Thanks CoolJJay! That diagram was what I was looking for.

I reassembled the filter into the canister with the spring in the correct orientation this time. I also left off the synthetic band that was under the big rubber o ring.

This time, I made sure to push the oil filter housing up snug and centered against the Filter top before tightening the bolt with my fingers and then the 17mm socket to 30 ft/lbs.

Long story short--no leaks.

To anyone doing this job the first time I would advise them to do the following along with your suggestion:

1.Take your time.
2.Clean all the black oil off everything before re-assembling so you can see what your doing.
3.Jack the car up--at least the left front quarter.
4.Go slow.
5.Double check the order and orientation of the oil filter parts assembly before getting under the car.
6.Wear clothes you don't like and want to get rid of when doing the job.

cheers,