Some months ago, the Noank Food Market on Pearl Street, which had gone through two different business names in recent years, closed down after a major storm. This was a major disappointment for many local residents, especially with summer approaching. The landlords, once again, began looking for a new tenant.

Following that, the large white building on the corner of Main and Pearl streets, which contained three businesses and some apartments, was shut down completely in preparation for a new buyer. Renovations were started and all tenants had to move out of the building, to everyone’s dismay.

This included the Corner Closet thrift shop, operated by women from the Noank Baptist Church’s Evening Circle. Then, to everyone’s further dismay, the building sale mysteriously failed to materialize, for reasons no one involved is discussing. There sat a large, empty building in the center of Noank.

However, just recently, the existing building owner allowed the Corner Closet thrift shop to re-stock and re-open on June 30 in the same location, much to applause by the neighborhood. Hours are 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

With patience, because of my large size, I’ve always managed to find some clothing in that store to fit me — the exception being my shoe size of 16EEEEE, but nobody’s perfect. And apparently, even if the building is subsequently sold, the Corner Closet can stay.

I’m also told by the building Realtor that the possibility of a new sale may be imminent.

Additionally, there will now be a new business moving into the former Noank store facility, which will be operated as a grocery with produce, a deli counter, serving grinders, fish & chips and also catering services. Anticipated opening will probably be mid-July or later. We’ve met the experienced business owner along with the head chef who has been in the business several years. Local residents are very happy to hear about this, especially with summer already here.

If a sign in the window is any indication, it might be called the No Anchor Market.

Ed Johnson lives in Noank.