http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_7316610/tm.htm

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_8503667/tm.htm

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_4537845/tm.htm

There is a lot of reading in these 3 links. Once read, you will have a very good idea of where to start.
If I had it to do over, I would go with something in a 60 size, bigger flies better, can handle more wind with less stress. As for radio gear, when you find a field and start working with the people that belong, you can get a very good idea of what radio equipment you want to start with. Someone at the field may have something that you can get your feet wet with, and save you some real money.
Gas is exactly that, gas. Larger motors take gas. Glow is based on alcohol. Both are extremely addictive, be careful.