John,

>But still, shouldnt VFP's samples run like they are supposed to in their doc's?

They should, and most do.

>I think it will cost me a free help response to ask them so I guess tech support is useless.

If your purpose is just to learn at a leisurely pace, you can probably work your way through it. If you're after efficient productivity, run to Web Connection.

>But seriously, does everyone use West wind?

Most of those who try it and work through the first learning curve of installing the product, getting the demos working, and putting their own data up with ShowCursor(), never leave it. It's very good, and the support community at www.west-wind.com/wwthreads is very strong and responsive.

Rick has already done all of the "figuring out" of how this stuff works, and has done extensive performance testing as the product has evolved. You won't be sorry.

>... cant get past fatal error employee.dbf not found

Must be a path issue, huh?