Story and photos by David Carlos

I had never been to The Little Store at Richmond Beach ( 2002 NW 196th St, Shoreline ). But in ten days, this longtime mini-mart will close for good.

Time for me to visit it for the first time, I thought. My wife and I walked through the open door and were alarmed by a sudden electronic feminine voice that chimed, "Welcome!"

Then a nice lady behind the counter said a warm, human hello. I asked what will happen next. She said she didn't know.

What I expected: A quaint, old-fashioned grocery store with canned goods stocked neatly on the shelves. Perhaps some donuts, since a sign outside said, "Fresh Baked Goods."

What I saw: Aisles in disarray, like someone was moving out of their home and not sure how to pack the remaining items.

Empty shelves. Remai

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