Southwestern Connecticut residents are turning their focus to tolerance as the national debate over politically correct holidays grows.

Big-box retailer Wal-Mart is just one company that has struggled with the issue of greeting customers with ?happy holidays? or ?merry Christmas.? This year, the chain gave greeters the green light to say the latter.

Many locals told News 12 Connecticut they try to avoid the drama. Some say they respond to greetings in the same manner they?re greeted in. A storeowner says whether it?s Hanukkah, Christmas or any other holiday, everyone deserves respect. She makes sure to stock shelves with culturally diverse items.