Ok, as an update so:
Last night I went to Walmart and Target to take another look at the avenue and the trailway. Both are solid bikes for the money. If i had my preference, I like the Target trailway better of the two - but it's currently at $229...I'd hate to spend that much when I know it regularly cycles down to $199. Took them for a spin in the aisles though. Both bikes can MOVE and were generally lightweight and comfortable. However, both needed some adjustments to the brakes and derailleur, and in some cases could stand some minor wheel truing. :-( You get what you pay for.
Today, I'll be taking my trip to Performance. Hopefully, I'll get some extended test rides on both the Searcher, and the Sporterra Wanderer suggested...apart from being much lighter without the suspension fork, is this bike much different from the Searcher? Regardless, I hope to look at a few rides and be ready to make up my mind by tomorrow.
Thanks for all the advice everyone! I'll let you know how it all turns out!