For the first time in many years, I returned this weekend to the Southern Oregon Kite Festival in Brookings Harbor. A few miles north of the California border, Brookings is in what we call the Oregon Banana Belt. The weather is warm, gracious and uncharacteristically dry for Oregon. The coastline is magnificent! And the people are among the most appreciative I’ve ever flown for.
The Brookings festival is unique. The grassy space is not much larger than a football field and there is no room for general flying. Instead all the performers are scheduled for five minute displays. Sport kiters fly ballet, and single liner exhibitors recruit friends to loft themed shows. The parade goes on all day with each flier getting two or three turns in the spotlight. Announcer Arnold Stellema is among the best I’ve ever heard at a kite event.
An event like Brookings is all about the fliers. Guests this year included Jose Sainz, John Barresi, Carl and Lisa Bragel, Brian Champie, Deb Lenzen, Ron and Sandy Gibian, Penny Ligenfelter, Gary MacEachern, Ellen Pardee, Scott Skinner, Al Stroh, Rod and Cindy Thrall, Susan Shampo, John and Mary Gabby, Ron Despojado, and the Bay Area Sundowners. Local fliers from the Rogue Valley WindChasers added to the excitement.
Setting up a large display for a five minute show can be an intense effort. And of course, large kites fly safer with secure anchors. You don’t get those on a rotating performance field. But with light breezes, we still managed to present a show. Sunday afternoon, I actually ran our Giant Dog across the field.
So thank you Brookings for your warm welcome and fine hospitality. I’ll hope to see you again next year!
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