“Jazz for Jennings,” formerly known as “Jazz@Jennings,” will return this summer to honor the memory of late ABC News anchor Peter Jennings and his support of the Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center.
“Peter was dedicated to helping the center because he appreciated what critical services it delivered to the families in the often over-looked local African-American and Latino communities,” Kayce Freed Jennings said.
The couple started Jazz@Jennings in their home, back in 1996, as a way to raise awareness and funding for the center. After Jenning’s death Jazz@Jennings ended and the center lost a major source of support.
“It needs and deserves our attention again,” Freed Jennings noted. She decided to revive the benefit this year in memory of the 10th anniversary of Jenning’s death. Kayce Freed Jennings will host this year’s “Jazz for Jennings,” with honorary co-chairs Tom Brokaw, Charlie Gibson, Ted Koppel, Dan Rather and Diane Sawyer.
The event will feature performances by well-known jazz musicians like Christian McBride, Jon Faddis, Eric Reed and Delfeayo Marsalis, to name a few.
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Christian McBride is among featured performers. (Photo: www.facebook.com) |
“Peter always said that jazz musicians are the most generous human beings on earth,” Freed Jennings recalled. “We’re humbled that many of the same world-class artists who donated their time and talent all those years ago are coming once again to play for Peter’s memory and for the center.”
The Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center’s goal is to serve the African American and Latino community in the Bridgehampton area. The center offers programs for children where they can learn skills and stay engaged. The center also offers food pantries for families in need.
“Jazz for Jennings” will take place on Sunday, June 28th from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at the Watermill Center.
“The setting will be spectacular, the food delicious, and the music glorious,” shared Freed Jennings.
The Watermill Center is located at 39 Water Mill Towd Road in Watermill. For more information about the event and the center, visit bhccrc.com.