Definitely a good plan, Jason!
Check out the thread Kevin linked, lots of homebrewing inmates hang out in there. For some more comprehensive & hardcore advice, set up an account at the
Homebrew Talk forum.
Retailers close by:
HomebrewUSA in Hampton & Norfolk
http://www.homebrewusa.com/
Weekend Brewer in Chester
http://www.weekendbrewer.com/
I get some of my ingredients off the internet these days, but the bulk of my purchases have been through Weekend Brewer for years--the owners, Bob & Jeanne, are extremely knowledgeable.
Good luck, it's a great hobby, let me know if I can help
Oh, and btw, Winston's Humidor in Midlothian is hosting the second annual "Homebrew Herf & Chili Cook-off" on Sunday, October 23. icantbejon & I are brewing up two beers in the parking lot, there will be plenty of good food, good cigars, new friends & football. You should make the trip up if you can.