Fly-in gives lift to Fowlerville projects

A "well-oiled" community event this weekend will raise funds that will stay in the Fowlerville area, Dennis Bowdoin said.

The Fowlerville Rotary Club's 64th annual Dawn Patrol Fly-In takes place Saturday and Sunday at Maple Grove Airport, north of Fowlerville on Sherwood Road in Conway Township.

With no set starting time, about 200 personal aircraft are expected to fly into the event, the success of which "totally depends" on weather conditions, Bowdoin, the airport manager said. Anywhere from five to 545 pilots have attended past events.

"It mostly brings a good sense of community," he said. "It's a huge fundraiser for the Rotary."

The club has funded many improvements for Community Park and Centennial Park in the community, including running paths, gazebos, bathrooms and ball fields.

The popular farmer's breakfast, benefiting the club, will be served from 7-11 a.m. Sunday. The cost is $8 for adults or $5 for children younger than 13.

Entertainment will be provided by Capital City Sky Divers, and numerous World War II airplanes are expected to be on display.

Free camping is available to those with campers and tents.

Bowdoin said the event wouldn't be possible without the support of the Sherwood family, who lets the Rotary "take over" their property for the event.

No reservation is required to attend.

For more information contact Carrie Newstead at 517-540-6303 or cnewstead@fnbh.com or Bowdoin at 517-223-7809.