L to R: General contractor Rick Batchelor, Marilyn Taylor and Casey Whisenhunt, Valley Bank & Trust branch president, break ground for the construction of the Eagle’s Nest.
By Bill Stansbeary
For most pilots and aviation enthusiasts, the passion for flying begins early in life and continues to grow through the various avenues of military, commercial and general aviation activities. When age and/or health issues dictate that flying or participating in aviation-related activities is no longer possible, the memories and recollections of experiences keep the passion strong throughout the remainder of life.
A groundbreaking ceremony and reception, held Aug. 27, marked the start of construction of Eagle’s Nest aviator homes. The facility, located adjacent to Platte Valley Airpark (18V) near Ft. Lupton and Hudson, Colo., will provide assisted living care in an environment designed to promote these reflections, unlocking memories and associations for the residents.
Recent changes at the airpark include moving the Lafayette Foundation’s Vintage Aero Flying Museum to the Red Baron Estates, a residential fly-in community located south of the airpark. The museum is on one lot, occupying two new hangars capable of accommodating the expanded collection of WWI and WWII artifacts and aircraft. The six remaining lots are residential; all Red Baron lots have runway access. Eagle’s Nest will be located across the street from the museum complex.
According to Marilyn Taylor, airport manager, Eagle’s Nest, opening winter 2008, will be a new facility furnished in a style reflective of the 1940s and decorated with aviation memorabilia and artifacts from World War I, World War II and early general aviation history. Activity areas designed to entertain and stimulate the residents will enhance the home’s environment.
A comfortable library/theater room housing a collection of aviation books and publications, as well as a variety of aviation-related videos and DVDs, will be available for the enjoyment of the residents, their families and visitors. Residents can refresh their flying skills in the game room adjoining the central living area, which offers several computer game flight simulators.
A large country kitchen will adjoin a dining room and a great room, complete with a fireplace. Background music in the common areas will complete the nostalgic theme with favorite selections from the big band era and others.
Eagle’s Nest, opening winter 2008, will be furnished in a style reflective of the 1940s and decorated with aviation memorabilia and artifacts from World War I, World War II and early general aviation history.
Included in the design are 10 single-resident bedrooms and two double-occupancy bedrooms, each with a full bath, intercom system and call buttons for emergency assistance. A guest suite will be available for residents’ family and friends wishing to spend extended time enjoying the museum and airpark activities.
Eagle’s Nest will be an environmentally friendly and energy efficient single-story home. All exterior and interior areas will be handicapped accessible, and all state safety requirements will be met. The front and side porches will offer a view of the museum and airpark runway.
In addition to the daily aviation activities available at the museum and adjacent airport, the residents will enjoy field trips to other aviation activities such as fly-ins. Complimentary transportation will be provided to aviation organization meetings, luncheons and other functions.
For more information, call 303-536-0380 or email mtpva1@aol.com.