I don't use norton, and per my original post turned off the FireWall.
I removed all Java apps, from my machine and reloaded a "plug-in" rather than what appeared to be a program module (whatever the heck that means).
I wish I understood which Java downloads were most appropriate for casual internet browsers. It's not clear to me from Java's own description of their software what one needs for basic functionality of existing websites and what one needs to create sophisticated website of his/her own.
I think I had downloaded an enterprise module at one point, whenever I would display my main homepage (
www.JayhawkBBS.com ), a Java dialogue window would pop up with all sorts of notes or coding options that I couldn't understand or access.
Anyway, problem solved and thanks for your comments.