Sigma 18-200 f/3.5-6.3 OS -- when?

It's been announced for quite a while now. Anybody in the US or UK or AU heard anything about the release date for this item? I've contacted Sigma Canada and so far there is no release date for this item. :

 

No, just available for pre-order from the UK - no announcement on availability dates yet. Sounds an interesting lens though!

 

Yup it's going to be slow ;D But I'm thinking more along the line as a point and shoot replacement. (the lens + 30D, I mean)

 

Anyone got any idea on the possible pricing for when it comes available?

 

Supposedly, it's already being sold in limited quantities in Japan (source: Fred Miranda forum)

 

just an update. I bought this lens, tried it, and kinda liking it. However I've been getting copies of this lens from a bad batch. The barrel keep being stuck on me and I've replaced the lens 3 times in the past 2 months.

Now I'm eye-ing Tamron 18-270 VC.

 

still not too good. I hardly do anymore photography. My ailments get worse and worse everyday. The only thing I can do professionally is taking culinary pics.