I basically want a digital camera basic enough that any newb can understand how to use it, but it also has complex features that I can learn and experiment with later on. So basically not just a purely noob camera that does everyhting automatically, but also has some manual features..

does anyone have any suggestions?

I'd say the Canon Rebel XSi
That's what I have.
There are basic modes where the camera pretty much does everything for you, but then there are also manual modes where you can change the ISO etc etc

Already a topic for this:
http://forums.d2jsp.org/index.php?showtopic=32247176&f=265

well im looking for a camera that's non-SLR and sub $280 in price.. i forgot to mention those constraints

Most people here shoot SLR's.

If you want a point and shoot, anybody at any electronic store such as Futureshop or Bestbuy might have more info than us, since that is what they know most about.
Most of us here know most about DSLR's.

Personally, for under $280, I would get myself:
http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10120679&catid=

OR

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10120964&catid=

OR, if you have a bit extra..

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&dm=DEBUG&sku_id=0665000FS10120747&catid=