Cannot raise forest functional level

We currently have a total of 1 DC in our organization running windows 2003 server.  Originally we had 2 controllers both running 2000 server.  After running adprep I demoted one of the servers and installed a fresh install of 2003 server.  I brought the new server back up and promoted it to a DC, copying over the domain information from the original server still running 2000.  Everything to this point was working great.  I then set the new server as a GC and transfered all FSMO roles over to it.  After that point I demoted the 2000 server.  I checked across the company to make sure logins and share access were still working correctly and they were.  After confirming that I went onto to raise the functional level of the domain.  It originally was running 2000 mixed.  I raise it to 2003 server without a problem.  I then decided to raise the forest functional level to 2003 server.  Here is when things go south.  I went into Programs->Admin Tools->Domain->Active Directory Domains and Trusts.  I right clicked active directory domains and trusts and selected raise forest functional level.  Well nothing happens, in fact the domains and trust window closes.  I try it again, but the same things happens.  Looking into it further, I right clicked the domain and went down to properties.  Inside it states the domain functional level and the forest functional level.  Well the domain level shows 2003 server, but the forest level field is blank or empty.  If I right click on the domains and trusts icon within domains and trusts and click on "Operations Master" the window appears stating that "Domain naming operations master: ERROR".  I hope some of this info helps.  I desperately need to get this fixed so I can add upgrade the orginal server to 2003 and add it into the domain.  Because of this I am making this question worth 1000 points.  Good Luck.