Well, if $1000 includes lens, then I would go for getting an older generation model like the Nikon D70s, Canon Rebel XT, or Sony A200, those each running in the area of $400-$500, then spending the rest on a good lens. Of course, tripod, bag, cards, etc. Getting a good lens and pairing it with a cheap body will yeild better results than getting a cheap lens and pairing it with the nicest, most expensive body.

For the Sony - the 70-210 f4 Beercan runs around $225, great telephoto zoom with great bokeh, plus the 50 1.7 @ $100, and then you've got another couple hundred bucks to apply towards one of the *many, many* wide angle lens ranges that Minolta/Sony has to offer.

Keep in mind, you will in all likelihood going to be replacing the camera body before you replace the lens, lens are built to last decades, don't get the expensive body just to pair it with a kit lens.