>Steve's post, from maybe sometime last summer, really was true about how dysfunctional this place is for the basic user.

Dave and JVP,

I was a basic user for a year while deciding how I fit in here. I read a lot of threads about people who pay for stuff vice people who don't.

Guess what! I responded to some of the comments in that discussion. I paid the fee and joined up. I got more service.

It was also very interesting to notice which of the blue envelopes went to white and which went to yellow on 01/01. Also, some changed quickly and quietly shortly thereafter.

Hmmm....