This problem is solved. The "gdborig.exe has stopped working" happens when I start the program with the debugger's step into function. Apparently something does not like starting the program that way. If instead I set a break point in the program, such as in the OnAbout() handler in the wizard created starter project, execution proceeds to that break point without crash. This is sufficient to debug my application.
I do not know if the application should be expected to start successfully with step through though.
Thank you everyone for your help. It is much appreciated.