Green Living Can Be So Saxy

A music festival that promotes "green" living will  be held in downtown Riverside Saturday and Sunday, headlined by a dozen jazz  artists from across the country.

The inaugural "Ultimate Jazz Festival" is slated to start around noon Saturday in Fairmount Park.

The event is being sponsored by Jazz To Be Green, a nonprofit  corporation that uses jazz music to educate the public about energy efficiency,  conservation and how to find "green jobs" in today's economy, according to  the organization's Website.

During the two-day festival, vendors will be on site, showcasing  environmentally friendly household products and materials that spotlight the  benefits of "going green," according to organizers.

Festival-goers will be treated to a variety of musical styles, including  Classic Jazz, Latin Jazz and Cool Jazz.

Artists and groups slated to perform include After 7; violinist Karen  Briggs, formerly of Yanni; Alex Bugnon; pianist Everette Harp; Jazz on the  Latin Side All Stars; L.A. Mombo Combo; Loose Ends and the Polyester Players.

"Even though this is a first-year festival, the carefully selected  smooth jazz artists, with a touch of Latin Jazz and a twist of R&B, will rank  with the likes of all first-rate festivals," said Darryl Bundridge, president  of Jazz To Be Green.

The festival will run until 9 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 7 p.m.  Sunday. A daily pass costs $45. A weekend-long pass goes for $80.