the great thing about learning to fly in ks is you learn to fly in the wind and therefore know how to handle it better. That's my experience anyway. I'm no proficient pilot by any means but flying in the wind from day one has really helped in my opinion. btw I'm in the s.e. corner not near you. Don at dons hobby shop in salina in VERY helpful if you ever need anthing. I just stopped in one day on the way through and he talked to me for about 45 mins giving me tips for crosswind landing and other stuff. Very helpful man. Good luck