[Karl Bebout]

For the way you use your car, why would you be concerned with all the super nifty sodium filled valves and stuff? You're not trying to wring the last ounce of power and performance. Spend your money on things you'll use.
As for compression....block decking, head milling, pistons, and head gaskets all go into the mix. Given your stated purposes, why not stick to 8-9 so if you get stuck having to use cheapo gasoline, there's not much concern. Also, down the line, if you ever wanted to put a huffer on, you'd be in good shape.
This being said, its all moot, if bragging rights is your goal.
Just my 2 1/2¢ (or less) worth.