We have started using MS Word 2000 (being forced to use it because with
our new network software WordPerfect keeps crashing).

The page numbers are so dimmed as to be almost invisible. I really
have to squint.

I click on the page number, that shaded square appears, and I change
"Font Color" (the "A" button on the upper right) to black, but this
doesn't help.

Also, I go to the "Page Numbering" Style, go to Format -- Font, change
the font color to black, and that doesn't help either.

Any help would be appreciated. It is important to see how the page
number appears.