can these be synced through desktop manager? i did a search for the thread but did not find a direct answer. someone can provide a simple yes or no. if yes, please elaborate. thanks a lot.

Yes.
Included in Desktop Manager is a program called Intellisync. Intellisync will allow you to sync the Contacts, Notes, Tasks and Calendar between Outlook and the BB.

E-Mail does not sync. E-Mail is forwarded to the BlackBerry, either via BES, BIS or Desktop Redirector.