Here is the update. I got in, but was hassled at the airport. First guy says that gear can be only worth $1600 until you get pulled aside. Got pulled aside. Next guy just does the standard "how do you expect to work. How can you come here without carnet" lines... which is the border patrol M.O. for seeing who gets riled up and seems suspicious. I just explained that I was in town for a big conference, the carnet was not available to me, I was shooting a news shoot. I had a list of equipment for him to view, with serial numbers.
The bottom line was, he made me sweat it for five minutes and let me go, with a warning to get a carnet next time. That was it. I think he realized that I wasn't doing anything weird. Did I luck out, probably some. I expected to have to get a local broker come assist me. But, Canadians are tough but fair.
I did not have to argue my case, it just worked out. I do feel, though, that NAFTA Article 305 pretty much exempts broadcasters, in general not just news, from having to pay any duties on temporary entrance of gear into Canada, Mexico, or the US.
Prior to leaving the US, I asked customs to stamp that list of gear and they refused. I don't think that is an option any longer. The US agent said that they won't stamp anything unless it is an official form. Yes, I asked if there was an official form other than a carnet, and was told that there was not. So, don't count on the US helping you out without carnet! He did say that entry into the US will be much easier than Canada, US Customs doesn't care that much about this stuff. I might be questioned but they are looking for big fish to fry, essentially.
I will update if anything changes when I head back to US in two days! Crossing fingers that it all will work out ok!