The December 2005 issue of Flight Lines highlights the CPA's annual meeting featuring Colonel Bill Bower (USAF, Ret.), a Doolittle Raider who shared firsthand accounts of this historic WWII mission. President Bart Jones reports a successful turnout of about 100 members and announces that the management team has been reelected to serve another year. The newsletter also features a detailed account of the Durango Fly-in organized by Charlie and Vickie Stone, which took members to spectacular fall foliage and three different airports, including visits to Aztec National Monument and the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.
The Durango Fly-in article, written by Beverly Boecher, emphasizes the well-organized multi-day event that offered participants various recreational options including hiking, scenic drives, railroad tours, and Mesa Verde visits. The fly-in showcased the CPA's commitment to combining aviation with cultural and scenic experiences, with participants enjoying excellent weather, beautiful autumn colors, and the camaraderie of fellow pilots. The issue also includes a historical "Factoid" question about post-WWII general aviation predictions and begins a featured article about flying to college football games.
Key Topics
- CPA Annual Meeting and leadership reelection
- Colonel Bill Bower's Doolittle Raid presentation and WWII history
- Durango Fly-in organization and logistics
- Aztec National Monument tour
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory tour and production process
- Post-WWII general aviation market predictions and history
- Flying to college football games
Events & Activities
- CPA Annual Meeting - featuring Colonel Bill Bower (USAF, Ret.) as speaker
- Durango Fly-in - organized by Charlie and Vickie Stone, including stops at Aztec Airport (Aztec, NM), Animas Airport (Animas, CO), and Durango Airport (Durango, CO)
- Aztec National Monument self-guided tour
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory private tour
- Optional activities: Mesa Verde National Monument visit, scenic drives, Durango & Silverton scenic railroad, local peak hike
- Happy hour and brewery restaurant dinner in Durango
Member News
- Leadership Recognition: President Bart Jones and the entire management team reelected for another year of service
- Event Organization: Charlie and Vickie Stone recognized for exceptional planning and hosting of the Durango Fly-in
- Guest Assistance: Eric and Deb Jensen acknowledged for helping coordinate transportation during the fly-in
- Speaker Featured: Colonel Bill Bower (USAF, Ret.), a Doolittle Raider, presented at the annual meeting
- Member Contributor: Bill Halpain interviewed about flying to college football games (article continues beyond newsletter excerpt)
