Concert Series Ends on Swinging Note: Hundreds Enjoy Jazz West at the Park

Councilman Mark Arapostathis opened and closed the final concert in the Sundays at 6 series at Harry Griffen Park, telling several hundred music lovers that next year’s series would mark La Mesa’s centennial. “So instead of six concerts, we’re going to have 100 concerts,” he said, joking.

Jazz West—whose trumpet player leader William Braxton (Joe) Dyke, Jr.  taught Arapostathis the viola in fifth grade and spent nearly four decades at La Mesa Middle School—entertained locals at the grassy amphitheater Sunday night amid dogs, kids and blankets for picnics elaborate and simple. 

The lightest of sprinkles hit the area several hours before the music started, but no rain marred the concert, held in mid-70s temperatures.  

“We’re glad that you’ve made it a part of your summer ritual,” Arapostathis said.  “We hope that we see you next year.”