I didn't realize it but the "dist" sub-directory of the firmware project was not being pushed to github. I've changed that now. The hex file is there. I did a new compile with settings for 16 chips and pushed that up. I'm back coding on the firmware updater now and should have a new release soon.
Despite the doom and gloom surrounding Avalon right now I'm still committed to finalizing the project so that a working solution is ready for when chips arrive. I've kind of fumbled this last week by getting caught up in despair that everything was blowing up. I think a few others are feeling the same. So this is just a message to re-affirm that I'm back at it and working to get it done. My fingers are crossed that chips show up and everything can move ahead.
Purple Heart for your persistence on this BKKCoins.