Skeeter,
Careful about the archery thing it's addictive. Top end bows would include:
Bowtech Allegiance
Mathews Switchback
Hoyt Vectrix
APA
These are all topnotch bows so you should try and shoot them to get the best "fit" for you. They are all a little bit different but all top of the heap really. Seeing as you live out west I would definitely try the APA bows, the specs are good unfortunately they are hard to find out east.
As for arrows and accessories pop over to the bowhunting section here and any and all questions will be answered quickly. I think you will be impressed when you try the new generation of bows and your buddies will likely feel more confident with the new stuff.