How do I completely eradicate "smart-finder biz" from my computer? 
This is either a program or websites embedded into my Registry (and
no, I'm not real comfortable with editing my Registry), that seems to
rear its ugly head not only when there are failed/no results Google
searches, but it is PRECLUDING me from downloading casual applications
from my computer.  It causes several things I don't recall to stop
from happening on my computer.  And yes, I've tried to find it in my
add/remove programs listing.  Why is it ON my computer as a general
default program or site, etc.; and HOW do I complete rid myself of its
evil hold so I am able to dowload things like updates to software for
hard/firmware again?!?

You have picked up spyware in your machine I?m afraid. Some work by
redirection, some slot in an ActiveX, others connect you to premium
rate phones! Although generally liberal, I?m inclined to slow death is
too good for the parasites who infest the web. If you can build up the
courage for ?regedit?, follow these instructions :-

http://www.2002forum.com/adware-spyware-searchpage.cc-remove.php

If not, download the free trial advertised on the same page. If it
works, it?s probably worth purchasing. Problem is though, if you have
one piece of garbage on your machine you are likely to have much more
that you are not aware of, especially if you download music.

Several other freebies and trials are available -- ?spybot? seems to
work for most things.

http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html

Best