Sorry to hear the first bike didnt work out.

I still urge you to look at the specialzied p1 or p2. They are great bikes for the money, and will suit your bmx background perfectly. However, it may be hard to locate one since specialized has run out of a lot of their 2003 lines of bikes. If you do see one, however, I strongly urge you to check it out, or ask the lbs when they will have some in stock or if they can order one.

Another suggestion would be to check out kona bikes. The Kona stuff, and scab would fit your budget nicely and are comprable to the p series bikes of specialized. The kona roast, kona's best out of bounds hardtail is also a sweet bike, although more expensive. This bike would be a better all around bike then the previous two I mentioned, but you will be paying more unless you find a deal on a 2002 or 2001.

http://konaworld.com/kw_index.cfm

I also suggest you check our Haro, as someone else mentioned and look at the escape series. The 2003 escape 8.3 is a super beefy frame and a great all mountain bike. The 2002 model is also worth looking at and would be a great bike for you. You could probably find a good deal on a 2002.

http://harobikes.com/2003/mtb.html