RE: First plane
A simulator saves you a lot of money if you seriously want to learn to fly rc. Same with a club membership.
There are many many people who bought a plane and crashed it on the first flight trying to teach themselves to fly.
Often they get frustrated and give up. You already have your equipment and the AMA membership,
when you get a chance - go to your local club and talk to the folks. They will likely welcome you and point you in the right direction.
If you don't like it there, find a different club. It's worth looking.