I know that certain providers require references and  I have no issue with that...but how do I broach the subject and how do I know what a provider considers a credible reference...

I am in CT and there are some providers I would like to see but can't without a reference or two....any help or suggestions would be appreciated..

Some providers require references from other proviers.  Others want some back ground information (name, phone number, where you work).  Some want both.  You should probably find one with a good reputation that will work with your personal info and develope a relationship with them so that you can use them for a reference.  If you can't find someone that you are comfortable giving your info to then it gets very hard to get into the hobby at that end.

B U

Have you tried Date Check or Room Service 2000?  

That seems to me, the simplest solution...