newb

[whitey]

hi all. am totally new to python and was wondering if there are any 
newsgroups that are there specifically for beginners. i have bought a 
book for $2 called "learn to program using python" by alan gauld. 
starting to read it but it was written in 2001. presuming that the 
commands and info would still be valid? any websites or books that are a 
must for beginners? any input would be much appreciated...cheers