Unfortunately, the two planes you have aren't very indicative of radio control. They're both underpowered and have minimal control.

While a 4 channel glow trainer might be a bit easier to fly because of additional control, it will also be MUCH more difficult for the same reason. More controls to deal with = more confusion if you haven't done it.

You can't be more than 45 minutes from a club at the very most . And that's assuming there aren't any clubs closer to you than the ones I know of in east/central MA. I'm sure there's a club within 20 minutes of you though.

Did you check the AMA link someone gave you in another thread?

Oh, and you were correct in assuming two channels; throttle and rudder. The idea is to control altitude (elevation as you called it) with throttle. Trimming the elevator for a little "up" as you did before your third throw made all the difference. (It doesn't take much "trim" to make a big difference.)
Dennis-