Well, just yesterday I found out why my LHS might not have been as willing to deal with me as they normally would have: early next year a HobbyTown is due to open just down the road from them. The general feeling is that the LHS' days are numbered. Looks like this family owned vs big box retailers vs online purchasing question might be in the process being answered for us.

Here's a toast in your honor, family owned shops; may you rest in peace []