Okay, one more option that I haven't seen mentioned.

Buy a decent RC simulator, like Aerofly Pro, or Real Flight. The original Aerofly has been available for about $139, and Real Flight G2 is on sale right now for under $150. Both may be cheaper if you look at the Ads here on RCU or EBay, because newer versions of both have just come out.

If you put in 30 or 40 hours of solid Sim time, you stand a better chance of bringing your trainer home in one piece.

It does really suk that this club won't make more of an effort to help a new guy; and as was mentioned, it sounds like that club is dying from apathy. Wish I was closer, I'd be happy to help, and sure would like some of your weather!

Good luck, and don't let the ba$tards get you down.
Dennis-