The November 2012 issue of Flight Lines features CPA President Mark Brown’s reflection on his first term, highlighting concerns about membership growth (currently around 700 members compared to 15,000 pilots in Colorado) and discussing the value proposition of CPA membership. Brown emphasizes successful programs like the Mountain Flying Course and explores new initiatives such as partnerships with the Denver Art Museum and the Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo, while calling for more volunteer-led social activities across the state’s airports.
A major highlight is the detailed account of the Las Cruces fly-in (October 5-7, 2012), where eight aircraft participated in a weekend getaway featuring visits to White Sands Missile Range, the Whole Enchilada Festival, historic Old Mesilla, and various local attractions. The event showcased CPA’s capacity to organize meaningful social and recreational experiences for its membership.
Key Topics
- CPA membership growth and retention challenges
- Member benefits and value proposition of CPA membership
- Mountain Flying Course success and FAA recognition
- Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo planning needs
- Denver Art Museum pilot partnership program
- Call for volunteer involvement and area representative engagement
- Geographic spread of membership across Colorado
Events & Activities
- Las Cruces Fly-in – October 5-7, 2012 (LRU airport); included White Sands Missile Range tour, Whole Enchilada Festival, Old Mesilla historic town visit, and EAA Chapter 555 pancake breakfast
- 2013 Fly-in Planning Session – Saturday, January 12, 2013, 8:30 a.m. at Rocky Mountain Metro Airport Terminal Building, Mount Evans Room; continental breakfast at 8:30 a.m., meeting at 9:00 a.m.
- Mountain Flying Course (one-day ground school) – taught by Bill Standerfer and Bill Dunn, presented at AirVenture
- Denver Art Museum pilot tours – pilots providing perspectives on landscape artwork
Member News
- Alex Strickland – Organized the Las Cruces fly-in and authored the trip report
- Pam and Austin Vick – Hosted Friday night gathering at their home in Las Cruces with Mesilla Valley views
- Jim Eckles – Retired Public Information Officer for White Sands Missile Range, provided briefing at San Augustine Pass
- Bill Standerfer and Bill Dunn – Instructors for the Mountain Flying Course, received excellent reviews and delivered course at AirVenture
- Bob Kinney – Contact person for 2013 Fly-in Planning Session ideas and questions
