My biggest question would be if he is going out of business and the other business that is supposed to doesn't start up how far do I have to go to get this machine serviced and or classes? I purchased a Janome 7700 from a local dealer that had been in business for 12 years and two weeks after I purchased they went out of business. Retired and left the state. Thankfully, I never had any problems with it. The new dealer was another 45 miles past where they used to have their business. When we left NC I had a Viking. There was no dealer close for it either. Now that we have moved to TN it is even farther for it. Can't afford a Bernina which is the only dealer left in the area. Ann in TN