A Culinary and Musical Celebration at the HarborPark Jazz Rhythm & Blues Festival
This year’s HarborPark Jazz Rhythm & Blues Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of music, food, and community. The event, hosted by the Mary Lou & Arthur F. Mahone Fund, will kick off with a special culinary showcase led by local Chef Billy Stewart, alongside a revised music lineup featuring Chicago house music DJ Vick Lavender.
The festival is set to begin on Saturday, with gates opening at noon. At 12:45 p.m., Stewart will take part in a Cooking Studio demonstration, where he will prepare a Filet Oscar with crab, hollandaise sauce, and asparagus. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample the dish after the presentation, offering a unique blend of flavor and entertainment.
Stewart expressed his personal connection to the event, highlighting its significance. “It means a lot to me to work with the kids from the Boys & Girls Club, a place that played a big role in my youth,” he said. “Being part of this amazing event and supporting the Mahone Foundation is truly an honor.”
Kenneth R. Murray, events manager for Grease & Honey Restaurants, which includes Sazzy B, emphasized the restaurant’s commitment to the Mahone Foundation. “Music, food, and community have always been important pillars of our restaurant’s identity,” Murray stated.
Music Lineup Changes
This year’s musical lineup has seen some exciting changes. DJ Vick Lavender, known for blending deep and soulful house music with jazz, R&B, and global influences, will replace previously scheduled DJ Ron Carroll. Lavender will perform at 2 p.m., followed by blues and soul artist Nicholas Alexander at 3:45 p.m. The lineup will conclude with Chicago Blues Hall of Fame vocalist Sheryl Youngblood, who will perform before headliner Kirk Whalum.
Festival emcee Brandon Morris, a Mahone Foundation alum, shared his personal connection to the nonprofit. “Fast forward almost 30 years, the legacy of the Mahone Family still lives in me as I try to pay it forward,” he said.
Community Impact and Fundraising
The HarborPark Jazz Rhythm & Blues Festival not only entertains but also supports the community. The event draws visitors from across the Midwest and raises funds for scholarships and health initiatives in communities of color. Proceeds support educational opportunities for economically and academically deserving youth.
Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy various activities, including a silent auction, wine pull, and raffle. Prizes include Chicago weekend getaways, a Milwaukee bourbon tasting, jazz packages, and sports tickets. General admission lawn tickets are available for $35 in advance and $45 at the gate, with sales available at mahonefund.org or Tenuta’s Deli. The Waterfront Warehouse VIP lounge is already sold out.
Visit Kenosha President Dennis DuChene highlighted the event’s role in showcasing the city’s lakefront and cultural scene. “We encourage visitors and residents to attend and support the Mahone Foundation,” he said.
More Than Just a Festival
The festival is more than just a celebration of music and food; it is a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting local initiatives. Through its diverse programming and charitable efforts, the HarborPark Jazz Rhythm & Blues Festival continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those it touches.
As the event approaches, there is much to look forward to, from the delicious dishes to the electrifying performances. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time attendee, the festival offers something for everyone. It’s a chance to come together, celebrate culture, and support a cause that is close to many hearts.
