I ended up re-cloning.. not too much work this time thanks to your awesome directions. everything worked on the stock os2008 image (latest) installing apps is working now... proceeding to the repositories with trepidation.. going to be very selective as to which.

good point on the browsers.. I didn't know if there was a more current one or not..

need to be careful with those repositories.. really go one by one and search for what I need then install only those ones. I'm basically 100% now, and can always resort back if needed. cloning is the way to go.. even if it isn't accepted by the public. thanks again.. it's 2019 and everything's running smooth!