ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Deb Seaton describes her decision with husband George G to close Side Street Espresso, the coffee shop the couple has owned for nearly 30 years, as bittersweet.
Seaton, 69, and Gee, 80, have decided to retire — a decision Seaton says was the right one for them, but certainly not an easy one.
“As much as we’re prepared to accept that,” Seton said, pausing. “I’ve got tears in my eyes now.”
The business didn’t make them rich when it came to retirement, but the Seatons said they chose to invest in community causes and count their wealth through the many connections they made with people back home.
Many of those people suggested visiting the coffee shop this week after hearing about Friday’s closing. Seaton said they received flowers, well wishes and countless hugs.
“You don’t understand how you affect people’s lives until you get to that point,” Seaton said. “And we are very grateful.”
But the news was tough for longtime customers.
“I’m very sad about it, I think it’s going to be a big change for a lot of us,” said Richard Reid, who has been coming to Side Street for more than a decade.
Reid said he will miss the coffee shop, but he will miss Seton and G even more.
“We love them. It’s love and they express it every day,” Reed said.
Seaton is collecting contact information from people who want to stay in touch. She said you could start an informal newsletter to let people know what you’re doing, and suggest volunteer opportunities or events people might want to attend.
Seaton said he plans to stay active for reasons he finds important — only now, he’ll have more time.
A send-off for Side Street Espresso is planned for Thursday, October 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Snow City Cafe.
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