Thanks to TER, I had the pleasure of meeting two exceptional gentlemen after posting here last week. Both of them provided a business reference and one even sent funds upfront to secure a hotel of my choosing.

So, my search continues for a small number of great guys, preferably over age 40 or 50. Availability is very good through next month, and I'll still have enough time when school starts to accomodate occasional meetings. Cheers!