Spot on. Dick Fano was a great influence on the hobby for decades. He is missed since his passing. We also have guys like Miles Reed, who always encourage newcomers and make the hobby fun for those in all the nearby clubs as well, with their knowledge, skills, and wonderful story telling. In the past, we had no less than three hobby stores in this little town. We are down to one, Aerotech (Dicks place), but it is one of the best I have ever seen, and I traveled the country for ten years. Prices compare to mail order (many times less), and even special order items are usually less expensive than you can buy on your own and are quickly ordered. With some 5 clubs in a 25 mile radius, that have been around for decades, plenty of experience is always available. Yes, this is a fine area to be involved in the hobby.

Sorry to go off topic for a few syllables, but I am passionate about this hobby and the heritage this area has in it, having enjoyed some 4 decades of RC myself.

On topic, advice from guys around here usually comes from having tried or seen it all at one time or another.