That is true regarding manners. It is one of the small parts of the Slavic culture that I very much appreciate. Americans have become so rude, or rather self-interested, as a group. I am continually amazed at the lack of ability for people to say "Excuse me". Although I will also say that my first few days on the tram in Minsk was difficult because the politeness seems to go out the window in boarding and departing public transportation.
I avoid Wal-Mart at all costs anyway, so not much risk of going there except in a "pinch". Ironically, I grew up just a little over 100 miles from where you are now. I don't know that I could have brought a girl to Erie. Frankly I do not want to live there anymore and visit because most of my family is there.