And mine too I have a starter. It stays home unless I am taking a boat to the lake.

And a few other comments on equipment choices.

An RTF is a good choice if you want to just buy something and fly. Many of them come with decent components, and they are usually good deals. However, if you are the type who enjoys researching the options so you can choose for yourself, get an ARF. And finally, if you like building, kits are a good choice. As has already been said, a kit will not be any cheaper than an ARF, so don't choose a kit to save money.

I suggest NOT buying a glow starter (those things with a battery on top of a glow connector), many of them do not light a glow plug well enough. Instead, equip your flight box with a power panel, which includes a glow driver. An inexpensive 12v battery will provide power to the panel. You will then use a long wire with a connector which attaches to the glow plug. I've found this setup to me much simpler, and leads to less problems than trying to use a glow starter. Others will have different opinions, and they're right too. I'm probably in the minority on this one, just letting you know what works best for me.

You have several choices on radio systems. There are some good, economical 6 channel computer radio systems. First, I'll state that I prefer Futaba. This is a preference. From what I've read, JR also makes good radios. You'll get positive comments on Aritronics and Hitec too. Before you decide on a brand, check with the club you will be learning from. It's a good idea to stick with the brand most widely used by the club's instructors, you'll need to buddy box with them and radio manufacturers do not seem to want to build in compatibility with other brands.

I use a Futaba 6EXA, and really like it. This would be a good system to start with. If you add up the discounts and rebates at Tower, I think you can get this radio for less than $150. However, you can save some money initially by buying a basic 4 channel radio, such as the Futaba 4YF. Your first 2 or 3 planes will probably NOT need more than 4 channels. Once you decide you are serious about planes, buy a 6 or 7 channel computer radio, such as the 6EXA or 7CA. Choose the same frequency and all of the flight equipment from your first radio can be driven by the computer radio.

About the engine. It's ok to start with a basic .40, such as the OS 40LA, Thunder Tiger GP-42, etc. These will work well for trainers, and can work in other planes too. However, these engines are low on power for their class. Instead, if you choose a decent ball bearing .46, the extra power will give you many more plane choices. One more piece of advice on engines. Since you say you have no experience with glow engines, I'd suggest not starting it until you have someone with experience to help you. My reason for this is they will make sure you are doing everything in a safe manner, and they will also help you break it in properly.

And finally, AMA membership. The 19 year old question has to do with the price of membership. If you will be less than 19 on July 1, 2005, you can sign up as a youth, which will save you some $$$. If you are over 18, you can join by yourself. If you are under 18, you will need to have a parent or guardian sign your membership application. They will not force your father to join just so you can fly