don't forget a used DSLR option.
I sold my two month new Olympus 8080 to get a one year old Canon 300d. I could not be happier. After two years with it - I know EXACTLY what I need/want from the camera and am thinking to upgrade.
If you don't mind used - you can save on the body and buy better lens for the money that's levt over instead , or just have some extra money left for partying

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even a used camera like Canon 300d is still a great choice and you can pick one up for $200-$300. THere are used Canon XT on the market as well as Nikon d50 and d70.
just a thought