ANN ARBOR: It is with profound sadness and deep regret that the Ann Arbor Blues and Jazz Festival announces that Saturday headliner and jazz saxophone legend, Stanley Turrentine, passed away September 12th, 2000, as the result of a massive stroke.

Blues guitarist and composer, Little Milton, slated to precede Turrentine, will play two sets beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Gallup Park and finishing around 8:15 p.m. Other Saturday artists will also extend their sets to honor the great saxophonist.

"Obviously this is a devastating loss," said Festival President, Mary Motherwell. "Our hearts go out to Stanley's family and friends during this terrible time. We know that all of our performers from Irma Thomas to Robert Cray will pay tribute to Stanley and that his fans will join us in honoring one of the jazz world's legendary performers."

The Ann Arbor Blues and Jazz Festival begins Friday, September 15, with Mavis Staples and Irma Thomas at the Michigan Theater at 8:00 p.m., and Little Jimmy Scott at the Bird of Paradise at 9:00 and 11:00 p.m. both Friday and Saturday nights. The Festival continues Saturday and Sunday beginning at 1:00 p.m. each day and ending at 9:00 p.m. on Saturday and 8:00 p.m. on Sunday. For complete details, call 734.747.9955.