Hi everyone,
Thanks so much for your advise and counsel…I was dreading it at first…and went to a couple of stores, before I settled on one. The winner…Bronx River Bike Works…the whole process took 1.5 hrs (well…there was a whole history lesson associated with it – great for a follow up story), but I’m happy.

This is what I ended up with:
http://www.khsbicycles.com/07_brentwood_l_10.htm

KHS' Women's Brentwood is great for biking around the city and paths in comfort and style. It has a nimble, light steel frame, a natural upright riding position for a commanding view of the road and a soft seat on a suspension seatpost so you'll float over the bumps. You'll also love the easy-pedaling 700c wheels and the great 21-speed Shimano drivetrain that lets you cruise right over hills.
(http://basicallybicycles.com/product/khs-womens-brentwood-63024-1.htm)

For the bike, lock, and lights it came to $440 with tax.

I’m picking it up tomorrow. The guy, an older guy who lives there, greases the whole thing, added new petals with toe clips (it was easy in and out) and is upgrading the tires for me and mounting my rear and front lights. Yesterday he adjusted the seat and handle bars for me. It feels good (I was worried about my a$$ hurting) and it’ll help pay his rent! He said if anything happens, come back and he’ll take care of it. I’m happy about the whole experience and am looking forward to picking it up.

Happy biking =)
G