Walk down memory lane

With some discussions here trending towards the negative, harsh even, I thought about my introduction into the world of HiFi. From lugging home my first component "system" from Radio Shack to seeking out the more esoteric. When my school friends were more interested in the sports world, I found contentment taking trips to HiFi shops within reasonable distance of a sometimes reliable car. 
I was lucky enough to have two really great audio shops in my area. One of which I worked in during college. A wealth of knowledge coming from my boss and his wife, who to this day are close friends. 
For me it was being surrounded by great gear, being able to set up multiple combinations of kit and noticing the subtle differences, (sometimes not so subtle). When I was working it was the time spent with a customer, building something that sounded good to their ears and met their tastes. 
For me it was The Speaker Shop and Audio Arts in NE Ohio. 
What was your shop and what was special about it to you...