Saturday’s ‘Hot Summer Jazz & Art,’ music, art, fine food, lots of fun
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
Published: August 20, 2008
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula Times
With the Kiwanis Citrus Festival, Citrus Classic Balloon Festival and “Moonlight at the Ranch: The Sequel... Hollywood Nights” now weekend memories, it’s time to take a breather and enjoy the sweet sounds and aroma of “Hot Summer Jazz & Art” being held Saturday on Main Street from 6 to 10 p.m.
The second in this year’s series, “Hot Summer Jazz & Art” will feature sweet tunes by acclaimed jazz masters Bryan McCann and the Grooveheads, and 30 booths featuring unique eye-candy - from paintings to arts and crafts - created by local artists. Food to “go man go!” will be available from area restaurants for al fresco dining at shaded and linen draped tables set out right on historic East Main Street, in front of the South Paseo.
The July 12 “Hot Summer Jazz & Art” drew more than 450 to the downtown area for the unique entertainment experience, and Debbie Johnson, president of the sponsoring Downtown Merchants Association, expects even more jazz and art lovers to attend August 23. “We’re happy to bring Bryan McCann and the Grooveheads back... they’ve been requested by many, many people. Our weather has been great and we’re looking forward to a lovely evening.” And an expanded one, with “more artists than we’ve ever had. We had to stop taking applications at 30,” noted Johnson.
“Our restaurants are really looking forward to serving their fine cuisine to those who love jazz, art and fine food,” said Johnson. Ready to take your food and beverage order at the event will be Mupu Grill, Iron Horse, Smokin’ Joe’s, Vince’s, Pizza Nostra, Tlaquepaque, La Terraza and the Santa Paula Coffee Company. “Some of the restaurants will have wait staff ready to take your orders and deliver your meal” tableside so visitors - many who attend “Hot Summer Jazz & Art” from throughout Ventura County - can just sit back and enjoy the evening.
Many people have put “Hot Summer Jazz & Art” on their calendar: “Many are making this a regular event that they plan in advance to attend.... They make sure they don’t miss it, they so look forward to it” and, Johnson added, there’s much to enjoy.
“People enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the casual elegance and being able to socialize, listen to great jazz, eat wonderful food and enjoy fine art.” The “Hot Summer Jazz & Art” just “keeps growing,” and Johnson believes Saturday’s event will reflect the event’s growing popularity.
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