ROM Upgrades on VZW TP2

[mxcrowe]

Just got my TP2 and will run the stock WM6.1 to get familiar, but I have some basic questions:

1) Do I need to run HSPL before I update to the stock WM6.5 ROM from Verizon? If not, why not?

2) I know I do need to run HSPL first before I load any custom ROMs. Do I only need to run HSPL one time and after that can flash any custom ROMs or flash back to stock?

3) I know the situation changes every few days, but any recommendations on a custom ROM for this phone on VZW? I want as much speed and stability as possible.

Thanks!
Great forum!