Thanks for the replies.
I need the bike to be pretty light and easy rolling because I have chronic Plantar Fasciitis (12 years maybe). A lighter and easier rolling bike will overall require less foot pressure, so less pain. That's why I'm hoping for aluminum, smooth rolling tires, 7 speeds for our hills. I don't want a motor though that looks like fun. I wish I could go heavier for that heavy cruiser ride, but I shouldn't. So I'm going for slow upright cruiser comfort in style.
I didn't see a 7 speed Electra, but I'll keep looking. Maybe it's an option. Or maybe I add it myself.
I hadn't looked at Priority bikes. Thanks for the heads up on them. ..."but could learn wheel lacing by swapping in a Nexus 7 hub"...oh man I've been out of the bike world a long time, I only maybe get what that means : )