Okay - I need HELP!

About 3 years ago I had a Trek FX 2, which I was a big fan of. Then some schmuck stole it

Now, I am in the market again and today I checked out some bike shops in the area and I am looking for recommendations...

I looked at:
Giant Escape 2 ($410) and 1 ($600)
Trek FX 2 ($519) and FX3 ($699)
Bianchi C Sport 1 ($599)
Raleigh Cadent 2 ($449)

Being a Noob, they are all looking incredibly similar and I am just looking for any recommendation to point me in a direction! I will be using it as a casual fitness bike, maybe running some errands, commuting, etc.

Thanks!