I guess being patient, shopping at multiple websites and multiple music centers, in multiple states, paid off.

I beleive I landed a good deal on a new Gibson Les Paul 50s-neck (Ebony).

The best deal I was offered was from an out-of-state dealer.
I was offered 40% off list plus shipping (Gibson list is $3,178).
I was offered $1,899 plus $30-shipping. I almost took this deal.

I kept looking on eBay and found a even better deal.
I found a brand-new (2006) LP, that a guy bought on 5/16/06 at Guitar Center for $2,129 plus $106-tax ($2,235).

I won the bidding at $1,351 plus shipping.
I received the guitar on Friday. It was all that I expected.

Deals are out there... :)