Hi schfifty 5, glad to hear that you're interested in taking the plunge into R/C flying!

I know you asked for an electric trainer that wasn't too expensive, but you will likely find a glow-powered airplane simpler to operate and much easier to learn to fly. If Bolivar, MO is anything like Omaha, NE, the wind will blow far too often for you to get much enjoyment out of an inexpensive electric plane.

To answer your question, one of the best inexpensive 4-channel electric trainers is the BeginAir RTF by Parkflyers RC:

http://www.parkflyers.com/html/begin-air.html

Based on my own experience of trying to learn to fly with an electric parkflyer a couple of years ago, I believe you'll be much, much better served by starting out with a good glow-trainer package instead. They are much better at flying in moderately windy weather, and they enjoy more control authority than smaller, lighter electric aircraft.

Consider the Thunder Tiger Pegasus .40 Super Combo trainer package on sale right now at eHobbies.com:

http://www.ehobbies.com/ttr4556-f12.html

It's only $60 more than the BeginAir, but features a 75% larger wingspan and about 3x the weight. The Pegasus will fly smoothly and easily with its high quality Thunder Tiger GP-42 glow engine, but its size and weight will make it much more stable in the air.

It comes with the Hitec radio system and Thunder Tiger engine, prop, and spinner all pre-installed with no gluing or extensive building required. You will need a few accessories so you can start and service the plane, and eHobbies carries that too:

http://www.ehobbies.com/ttr3002.html

With the Side Kick accessory flight package, all you need to do is swing by your local hobby shop for a gallon of glow fuel and you're ready to take to the skies.

There is an AMA Chartered flying club near your hometown in Stockton, MO about 20 miles away called the Stockton RC Flyers. You can contact Wilburn Holland at (417) 276-5689 for more information about the club and to find a flight instructor to help you with flight training.

I learned the expensive way that light, inexpensive electric airplanes aren't easier to fly. They're actually harder to learn to fly with and difficult to control in anything other than almost dead calm wind conditions. Spend a few extra dollars for a good glow-powered trainer package and learn to fly at your local AMA club. You'll spend a lot less money doing it right the first time, and you'll enjoy learning to fly with other club members who share your excitement.