I apologize for not posting any Berks Jazz Fest news/updates since the end of 2009.

Well, there is plenty of exciting things happening with the 20th annual fest.

A special "Countdown to 20th" series of concerts and events has been finalized, which will turn Reading into "Jazztown USA" now through the end of the festival on Sunday, March 28.

The "Countdown" events include the following:

1) All Thursday night concerts scheduled at Gerald Veasley's Jazz Base.

2) The Manhattan Transfer concert at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Feb. 20.

3) A free community concert at the VF Outlet complex on Saturday, March 6.

4) A "Tribute to Tower of Power" concert featuring the Dance Hall Docs and special guest vocalist Brent Carter, former lead singer with TOP, set for Friday, March 12, at the Inn at Reading, 8 p.m.

5) And much more! CLICK HERE for complete schedule.

More events will be added as they are finalized.

We are making every effort to make this milestone fest the best ever.