"One thing I am confident in is the fact that our mgmt and BoD are very ready for this. I am not saying this is a slam/dunk, but does anybody truely think that this application will not be successful? "

I think you're right on with this. NOT has demonstrated that they have done an impeccable job on this. Slurry line, underground mine accessing multiple mineralizations, cementation process.....They've put together a small footprint eco-conscious system to mine this area, to what appear to be very high standards. The trick will be seeing if everyone agrees to the same standards given that others will have agendas of their own. I would go so far as to say that if NOT can't convince all of the viability of their project, then the immediate term for the ROF will be very bleak.