For sale. Space for lease. For rent. Signs such as these are nothing new in North Kitsap. With new businesses popping up and others closing on a monthly basis, they’ve become part of the scenery.

So much so, that in most cases, locals seldom take much notice when an enterprise they barely had time to acquaint themselves with during the spring, summer and fall months hosts a “going out of business” sale the following winter and early spring. January, February and March are killers for many who rely on tourism dollars and fail to make the connection with area shoppers. Yes, in most cases, these signs are simply background. In most cases.

When we first heard that Poulsbo Market was closing after a 30-year run, it was different. Whether residents have been here for 10 years or 10 months, if they ever shopped at the store on Highway 305, there is no doubt their experience there was a positive one.

Having been neighbors of the Market for several years, down the street and across from it, the Herald can testify to the fact that staff there were good ones.

The Market thrived here for three decades of Januaries, Februaries and Marches — showing that it had made the coveted connection and maintained a great repertoire with residents and visitors here through the duration.

The grand thing is staff at the store still have this and will continue the unique friendships they cultivated well beyond today — the last day for the Market.

While we are truly saddened by the loss of the long-time venue, we look forward to seeing our old Poulsbo Market friends after they have closed the pages of one great book and begin the process of opening another.