Eight8Air wrote " Another reason is that I would prefer to avoid buying software that is just going to create more fustration for me.
Unfortunately when tying to accomplish your project,things might get a little frustrating and confusing,so try out some of the free progs already suggested or try out some of the commercial ones w/free trials.see what suits you,then come back for advise on those...Don't make things more frustrating than need to...As you will have to get a little dirty and "frustrating" at times,it takes time/effort to get it done....
To remove commercials and stuff not needed for no $ try these..
http://download.videohelp.com/jsoto/...vcut/index.php
http://download.videohelp.com/jsoto/guides.htm