TOMS RIVER – Kites swarmed in the sky over the Kites and Cones event in Ortley Beach.
Organizers were optimistically referring to it as the “first annual” event, with the hopes of bringing it back in future years. It was hosted by the Friends of Ortley Beach, a newly formed nonprofit civic organization with the goal of enriching the area with recreational, historical and cultural events.
“We believe in rebuilding houses but also rebuilding community,” said Gail D’Amico, vice president of the organization.
Cobra Kites of Toms River had some of their more elaborate kites on display. Some of them were longer than a bus. They were anchored to the beach by weights and flying free. Then, there were hobbyists with some truly spectacular kites. Anyone who didn’t have one was given one, courtesy of the event’s sponsor, Cooper Electric Supply Co.
There was a face painter, balloon animal maker, and ice cream truck also on hand. For more information, visit Friends of Ortley Beach on Facebook, on Twitter @FOBNJ, and online at FriendsOfOrtleyBeach.org.
