As far as I know, Stuart gave the straight answer above. I've been fully retired for well over a year now, but was at the shop about six weeks ago and spoke to both of the owners, Steve and Ken, and learned that they would both be closing up operations and retiring during the summer.
This past Tuesday, just before the big Long Island storm, I got a message from Steve telling me that that was his last day (after 50 years!) and that a new owner would be taking over as of Friday, consolidating operations on the first floor only. I don't know what the he will concentrate on, but I imagine Stuart has it right above.
Willis Hobbies in its old form was one of Long Island's longest lived top tier hobby shops, and it served a couple of generations of hobbyists very well. I'm sure it will be missed. I've worked in New York area hobby shops going back to the legendary Polk's on Fifth Avenue, but Willis Hobbies became home from home to me. I wish Steve, Ken, the old staff, and the new owner well.
- Mike
