Yeah, the smaller the city or town, the more likely (and quickly) its independents bite the dust when the nationals arrive. Hey, Foxborough people (read: already live with The Pats Stadium) killed Steve Winn's Casino deal for good last week. And some town in MA was sucessful at keeping Mal-Wart at bay for the 2nd attempt.

The first 2 nationals arrived in my hometown only in the last 2 years---Staples and Subway. The Dunkin Donuts there predates their national and even regional aspirations. It opened in the early 60's.

Always call the place you live a house. When you're old, everyone else will call it a home.