What dealer did you go to? Where in MA are you located?
The battery disables the remote after 5 days of inactivity. Starting the motor should reset this.
The mechanical door lock linkage can come un-done within the door. I have this problem in my 98.
The electrical issues are likely due to a low voltage condition. Start the car and put a voltage meter on the battery. It is likely that you will need a new battery. For long term storage, you should look into a battery maintainer:
http://www.****************************************************.com/product/98061198100.html?Category_Code=986engele