We hear the horror stories of going into train shops that have owners/sales people that give you the impression that they don't want your business.  You go in, they ignore you or any questions you ask or get in a huff if you interrupt their conversation with a white haired regular.  They don't want you to browse and Heaven forbid you bring a child into their store. You don't look like them or aren't dressed as they deem appropriate. We've all probably experienced this in some form or degree. 
So, how about we start a list of the "Good/Friendly/Helpful" shops/owners that we would recommend to newbies or just someone looking for a train shop.
I'll start the List...

Roy's Rails
(Model Train Shop)
Roy Richie, owner.
(Model Master)
602 North Polk Street
Jefferson, Tx. 75657
903-665-9900
roysrails@att.net

Dave

Oak Mountain Toys & Hobby
Birmingham Al

The owner is a little interesting but it's the best train shop in Bham.

Hollash Trains is closing due to owners retirement.

This happened to me just today. Went to the whistle stop in Pasadena CA and the guy followed me around d like I was going to stick a bunch of track down my pants and walk out. I asked him a few questions and he was short and sassy, I wanted to lay into him, but didn't.

Went to the Train Shack in Burbank 4 times in the last week, each time with my two young kids, never frowned, happy to help, and even gave my girls a magazine and some train crackers.