Thanks for the "welcomes' from everyone. It feels good to have finally found a good, ACTIVE forum that i know I can always reference for any question or concern.
I do have a question or 2 for some of the local AZ divers (SCUBAKristey and FISHKILLER come to mind).
IMHO, when looking for an instructor(s) to assist me in getting started, I feel that quality takes a severe precedence over quantity that some of the local LDS's take.
I'm by no means independently wealthy and would like to get my OWC going ASAP. I'm not particular to whichever organization to get certification from whether it be PADI, NAUI, SSI, etc. My first priority underwater, above all, is safety. Not just mine, but the safety of those I dive with. I'm seeking someone/somewhere that will be able to provide me with that level of quality instruction.
I don't think my expectations are set too high in this regard. Please correct me if it seems that way. Originally I had been looking for who had the "best deal". That doesn't seem as important to me now, though.
So I guess the main question is.. do any of you have any good word-of-mouth referrals for me? I want the best possible training I can come by.
Thanks in advance,
Chris=-)