FB,
I would suggest that just about the only things you need to have when starting out are your logbook, checklist and sunglasses. Anything after that is up to preference and available cash.
Can I suggest getting yourself a 1:500,000 chart covering your area sooner rather than later - only 12.99 (approx) but very useful to begin learning about airspace and navigation. Make sure you wait for the 2002 version, out March (I think).
Lots of good advice on clothing (especially ditching the shirt and tie!) but it is often hard to know what to wear, as it can be bloody cold checking out the aircraft in a chill wind and then bloody hot inside when you are working hard.
But most of all, spend your money on flying, not equipment!
Good luck.
SD