Honored 2009
Patsy Buchwald was born in Demorest, Georgia. She has a Business & Accounting Degree from Georgia State University. Patsy moved to Colorado Springs in 1984 where she purchased a partnership in the Aviator’s Mart gift shop at the Colorado Springs Airport. Having a real interest in aviation, she soon soloed, receiving her pilot’s rating in 1986.
In 1985 she joined the Pikes Peak 99s, the international organization of women pilots and became involved in fund raising and mentoring other women. That same year she became a volunteer with the local balloon classic where her talent in business and fundraising led to new endeavors.
In 1996 she had become the President and CEO of the state’s largest balloon festival, the Colorado Springs Balloon Classic, a three-day celebration which is a major Labor Day weekend event attended by thousands of people. Patsy has received many accolades and awards for the operation of this event which has become a great asset to the city of Colorado Springs and the state of Colorado.
Patsy began serving on the Colorado Springs Airport Advisory Commission in 1994 during a period of airport expansion and growth. She became the chairperson of the Commission in 1996.
Do you have an interest or want to support general, commercial, or military aviation?