Java Programming

I know how to read from a text file and how to write to a text file. The problem that i have is i need to use a text file to store data for my application to read and also for my application to write. I would like it if i could write two programs really, one reads, the other is used to update the text file. This file is a list of verbs. I thought about using databases but i couldn't get them to work. I downloaded MySQL server 5.0 and installed it. I then downloaded the driver from http://www.mysql.com/products/driver and ran the auto installer. it said everything worked out perfectly but when i try these lines:

Class.forName("com.mysql.jdbc.Driver");

I get a SQLException that says no suitible driver

Class.forName("sun.jdbc.odbc.JdbcOdbcDriver");

( I thought this driver came with the JDK but i guess not, i just read about it in a java book)

I get a ClassNotFoundException

that just says sun.jdbc.odbc.JdbcOdbcDriver

So yeah, SQL is pretty much not working. I need a solution to my problem, either by using text files, or a different type of database. I heard you could use excel to create a database but i have no idea how and i hear microsoft access could also do this, however i don't have microsoft access and i don't intend on paying for it. So, here are my questions:

1st, is there a tutorial on using excel databases in java programs
(if not)

2nd is there a way to read/write/update a text file without deleting it?
(if not)

3rd is there a way to get SQL working, i have windows vista this could be the problem
(if not)

4th what could i do to store information on the hd for reading and modifying later?

thanks, lateralus