Replying to Longboard Help.

Okay, I'm a total newb with longboarding, but I'm looking to get into it over the summer. So I need to buy a board! Help me if you can. I posted this at Silverfish as well, but I'm looking to see what my fellow NSers think.

Personal Info: I'm a 5' 9", 150 lbs. I'll be using the board in Eastern Washington/Northern Idaho and Northern California.

Type of Riding: Primarily campus cruising, but I also want to do some freeriding, carving, and light downhill. I don't want to just cruise around campus/for transportation; I want to really get into this. Especially this summer. So versatility is a plus, I suppose.

Length/Width Specifications: Whatever's best. But I've been looking at a length of between 38" and 42". I have no preference on width. But my shoe size is 10, if that's any guide.

Budget: $200 maximum, or so.

Other: I don't know. I want a board that I can trust as well-built, durable, etc. I've been looking mostly at boards with wheel cut-outs, but I'm open. As to flex, concave, etc., I have no idea, so give me some advice. I'd strongly prefer a complete.

I was looking at an 8-ply, 40" Earthwing Supermodel. Any thoughts? The only thing I'm concerned about is flex. Should I be concerned? Do I want flex?

Thoughts? I'd welcome your help. Thanks!