Thanks, David.
Here's the *resolution*.
A) I ended up posting an actual problem ticket with HP.
B) The problem just disappeared... whatever combination of cursing, prodding and poking I was using just caused the thing to disappear.
C) An HP rep actually called to discuss the problem and offer solutions
(in that order).
So: Problem solved. AND... mea culpa... all of my preemptive whining about the product and the supposed lack of service were indeed premature.
Next printer in my 25+ year chain of printer purchases...? Still HP.