Park Circle Coffee 'N More on Montague Avenue will close its doors Friday, January 30, according to owner and proprietor Richard Campbell. Campbell announced the closing in an e-mail Thursday morning and MPC was informed of the closing by other sources Wednesday evening.

"I am sure I speak for not only myself but our entire staff in saying how honored we are to have enjoyed the loyal support of our customers over the past four years," Campbell wrote in his e-mail message. "Many real friendships have been formed and community allegiances organized in support of the Park Circle Community. Additionally, it was with great pride that we were able to be a part of such a unique neighborhood that will certainly continue to thrive. While at this time the future seems uncertain, please know that my dedication to our community remains unchanged. "

Park Circle Coffee 'N More was originally called Park Circle Coffee 'N Cream when it opened its doors several years ago one block further up from its present location. Last year, the local restaurant--which routinely served the Mayor and City staff as well as many locals and served as a film location for the television series Army Wives--expanded.

A few weeks ago, the shop's surveillance camera caught a teenager pilfering the tip jar while nobody was up front. As reported by MPC, by the time the North Charleston High School student returned to classes down the street, the police officer assigned to the school was waiting for him. The student could not have known that two regular customers, Mayor Keith Summey and Police Chief Jon Zumalt, had been sitting nearby sharing breakfast.

City officials reacted to the closing also. "I am heartbroken to hear this news," said City Councilman Kurt Taylor, who lives just about a block from the establishment. "Richard has a great place there, with incredibly good food at great prices," he added. Taylor said Campbell's community service was second to none, and that he expected this will continue. "If another establishment were to open there," said Taylor, "it will not be close to being the same."

The economic downturn has affected local businesses, as detailed by MPC in a recent article on auto repair shops. Recently, Charleston County announced employees would be taking a one-day unpaid vacation day. in recent months, Campbell had tried to counter the economic downturn by reducing hours of operation and seeking financial support from outside investors. However, given this economy, customers and credit were difficult to attract.

In addition to operating the restaurant, Campbell has taken on leadership roles within the community. He is president of the Olde Village Merchants Association, which routinely supports local groups from the North Charleston High School Athletic Department to Metanoia, and president of the Greater Park Circle Film Society. He will continue to pursue these and related activities.

See follow-up story on the final day of operation and questions remaining.