First, thank you everyone who chimed in, between your posts and searching posts and the internet, I will be ready for winter riding in a couple weeks. Everythings been ordered and on its way. WHEW!

To respond to the last poster, the idea of buying a used bike for winter did come to mind but as I read in another post, I'd be inclined to then add stuff to it, have 2 bikes to maintain, etc. Especially when I use it to commute, what if used bike didn't have a rack or fenders or mirror, etc. Would be hard to find exactly what I need. Plus my current bike isn't that expensive, so if I ever upgrade, the new wheels would fit on my new bike and I'd automatically have a spare set.

I want to thank whomever recommended yellow jersey bike shop, they were very helpful and lead me to my ultimate purchase. PSIMET was also helpful and honest.

I ended up buying the velocity wheel set. This one: Velocity Wheels - Hand Made in USA

I also bought the Nokia studded tires, even though I'm going to have a tough time paying bills this month. I found a deal to good to pass up on ebay. 2 new ones for $67!!! these (but in 35mm size): https://www.amazon.com/Nokian-153774.../dp/B0127ATEA2

I'll post another thread to give everyone an idea what I purchased to prepare for winter in hopes someday it will help someone else in my position. I'm glad I did not buy an expensive bike considering all the expenses I've had on top of just the bike. Counting my latest purchases, I've probably got ~$1500-1700 invested (bike was $590) but should be good to go for a few years.

Mickey