On going struggle to import KMail distribution list from KDE 3.5 or create new one (now using KDE 4.6)

Hello, everyone. First post to this list.

Sorry that it's a bit long-winded, but I want to be clear describing my 
problem and what I've done to try to find a solution.

I have searched the archives here and using Google. Everyone seems to 
have the same or similar problem, but no solutions!  :o)

I have recently upgraded from SuSE 11.1 to 11.4. Formerly using KDE
3.5 and now using KDE 4.6.00.

I do not use Kontact, only KMail (v. 1.13.6)
 
I have successfully migrated my e-mails from KDE 3.5, but no matter
what I do I'm having a terrible time with the address book. I have
copied over the address book, but the names are in completely
random order. 

I need to have them sorted by last name so I can find a name quickly, 
but I have not found a way to get KMail to sort this way.

Can anyone help with this first issue?
 
Further I cannot figure out how to copy over my old distribution
lists, nor can I figure out how to create new ones.
 
I have looked and looked at various sources including SuSE and KDE
discussion lists. Many, many, many people describe the same
problem, but nobody seems to have an answer -- at least I have not
found it.
 
In the process of trying things I may well have screwed up
something in KMail (perhaps Akonadi?) so I really need help. (I am 
**not** a Linux guru!)
 
Can anyone help with this second issue of importing my existing 
distribution lists and/or creating new ones in KDE 4.6?
 
I am simply desperate to get the address book resorted and the
distribution lists working as my business depends on being able to
communicate with clients and subscribers.

Many thanks for your wise counsel and tolerance of this frustrated 
penguin.

  
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