Can anyone recommend another gliderport in Florida? Or is it worth driving up to Chilhowee Tennessee?

http://www.eaglesport.org/ combination power and glider club

http://www.ssa.org/WhereToFlyMap.asp

Florida is flat. Chilhowee is in the mountains. Getting the add-on rating in FL will be easier. If/when you train in the mountains, you will learn additional skills. I suggest learning the basics of aerotow and landing in FL close to home, and then immediately (while you still have 'beginner's mind') start visiting Chilhowee to learn about Appalachian Mountain Style soaring. Get the basics out of the way in FL this Spring, then go to Chilhowee over the summer and enjoy the cooler mountain weather.

Once you get comfortable in a glider, go to Chilhowee to get a taste of Appalachian Mountain Soaring and expand your skill set.