I think there is some confusion in this thread. As far as I know the Middletown CT Amato hobby store has separated and no longer does trains.
Amato Hobby store in New Britain CT is alive and well. They still sell from old American Flyer stock, including newly painted and lettered NOS Caboose and Gondola stock. Search for them on eBay. They still have Hobby Surplus and Train Repair parts web sites
Aflyer