There were smooth skies and syrupy smiles at the annual Fly-In Pancake Breakfast at Plumas County’s Nervino Airport on Sunday, Sept. 8. Hosted by the Quincy Rotary Club, the event soared to new heights as aviation enthusiasts and breakfast lovers alike came together for a morning of community fun, fundraising and flying.
From 8 to 11 a.m., the air was filled with the buzz of small planes arriving and leaving, and the mouthwatering scent of pancakes flipping on the griddle. Attendees were served generous portions of pancakes, eggs, sausage and coffee, with the Rotary’s signature “gin-fizz” adding a little extra lift to the morning. A bounce house kept the kids entertained while families enjoyed the festivities.
As planes touched down, the live music of the Redbridge Ramblers lifted all spirits. Classic cars were on display courtesy of the Sierra Cascade Street Rodders Club. In addition, kids could explore impressive military vehicles, along with fire trucks from the newly formed Beckwourth Peak Fire Protection District. The firefighters went above and beyond, passing out Hotwheels cars to brave young kids who visited, ensuring the morning was a memorable one for the whole family.
Barbara Sullivan and her spouse proudly showcased their gleaming 1950 Oldsmobile Rocket 88, a standout in the classic car lineup. “It’s always fun to see people admire the car and chat about its history,” Sullivan said, while a crowd gathered to appreciate the vintage vehicle.
Jake and James Williams flew in from Stead, Nevada, in their trusty Cessna 182 for a breakfast fly-in tradition they’ve cherished for years. “We’ll be back tomorrow for inspections, but today is about enjoying the food and the fun,” Williams said with a smile.
The event also featured a giveaway with prizes ranging from gift baskets to local restaurant vouchers, all donated by generous sponsors.
Doug McCoy, Rotary president and chief executive officer of Eastern Plumas Health Care District, took a moment to thank those sponsors, as well as the volunteers. Among them were the 4-H color guard, Portola Junior-Senior High School volleyball team, Friends of the Portola Library and the first responders who made the event possible.
“We couldn’t do this without their help. The Fly-In is Rotary’s main fundraiser, and 100% of the proceeds go straight back into the community,” McCoy said.
Herb Bishop, Nervino Airport’s fixed-base operator, once again hosted the breakfast in his hangar, continuing a long-standing tradition. City of Portola Mayor Pat Morton and her husband Bob were among the many who turned out to enjoy the event.
“It’s a great time for the whole family, and it’s always fun to see the car show, airplanes, and the raffle was good,” Morton said. Bob Morton added, “It’s a good outfit to support, too. The money is being put to good use right here locally.”
Whether attendees came for the planes, the classic cars or the pancakes, one thing was certain — everyone left with full hearts and full bellies. As the Rotary continues to support local literacy and ethics programs with the funds raised, this year’s Fly-In Pancake Breakfast proved that a little lift, both in the air and in the community, can go a long way.
