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It has been the local source of wood, paneling, cabinetry, doors, roofing, plumbing and other building supplies.

On Feb. 2, local contractors received letters from Stock Building Supply Administrative Offices in Howell, Mich., informing them of the pending closing of the Kalkaska store, as well as five other Stock stores in Michigan.

The reason for the closing, according to Rick Ditzek, Area Manager for Stock Building Supply, was the decline in the US housing market, specifically in Michigan.

In preparation for the closing, Stock held an inventory reduction sale, with items discounted as much as 75 percent in the final days. As customers stocked up on discounted items, empty shelves and bare floors created an eerie reality that the store would truly be closing. Stock closed its doors for the last time on Friday, Feb. 16.

StockÕs employees declined comment regarding the closing, deferring to the official notice issued by StockÕs Administrative Office.

Conversation Òbuzzed,Ó however, as customers inquired about staffÕs future plans. Some employees have apparently found positions with lumber supplies at other locations, or anticipate being rehired by former employers.

Some are seeking work elsewhere. For others, their future employment has not yet been determined.

The closing of a business not only affects those who have lost their jobs, and their families Ñ customers who have relied on the convenience of being able to purchase needed supplies locally, will be impacted. For the Village of Kalkaska and Kalkaska County, there is the loss of revenue and a business resource. As one individual was overheard to state, the loss of Stock Building Supply is a sad event.