Update, so here goes. I thought this would be an expensive fix, so now feel really dumb that I put it off. The new stem and labor cost a whopping $32. And of course I got back the original stem so I can put it back on for when I sell the bike in the future.

I haven't ridden it yet with the new (shorter) stem, but look forward to doing so this weekend. I am in "running mode" now - training for a half marathon. For right now, biking is my "not running" (aka cross training) activity.

I also got a saddle bag for my bike, but it doesn't fit due to the wide seat posts on my Brooks. I'll have to keep looking.... so, back to the LBS to return it. The owner wasn't certain it would fit, so he won't be surprised to see me yet again.

Thanks again, everyone, for the wise advice.