Callaway, NE-Nineteen years ago at least two professional kite fliers worked with Connie May to launch a who-knows-if-it'll-work fly at the sand greens golf course south of town. Scott Skinner, then the American Kite fliers Assn. Region VII director, and Don Murphy, the current director, guided Connie in publicizing a fun fly to both professional fliers they both knew as well as to amateurs. Skinner, from Monument, CO, and Murphy, from Omaha, both will be in Callaway this year for the 19th Annual Callaway Kite Flight. Skinner was a pilot instructor at the Air Force Academy who discovered kites as a collector, then a kite-maker, and ultimately an artisan who often works with paper as his medium. Murphy is a construction manager and both are passionate about kites.
Over the years, many individuals who work as architects, engineers, teachers, builders, artists, and in the military have taken part in Callaway's fun fly as the backgrounds of their careers meld well with the art and craft of making and flying kites. Back in 1991, the idea of bringing professional kite fliers to this rural area and then attracting amateur fliers and spectators was thought crazy, even "wild and crazy", as the brainstorming segment of the local Chamber's economic development meetings was known. Thousands of fliers and guests later, the Callaway Kite Flight is a testament to a low-key, restful, visually stunning, and challenging event for people of all ages and occupations.
The Callaway Kite Flight will take place over Labor Day weekend, at the Foster Smith Field site 4 1/2 miles southeast of Callaway along Hwy 40. Flying will begin at 10 am on Sat. and Sun. Concessions featuring homemade foods and pie will be on site as well as Shaved Ice and Cold Stone Creamery. A gate fee of $2 per person/per day will pay for entrance, parking, a wristband, and a chance toward drawings throughout both days including a special Mary Gabby Kite.
As in 2008, Professional and Amateur Fly Zones will be marked for the safety and fun of all. A special event is planned for Sunday morning to honor the memory of Kite Flight originator Connie May. White helium balloons will be filled by volunteers at 10 am and released shortly afterward. For more information: www.callawaykiteflight.com or call 308.836.4416 or 308.836.4430.
