Jamman,
Sorry if I stepped anyones toes or nose, but I've removed AIM successfully from the startup cycle a number of times using msconfig.
I am also aware that besides the [Startup.lnk] On [Start] -> Programs most startup programs are loaded from the following Registry Keys;
HK_Local_Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
And
HK_Local_Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunServices
I understand that I'm an unknown quanitity here, but if I hadn't been sure that this would work in this case I really won't have posted it. But alas, spilt milk, water under the bridge, etc, etc.
May TWAS the Great and Powerful Celexian God of Good Looks bless all your decendants as he has me.