php.ini not loading: PHP v4.3.3RC4 on a Windows 2003 Server + Apache v2.0.47 + MySQL v4.0.14b

I have a very frustrating problem with which I hope someone can provide a solution, please. I am running PHP v4.3.3RC4 on a Windows 2003 Server, which is also running Apache v2.0.47 and MySQL v4.0.14b. Problem summary: My php.ini file (with Full Control permissions) cannot be read/parsed/processed. I have tried placing it in the following locations with ZERO success: C:\WINNT and C:\WINNT\System32 Further, my Apache webserver WILL NOT START if my php.ini file is located in C:\WINNT. Below, please find the error message I receive when I attempt to start the Apache webserver from the command line (apache -k start): ********** F:\Apache\Apache2\bin>apache -k start Warning: DocumentRoot [groups/500ecstasy/www] does not exist (OS 10048)Only one usage of each socket address (protocol/network address/port) is normally permitted. : make_sock: could not bind to address 192.168.2.29:80 no listening sockets available, shutting down Unable to open logs ********** Please note: I am NOT running IIS - and nothing else (whatsoever) is running on TCP port 80 (confirmed with netstat). The ONLY condition under which my Apache webserver service will start is if I place php.ini in C:\WINNT\System32 ; however, php.ini appears NOT to be read/parsed/processed. phpinfo.php indicates/insists that it is looking at C:\WINNT. I need to fix this, ASAP, as the failure of php.ini to be seen/parsed is preventing my (vBulletin board) users' e-mail functionality and user registrations. Any/all assistance will be MOST appreciated, I assure you. Very kind regards, - Scott M. Shell release@500Ecstasy.com