i am mainly trying to simlify and save weight. I almost NEVER use my small 2 chainrings, so I'm pretty interested in changing that part... but both of you have a good point on the rear... there really is no reason to change the rear cassette to 5 or 6 speed... that was kinda silly. So, let me re-phrase then...
should I change to a single speed front crankset? Could I just replace my large chainring and remove the smaller 2?

also, is there any options when replacing my rear cassette? [maybe a slightly broader range of gears?]

I really am thinking trigger shifters, I don't really like grip shifters, but thanks for the suggestion.