Caffeinated Politics

I looked out at the huge expanse of open water on Lake Monona today and thought immediately of rich memories from two decades ago, when winter’s magic froze the water, and the sky was filled with colorful kites from around the world.

(Before venturing further, I want to note Clean Lakes Alliance will have Kites on Mendota during this year’s Frozen Assets Festival, taking place Saturday, February 7th, and Sunday, February 8th.)  

In 2001, the first winter season after James came into my life, and during what is known as the coldest month of the year, we attended an incredible event where scores of people bundled up in the cold and would walk out on the ice of Lake Monona and enjoy ‘Kites On Ice”.

There was no way not to become a 7-year-old when among the colorful and huge array of kites flying about. And these were no ordinary kites!  From all over the world, people would come to showcase their talents with the artistry of kiting. Inside the Monona Terrace, there would be workshops and chances to meet the talented ones who mastered what many of us, as kids, never did.

There was truly a magic that took over the frozen lake as it was turned into a canvas of color, movement, and imagination. To be out on the ice and look upon the skyline of the city, home to a vibrant university and an ever-charged state government, and be under a bevy of kites of all sizes and shapes dancing about in the air was simply a perfect way to spend time.

As I write this column, I recall how the cold air carried the laughter of the kids (kids of all ages) while we all looked up and shared that unmistakable thrill of seeing something so delicate yet so powerful dance in the winter sun. There were towering dragons, soaring birds, and geometric wonders, and as pictured at the top of this post, Bert and Ernie. Each gentle gust of wind brought each kite a new breath of life. Another memory I have is how some of the kites were so large that they created shadows across the ice.

I like such events that are not only about the spectacle but also about the sense of community they foster. Couples huddled together against the cold, and children giggled as they registered pure delight. And for me, there was the sight of the skyline, framed by the Capitol dome, with kites floating between it and my vision.

As I looked out at the open water today, I thought of the many smiles that were made over the years that Kites on Ice was held on Lake Monona. Then I caught myself in how many smiles are still created with memories.