I will say, though, that based on the lack of other comments here (or elsewhere for that matter) for the last three weeks this behavior seems to be the exception rather than the rule.
I say this by way of setting reasonable expectations - since any issues which are more widespread (or mission-critical) will necessarily take priority when they decide what gets looked into next.
All that said, I'll post again when I learn more. And my apology for the frustration, in the meantime.
AWA