I have read thru this entire thread and I find it quite alarming that the LQS seem so rude. Telling folks, well you should have bought it here, etc. I am old, but I did learn that a bit of sugar goes along way. IF I were told I won't give you lessons because you did not buy it here, I simply would NEVER return to that LQS. Now on the other hand, if I were greeted nicely and told well unfortunately I cannot offer you the free classes, but your certainly welcome to join our classes, but, you will have to pay for the lessons, and mind you its going to be how they say it, that will impress me. The one things sewers do, is upgrade!! Yes we do. Maybe not every year or so, but we do upgrade, and how do you make a customer for life, you treat them well. You make them feel special when visitiing your store, you offer them things they need, you help them. And when it comes to upgrading, where are they going to go first?? Why my LQS is where they will shop first...because I have establised a relationship with them, I have been kind, and I have been understanding, and all that sugar just passed right on up to me, as they walk out with their latest upgrade. This is why stores, of any kind go out of business, they have forgotten that the customer is always right (lol ) and being kind pays off in the long run of things. Just some thoughts,