Beginning machine for newbie: Sewing Genie ($40)??

I am a male who needs to make hems and things to my pants. I know
nothing about machine sewing, always having done everything by hand. A
friend gave me a cheap Sewing Genie
(http://www.alltvstuff.com/sew1.html ) and I was wondering if this
thing is any good?

I cannot afford much money so if someone could recommend a good
"beginners" sewing machine, say under $100, I would appreciate it.
Also, are there any websites that show beginners how to saw, use
drop-in bobbers, things like that?

Thanks,
Mark Ferrante
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