By Voice & Viewpoint Staff
This was the 11th year that M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records’ Project Impact brought the cool jazz experience to the amphitheater at Market Creek. As President of M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records, Dr. Leonard Thompson III said this year the decision was made to have one big event instead of two events spread out over the summer.
The weather was extremely hot, but the people came out for the two-day event. They brought their lawn chairs and sat under the canopy enjoying a slight breeze from time to time. The vendors were there with a variety of foods, clothing, and items of interest. But perhaps outside of the music on the stage, the next big event was the food trucks with praise after praise going to whoever was doing the barbecue ribs.
One of the highlights of the Saturday event was the recognition given to Dr. William Taryi Howard, a well-known and much-appreciated jazz legend in San Diego. Most of us, along with Kelly Cole who worked with him at radio station 92.5, and those who remember him from his host position for numerous jazz programs and club events over the years, were excited to see him recognized. He was presented with an award of appreciation by Dr. John Warren, on behalf of Dr. Leonard Thompson of M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records. All those present gave Mr. Howard a standing ovation.
Jazz at The Creek continued on Sunday for its second day of the holiday weekend with a sellout crowd and weather a few degrees cooler. The entertainment was outstanding and the list of sponsors was more than impressive. Next year’s event will have to work hard to beat this year’s event.
