Come fly with us

Calling all kite flyers, kite-flying observers and people just looking for some fun.

On Jan. 28, the Gulf Coast Regional Network Alliance, of the HHT Foundation International, is holding its first Kite Fest at Navarre Beach Park to raise awareness and funds for individuals with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT).

According to Regional Coordinator Bonnie Gillis, HHT is a hereditary disease that affects approximately one in 5,000 people. It is caused by defective blood vessels in the brain, lungs, liver, nose, skin and intestines, and typically beginsnosebleeds during childhood. While HHT is treatable, it can result in serious health problems if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

The HHT Foundation International is a nonprofit charitable organization that supports families affected by HHT. The Gulf Coast Regional Network's goal is to raise awareness and support in the Southeast for the HHT Foundation.

The Kite Fest will be held Jan. 28 at Navarre Beach Park and will start at noon. There will be a picnic, a balloon release, a short presentation on HHT and lots of kite-flying. There is no cost to attend and all are invited to come and enjoy a day at the beach flying kites or just relaxing. For a $10 donation, the HHT Foundation will release a balloon in honor of or in memory of a loved-one affected by the disease. Gillis stated that 100 percent of the proceeds will go to HHT Foundation International.