dragon wing,

Sorry to hear of your negative experience. I've belonged to several clubs since the mid 70's and have run into a few instances of the "holier than thou" attitude. I too consider it a reason to not associate with that group. Just keep looking and you'll find a group you'll enjoy being around.

I was talking to a prospective student last night who is thinking of getting a small foam Cub RTF. I looked it up on the internet and we had a nice discussion about that plane, flying in general, how I like to instruct, and what is best for the area we live in. I explained to him the disadvantage of having a 21 ounce plane in the higher winds we have in south central Kansas, but told him what ever way he decided to go I'll still instruct him (stuff the LHS didn't tell him as they just wanted to make a sale). I'll start him on our club trainer and when he's to the point I feel he can handle his park flyer we'll start flying that. He said he really appreciated my taking the time with him and the fact I'm willing to take the time to teach him to fly. Just being friendly and letting people know I'm willing to help them get started has let to 7 people joining the club in the past year.

I fly a variety of planes from park flyers to pattern and pylon racers and feel it doesn't matter what you plane or how much it costs, its more important you operate it in a save manner around other people. I don't care what you like to fly - if you come to the field looking for help I (and several of my fellow club members) will be glad to help you out.

Hogflyer