The June 2013 Flight Lines newsletter focuses on the success of the 3rd Annual Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo, which expanded beyond light sport aircraft to include military jets, warbirds, and helicopters. President Mark Brown praised the event for excellent weather and organization, highlighting the surprise arrival of two Navy F/A-18s that performed a flyby and served as the weekend’s highlight. The newsletter also celebrates the reopening of La Garita Creek Ranch Airstrip in the San Luis Valley, a significant milestone for recreational and backcountry aviation access in Colorado, following months of restoration work and community effort.
Key Topics
- 3rd Annual Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo success and expansion to all aircraft types
- Navy F/A-18 flyby and appearance as event highlight
- Educational activities including flight simulators and youth STEM projects
- Colorado Recreational Aviation Committee (CORAC) efforts on airstrip access and legislative protection
- La Garita Creek Ranch Airstrip restoration and reopening
- Recreational opportunities and facilities at La Garita Creek Ranch
- Resource Management Plan (RMP) for backcountry airstrip protection
Events & Activities
- 3rd Annual Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo – May 2013 (exact dates not specified) – Featured light sport and experimental aircraft, military jets, warbirds, helicopters, flight simulators, children’s activities, and seminars
- First Annual La Garita Creek Ranch Fly-in – June 21-23, 2013 – San Luis Valley, Colorado backcountry airstrip opening celebration
- Spring Flying Season Kickoff Fly-in – March 9, 2013 – Hooper Sand Dunes Pool
Member News
- New Members Welcomed: Michael Ruhsenberger, Mike Manzitto, Steve Stratton, Carl Houghton, Richard Stratmeyer, Michael Samp, John Dunbar, Rob Fries, Bryce Verreyen, Brent Meyer, Romona Stuelkrad, Larry Bass, Kevin Smith, Dave Graham, Larry Durner, Nate Cupps, Dominick Ricci, Peggy Sloan, and Jeremy Combs
- Recognition: Ann Anderson recognized as RMLSAExpo Committee Chair for organizing the highly successful event
- Recognition: Patrick Romano acknowledged for tireless negotiations with the BLM as Recreational Aviation Foundation Liaison
- Recognition: Flight Deck Grill provided catering for Expo breakfast and lunch
