All replies are extremely helpful. I have zero bicycle touring experience, and I really appreciate the information and various opinions.
Just a few comments. First, coming from the distance hiking world where it is not unusual to hear of hikers cutting off ends of toothbrushes or trimming away clothing tags and white margins around maps, I'm always thinking about weight and keeping things as light as possible. Soooooo, that's my intro into being hesitant to add a front rack and panniers. The Surly front rack weighs in at a bit over 3 lbs., and the Ortlieb Sport Roller Hi-Viz bags come in at 25 oz. So to add front capacity, I'm adding 5 lbs just to carry...

? I don't know yet, but my goal is to have no more than 35 lbs of gear. I totally get that ride stability is critical, and I get that having gear divided into 4 groups would be easier, but... I have until May to get everything in order, so I'll keep chewing on it. I never thought about hauling my tent/sleeping bag on the front, and never would have thought about carrying water on the front forks. My distance hiking "skin out" weight was 32 lbs, which included 2 liters water and 4 days food.
I have a 2021 Surly Disc Trucker, which can accept a kickstand. Old habits are hard to put aside.
I'm not rich, so I'm going to tinker with my Shires Tarptent and see if I can add two collapasable poles rather than buying a new freestanding tent.
I had no idea that locks weigh so much, some upwards of 6 lbs. I have a 30" Arbus chain lock that weighs 2.5 lbs. I don't know whether to make do or upgrade.
It seems that everyone agrees to keep valuables in handlebar bag and take it with you when away from bike. I already removed the shoulder strap, so now I'll add it back.
Last Sunday I did at 52 mile ride in 3:40. No gear, gentle hills, light traffic, but still I was happy 'cause it was my first 50 mile ride and I didn't die. Progress!
I'll shut up now before I get on everyone's nerves. I have a $300-400 question that I'll pose later in the week and I want to keep in your good graces.
Thanks again for all the great info and ideas.