Because some "off-topic" discussions wander into estoterica that's beyond
me, I superficially thought an off-topic siding would be a good thing for
some trains of thought. But then I wondered, if I ignore the siding how
will I hear of new hear about new topics that get initiated there? I could
miss good stuff. So I'm quite happy with the current arrangement where
occasionally ever-patient Warren gives a nudge. (I'm a digest reader. If
every posting came as a distinct message, I might feel otherwise.)

Doug