I can understand where you are comming from because I can be considered a little paranoid myself ( Everyone but me thinks im being paranoid, I call it safe)
I say use the false name if you want ( you will not get locked up for this I assure you)Heck Maybe you can just use your intranet name Shonnie? plus when you feel more comfortable with your pal you can always change your mind and use your real name.I think it is very wise of you to consider a po box, I have always thought that was the best bet. I have been a member of the board for about 2 yrs now ( have not been posting that long however) and sorry but I dont remember any of the people you mentioned ( they sound fun) X-ray do these people sound familier to you by chance?
Good luck Shonnie! Oh and by the way if you write a pal and get a box why would you have to live alone? Just wondering .