This question harks back to the very first post relating to the initial installation package. Step 4 reads:
"4. After rebooted, you SSH in as root using the default password "root". You may need to clear your ~/.ssh/known_hosts file or your SSH client may refuse to connect."
Well, this is exactly what has happened: connection was refused to my SSH client. Now, how the heck does one clear the known_host file if there is no connection??? I'm surprised no one else ran into this catch 22. Clues, please... :?