I've been looking at that Marin, but it's a bit more than I want to spend considering I already have 3 bikes to commute on. Here's another candidate that's a bit closer to the OP.

http://stillwater.craigslist.org/bik/3251631532.html

Put some slick 1.25's on it, and the aforementioned dirt drops and you would be well equipped for your ride.