Hey Kingston, go fly a kite!

KINGSTON — Internationally acclaimed kite flyer Ray Bethell will follow his heart to Kingston this weekend. Bethell, of Vancouver, B.C., is an expert in the field and can perform kite-flying acrobatics that will leave spectators' jaws agape, and he'll be the main attraction of Kites Over Kingston March 28, said event organizer Susan Rodgers. He'll perform from 1-2 p.m. at Cleo's Landing.

The 80-ish kite flyer's main motivation for visiting the area is to see his "sweetie" in Bremerton, but Rodgers is happy to piggyback Kingston's event on to his social life.

Kites Over Kingston, sponsored by the Downtown Kingston Association, will go on rain or shine, from 1-4 p.m. March 28 at Cleo's Landing.

Along with the food, music, and kites, she said, “We’ll have be a parade, judging of the best kite — lots of categories, and demonstrations.” This year the event is also co-chaired by the Lamar Family. Tom Lamar of Anchor Chiropractic, his wife Keri and the entire family will be participating in a little bit of community service “and a whole lot of fun.”

“It’s never too soon to show children how to be active members of a community,” Rodgers said. “Volunteers come in all shapes, sizes and ages. The kids will be leading the parade, and answering questions about the festivities in the information booth, along with their folks, on the day. So ‘come one, come all’” to the second annual Kites Over Kingston.

Costumes are encouraged. Participants can bring their own kites or buy or make one there, she says.

Vendors who have anything to do with windpower, play or celebration are also welcome. For more information, call Rodgers at (360) 297-4414.

Click here to see Bethel in action.

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