You can disable avast plugin for Outlook and test what you get...
After, make sure the avast plugin is not disabled into MS Outlook > Help > About > Disabled items
If you enable the avast plugin, it should start automatically after that.
Thanks much for the reply.
I removed the Business Contact Manager from the XP program list via the Control Panel and was able to open Outlook... but that doesnt seem to be a very good solution.
Previous to that I was unable to keep Outlook open long enough to do anything (hour glass only) b4 it closed.
Im thinking of reinstalling the Business Contact Manager, but not sure how I would 'unplug' Avast (other than uninstall it) in case I cant open Outlook.
Thoughts?