My 2 pennies worth...

If you are looking for a club then visit your Local Hobby Store (LHS) and ask them for recommendations. You can also visit www.modelaircraft.org and use the "find a chartered club" link...

I've taught many people to fly on about every trainer made. I agree that the SIG LT-40 and SIG Kadet Senior are great trainers... However, there is nothing wrong with either of the Hanger 9 RTF planes -- Xtra Easy 2 or the Alpha. If you like the idea of getting into the air fast then get one of the H9s... If you want to take a little time and assemble your trainer get one of the SIGs...

As already mentioned -- it is better to get a radio brand that you can get local help with. If the local fields are populated by Futaba guys (yeah! I like Futaba) then get a Futaba. If the reverse is true ( [:@] ) get the JR. Both make great radios that will last for years and years... At worst you can spend $50.00 or so and get your own buddy box... The basic radios are pretty simple and any competent instructor should have no trouble with any radio brand of radio handed to them...