Battling Wal-Mart has become a Maryland tradition

For a hint of what might happen in Crofton, those on both sides of the rancorous debate over a proposed Wal-Mart have only to look around Maryland.

At least three times in the past 15 years, bitter fights over proposed Wal-Marts have ignited, dividing neighbors, dragging on for years and -- in some cases -- providing examples of how to win.

Wal-Mart spokesman Rhoda Washington described much of the opposition to the firm as stemming from "special interest groups."

"Being a very large company is an easy target," she said.

But those familiar with the history of Wal-Mart fights in Maryland say it's more than...