I like Tuttle Camera. They have nice stuff and aren't to stuffy. Pro Photo in Costa Mesa is also very good.
Nikons, Canon, Sony, they are all great. The differences between them are not something the average user will notice. IMO the best investment is in the glass.
Are you using the PVC or frag plug to correct in in post, or are you setting up a custom white balance in camera, and then shooting to that white balance, and then fine tuning in post?
Where do you find out about the contests? I need something to do LOL. Since I moved down from Portland I have only met 2 other people in the club. Would be fun to be more involved.