IN OUR OPINION

" IN OUR OPINION Shop at home T'is the season to go shopping--preferably right here in North Kitsap. Local merchants, who are always glad to assist their friends and neighbors, will be particularly glad to see you this holiday season. Downtown Poulsbo merchants have been hit particularly hard this season by a combination of rising property tax assessments, rising rents, cold weather during the peak shopping season and vacant storefronts. Sure, it might be a little warmer at the malls, but before you go, think about how much good the dollars that you spend in Poulsbo, Kingston, Suquamish or any of our local businesses will do. Best of all, those shopping dollars stay here at home. They're invested in our schools, local stores, churches and organizations. They represent salaries of people who work hard to be good neighbors. Local business people invest in our communities throughout the year by attracting visitors, adding beauty, creating special events like the fireworks, Viking Fest parade and much, much more. Be a good neighbor in return, shop near home. You'll feel good about the gift you choose and receive VIP treatment as well.     Thanks, Keith This is the end of an era at the Herald. Today we're running Keith Beebe's final regular column. It's number 200 and something that he's written during a period stretching over the past four years. He's an attorney, a former North Kitsap School Board member and president, an Eglon supporter, active in his church, and most important of all, a devoted husband and father to Anna and Keyla, who we have been privileged to watch growing up through their comments. With his weekly writings, he gave us a perspective on Kingston and Eglon that has been an important part of understanding our unique corner of the world. He has been a valuable contributer and friend, he will be missed. "

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