[edgeless]

I know that no one responded here. But I just thought I would submit this follow-up to state that I've found a perfect solution. It's a CSS solution and it results in no post heads appearing expanded, no extra distance between posts within threads, a completely adjustable landing point from the anchor position... and finally, the post anchor links and inline mod check boxes (the nodecontrols items) remain exactly where they should be. As such, I just wanted to make sure that no one who happens to see this thread a bit late goes to the trouble of posting any ideas. The matter is resolved.