UPDATE: (Sorry no pics) Got the car back from the T5 R&R. I found a place that is honest, does great work, and is very affordable (Palmetto Pony Sales in SC). They made me an offer to R&R the gearbox that was a no brainer rather than me pull it on my back.
The car got a rebuilt T5 w/6 month warranty, rear main seal, pilot bearing, clutch fork cover, resurface flywheel, cross-member bushings, T5 oil, H pipe, exhaust flow tubes, and factory air box assy. My clutch kit had recently been replaced by previous owner. It shifts like brand new. They performed the T5 R&R for $200 including taping stripped bolts! You can't beat that price with a stick!
Interestingly, and as I had hoped, the 5th gear ratio in the gearbox is much better than the unit I had. The one I had seemed to have about a .75 5th gear, which was bad for the highway. This one seems to have the more ubiquitous .68 or .63 (not sure which). That is way better for the highway. I highly recommend these guys if you're in the area.