Looking for first system advice

My first piece of advice for you would be to go listen to equipment at stores other than Tweeter, Etc. Nice enough stuff, yes, but far from optimal listening environment, and very limited selection. However, this is what I'd do for 3k, for classical music.
Speakers: Vandersteen 2Ce Signature (about 1600 dollars)
Amp: Rotel RA-1070 integrated
CD player: Rotel 1072
Interconnects: Kimber Kable Hero
Speaker Cables: Kimber Kable 8TC
Power Chords: Poth Audio Greenman (x3)
If you buy used, you'll be able to pick up some of the nice stands for the Vandersteens (not required), and you'll have a rocking system. Rotel and Vandy have great synergy, though not the most "audiophile approved" brand.

Stereohp1973: I would say that if, in fact, you are planning to upgrade at a later date, you should find a pair of speakers that you absolutely love, then ask suggestions on what to drive them with. I'm sure that you'll find some local hi-end dealers around you somewhere, who will probably let you audition components in your system, once they get to know you a bit better. Speakers are definitely the most 'personal preference' component, so listen to everything, decide what you like, and find a way to fit it into your budget...