Start8 Missing Desktop and Taskbar Icons

This is a clean install of Win8.1Pro and Start8 (both fully licensed) on a Lenovo Desktop running Core i5-6500.

Every time I boot - all Icons on desktop and taskbar are missing.   I do see a busy cursor - spinning blue circle - when the cursor is moved to the taskbar.  It will sit like this for hours.

If I wait a minute, place the cursor on taskbar, and left click the mouse - the screen flashes and the missing desktop and taskbar icon appear. 

Is there a solution to this behavior?  Have I missed a setting somewhere?

J