So, could someone please tell me why my request (and others)
ended
up at [IBC], and not only in rec.arts.bonsai?

The bonsai mailing list and rec.arts.bonsai are linked through
the wonders of modern technology. Messages sent to one also go
to the other.

This is a good thing. It gives you about double the number of
potential responses. (It also can be a bad thing, as you have
twice the chance of getting a response that is arrant nonsense,
too. ;-)

On the subject of doctored-up addresses. They are VERY annoying,
even on newsgroups. A MUCH better way -- and one that wins
friends, not enemies -- is to download one of several FREE
anti-spam programs, take the time to go through its setup routine
that lets it "learn" what is good mail and what is bad, and then
revel in a more-or-less spam-free existence.

Spammers have software now that spots doctored e-mail addresses
and cleans them up, so you're not really keeping spam away,
anyway.

And while we're on the subject:

You also should download one or both of the free "spyware"
programs (AdAware or SpyBot) so that websites don't plant
tracking programs on your machine. And, of course, use a
virus-control program and keep it current!

If you do all that there would be no need for irritating
doctored-up addresses.

Jim Lewis - - Tallahassee, FL -- Bonsai List
manager emeritus

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