Witnessing the DEATH of Microsoft

A few weeks ago I decided it was time to jump from VB6 to VS8. On the MS site, it states that VS8 requires WindowsXP. I went to purchase XP (there is a purchase button). Doing so activates Windows7 purchase. I could not therefore purchase XP and was uncertain if VS8 runs under W7....so I called MS PRE-SALES support and posed the above as a question. FIVE Minutes later the lady informed me that she would find an MS "PARTNER" who might be able to answer my question but also informed me that there would be a FEE. A few days later, an MS Partner called, and answered the question. Since I will not install Vista or Windows7, I will not buy VS8. In other words, MS cannot even sell or support their own products for developers. Balmer you have turned into an IDIOT.