I’m sure all the local merchants involved in the Shop First in South Kitsap promotion are good people, and they have only the best of intentions. But the whole thing has kind of a tacky feel to me.

I don’t know about anyone else, but these days I count pennies when I shop, and that means always buying the least-expensive merchandise I can find, regardless of who’s selling it.

I appreciate that money spent with local businesses tends to stay in the area longer, and that’s a good thing. Everything else being equal, I have no problem with the concept of patronizing Port Orchard stores rather than a national chain.

But only if the cost is the same or less.

To the extent this whole thing is a lame attempt by the Wal-mart haters to demonize that chain, however, or a guilt trip intended to make me spend more at local businesses than I would elsewhere, it isn’t working.

I’m all for helping local businesses, but charity begins at home — literally.

My first responsibility is to myself and my family, not a local merchant who wants me to subsidize their inability to compete with Costco.

MARCY KELLEY

Port Orchard