thanks again for the tuneup advice, everyone.  removing the air filter
assembly seems the easiest way to go for changing out plugs 1 and 2.
the whole assembly pops out in about a minute or so, with the undoing of
one connector, two hoses, and one c-clamp.  sounds like a lot, but not
at all.  once its out you have unmitigated access to the passenger side
spark plugs, which is helpful for hand threading at first and then being
able to fit a torque wrench in for tightening.  this list rocks.
steve