New Wal-Mart rule keeps bell ringers outside

To the editor:

I am totally shocked and angry with our Wal-Mart stores and asking others in our community to join me in boycotting that company. On Saturday morning, we went to Wal-Mart intending to do some business at the Wells Fargo branch there, and possibly some shopping in the store.

Standing outside in 20-degree weather was the Salvation Army bell ringer, a young pregnant woman doing her best to stay positive, while being darned cold, and continuing to offer smiles to customers entering the store. She told me that Wal-Mart wouldn’t let her into the store and that it was a nationwide decision.

We went inside, and while my husband did our business in the bank, I asked to speak to the manager. The two women told me that they could do nothing, that it was a company-wide decision, but they would send my complaint up the chain of command. I’m betting it will be spring before we get a change in the rule. Why can’t managers make their own decisions in matters like this?

For all the advertising Wal-Mart does about being involved in individual communities and tooting its own horn about the company’s good works, this is a total mistake for any northern state where winter means cold, snow and snow/rain mixes. I am refusing to set foot into any of their stores, and considering our budget forced me to spend money there over the years, I will pay higher prices elsewhere until this is resolved.

Shame on Wal-Mart!

Marli Holden

Wasilla