Thanks guys, but I have to send big mahalos to Andrew, Mike (MGM), and all the fine folks at Hawaii Music Supply! When I saw the new Kamaka long-necks at the HMS site, I phoned and spoke with Andrew, who patiently and courteously answered all my questions and explained everything about ordering from them. Just like everyone else I've encountered in the world of ukes thus far, it was a pleasure doing business with HMS.
Within a couple of days, I received a shipping confirmation with UPS tracking number, so I eagerly followed the uke's progress from Honolulu to my doorstep. First, it hopped across the ocean in about four hours, then it went to Canada for two days! (Ontario, CA - that's Canda, eh? LOL) Then the boys in brown drove it from CA to TN, and one week after ordering, to my front door.
I'm kinda thrilled with my purchase, but as a beginner I feel humbled and not worthy of such an instrument, and I can't do it justice yet. The plan is to give my Kamaka a good home, and care for it until someday I can play it somewhat proficiently, which is going to take a lot of practice, believe me!