I could not find a help number with Avast so I downloaded and installed ZoneAlarm. Although I was planning to use their tool for access monitoring, they also have a virus shield. I ran it and it found 2 extensions where it detected malware. It automatically went into an advanced repair including rebooting the PC. I then did a second scan to complete a full scan and it found 2 other viruses which it also quarantined. After using my pc yesterday evening and off and on today I have not had any additional occurrences. I don't believe one day is a true test so I will post again in 3-4 days.
That said, each time Avast aborted the connection it would prompt for an upgrade but it never attempted to do a repair - it always asked to click for a paid upgrade. I cannot fault them for wanting a paid subscription as they are not in the business to give everything away for free. I suppose ZoneAlarm will do the same over time. However, since ZoneAlarm found the additional viruses I have decided to trust them more, at least for now. I know everyone speaks highly of Avast Free but it has not served me well. After almost a week of installing and uninstalling many different things, researching the web for how others have solved, I have lost confidence in Avast.
Will post back in 2 days with another update.