Thanks ladies. I did hop over to Treadle On and read his musings on the topic. Didn't sound terribly problematic once you know the secret - getting the arm at 1:00. Either way, I have cleaned the presser foot and needle bar as best I can. The machine moves freely and smoothly at this point, so the dog continues to nap :-)
The needle appears cemented in there once that comes out, it will be a matter of putting her back into her dorm, putting on her belt, learning to thread her and we're off.
best,
d