This site is useful for checking out new cards before their initial release (i.e. Worldwake): http://www.gatheringmagic.com/
If you're looking for information on cards that have been archived/already released I would go here: http://gatherer.wizards.com/Pages/Default.aspx (this site has a really nice intuitive interface, and it's typically where I go if I want to gathering ideas for deck construction).
Hope that helps!!! :)
The first release of Magic the Gathering cards was on August 5, 1993.
You can not. They are not part of Magic the Gathering.
41
A lot
No
Spelling stores
60-75 cards,
nerdy kids and card shops?
yes it does, but the selection is limited.
Magic the Gathering cards dating back to 1993 (Alpha, Beta, and Unlimited) tend to be very valuable. You can get information on individual cards here: http://www.magictraders.com/pricelists/
Either 8 or 15 cards.
You can find tournaments for magic cards at Magic The gathering in San Francisco,Ca or at 2154 university ave. in Berkeley,Ca.