Thanks Everyone for your attention and response !
I've learned through pursuing this that there's a problem in Vista where
passwords can become corrupted. This has been confirmed through numerous
sources where I've sought resolution (computer manufacturers, web and CE's).
My resolution was bringing machine (newly purchased) back to company I
bought it from (Tiger) who have support staff and tools (utilities) to reset
passwords and add users. Tiger did a great job and had my machine back
operable within a couple hours (it had to wait in que).
Overall - took me 4+ days to resolve. First sought resolution over the web.
Had no success with (free) professed proven "hacks" to reset passwords (even
those with video showing how accomplished). I did not attempt purchase of
supposed tools to resolve problem. Went back to store - as was under
warranty, and they fixed quickly.
MS help (free under warranty) via web wasn't useful as it required a
verification "key" to submit help request. Unfortunately this "key" is
accessible only from a functioning (operating) computer. Mine wasn't - as I
couldn't get past password glitch.
What I've learned .... (these will assure tutorial and standard resolution
approaches will work = much time & headache spared)
.... make sure restore points are set.
.... create an ADMIN account w/ password - other than an Admin type user
.... make a password reset CD
My excuse for not doing was computer was new - and basically, I'm the
primary user. I' know better now. Hope this helps others.
Again ... Thank You ! Best Wishes for smooth (and smart) computing