These really bother me for some reason, as if you couldn't tell from the less-than-chipper headline. Fortunately for me and the bulging vein in my forehead, they are simple to turn on and off.

1. Right-click the Start button and choose Properties.
2. Click Customize and choose the Advanced tab.
3. Uncheck "Highlight Newly Installed Programs."

That was too easy. Now on to No. 6.