Hi Josh,
Welcome to the forum and to S gauge modeling. The Flyer trains your dad gave you is a great start. Once you get more into model railroading you may want to consider joing our Southern California S Gauge Club. Our members model in Gilbert Flyer, Flylonel, American Models, and Showcase S Helper. There is a wide range of expertise with members glad to help one another.
We also have a group within the club that build modules that can be connected together. They exhibit at a number of shows in the area, and have traveled to the S gauge conventions held each July in Sacramento. Their lastest exhibit was at Fullerton's Rail Road days last weekend. I believe a number of our members are familiar with D&S and occasionly make the trip to Temecula and see what he currently has in the way of S gauge.
We're in the Los Angeles area and have members attending our monthly meetings from as far away as Las Vegas, Palm Springs, and Ventura County. If you have any questions just send me an email. The address in my profile.
Rich