Wasn't that "no fly zone" in place during the Reagan administration?
We haven't felt the crunch like you do,
CLBetten, although Cannon Air Force Base here in Clovis NM is a hot spot for dignitaries.
It along with Holloman AFB in Alamogordo NM are or were considered
remote and isolated by Congress so they get additional help for recreational services and base exchange entities with perks such as free utilities since profitability is harder than in a larger city. There are mixed feelings; some of the airmen like it enough to retire here, others dislike it because it doesn't have big city services. Lubbock and Amarillo TX are 2 hours away. There's a lot of nice 2 lane roads to ride on between here and Texas and motocross tracks if one likes riding motorcycles. There are places to practice one's marksmanship, too.
The 1/2-A's are fun for sure, provided one has the low wind climate to enjoy them. My Ringmaster with McCoy 35 RH is certainly more stable in the wind. It gives a little more tug on the end but it is not bad.