Yes, weather in NC is much cooler on the farm. Regardless, the decision not to be a "contenda" was one made after thoughtful consideration of all options, pros and cons and others involved. As of today it does appear the correct choice was made.
Ah..feathering his engines...haha, not so true, or maybe you never would have found that one ring.......grin.
And yes, tell Dave that barbell shaft sucks, but it was the same one he was using at the time when he sold it to me. I suspect they have carbon fiber ones now. I would prefer your Whites PI machine.
Happy hunting