Just noticed in Lionel's recent update to their website shipment schedule... that the entry for the black UP 4-12-2 #9000 (product number 6-11343) now indicates that those shipped in May 2012 were a "partial shipment". This better explains why I've been told by a few of the big dealers that they're still expecting more of these jewels to arrive within the next month or two.
The Greyhound #9000 and the black #9004 can still be found with relative ease, but the black #9000 -- while still out there -- is less plentiful, and many dealers no longer have them. So hang in there if you're still waiting for your favorite dealer to come through for you. Hopefully, the wait won't be much longer!!!
David