Voice & Viewpoint Staff Writer More than the weather was hot on Saturday, August 15th, it was the line up at the finale Jazz at the Creek concert series. For the last 2 months, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records has produced a top of the line jazz experience with headliners such as Jessy J and Chante’ Moore. This past Saturday, local Phenom, Daneen Wilburn performed with the likes of Reggie Codrington, who shared the stage with San Diego harpist Mariea Antoinette, and Nick Colionne. From pure vocals, to the classic saxophone and the sultry guitar, each artist brought their own flavor to the stage, giving attendees a pleasurable earful, and creating a distraction from the day’s heat wave. In its 4th year, the event has proven to be more than just a concert. The Jazz at the Creek shares proceeds with Food 4 Kids Backpack program, which provides food for elementary school children in need, whose only meals are provided at school. “Each child is provided with a backpack full of enough food for that child and their family for the weekend,” shared event brainchild, Leonard Thompson. “The show was awesome,” shared an attendee. “I’ve been to every concert, and haven’t been disappointed once.” In the midst of the great vendors, and succulent food, one attendee, Charise Benning, had her focus on one thing – her father, Noble Benning, Jr.’s surprise 60th birthday celebration. “I haven’t seen him this happy since before my mom died,” she shared. For almost a year, Charise had been saving up to give her father the VIP treatment at one of the upcoming Jazz at the Creek concerts. Years ago, she had been saving up in the same manner for her mother’s surprise party, but when the day of the festivities arrived, instead of a birthday, she was planning a funeral for her. “So you can see why this birthday party was so important to me,” she said. As a single parent, she was able to pull the surprise off and bring an evening full of smiles and laughter to her father. “This weekend has been such a blessing.” For more information on future concerts hosted by M.A.N.D.A.T.E. visit their website at www.mandaterecords.com
