Epilogue: In early November, I started a conversation with AKer bandg69 (aka Anthony) about his nearly pristine Onkyo TX 8500 II., which he'd made available on Barter Town. Anthony lives in Chicago and I'm just outside Boston. I was happy to pay Anthony's very reasonable asking price, but he didn't want to pack and ship such a heavy, valuable piece of equipment. I understood completely.
But, I really wanted the Onkyo, so I persisted, suggesting that we make the deal, and I would seek a Pony Express. Anthony agreed. The search was on, but despite a generous offer (AKer Hose53) to get the Onkyo halfway home, Pearl Harbor Day came and went without a solution.
Then, in mid-December Kevin D (AK handle) posted in the Pony Express forum that he was traveling from Chicago to Northampton, MA around Christmas. Jackpot!
Anthony and Kevin met, and Kevin took the hand-off of a heavy, well packed box of Monster Receiver. Both gentlemen had great things to say about the other. I was pumped!
So, on Christmas Eve I drove a snowy two hours to meet Kevin in Northampton. What a great guy! He was so happy about being able to help make this Festivus Miracle a reality, that he could not stop smiling. We had a terrific chat about vintage audio, family, and how this Pony Express Hail Mary pass came to be.
Two great guys I am pleased to call AK friends. I understand a beer or three is in their future.
Thank you Kevin and Anthony! Truly a Festivus Miracle.