Thanks a lot for the help! I definitely count myself a Coloradoan, but am currently stationed semi-permanently in Dallas, TX.
I think you are right Remi, the best thing for me is probably to hunt down other builders/flyers and see what they have to show/say!
So far, after a lot of research, it looks like the Long-EZ is indeed more efficient than the RV-9a, moderately. Also, above and beyond the benefits of the canard pusher design, it also has a distinctive edge in initial outlay of cash, and an edge in total build cost. It also appears to be a simpler design (simplicity is definitely a good thing). The downsides, so far are that it is a bit slower of a build, and will be unable to operate out of grass / short strips. It also has a higher landing speed and (by some accounts) is harder to fly than the RV.\
So, it looks to me like I will be building one of the first Open-EZs! Now it is just a matter of finishing my current project (biodiesel refinery) so that I can start on this one.
-Luke