Hey Pet575 welcome back to the hobby. I think '96 was probably the last Issue of the Tower catalog I had until this year. I just started building again.
A few things have changed, mostly the modelers. Watch out or they'll be suggesting ya put a blown 327 Chevy in your trainer ta make it fly like a helicopter.
If you like ARF's there is a ton of them out there, for good prices too. Glow kits are dissapearing, Electric egg cartons are popular now,jesh.
Electrics are also gathering steam, still trying to convince myself they are worth the price. Bought a charger though so I guess I am on my way, Ha.
Stick with what you know, You might get tired of your trainer quick but you can save it for your son 2 years Huh? I think I saw a kid in Model Airplane News that was about 3 flying helicopters.
As far as Radios go, a computer radio is nice. Ya can store the settings of different planes in one radio. Futaba makes A four channel computer radio, the 4exa, Thats only about 20 bucks more than a regular radio.
Thats a few things off the top of my head....