quote:
Originally posted by Viper:
Just went to Florence to get somethings from Hobby Town, and it has disappeared. Anyone know what happened? Did they move, or just close down. And if they did close, does anybody know where I can get parts for my RC nitro cars now? Thanks
Viper,
As you are aware the "hobby business" is a business based on disposable income. As most hobbies are, when your budget gets pinched, people decide they can do without or put off buying till things get better. Many had rather go to the web for better pricing, and avoid paying taxes on an item. There is nothing wrong with that, and with some companies offering free or discounted shipping, it is hard for a business with fixed overhead and employees to compete.
The owner of Hobbytown, as you are probably aware died tragically in an airplane crash last May. The "regulars" of the business and his friends were devastated, as was his family. Ironically, his son had called the morning of the accident to tell his parents he was engaged to be married.
Like all things, they happen for a reason, and we may never understand fully, but I am sure the loss of their father, husband, and friend took its toll on the employees of the store. Steve was a great guy who was actively involved in the Sunday car races, and in the local R/C club, as well as the EAA. It left an incredible void was that was hard to fill. I know I miss him terribly, and others do as well.
From my talks with his spouse and the people who worked there, "things just weren't the same", and despite trying to carry on with the business, the depressed economy, a bloated commercial lease, and competition from on-line shopping, it was too much to manage for a widow who had a son several hundred miles away who planned to get married. I understand that she is there now helping to plan his wedding.
I cannot speak for the financial planning of the owner, I don't know, nor wanna know, but no one expects to die or lose their spouse at such a young age. There always seems to be time left. If anything can be taken from this tragedy, it is that we really need to treasure the time we have now, because tomorrow is not promised to any one.
I enjoyed their store, and loved the convenience of it, but most of all I miss seeing all the people I used to run into there (employees and friends). I hope one day someone else will be able to open a similar place for hobbyists like us, but in the meantime, the suggestions you were given are excellent. R/C Hobbies on Meridian Street in Huntsville is a fantastic store and they have about anything you need.
Good luck.
