This is a great forum. What is usually missing are good photos that are worth 1,000 posts.

As far as magazines go, it really depends on what you want to do. For example, Radio Control Modeler and Model Airplane news pretty much go with the trends which happens to be ARF's right now. If you want to build, then you'll get better info from Flying Models. If you want to build scale, most of the best mags are available at good book stores but are printed in England.

Also, it helps to join a club before you buy anything. Find someone who is willing to help you through the build and flying. If you try to get a lot of people to help you it will confuse you because you'll get a lot of different answers. While each person has a system that works for them, part of one persons system may not work with part of someone else's if that makes any sense.

Lastly, take a look at my web site. The Information for Modelers link has a lot of info on it including tools to buy, building tips, etc.

Hope all this helps and be sure to ask all your questions here. Everyone who started in this hobby was overwhelmed and confused by everything and there is a lot of experience here that can answer any of your questions.

Good luck.