As a new member, I just read this article and its replies. As a former LFS owner for 3 years I can empathize with the plight. I just wanted to add a couple of things about the follow up posts. Several people said they felt guilty about asking questions and then not buying anything. As a store owner, speaking for myself and I think most other LFS owners out there, we got into the business because we love it and want to share it with as many people as possible. My favorite part of ownership was the opportunity to talk to so many people and share what I knew with them. The problem came when, as mentioned in the article, people would come in and pick your brain for hours and then order their new filter, etc, online to save a few bucks. This totaly discounts the time and expertise of your LFS owner/ employees. I am not against online sellers and I think they have their place but I will say when you find a good LFS, the relatively few extra dollars you will spend buying there is a bargain compared to what you will receive in intangibles. Basicaly don't be afraid to ask questions but please support your good LFS or they wont be around to help. As you may understand from the article LFS ownership is not a get rich quick scheme, it is usually not a get rich at all business model but a labor of love. These guys put in long hours, alot of money and and much mental and emotional energy to serve us, the least we can do is support them.