Hinterland: I know you say you have made peace with this, but we all know it will still bother you. If I may suggest something?
All stataes have state fairs, etc. Most do quilt shows. I would go to the expense and effort of personally writing and sending a photo to the head of the fair or person in charge of that dept. and letting them know and asking them to be on the lookout for your quilt. I know we have our fair here in August, and I will keep an eye out for it and a few others from around the area that are on the missing list.
People never cease to amaze me. So sad. Good luck.