Al, the store carnut mentioned on Jefferson Blvd. is call A A Hobbies. Last time I was in there was a year ago, & all he had was some old stuff, like a few True Grit trucks. Mostly trains and some models. The Apple Valley Hobbies store off 295 in Smithfield has pretty much stopped buying JL diecast, but is getting the slots. He was still holding 3 White Thunders because he's asking $60.00 each. He does have tons of the 1:18 stuff from various companies. The Apponaug Color & Hobby Shop had about 12 JL pcs on the pegs. Again, mostly trains, models, and slots (never saw any JL).
It's extremely difficult to find very new stuff in JL or HW, whether it's regular or chase cars around here, but good luck. I wouldn't waste my time looking for JL in the WalMarts. They usually only have about 2 pegs of peg warmers, and maybe a strip with a few Spidey or Clue cars on it.
East Bay Hobbies near me in Seekonk (MA) is closed for vacation until the 10th. Only JL on his pegs is Import Heat, a few Super 70's, and a few Thunder Wagons. He's got more JL slots than diecast, including the new F&F.
When are you heading up hear?