM
Response to Original message
45. Sadly enough, yes. I have no choice but to shop there when I visit relatives in Sweetwater, Tx.
They moved in during the Sam Walton small town takeover of the 1980s and killed family businesses that had been there for generations.

The same thing happened in Waller, Texas where a set of grandparents lived. I remember them talking about it in the front seat of their giant brown Crown Victoria and how upset they were that is was going to be built. I didn't understand why it was a bad thing. My grandmother pointed out the window as we drove through downtown Waller and said, "all this will be gone." Sure enough, its all gone. Its like a ghost town. Even the feed store is gone, though far worse is the lost knowledge of the owner that went with it.
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Rockholm Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:38 AM
Response to Original message
46. NEVER. But I don't judge if you do.
Or have to, or want to. Walmart is just another store these days.
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Stevenmarc Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:42 AM
Response to Original message
48. I pass them occasionally while driving, that's about it.
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Justpat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:48 AM
Response to Original message
49. Never been in one.

And I don't intend to start.

I don't support business that screw their workers.
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Mari333 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:56 AM
Response to Original message
55. dollar stores are cheaper!
I checked the prices, and dollar stores are cheaper for a lot of items. nonetheless, I go to wal mart on occasion for what I cannot get at dollar stores or Sav a Lot, which is like Aldis and is also much cheaper.
hey, if I had megabucks I would be going somewhere else, but we gotta do what we gotta do.
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durablend Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 08:12 AM
Response to Reply #55
113. Yep...
You start wondering how a big chain like Smiley Mart has less clout than a dollar store chain in setting prices for identical products.
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Minimus Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:56 AM
Response to Original message
56. I did not for many many years and then I moved to a small town and pretty much have to-
Edited on Tue Feb-10-09 08:57 AM by Minimus
I still try to do the majority of my grocery shopping at one of the chain stores that survived the Walmart intrusion. I try to buy vegetables at the farmer's market in the summer. I buy meats from a local butcher.


Since I am unemployed and on a very strict budget I do know which staples I have to get at Walmart. For example the can soup that I can eat (due to dietary restrictions because of Celiac Disease) is $2.69 at the grocery store and is $1.50 at Walmart. The coffee beans I use: $6.59 at the grocery store, $3.89 at Walmart.

I hate having to shop there but you do what you got to do in these trying times.



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dropkickpa Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:57 AM
Response to Original message
57. I'm too fucking poor to have a choice
and I don't drive, so my choices are limited.
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demokatgurrl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 08:58 AM
Response to Original message
58. Never, nope, not once.
Food: farmers' markets.
Clothes: Thrift shops or very end of the season sales at department stores, Or just hold off.
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Zywiec Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:06 AM
Response to Reply #58
63. What kind of farmers' markets are open in the winter?
You must live in a place where they are able to farm all year long. Of course since you hid your profile, I can't tell.

Our farmers' market are only open when there is something capable of growing.
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demokatgurrl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 09:27 AM
Response to Reply #63
115. No, I live in Philadelphia- and in fact,
there is a huge market downtown where farmers from Lancaster bring food. No, you don't get tomatoes in winter but you get what's in season in the winter, which is the way people ate for many years. Also, right in the heart of Rittenhouse Square, there is an out door market all year. During January and February, it gets a little thin with vendors, but one farm, that provides meat and vegetables, is there every week.

There is plenty "capable of growing" in the winter.
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Gormy Cuss Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 11:00 AM
Response to Reply #115
119. Oh man. Reading Terminal Market -- what an incredible place.
Eating seasonally in the Northeast does mean learning to love turnips, squashes, apples and other long keepers for a few months but it also forces one to to an open mind about food.



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cherish44 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:30 AM
Response to Reply #58
69. Oh yeah winter stuff is marked down 80% right now, it's great!
Of course I did find the exact same shirt I had bought for my daughter for full price earlier in the season marked down to about $4 :mad:
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crim son Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:02 AM
Response to Original message
60. When I had money, I avoided the place like the plague.
Now that I'm scrambling to feed and clothe myself and the kids, I shop at Walmart and I save money. I'm about to lose my health insurance and I'll be using the Walmart prescription drug plan too. It sucks, but there it is, the ugly truth.
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road2000 Donating Member (995 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:04 AM
Response to Original message
61. Never in the past 10 years.
But I have to admit I have easy access to K-Mart and similar stores.

I shopped at Food World when I lived in Mobile, and always felt a little odd looking at Christ on the Cross hanging over the meat counter.
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guruoo Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:04 AM
Response to Original message
62. You might find Other businesses willing to price match WalMart to get your sale...
Edited on Tue Feb-10-09 09:10 AM by guruoo
That's how, last September, I purchased my LG envyII cell phone from BestBuy for $48,
instead of their otherwise going rate of $160.
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Bennyboy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:06 AM
Response to Original message
64. I do....
I know a lot of people that work there including my Brother, his wife, some in laws etc.

Along with the State workers, they are the only one I know that have jobs. yeah they suck, but for those mentioned above, it is not so bad.
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cate94 Donating Member (573 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:08 AM
Response to Original message
65. No, I never shop WalMart.
However, I can afford to pay higher prices. I feel very strongly that if you can afford to shop somewhere else, you should. Otherwise, you have to do whatever it takes to make ends meet.

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NuttyFluffers Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:28 AM
Response to Original message
68. now, no. but in the very beginning i once bought McDonald's french fries inside
does that sort of count as buying at Wal-mart?
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Bettie Donating Member (774 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:44 AM
Response to Original message
70. Once in a while, I'm somewhere where its the only game in town
So, I get what I need at that moment. Luckily, this doesn't happen often.

Mostly, I shop at my small town's merchants and my DH gets stuff I can't get locally on his way home from work in the "city" (Cedar Rapids, IA, so not a big city) at somewhere other than Wal Mart.

My kids also tell their friends that Wal Mart treats their employees badly!

And you know, the weird thing is that I really have never noticed that their prices are significantly lower than other places.
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devilgrrl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:47 AM
Response to Original message
71. I don't but I understand that many haven't a choice.
:-(
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bunkerbuster1 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:49 AM
Response to Original message
72. Once in a while
and I always hate myself afterwards. A depressing place, with depressing customers.
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annonymous Donating Member (850 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:49 AM
Response to Original message
73. Only as a last resort.
I go to Aldi and Save A Lot for groceries. I also go to thrift stores and Big Lots. I have had problems with the quality of merchandise at Wal-Mart. I bought my son a backpack there and the zipper broke after 3 months.
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aikoaiko Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:54 AM
Response to Original message
74. Walmart about 5 times per month and Sam's Club 1/month


They have the biggest selection at the lowest price consistently. There are some smaller operation that are cheaper but far fewer choices and inventory. There are some things that are cheaper at various places, but I don't have the time to traipse across town to various stores or cut coupons.

On the basic food stuff, almost everything is cheaper than Kroger or Publix.
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carlyhippy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:57 AM
Response to Original message
75. I really don't have much of a choice
but, this walmart doesn't have much of a grocery section, so I buy my groceries from the local grocery store, and buy the other stuff that is too expensive at the store at walmart.
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Jennicut Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 09:57 AM
Response to Original message
76. I prefer Target. Are they just as bad on their policies?
Edited on Tue Feb-10-09 09:58 AM by Jennicut
They seem to run and take care of their stores and merchandise better.
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:26 AM
Response to Reply #76
82. I worked at Target for ten years and all retail can be tough.
Target is non union also but I always felt I was treated fairly. A lot depends on the top management of the store. Some managers can motivate you. And some act like dictators because they haven't learned how to deal with their fellow human beings. Target is extremely particular about the appearance of their stores. I started my job at 5 AM and there was an outside crew in there every night cleaning and buffing the floors and they would still be there when I came in.

I had never worked retail before and I gained a new respect for anyone that does. It is not easy to act pleasant toward someone that comes in and seems to want to pass their bitterness on to you. I would just smile and when they left silently call them names. I never allow anyone to ruin my day!

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Jennicut Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:50 AM
Response to Reply #82
88. Good for you. I worked at Rite Aid over a summer once
I hated it. On your feet all day. I have worked with kids since then, much more fun. :) I do notice that at least Target looks better.
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 11:10 AM
Response to Reply #88
91. Well let me add I didn't say it was fun!
In fact the last couple of years were not good because we had a manager from Hell. I was fortunate that my husband made enough money so I was able to quit. I had never worked retail before and God willing never again. It ruined my feet!:nopity:
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Jennicut Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 11:19 AM
Response to Reply #91
92. Yeah, I know. I would come home with such sore feet
and I was only 19 at the time! Glad you could quit, I respect anyone who can do a job like that for a long time but we all do what we need to do to get by, you know?
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sandyj999 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 03:33 PM
Response to Reply #92
93. We sure do and I am not above doing it again if necessary.
I just might not be quite so devoted!
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last_texas_dem Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:04 AM
Response to Original message
77. I end up buying something there once or twice a year
if it's an "emergency" to get something none of the other stores in town have or it's the only store open.
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Irishonly Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:07 AM
Response to Original message
78. I don't
That being said I don't condemn people that do. We are getting ready to plant our garden again and have been researching how we can have a year around growing season. A friend of mine says she hasn't bought a tomato for several years. We are also able to shop farmer's markets year around. I use the store ads and again am fortunate. I can drive less than a mile on Foothill and hit all of the grocery stores.

I also use more natural products to clean. These days finding products made in America is quite a task. We are on a fixed income and have learned to live simply. I don't have young children at home so it's probably much easier for me to not go than others.
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.... callchet .... Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:10 AM
Response to Original message
79. Wal-Mart is a success because of our laws.
Our laws made it cheaper to buy foreign goods. Our import laws should have only let goods come into this country that reflected our values. Walmart does help poor people and it does help make poor people.
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cherokeeprogressive Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:18 AM
Response to Original message
80. Unashamedly. n/t
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w8liftinglady Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:20 AM
Response to Original message
81. we have a dollar store and a WalMart...otherwise I drive 50 miles
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azmouse Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:29 AM
Response to Original message
83. I've only ever been in Walmart once
and I hated it. The store aisles were so crowded with junk it was impossible to find my way around.
I left without buying anything and I've never been back.
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pipi_k Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:29 AM
Response to Original message
84. I've never set foot in a Walmart, but
sometimes Mr Pipi will stop in to get stuff.

Like some of the others, I think Walmart is scum, but I won't bash on anyone who has to shop there. I understand how difficult it is to stretch a dollar these days.

People do what they have to do.




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OPERATIONMINDCRIME Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:30 AM
Response to Original message
85. I Will From Time To Time. But Then, I'm Not An Short Sighted Or Hypocritical Zealot Either.
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wolfgangmo Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:33 AM
Response to Original message
86. We can't afford Walmart
And even if we could we wouldn't shop there.
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madmom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:40 AM
Response to Original message
87. Was helping my daughter get groceries for dorm living. She went to
the dollar store got quite a bit of single serving items. We then went to walmart to find what she couldn't find at the dollar store. We found some items, identical size and brand, cheaper at walmart! Betty Crocker instant mashed potatoes in the envelope (not the box) 72 cents, compared to $1, Taco Bell brand tv dinners $1.75 compared to $2, just a couple. So, yes you can get groceries cheaper at walmart.
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slackmaster Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:52 AM
Response to Original message
89. Yes, they have by far the best prices on certain things I need
I don't do general shopping there, but for those particular items I go there.
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Pakhet Donating Member (308 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 10:54 AM
Response to Original message
90. Don't have a choice, but...
the neighborhood market down the street from me is where my daughter got her very first job and they treated her very well and paid her well too, so I don't feel too bad about it. we actually comb through the ads and make a list of what's on sale at every store...sometimes wal-mart beats out the sales ads
:shrug:
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samplegirl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 03:40 PM
Response to Original message
94. NEVER!!! Ever!!!
I won't spread the cancer!!! Use dollar stores insead.

http://projects.flowingdata.com/walmart/
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FloridaJudy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 03:41 PM
Response to Original message
95. I do my best not to
But when my monitor died, theirs was less than half the price anywhere else. If I get a decent job, I'll never darken their doorstep again.

BTW, Publix is a mixed bag. They pay relatively well, and they treat their employees far better than most chains. But they've also been slow to promote women and people of color into upper management, and they pulled some fairly dirty tricks during the Presidential campaign to convince their employees to vote for McCain. I shop there because it's the only supermarket close to where I live.
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pleah Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 03:42 PM
Response to Original message
96. Yes. I don't have a choice. n/t
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dugaresa Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 04:31 PM
Response to Original message
99. I shot at a grocery store that has Union workers - I buy less but perhaps pay more
but I know folks there who I graduated with and they make living wages and actually own homes.

I understand other folks need to shop at Wal Mart to stretch their money...and perhaps one day I may have to do it as well so I won't ridicule someone for doing so...but while I can I buy from the local grocery chain.
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old mark Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 04:32 PM
Response to Original message
100. Every week, sometimes several times a week, for years. nt
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Bertha Venation Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Feb-10-09 04:39 PM
Response to Original message
101. Yes. Unapologetically. n/t
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ProudToBeBlueInRhody Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:38 AM
Response to Original message
103. The last time was about three years ago.
It was an emergency.
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Tektonik Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 04:44 AM
Response to Original message
107. every couple months or so
I never really get anything at Walmart, for they have a shitty selection and their price really are not that low.

For electronics I go to Fry's.

For food I go to Ralphs, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and Bristol Farms (where I work).

For clothes I go to Marshalls.
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Fleshdancer Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 07:40 AM
Response to Original message
111. no. I live in a city big enough to have several alternatives
Edited on Wed Feb-11-09 07:41 AM by Fleshdancer
I think the last time I ever shopped at WalMart was five years ago.
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Autumn Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 09:18 AM
Response to Original message
114. Yes I do. n/t
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FedUpWithIt All Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 09:28 AM
Response to Original message
116. Yes. n/t
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Terran Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 10:24 AM
Response to Original message
117. I'm like you
I hate that place, but I sometimes go there out of economic necessity.
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Kaleva Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 10:46 AM
Response to Original message
118. weekly
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Ron Green Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Feb-11-09 11:12 AM
Response to Original message
120. Shopping at Wal*Mart is NOT some kind of populist badge.
It's full participation in a documented campaign against humanity.

So there.
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