Festival returns under new leadership
Growth has been a familiar word with the Mental Health Association of Washington County.
With executive director Lynne Loresch at the helm, not only had the volunteer agency turned into a large nonprofit with a budget that increased nearly $2 million, but it helped about 2,500 people every year through its programs and services.
Also continuing to grow under Loresch’s guideance was the annual Wine, Jazz and Pops Festival, scheduled this year for Aug. 6 and 7 at North Strabane Municipal Park.
New executive director David Jenco, who took the helm after Loresch retired in late June, hopes to continue the success the association had during Loresch’s tenure, which spanned more than three decades.
“Being an executive director has always been one of my career goals,” said Jenco, who previously served with Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services Area Agency on Aging.
He also plans to get his first taste of the popular festival, which attracts anywhere from 700 to 1,000 people over the weekend to enjoy wine, music and vendors. Proceeds go toward the various programs provided by the agency.
“The Mental Health Association is definitely needed within the county, and it provides a lot of advocacy,” said Jenco. “There is definitely a need for the services we provide in this area.”
While Jenco may be new to the festival, one local group has been a mainstay at the event.
Washington Jazz Orchestra, which will deliver the first performance at the festivities, has been a staple at the festival for years. The group, founded in 2007, is led by Washington County Judge John DiSalle, a Peters Township resident.
“It’s an awesome event,” said Dominic Carrola, who plays piano for the group. “It’s just a privilege to be a part of it.”
The third annual amateur winemaking contest and WJP Paint & Sip will take place surrounded by an abundant amount of activities.
• Washington Jazz Orchestra, 1 p.m.
• Mark Lucas, 2:30 p.m., a guitarist and composer with experience playing a wide range of musical genres.
• Glenn Zaleski Trio, 4 p.m., featuring a jazz pianist from Boylston, Mass.
• Kenny Blake, 5:30 p.m. His sound as a jazz saxophonist and composer is considered “soul hybrid,” a combination of traditional jazz with modern rhythm and blues.
• Washington Symphony Orchestra, 12:30 p.m. The WSO plays pops, light classic favorites and show tunes.
• Impact, 3 p.m. The gospel band, influenced by both rhythm and blues and jazz, is led by Alton Merrell.
• Ruby Red & the Dirty Devils, 4 p.m. The local electric blues band takes a fresh approach with rhythm and blues, jazz and original material.
Food and specialty vendors include Coleman’s BBQ, Blue Moose Sweet Shoppe, Oh My Grill Food Truck (Sunday only), Distractions Jewelry, Herbal Kitchen Creations, Bottle Designs, BC Designs, A House For All Seasons and Just Say … Bling.
Hours for the Washington Wine, Jazz & Pops Festival are from noon to 7 p.m. Aug. 6 and noon to 5 p.m. Aug. 7. Tickets can be ordered in advance for $20 or for $25 at the gate and are valid on either one or both days.
To purchase tickets, send checks or money orders to MHA, 575 N. Main St., Washington, PA 15301. For more information, or to order tickets online, visit www.winejazzpops.org.