I go way out of my way to support the little guy. I drive across town to go to lunch at places where I know the proprietor and will gladly pay more for his product and service.
Part of this is supporting the people who support me, in terms playing jobs. I don't work for peanuts and they shouldn't have to either.

I support Frank and George and will pay any retailer 10% over an internet price without complaining if they are cordial, knowledgeable and deliver what they promise.

I have ordered merchandise from people I know and not even asked the price, knowing they'll be as fair as they can, or when I've known going in and had discussions with the owner that his price was higher than internet pricing, and I was OK with it. I want the people who work hard for my business to make money.

Everyone's right. Ya gotta pay the price; either in tolerating shoddy service by uninformed clerks, when retailers are fighting internet pricing, or by just paying a little more for the knowledge and service.

R.