Kurt..
take a look on the main page @
http://www.fksa.org... there is a learning section.
dont even worry about buying anything but a trainer kite until after lessons.. just pretend the stuff does not exist..
there are many trainers in the St. Pete / Tampa area ..
www.tampabaykiteboarding.com is a great place to start and a well known and respected group of instructors..
a trainer kite (if you have never flown a kite before) will help you first lessons go from ground to water much faster. you can get one for 150$ or less if you find one used.. learn to properly fly it and you will save time and money on your lessons.
its the dead season around here now.. get a trainer, learn to fly, get some lessons in the light winds.. by the time the season is back you will be ready to get serious in the sport ....
b