thanks! finally got it pried off and cleaned it with alcohol and a swab. whew. it was just a small spill -- couple of drops. i might use that dishwasher method though if it's ever warranted. :)
my keyboard is an ergonomic board -- saves my hands bigtime. they go for around $30-40 here, and this was a gift from the wife, so i wanna take care of it. no more beverages near the 'puter! lol