Seajay- Please hear me when I say that I support LBS's intensely. I probably buy something from them once every two weeks, and participate in weekly groups rides with them. I also volunteer in the community through bicycle advocacy and I partner with different shops. I have all of my work done locally as well.
However, as an in-debt student, buying new is not option. And you're talking to the person who grew up with two parents that still own their own small business, and I work for a 501c3. I feel bad for not buying new, but it's simply not an option at this point in my life. So, I buy all my small gear and maintenance from them, and help through advocating alongside them in the community.