I think I got it!
(However, this is my 5th bike, I do most of the work myself and I note that when I post a fix to a Forum, there is at best a 50/50 chance that it stays fixed.)
Those who posted that I had a manifold leak, please take a moment and, using due caution so as not to pull something, reach behind your selves and give yourselves some pats on the back.
Loose connection of manifold to intake.
Little turn on the hex heads. Hit starter button. Started right up, hit steady idle and stayed there.
Today on ride in, 45 degrees out, 90 minute ride. Started right up and stayed started. (Before I had to keep blipping throttle for like 3 minutes before I could take off.)
Stalled once on way in after I had to go from 45 mph to stop in like 3 inches. Bike went to idle and kept going until it stalled. That could happen with new engine I reckon.
Each and every other stop she went from a tall (though not as fast as before) idle to a low idle, hang out there for a bit, pick it up a bit and hang out a a nice pace until the light got green.
I'm happy. Life is nominal.
Thanks all.
Mike