The on going saga of my defective Mac Book Pro screen has been resolved thanks to the really cool folks and service at MacAuthority, a local full service independent Apple dealer.
I took my laptop into them yesterday at 2PM, paid $75 for rush service, and got it back with a brand new Display Housing and LCD at 1PM today (laptop was still under warranty, so the only charge was the $75 for rush service). Furthermore, I was able to walk right in and talk with someone, instead of having to get an appointment.
This is far superior service to what I have found at my local Apple Store!