sorry if i am posting late on this thread but i had to read it a few times to get at what you are asking. i take it that you would be happy living in your home town which sounds to be a moderate to small town. you already have a client base, what are their tastes, what will sell, can your patrons sustain you through slow months, is there enough traffic for growth. speaking from experience, i have owned my own shop without a degree or certificate, small town, meat and potato people, simple food done well, it worked ok. i regret that i have no formal education, i was passed over once where i am now chef because of no certification, and they pay less, go figure. think about what you want for yourself, count the cost so to speak, there are some good programs at community college level, for that matter there are a whole lot of cooking schools that offer two week or six week programs, whats your need, whats your budget, maybe go to europe for a 26 week program then open your shop, the local papers would eat that up, anyway you go, good luck to you, and dont look back with any regrets