A unique mix of artists and aviators came together at Placerville Airport (PVF) on Saturday, Oct. 3, for Arts and Culture El Dorado’s annual fundraiser, a first for the small general aviation airport.

Patrons filled the Mountain Enterprises hangar on the flightline for drinks and hors d’oeuvres as a live band, Bad Cat, played against a backdrop of general aviation aircraft and the setting sun. Mountain Enterprises donated the use of its hangar for the event, Arts and Culture El Dorado Executive Director Terry LeMoncheck said.

In a joint interview with LeMoncheck during the event, airport manager Dale Lusby said that planning began soon after LeMoncheck contacted him about the idea back in February.

“A lot of moving parts, but as you can see, it’s a great crowd,” LeMoncheck said. “We’re raising money to support culture, arts and creativity, which you know is an uphill battle these days, but so important in all of our lives.”

LeMoncheck sees Arts and Culture El Dorado as a community organization, not just one for artists, she said, calling the airport a “spectacular venue.”

The event also helps raise awareness about the local aviation community, Lusby said, underlining the importance of the airport in firefighting, commercial operations such as Mountain Enterprises, and flight training.

“It’s a great combination for the airport,” he said. “I think the great benefit is showing the airport as a community asset, not just a nuisance from noise as some people see it. We want to get more people up to the airport, exposed to aviation, exposed to the value that this can bring to the community.”

Lusby estimated that the overwhelming majority of guests at the event had never been to Placerville Airport. LeMoncheck agreed, saying that several guests had told her it was their first visit.

The event is part of Lusby’s mission to bring more activity to Placerville Airport since he became manager in February. In a previous interview with Wingman, he said that small airports can have a positive impact on the local economy.

Among the guests were representatives from one of Arts and Culture El Dorado’s biggest sponsors, T-Mobile. Elected officials and leaders of arts organizations were also in attendance, LeMoncheck said.

With the success of the event, Lusby and LeMoncheck are already looking forward to next year, and Lusby raised the possibility of hosting a future art exhibit at the airport.

“Come to Placerville,” LeMoncheck said. “Enjoy the arts, enjoy our historic town, enjoy the airport. Support culture and creativity.”