Lawtie,
I think your LFS (local fish shop) were encouraging you to do a 'fishless cycle', which is a really good idea if you have the patience! There is an excellent post here on cycling your tank. You should also do a search on here and google for information on cycling your tank with or without fish before you decide which path to take.
You will also find another biorb / biube specific forum if you google for 'biorb forum'.