Extremely grateful for all the responses. I've pasted them all into a document and can now read all your valuable ideas together. Even at a first reading they have already helped clarify my thinking.
Also minor clarifications:: > I'm hoping some of you python > lamas out there might be able to share some of your wisdom on the subject. lama = guru = teacher (not a furry animal, although my dog has certainly taught me a few tricks ... like when to take her for a walk, when to play ball, and when its time for a tummy rub.) > bwaha be well and happy always -- http://mail.python.org/mailman/listinfo/python-list