[selena]

~tentatively raises hand~

Well, were I here asking for something outright, instead of just trying to broaden my circle of contacts and to whore, then I would say this.

I realize that there is little I can do for you at the moment to repay you for you sharing information with me. However, I am going to assume that you are the same as I am...a person with an agenda. I am not going to assume that you will help me out of some notion of "kindness". Matter of fact, I would look at you in askance, were that the case. I am going to assume that you've been around long enough to know that just because I'm a newbie today who has limited knowledge doesn't mean I always will be. I may become someone you'd like to have the opportunity to work with. Is that likely? Perhaps not. But it is a possibility. And a little goes along way in my mind. So while taking 5 minutes to answer a question on a board might be seen as a wasted effort by some, it is not. My memory is long on helpful assistance.

I'd further add that the 'trade off' so to speak, might not be that I'd ever be in a position to repay your knowledge. Facts are, you've been around and have made your mark. There may be little I could teach you. But you may enjoy teaching, if the pupil shows sufficent interest and apptitude. I have both those things. So, if it would not be too much trouble, may I ask your advise on this issue.