I am using an i5 with Windows 7 64bit.
The earlier version did open correctly the first time (just never afterward).
You are correct that I should have created a copy first thing (foolish on my part).
You are incorrect in stating that I can't go back and open the project in Adobe 3.02. My workaround, thus far, after posting this message, was to go back to the project in Adobe 3.02 and export it as a Windows Media File (this option did not require a code for validation). Now that I at least have the file has a wmv I plan to upload it into Elements 14 and recreate the DVD with scenes. Unfortunately, the video quality will not be as good (being a wmv) but at least I found a way to get my project! :-)
No, I did not uninstall 3.0 and reinstall it. I think for now I will just stick with my workaround I discovered unless anyone out there knows how to get a validation code to export MPEGs AVIs or DVD's in 3.0 (even though it's no longer supported by Adobe), OR how to get Adobe 14 to open an Adobe 3.02 project.
Thanks for trying to help!
Tim