Absolutely, do NOT attempt to go it alone! It's the best possible way to get discouraged and quit

Go to the AMA web site. They're a national organization that provides liability insurance for our hobby. They will also have a list of clubs in your area. (Virtually every club requires AMA membership.)

AMA's site: http://modelaircraft.org/templates/ama/

I would also suggest getting in touch with the club before you buy. They will likely have instructors, and instruction is almost always free. (If it isn't, find another club.) They will probably have preferences as far as the equipment used to get started. ANd if you buy what they know, you'll have an easier time.

For the trainer, engine, radio, fuel, starter, glow igniter, props and other assorted misc. goodies, try your local hobby shop. If they don't have what you need, there's always Tower Hobbies online.

Tower: http://www.towerhobbies.com/
Check out: "Browse by Category".

One other thing. All of this information has been posted dozens of times. So use this site's "Search" function and look for "Trainers", or "First plane", stuff like that. You'll find enough info to keep you busy for a few days.

Then try the "FAQ's" page. Another few days.

Most of all, Welcome! This is a great hobby/sport, filled with terrific people, almost all of who will go out of their way to help the new guy. Just ask us.

Dennis-

Oh yeah, one more thing. You can expect to spend somewhere between $350 and $500 to get started "properly". BUT! sometimes, club members have old trainers they're willing to sell reasonably. They may not look the best, but they can save a few dollars.