There's definatly some boneheads working in some automotive stores. I realize I'm only 17, and don't have the "experience" some guys have, but I will say that I know more about cars then some of the guys working those stores. Wasn't but a month or so ago I went in to buy a U-joint for my pickup. The guy kept telling me that the the driveshaft disconnects from the differential by means of 2 u-bolts....which it doesn't. It's actually held on by 4 12-point bolts. I don't know how long it took the guy to figure out what I needed.

Anyway, back to your situation. I think I would've walked out to the car and ripped the starter off right then and there. Maybe even take a demo jack the store has on display and use it for your assistance. That'd really make the guy wonder.