RE: Trainer or Stick for first plane
gregoryda,
Flying is a lot like riding a bicycle. You never really forget how to do it, just get a bit rusty. If you used to fly then I would recommend two things, the stick and an instructor. Just explain to the instructor that you used to fly and need a safety net as you get back in to. Most instructors will be more than happy to work with you to shake the cobwebs off as you get back into the sport.
Ken