Welcome roadking!
The R9 is a great little gun, but be careful where you go to buy one.
If you absolutely have to have one right this minute, there's one guy not too far from you (Springfield, OH) who has one listed on gunbroker.com. He's opened the auction at $1,150 and has a "buy it now" for $1,500.
At $1,500, buddy, you've bought the farm, IMHO.
If it were me, I'd call the factory and see if someone there can identify a dealer that just received a shipment and might have a few extras.
In February, I paid $945 for my R9s + $30 for expedited FedEx (OK, I didn't have any patience either!). There may have been a price increase, but I'm not sure. I had heard rumors to that effect.
Some of the members here also order from the factory. They may be able to help, as well. You can probably expect a few PM's from them.
Good Luck!