EQEmulator Forums - Not responding when logging into server

I am a new player trying to get logged in for the first time. I installed Secrets of Faydwer but didn't patch, followed all of the instructions and get to the screen where I select the server. I've tried both the blue and red servers, but when I click "Play Everquest" I just get a blank screen and my Task Manager says Everquest is not responding.

I am running Windows 7, and I have looked at other posts where they seem to have similar issues so I tried disabling the firewall with no luck. Just wondering if I missed a step somewhere or what other suggestions people may have to get me logged on for the first time.

Thanks!