btw, the notion that Amazon's price is 50% (or 47% for those of us without the Gold Box midas touch) off is bunk. Canon's site has the retail price at $1749.
Edit: Wow... not sure what Amazon thinks they are up to these days. They show the "list price" for the 70-200/2.8 ii as $4000. The website is on marketing crack these days (and I love Amazon generally).
After a BIG cleanout of my Amazon recommendations, I have a 70-300L in there for $1300 today. I am happy if I can save $75 or so, that's a roadtrip to Monument Valley or Bisti Badlands for me.
Any idea on how long one has to act on the gold box deals? I currently have the 70-200 II for $1966 and I am wondering how long I have to weigh this decision.