SPOILERS:
It was a gremlin!

ok ok, no.

Anyway,  thank you Michael for the clue that lead me to the realization.

Long story short, the touchscreen IS a usb device.
I have solaar running to control multiple input devices.
So it was a "switch" and perm problem. In order for solaar to work you have 
plug out all usb pointer devices, then back in again. I can't do that with 
the TS. BUTT when I go into hybernation, the perms are "remembered" and this 
time the screen is activated. There's the fiddly switch problem. I was able 
to confirm it with repeated full reboots and hybernation boot.

My next text will be to disable solaar and see if it works.

Michael I have added you to the list of life forms I will keep as pets when 
the universe is mine.

And thanks, of course,to Ali Izzard for creating a great TDE distro that 
allows this poor ideapad to be fully function. Considering it was never fully 
functional under the "native" OS Itblow 10. 

"Wiener Dog" is now my daily driver for me onsite pack. All 22ks of it (about 
50 lbs). Will 45lbs now that I'm not carrying the 8 lbs laptop.

And thanks to all for your input. This is a great community.

Kate