Replying to What to look for in a new camera

hey, i would like to get a new camera and im wondering what to look for. i hoping to take action photos, night pictures and something with a large zoom. hoping to spend around $350

so my first question is how important is the shutter speed and should i look for 1/4000 or 1/2000?

- whats the difference between digital and optical zoom and which is more important?

- what are your favourite companies (which have the most bang for there buck)?

thanks for your help