While I don't know if there is a forum for HOG PC, (though there probably is), to answer your second question:
If you want to learn lighting design, here are some hints:
1. Stick around here and read the lighting forum vivaciously. You'll learn a lot in a short period of time.
2. If you're at a college or a university, check out any books they may have on the subject. Look into Inter-library loan. Public libraries do ILL as well, but the college/university library generally will be able to get it for you as public libraries have limited funds to sign up for ILL services.
3.
Book/DVD list - check out this (rather messy) Collaborative Article:
http://www.controlbooth.com/forums/collaborative-articles/5981-theatre-books.html
4. Subscribe to as many
Industry Periodicals as you can. Click on that link and you'll find almost all of them are free.
5. The biggest tip:
Don't be afraid to experiment with new design styles. Keep it safe, obviously. But don't just stick with the same type of design every time. If you have the ability, start a design with plenty of
headroom in the schedule so that if something doesn't work, you can change it.