33rd Annual “Fly-In Cruise-In” continues to impact community

The 33rd annual “Fly-In Cruise-In” took place at Marion Municipal Airport yesterday, Aug. 31.

“I mean, Marion has to have some shining stars and events and things that happen. The fly-in is one of those. And so this is huge for our community. And this benefits the Grand County Rescue Mission,” said Jason Stepp, head of Sunnycrest Baptist Church, “So it’s always been something enormous.” 

The “Fly-In Cruise-In” is a fundraiser showcasing cars and planes. A pancake breakfast is done as well. 

The fundraiser is Grant County Rescue Mission’s (GCRM) biggest event. 

“It’s important for us to do this kind of fundraiser because it’s something everybody can participate in. But it also makes it public so people can see what we’re doing,” said Brad Terhune, executive director of GCRM. 

Last year marked the largest turnout with almost 3,600 pancakes served.

“It’s still important because it’s helping to save lives right here in Grant County,” said Natalie Broyle, director of thrift of GCRM. 

Broyle is one of those lives saved having been the first female graduate of GCRM’s Life Change program. 

“Life change really does happen here,” said Broyle. 

The GCRM offers services through food, shelter and classes both for work and religion. 

Broyle said this about the impact GCRM has on people and herself:

The community benefits from fellowship as well. 

“For the community, what this is, it brings people together. You know, there’s so much junk going on in the world today, right? That people come out here and just enjoy life and get away from all that and just visit old friends,” said County Commissioner Steve Wright. 

Both Wright and Stepp work for Event Audio and announce for local events. Wright has been announcing for the “Fly-In Cruise-In” for 30 years. 

“Get involved in your community, especially at a young age,” said Wright, “because a lot of us are getting old, we’re retiring and we need that help.”

This year’s fundraiser was sponsored by Cracker Barrel. It was sponsored by IHOP in previous years. 

“It was fantastic. First chance, I got to get a hold of one of the managers. He called and got a hold of a regional support person, and they all made it very seamless,” said Terhune.