Pat,
Thanks! That is kind of what I was wondering. If all that really matters, on a "low intensity" bike at least, is that the tire be wider than the rim as you describe. In this case, the bike in question is my fat-tired cruiser that is primarily for running errands around the neighborhood. No 30 mph cornering or off road. Though with less resistant tires it might be an alternative for commuting if for some reason I can't use my regular bike. Of course, a new road bike would be an even better alternative.
Regards,
Raymond