You do not have to go at this with no help. I plugged zip code 06107 into the AMA club locator and it found 17 clubs within 25 miles.
http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubsearch.aspx
Most clubs have instructors who will teach you a lot more than just flying. And, you'll be hanging out with people who like planes.


RCKen (one of the RCU moderators) put together a list of proven beginner planes. When you open the "Beginners" forum it is the third item:
Sticky: Looking for a trainer, what's available. (Updated 5-6-07)