HARRISBURG, PA (Feb. 1, 2005)—Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts announced today plans for KiteFest 2006. The summer-long exhibition will bring together science and the arts in its celebration of one of the world’s most enduring media—kites.

“Today we are setting the stage to reach out to area artists, collaborate with schools and get our community leaders excited about this summer-long event,” said Byron Quann President and CEO of Whitaker Center. “Like Cow Parade Harrisburg 2004, KiteFest will celebrate the talents of local artists and involve the entire community, from residents and visitors to corporate partners.”

KiteFest will feature: a public art exhibit of hundreds of kites decorated or created by local artists including kites tethered to lampposts and large-scale fiberglass kite sculptures in Harrisburg and surrounding communities; special events like StringFling kite-flying festival on April 15 in Harrisburg’s Reservoir Park, a gala exhibit preview on June 1; and a Kites in the Classroom program.

“I am pleased to announce that Capital BlueCross will be the presenting sponsor of KiteFest and as the sponsor of Capital BlueCross Kites in the Classroom, a special program for schools,” Quann added.

“At Capital BlueCross we believe that there is only one thing as important as good health for our children, and that’s education,” said Anita Smith, President and CEO of Capital BlueCross. “That’s why we are working with the Whitaker Center and local schools to engage elementary students in this unique educational program. Capital BlueCross Kites in the Classroom is a fun, innovative program that will combine art, hands-on learning, and simple physical activity.”

“KiteFest is for everyone,” added Ms. Smith. ”This initiative will bring together our businesses, residents, towns, artists – our whole community. It’s also healthy family fun at its best and a great reason to get up, get out, and get moving!”

Brad Jones, Vice President, Community Development for Harristown Development Corporation and chair of KiteFest, has joined forces with a growing list of Central Pennsylvania’s business and community leaders in supporting the project. “The public art and special events will be fun and involving and have the potential to generate great community excitement and economic benefits,” Jones said. In addition to benefiting Whitaker Center, KiteFest will create visitor and tourist activity and offer local artists exposure and recognition for their work.”

M&T Bank has also made a leadership commitment to support KiteFest as a sponsor. Present at today’s announcement was Nora Habig, M&T Bank vice president, who joined the celebration and offered M&T Bank’s enthusiastic support.

“KiteFest is an exceptional coalescence of Whitaker Center’s mission to foster science, arts, cultural and educational activities while contributing to the region’s civic spirit and economic vitality,” Quann said.

Call to Artists
Would you like to be one of the artists selected to paint a kite?

Please contact wdiehl@whitakercenter.org or call Walter Diehl, Art Coordinator, 717-221-8201 ext. 2518
Download an Artist Application

Call to Sponsors
Each kite will be made possible thanks to our partners and sponsors. They may have their kites designed by their own artist(s) or may select from designs submitted and approved by KiteFest. Sponsors include corporations, community groups, individual merchants and private citizens.

Sponsorships are available in various packages from stunning large-scale fiberglass kites to unique lamppost tethered kites. Interested parties should contact:

Edward A. Novak, III
Executive Director, KiteFest
225 Market Street, 2nd Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
phone: 717-221-8201 ext. 2708
fax: 717-214-3972
email: enovak@whitakercenter.org

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