Yeah, I doubt i make it out to PA anytime, but if I do, I'll stop (and that Bear Blend did sound damn tasty).I agree that to get started quickly a corn cob is a good option.
Sgresso is right about Boswells pipes, for an handmade pipe you can't beat them. Also their house blend tobacco's are great, I love their Bear Blend and the Berry Cobbler is fantastic (and I'm not a big aromatic fan).
If your travels ever take you to Gettysburg, PA its worth the 20 minute ride to Chambersburg to the shop. Lots of pipes and good people.
The best pipe for under $40 is indeed a corncob. They smoke sweet, dry and cool.