update: (isn't that odd? If I have bold turned on I cannot make a capital letter)

After much wringing of hands and gnashing of teeth, and discussions with active tourers on vintage bikes, I've decided to use the wheel as it is, while removing much/most of the extra weight from the back wheel. I now have a pair of front, lowrider panniers for that purpose. I plan to true the back wheel daily, if need be. I have eight extra spokes and a freewheel tool in stock.