Independant Gas Establishments

My family and I just got back from a trip to visit relatives from Maryland. On the way up and on the way back I noticed something. the independent gas stores were cheaper than the chains (for the most part). For instance, we visited St. Mary's County in Maryland, and in Leonardtown, the Burchmart was 3.68, and when got about 6 or 7 miles outside of town, the little older, almost run-down looking store (but very much open) was only 3.55. And all the through Virginia, we noticed much the same thing. So, pay attention to your gas stations.