RE: Getting back into flying - what radio
Dean,
I would back up what JC is saying, The current radios are all pretty good stuff. And using what is common at your field does make it easier to get help if you need it. I would recomend the newer 2.4ghz radios over any of the older ones. I have the Futaba 7C as well and I am very happy with it. It has the features that you mentioned and a few others and will store 10 different models. For a little less, (I remember that money can be limited with a little one around) the 6 EX has many of the features of the 7C and will store 6 models.
I too came back after a long time off (my "little one" is in college now). Things have changed, but the people that want to help you out haven't.
Welcome back.