ok, this is not looking so good here.  I keep getting the message that either my internet connection or the server I am trying to contact, is down.  I know neither is the case.  
I am afraid this has something to do with settings/firewalls (that won't allow an application to get on the internet by itself or something), which i cannot change.  I'll try again but if it won't work I'll have to drop the game... 
