Wisconsin Kiter group descends on Plover

By Brandi Makuski

PLOVER — A colorful kite display took over a vacant lot in Crossroads Commons on Saturday, drawing the attention of passersby.

Members of Wisconsin Kiters, a group of kite enthusiasts from across the state, set up near Walmart on Sept. 7 for a final gathering of the season. The half-dozen members, some with their families, came from Stevens Point, Brillion, and Wisconsin Rapids.

The group had recently attended larger events, including the second annual Kite Festival at the Mead Wildlife Area, but Saturday’s event was a more relaxed, casual get-together. Several spectators stopped to watch, with motorists pulling into the lot or parking nearby to enjoy the display.

Lindsey Bowden of Stevens Point, a member of the club, said the group includes kite enthusiasts from across the state. Bowden, who was introduced to the hobby by her father-in-law, said it’s become a family activity.

“He did this quite a bit, and the kids started liking it,” Bowden said. “Now, all of a sudden, my husband and I own kites too. So we’ve got three generations of kiters here.”

Most kites, Bowden said, are purchased from stores or manufacturers, though some are handmade. One kite at the event was a 252-square-foot green and white “lifter” kite, which was used to hang smaller kites, often referred to as “line laundry.”

Wisconsin Kiters is open to all ages and family memberships cost $15 a year. For more information click here.