Latino News Midwest - Online News Magazine

2011 marks the fifth anniversary of the opening of the Midtown Exchange building, home to the Midtown Global Market, Chicago Lofts, the Midtown Exchange Apartments, and the Allina Hospital and Clinic's headquarters.

To celebrate, the Midtown Exchange is hosting the inaugural Midtown Global Jazz Festival, a free outdoor event featuring a number of world-renowned jazz musicians performing directly outside Midtown Global Market. There will also be a youth music stage, showcasing performers from local school groups, plus an interactive demonstration area for all ages.

Along with the great jazz tunes, visitors can enjoy fabulous food from top Twin Cities eateries, as well as the opportunity to shop at dozens of local artisan stalls overflowing with handmade jewelry, photography, painting, pottery and more.

“It all began last June while I was having a conversation with Midtown Global Market Director Baba Letang,” said event coordinator Lee Engele. “He was looking for someone with a background in jazz to help assess the possibility of music at the market, and to organize a Jazz festival.” Although Engele – a renowned jazz vocalist and president of the Twin Cities Jazz Society - knew little about event planning, she didn't think twice about pursuing this initiative. With the unprecedented collaboration and support of various organizations, including the Chicago-Lake Business Association, Midtown staff, Rotary Club, LEDC, and many others, she set about arranging what she knew would be an important – and fun - event for the community. “this event is important because it really celebrates the revitalization of this area with a wonderful day long celebration that includes not only the neighborhood people and businesses, but hopefully will attract and show people from all over the Twin Cities what Midtown has to offer!” said Lee. “Everything has come together,” concluded Engele. “It's going to be a wonderful day.”

The Midtown Global Jazz Festival will take place on Saturday, July 30, 2011 from noon to 8 p.m. at 920 E. Lake Street., city of Minneapolis.

Main Stage schedule and line-up:

Noon: Chris Lomheim Trio - www.chrislomheim.com

2 p.m.: Ticket To Brasil - www.tickettobrasil.com

4 p.m.: Doug Haining & the Twin Cities Seven (with guest vocalist Charmin Michele) - www.tcseven.com

6 p.m.: Patty Peterson & Friends - www.pattypeterson.com