Hi Kenny,
We don't have any authorized repair centers at all, but that doesn't mean there aren't qualified locals available to work on your instrument. Some things (like electronics upgrades) can only be done here at the shop.
It sounds like the wood has shrunk more than the brass (are there any cracks in the back laminate that start at the screws?). You might be able to wiggle the plate by placing your palm flat on it and pushing with a small amount of force, then rotating your hand at the wrist. Hold the guitar with your other hand or clamp to a table or it won't be effective.
Using a hex driver to pry at one of the holes is how we do it here. Note that if it's really stuck fast, the finish might get damaged as the plate releases.
You could also try coming at the plate through the 1/4 jack like this:
But you have to use something small like the Xcelite screwdriver shown so you don't damage the connector.
If you manage to get the plate free, remove the PF-6 card and sand the edge of the brass plate so you won't have a repeat performance.
The serial number isn't quite right, so if you can recheck that it would be great.
If you need us to do an electronics upgrade, then you might want to just leave the plate in place (with screws of course) when you send it in and let us worry about it.
