andnowimbroke - If the last question was for me...

I think my initial thought was the EF-S 70-300 based on pricing, having IS, and my beginner status. On B&H it is currently $549.

Close in price is the EF 70-200mm f/4L USM at $674 (no IS). Based on sharpness in the right conditions, the extra money would be worth it. So right now, after reading comments and reviews, my concern of going the L route would be the loss of IS and what that means for me.