Shoppers at the Whole Foods in Totem Lake are noticing the store's security presence, though at least one regular says it has been there for a while.

That kind of detail can fade into the background in a busy shopping center, especially at a store geared toward quick trips, self-checkout, and steady foot traffic throughout the day. A guard at the entrance may seem recent to one shopper and longstanding to another.

In Totem Lake, where the retail core stays active, a visible security presence is not especially unusual. Store security can serve as a deterrent up front and as a general watchful presence by the doors and checkout area.

Shoppers have also connected the store's security presence to more visible street disorder in the area, including more people living without stable housing nearby. Even so, the clearest point from recent accounts is that the guard stands out enough to draw fresh attention from regular customers.