Hastings, the entertainment superstore, will be closing their doors forever by Oct. 31 in the Tri-Cities. It's a sad situation, but brick and mortar stores seem to be struggling these days, especially ones catering to the entertainment business.

I liked Hastings and I loved that they expanded over the years to include comic books, clothing and collectible pop-culture items. I loved that I could touch and feel everything before I bought it, but those days seem to be coming to an end ... and sadly, it makes sense.

An entertainment superstore has to cater to everyone, and that's where it gets tricky. Hastings' inventory was overflowing, and if you were looking for something specific, no doubt they had it. The problem escalates because I'm the only person looking for the ill-fated Season 6 "A-Team" DVDs, and if I don't come in ... product just sits on the shelves.

I've seen stores come and go and I'm bummed that Hastings will be no more, but there is a silver lining in the Hastings cloud. It means that you'll be able to get some great deals on merchandise.

This is where I share the lessons that I've learned from store closings. You'll go in the first week of the sales and things won't be marked down much. Hastings will want to get as much money as possible -- even for their leftovers. You'll become a little discouraged because that fifth season of "Little House On The Prairie" DVD is still too rich for your blood.

You will return in a few weeks, and it might be there and discounted even more if you are lucky. You'll think you still have time and that the price will go lower, so you'll decide to give it another week.

I've made my mistake every time on the second visit, so I'm going to share with you the lessons I've learned the hard way.

If there is anything that you want, you might skip it the first time, but the second time you see --- grab it or it will be gone.

I had that happen at the last store closing because I kept waiting for a better price. But when the price came I missed out.

So don't be like me. If you see something, plop down the money and grab it before someone else does. It won't be there forever.

I'm still wanting that "A-Team" Season 6 DVD.

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