[GaryMcQ]

Clueless, it's great to see that you are thinking about going back into the ROM cooking business. I've always been intrigued by a Verizon only ROM, and very much look forward to trying it out.
Things I always load after a flash include (IF not already cooked in):
Total Commander - Should be included in EVERY ROM build from every chef.
MyMobiler - Allows for easy phone manipulation on a PC screen & screen shots.
Swype 3.9 - Can't live without it. With this, I never open my hardware keyboard.
Glympse
Newest version of Bing
Google Maps
Marketplace - so I can re-download the programs I have purchased in the past.
Weather City Editor - So I can add additional cities into the weather page
PIM Backup
Cookie Home Tab & Editor
Keep My Tones - Easily save and restore ring tones and notification sounds
JSPA Program Manager - Makes it MUCH easier to manipulate icons, and folders in the Start Menu
MMTaskManager - On a 6.5.x ROM to take the place of the right corner task manager

I realize that you are not cooking a ROM especially to my specifications, and that all of these won't make your cut, but after all, you DID ask what we wanted and use. I have always preferred the 6.5 builds in the past, but recently have started using 6.5.x and am liking this as well also.
Thanks again,
Gary