While I do advocate joining a club most of the time I understand his aversion to pay 200 bucks a year just on principle. I have not been a member of a club in a long time. There are many public parks where RC flying is normal and I normally seek those out. When I was stioned at Little Rock AFB we had a public park that had a huge open field on it tht the city kept mowed year round. They used it for a once a year festival and thats it. Me and my buddy flew on it all the time. I liked it more than a club field because we were free to do 3D and fly in random patterns. Most club flys that I go to I spent more time keeping and eye on the club members because all they want to do is fly in big circles and got pissed when I wanted to hover down on the deck. It is not always about the money. For a beginner yes I think he should seek out the help of a expert but don't start bashing the guy for using a PUBLIC park because it can be done safely.