Wow, one post and I already know I'm in the right place! Thanks for the info guys!
My LDS doesn't require that I buy any equipment from them, but I will go ahead and buy the mask, as per everyone's suggestions. I'm leaning towards the Avanti Superchannel. I think I'll go ahead and get boots from ST as well. I'm thinking about these:
Tilos Hard Soled Short Booties Reviews
Vast majority of my diving will be done locally, so weather is relatively warm. Other than that, doing travel dives in tropical climates, so I'm thinking the Tilos will be a good fit.
thanks again guys!