If you are on the cement only, or packed dirt trails, i would suggest not getting a bike with shocks, as it will decrease your efficiency. The FX series is good for trail, as well as pavement, as is the cannonade quick series. I can't speak for Jamis, but I'm sure it will be good also. With you budget, it may be worth spending $500 on a Trek 7.3, and then get some extra stuff like a bike lock, a rack and maybe lights, if you are biking in the morning or at night. As for steel, nowadays, it is as light as aluminum, so it won't be a hindrance.
Good Luck with your bike