Have people been hearing about this competition? It's in Philadelphia, PA October 19 through 21. Will Shortz is the host and it's open to all levels and families. First prize in Advanced is $10,000 and an expense paid trip to India to compete on the U.S. Sudoku team in 2008.
They also have a section where you can submit questions to Merl Reagle.
More details are at www.philly.com/sudoku. It should be a very fun time.