Lesley Little Illustrator:Brenda Low

WHILE IT MAY B E PAINFULLY OBVIOUS to say the most distinguishing feature about Southern Alberta is the wind, it is quite another thing to consciously celebrate something that at times can be supremely annoying. And yet that is precisely what the Pincher Creek Chamber of Commerce chose to do 17 years ago when they were approached by Anne Connellan, with the notion to establish the Pincher Creek Kite Festival: Children of the Wind as a mid-summer event at Windy Point by the Oldman River Dam. It was a "make lemonade out of lemons" idea that took flight. In the spirit of the sky-is-the-limit approach to her appointed task, Anne invited world multiple kite flying champion Ray Bethell to attend, and he has taken time out from his tremendously busy schedule of international events to attend ever since.

The Children of the Wind Kite Festival initially began as a competition, but later evolved into more of a celebration and sporting event. From a core group of dedicated organizers and volunteers and a handful of spectators, the event has grown into an occasion that makes the third week of July a "must attend" event for thousands. The festival has also grown to include many other activities such as teddy bear drops, a candy cannon, face painting, kite making, and, of course, sales of food and beverages.

Along with flyers from all over Canada, this year's festival will feature John Pollock from Billings, Mont., the American Kitefliers Association Grand Champion Kitemaker. John's specialty is painting kites using layers of single colours to create his masterpieces. Although he won't be painting at the festival, he will be flying kites along with Ray, and award-winning kite maker Sharon Musto from Winnipeg.

For the full story pick up the current issue of Lethbridge living Magazine