[New System Build] - $1k Gaming/Design

Looking for a system that will last me a solid amount of years, with a good upgrade ability route for SLI/CFX, CPU, RAM. I'll be using it for gaming, design/edit in CS4/Avid/flash and general browsing.

APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: I am in no hurry to build this machine, but maybe within a month's time, I'm willing to buy piece by piece.

SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: Gaming, Design, Watching movies/shows, Browsing web

PARTS NOT REQUIRED: Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, I have a eVGA 8800 gts laying around with a chance to buy a evga gtx 260 core 216 for like $50 from a friend.

PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: newegg.. and anywhere else that is a safe seller  

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA

PARTS PREFERENCES:I have been stuck between the i5 or 955 for a good solid month, I've always been worried about EOL. I would get the i5, if i weren't worried about a better alternative, coming out within the year making it obsolete, but I like the cheap alternative with AMDs and their long shelf life with the AM3+.. I .. Just CANT DECIDE!! Should I just make the leap to 1366 with i7?

OVERCLOCKING: Yes!

SLI OR CROSSFIRE: Maybe (in the future)

MONITOR RESOLUTION: 1680x1050 (thats widescreen right?)

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: I will need OS.. help a brotha out! Thanks!