The Trail Duster JUST passed the smog test!
I think that after the 2nd test, it became clear that it may have had excessive idle HC numbers because the engine wasn't as warm as it was during the first test.

Test#1:

1:11 PM
Idle rpm 674
HC PPM 300 MAX
HC PPM 651 measured

2500 2585
HC PPM 350 MAX
HC PPM 36 measured

Test #2
9:20 AM
Idle RPM 862
HC PPM 300 MAX
HC PPM 1003 measured

The differences between the two tests? I replaced 2 vacuum lines, checked for leaks, replaced the carb base gasket, removed a vac line to the inop cruise control and raised the idle speed, PLUS the engine was a little cooler.
Yesterday I talked with the tech again and he suggested trying another carburetor or new plug wires. At home I DID replace the cap, rotor, plug wires AND add 1 1/2 gallons on E85. I raised the idle and backed out the idle mixture screws 1/2 turn. here are the numbers:

Idle 974
HC PPM 300 MAX,
HC PPM 28 measured !!
2500
HC PPM 350 MAX
HC PPM 49 measured!
FANTASTIC! As always though, I'm curious as to what made the difference. I remember the guideline : "Do only one change at a time."
In this case, I had to play it safe. I was lucky to find a NO PASS, NO PAY smog shop nearby. I suppose that I'll just keep a record of what I did for the next time. Thanks for the suggestions, Greg