Downshifting for Normal Driving

["George S Achorn III" <coolidge@nicom.com>]

	I was reading a tech question in the back of the new Road & Track (Boxster
vs. SLK vs. Z3 2.8 Cover) and noticed a letter on downshifting. The
question was basically about the use of downshifting as braking into
corners etc. R&T recomended not to use downshifting as a form of breaking.
They sighted that while racers do do it, they also frequently rebuild their
engines and transmissions. 
	I wondered what you all think. I know R&T is liable for their advice, so
they won't give out advice against a manufacturer's requests, but how true
is this. I downshift about 98% of the time as I roll up to a redlight or
stopsign. Alot of the time it is to be in the proper gear, but I usually
let the clutch out to help slow myself. I know this is still a good
practice in the rain or snow, but what of regular conditions?
	Later-G