You guys have been so helpful that I thought I should update the post for the benefit of future searchers. My bike search ended a little abruptly when my lbs called me up on Sunday morning to let me know that they had a 2010 Redline Conquest Classic in my size and at a great sale price. I went right over and picked it up and I love it! It came with a triple crank, steel frame/fork, plenty of braze-ons and tire clearance as well as full 105/tiagra components. I went for a 20 mile ride this morning and it felt great. I've never used disc brakes before so that will take some getting used to.
I think this bike as it is set up will be a wonderful commuter. Its definitely not a lightweight "fast" bike but it still offers a fun and relaxed, comfortable ride. I can see myself being in the market for a true road bike in the next year or so just to have the best of both worlds. I liked the fit of the Surly Pacer so much that I may even be interested in building it up with some lightweight components to use as my fast bike.
(edited to acknowledge that the stock Pacer is already pretty light for a steel frame...)